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.

Coast Guard Participates in Panama Canal Counter-Threat Exercise

Aug. 5, 2026 | By Cameron Porter, U.S. Southern Command |

Panama's National Aeronaval Service welcomed key leaders from Mexico, Ecuador, Colombia and the United States during the pre-sail conference for Exercise Panamax 2026, Aug. 3.

The biennial exercise is one of the largest military exercises in the Western Hemisphere. This year's iteration will continue until Aug. 13 and includes six maritime vessels operating in the Eastern Pacific region as part of the Pacific Task Force: the U.S. Coast Guard cutter Robert Ward, the Panamanian coastal patrol boat Panquiaco and coastal patrol boat Taboga, the Colombian navy coastal patrol vessel Isla Gorgona, the Ecuadorian navy missile corvette Bae Loja and the Mexican navy offshore patrol vessel Arm Jalisco.

"Major prerequisites to achieving this objective include practicing our ability to transit offshore in company, to communicate effectively to each other and shore command, and to perform complex missions in an integrated manner," said Coast Guard Cmdr. Patrick Frost, Coast Guard Southwest District deputy chief of enforcement.

Frost, who is serving as the Pacific Task Force commander, said Panamax 2026 includes 19 countries and is critical because it allows the partner nations to practice functions necessary to protect the canal.

To facilitate this proficiency, exercise participants will conduct various training scenarios designed to unite the coalition as they exercise joint communications, maneuvers and tactics.

During the pre-sail conference, Panamanian maritime officials welcomed the command teams of the four visiting ships.

"Today, in this 2026 edition of Panamax, we confirm our commitment to a broader and even more adapted vision of the threats that we have in the 21st century," said Panamanian Lt. Cmdr. Eduardo Batista, acting commander of Panama's National Aeronaval Service's naval command. "This exercise constitutes an opportunity, with great value, to strengthen the interoperability of our forces, to improve our operational procedures and to elevate our capacity to respond in the face of transnational threats and cyberspace challenges."

Frost highlighted the importance of the regional partners, as they are allies in the fight against cartels across the Western Hemisphere.

"These partner nations are clearly demonstrating a rock-solid commitment to this multinational concept, and the collaboration between the various country representatives is significant," he said.

Panamax began with three countries in 2003 to improve interoperability and strengthen collective capacity to conduct complex multinational and all-domain operations to ensure the free flow of commerce through the Panama Canal and maintain security and stability in the region.

Washington National Guardsmen Support Statewide Wildfire Response

Aug. 4, 2026 | By Army Lt. Col. Joseph Siemandel, Joint Force Headquarters, Washington National Guard |

As wildfires spread across Washington state recently, Washington National Guardsmen joined the firefight working alongside state and local partners to protect threatened communities, property and critical infrastructure.  

On July 19, Washington Army National Guard aviation crews began providing sustained aerial firefighting support using two UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters and a CH-47 Chinook helicopter, based out of Deer Park, Wash.

Operating under demanding conditions that include intense heat, smoke and rapidly changing fire behavior, crews have flown repeated daily missions to deliver water directly onto active fires and support firefighters.  

By the end of the 15th day of aviation operations, National Guard aircrews had accumulated 146.5 flight hours and dropped 1,181 buckets, or approximately 970,000 gallons, of water.  

"Wildfire suppression operations is hands down the most physically and mentally demanding task an Army aviator will perform," said Army Lt. Col. Adam Hanisch, Washington Army National Guard state aviation officer. "These missions require constant communication with firefighters on the ground, as well as with multiple aircraft from various agencies supervising and participating in a visually degraded environment with zero margin of error. We take this extremely seriously from preparation through execution and are honored to provide this service to Washington state."  

As new fires broke out through late July, National Guard hand crews, ground personnel, were requested July 28 by the Washington Department of Natural Resources for support at a fire north of Leavenworth, Wash. On July 31, more than 100 guardsmen, including five 20-person hand crews, mobilized to Pangborn Memorial Airport to in-process and receive their equipment before heading to the fire camp in Plain, Wash.

"This is a mission we train for long before wildfire season arrives, so when we get the call from our partners at the Department of Natural Resources, we're ready to go," said Air Force Maj. Gen. Gent Welsh, Washington National Guard commander. "I'm incredibly proud of these men and women who have stepped forward to support this mission and [I] am confident they'll bring hard work and professionalism to the fire line. They're taking on demanding, dangerous work to protect our communities, and I hope everyone will do their part to keep them, and everyone working around the clock to fight these fires, as safe as possible."  

Wildland firefighting has become a recurring domestic response mission for the Washington National Guard. Each year, guardsmen train alongside the Washington Department of Natural Resources and other firefighting agencies to prepare for the possibility of being called to support wildfire response. That preparation allows service members to integrate quickly with civilian agencies while remaining under the direction of the incident command system.  

The mission is one Washington National Guardsmen have answered repeatedly over the past three decades. From the large-scale response to the 1994 wildfire season to recent activations across the state, soldiers and airmen have supported wildland firefighting efforts from the air and on the ground.  

On Aug. 1, multiple fires erupted near the city of Spokane, Wash., forcing residents to evacuate a heavily populated area. The Washington National Guard immediately activated 100 service members to support local law enforcement officers with traffic control point operations, helping residents get to safety.   

"Answering the call when our state needs us is at the very core of who we are. This is the spirit of the guard," said Air Force Col. Carrie Wentzel, Washington National Guard director of joint operations. "We train for these critical missions, prepare our force to the highest standards, and when the call comes, we respond alongside our partners in the field. Our soldiers and airmen are Washingtonians, and they are fully committed to helping our communities protect lives, homes and property during wildfires."

Air National Guard Squadron Sharpens Readiness in Jungle Terrain

Aug. 4, 2026 | By Air Force Tech. Sgt. Tiffany Scofield, 178th Wing |

Wind moves through the trees at Schofield Barracks' East Range as leaves crunch underfoot and boots sink into mud. Humidity clings to uniforms as security forces airmen navigate steep terrain, flowing water and unfamiliar surroundings, trading the familiar landscape of the Midwest for the jungle terrain of Oahu, Hawaii.

For two weeks, July 13-27, airmen assigned to the Ohio Air National Guard's 178th Security Forces Squadron challenged themselves through annual training designed to strengthen small-unit tactics, decision-making and expeditionary readiness.

The training combined classroom instruction with hands-on field exercises, including jungle familiarization, dismounted patrolling, ambush training, land navigation and rope systems. The realistic environment challenged airmen to apply what they learned while operating in unfamiliar terrain.

This was part of an 18-month effort by the squadron to increase its focus on small-team operations and prepare airmen to make tactical-level decisions in increasingly decentralized environments that will be needed in the future, said Air Force Maj. Eric Minshaw, 178th Security Forces Squadron commander.

The jungle environment quickly became one of the most valuable instructors.

"The terrain and the environment have been perfect," Minshaw said. "It certainly has been the greatest challenge that we've faced out here, just navigating through the water and elevation changes."

For Air Force 1st Lt. Kyle Mackerig, a guest jungle instructor assigned to the 820th Base Defense Group at Moody Air Force Base, Georgia, the training provided an opportunity to share knowledge gained through his experience operating in jungle environments.

Mackerig graduated from the Army Jungle Operations Training Course in May 2025 and joined the 178th SFS to help airmen develop the skills necessary to operate in jungle terrain.

The goal extended beyond simply learning how to navigate. The training challenged airmen to remain effective when conditions were unfamiliar, and the path forward was uncertain.

"The jungle is the classroom, not the objective," said Air Force Master Sgt. Bradley Akers. "Our purpose is to push our airmen beyond their comfort zones in one of the world's most demanding environments, reinforcing disciplined leadership, teamwork and adaptability. Those are the qualities that make them more capable defenders, regardless of where the mission takes them."

That challenge took many forms throughout the two weeks. Airmen hiked through steep terrain and mud, navigated waterways and practiced moving through the jungle while carrying their equipment.

During one exercise, they made their way to a river and moved chest-deep through the water, testing whether their packs could float and learning how to operate in and around a water obstacle. They emerged from the river covered in mud, carrying another lesson from an environment far removed from what they typically encounter in Ohio.

For Air Force Staff Sgt. Macy Flannery, squadron member, the experience also provided an opportunity to strengthen the bonds within her team. Flannery, who is in her fifth year of service, said the training challenged them to work together while learning basic survival skills and small-unit tactics.

"It's been a good bonding experience for our team," she said. "We're going through it all together and having to do a lot of teamwork for our different training experiences."

Mackerig said the teamwork he witnessed throughout the training gave him a new appreciation for the squadron.

"The biggest thing that surprised me about working with the [National] Guard, and in particular the 178th, is how tight-knit they are, how much of a family they are," he said. "Everyone feels welcome here, even from being an outsider."

That sense of teamwork became evident throughout the training, as airmen and noncommissioned officers looked after one another and shared skills developed through previous training and experience.

"We've got a great team," Minshaw said. "The NCOs that we have and the instructor cadre that have come in [are] absolutely top shelf."

From checking water supplies and applying sunscreen to sharing specialized skills and helping teammates navigate difficult terrain, the small actions demonstrated the team's commitment to one another, he said.

"It's really awesome to see the team come together" and use some of the special skills they have in the training environment and then teach their teammates, Minshaw said, adding that the ultimate value of the training lies in what airmen take with them when they leave. Training environments like this allow airmen to discover their limits in a controlled setting, giving them the confidence to face future challenges.

"It's better to find ... your breaking points and move past those in a training environment like this, rather than to be caught flat-footed in our operational environment," Minshaw said.

As the airmen leave the mud, water and steep terrain of Schofield Barracks, the lessons learned in the jungle will follow them. The physical challenges, tactical problems and moments of uncertainty provided more than a test of endurance. It allowed them to build confidence, strengthen teamwork and develop the ability to make decisions in unfamiliar environments.

Largest Pacific Joint Maritime Exercise Successfully Concludes

Aug. 3, 2026 | By Commander, U.S. 3rd Fleet |

The Exercise Rim of the Pacific 2026, the world's largest combined and joint maritime exercise, successfully concluded July 31. 

The 30th iteration of the biennial exercise began June 24, bringing together 30 nations, more than 30,000 personnel, 30 surface ships, five submarines and more than 197 aircraft under the theme "Partners: Integrated and Prepared."  

Throughout five weeks of realistic training, participating forces enhanced interoperability, strengthened readiness and reinforced the partnerships that support maritime security across the Pacific region. 

"No single nation can ensure security in the Pacific alone," said Navy Vice Adm. Jeff Jablon, commander of the Rimpac 2026 task force. "The global maritime environment is too large and too complex for any one country to safeguard by itself. Rimpac gives us the chance to build the trust and relationships that make us stronger long before any crisis happens." 

Rimpac 2026 was hosted by Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet and spearheaded by U.S. 3rd Fleet. Multinational leaders were integrated throughout the exercise, with Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Rear Adm. Takuo Kobayashi serving as vice commander of the task force and Chilean navy Commodore Andres Howard serving as task force deputy commander. Rear Adm. In-ho Kim from the South Korean navy served as commander of the combined force maritime component, and Royal Canadian Air Force Brig. Gen. J.S. Davis served as commander of the combined force air component.

The exercise also coincided with the U.S. Navy's 250th anniversary, underscoring the enduring partnerships that continue to strengthen security across the Pacific. For 250 years, the Navy has worked alongside allies and partners to promote maritime security by building relationships founded on trust, cooperation, and shared values. Rimpac puts those principles into practice by providing a venue where participating forces train together, improve interoperability and strengthen the relationships that enable combined and joint operations.

"The network of allies and partners in the region is an asymmetric advantage," Jablon said. "The work participating nations do at Rimpac builds the combined and joint ability to deter conflict and supports all nations in exercising their sovereign rights and freedoms in the maritime domain." 

The exercise was conducted in three phases. During the in-port phase, participants established multinational command relationships, planned operations and strengthened partnerships through professional exchanges, cultural events and sporting competitions. During the at-sea phase, participating forces executed complex combined and joint training, including anti-submarine warfare, maritime strikes, integrated air and missile defense, amphibious operations and logistics. The exercise concluded with a free-play scenario in which opposing forces reacted dynamically to one another to evaluate the force's combined and joint maritime capabilities. 

Throughout the exercise, participating forces executed more than 500 maritime training events, flew more than 2,400 sorties and responded to more than 5,000 scenario-based operational problems.

"Interoperability is something we must continue to develop," Kobayashi said. "Rimpac brings together allies and partners committed to strengthening security and stability across the region. The daily conversations, shared experiences and personal relationships developed throughout the exercise strengthen our ability to respond together, whether supporting maritime security or assisting communities following a disaster." 

Training alongside allies and partners in a realistic, multinational environment allows participating nations to improve their ability to operate in combined maritime operations, Kim said.  

"By training together in these complex scenarios, nations improve readiness, refine warfighting skills and build the teamwork needed to operate effectively side by side," he added.

Rimpac 2026 demonstrated that maritime security is strengthened through trust, cooperation and shared values. By training together in a realistic operational environment, participating nations improved their ability to operate as a combined and joint force across the full spectrum of maritime operations.

Marine Expeditionary Unit Transits Panama Canal

Aug. 3, 2026 | By Marine Corps Capt. Shawn Doublet, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit |

The 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit — operating as Littoral Combat Force 24 — transited the Panama Canal, Aug. 1, aboard the amphibious transport dock USS San Antonio.

Marking the first time a Marine expeditionary unit has navigated the canal since 2008, this large-scale maneuver is a demonstration of the Marine Corps' capacity for rapid global mobility, maritime dominance and seamless power projection.

"This historic transit is a powerful testament to the flexibility and readiness of Littoral Combat Force 24," said Marine Corps Col. Ryan Lynch, LCF 24 commanding officer. "Our ability to seamlessly navigate this critical waterway alongside our Navy partners, aboard the USS San Antonio, demonstrates our capability to rapidly project power and respond to crises anywhere in the [U.S.] Southern Command area of responsibility. We are ready to operate straight from the sea, at a moment's notice."

The transit serves as a validation of the littoral combat force concept and the modern Marine air-ground task force. It proves the unit's ability to navigate narrow waterways and project assets ashore without relying on established military basing, underscoring the Marine Corps' enduring role as the nation's premier readiness force, perfectly calibrated for contested littoral regions.

The foundation of this capability is the unbreakable teamwork between the Navy and the Marine Corps. The interoperability displayed highlights a fully integrated naval force supporting combatant commander objectives.

Since its completion, the Panama Canal has served as a vital strategic pathway for the U.S. and its allies. The canal allows naval vessels to rapidly shift between the Atlantic and Pacific theaters, saving weeks of travel around South America.

Navigating this critical maritime shortcut ensures the U.S. military can maintain a flexible, responsive posture — surging ships and troops to meet emerging crises across hemispheres without delay.

By moving fluidly through the canal, the team proved its unrestricted access to the U.S. Southern Command area of responsibility, which spans Central and South America, and the Caribbean. Whether tasked with humanitarian disaster relief, bolstering regional partnerships or deterring aggression, this force can reach anywhere in the region to deliver tailored, decisive effects.

Medal of Honor Monday: Army Cpl. Jake Allex

 Aug. 3, 2026 | By David Vergun, Pentagon News |

Army Cpl. Jake Allex earned the Medal of Honor for extraordinary courage while leading his men forward under heavy fire during the Battle of Amiens in World War I.

Allex was born Angelko Allex Mandushich July 13, 1887, in Streska, near Prizren, in the Kosovo Vilayet of the Ottoman Empire, present-day Kosovo. He was of ethnic Serbian descent, born to Sava A. Mandushich and Savka Sosevich.

He married Valinka Mandushich, per the 1930 U.S. census. They had two daughters and a son.

Allex immigrated to the United States, sailing from Bremen, Germany, about June 1912, according to his 1919 form requesting naturalization and a passport, and changed his name to Jake Allex.

He enlisted in the Illinois Army National Guard on April 27, 1917, just weeks after the United States entered World War I, April 6, 1917.

On the day Allex earned the Medal of Honor, Aug. 9, 1918, he was assigned to Company H, 131st Infantry Regiment, 33rd Infantry Division, at Chipilly Ridge, France, about 75 miles north of Paris.

His citation reads that at a critical point in the fighting, when the platoon commander and all the noncommissioned officers of his platoon become casualties, he took command and led the men forward until the advance was stopped by enemy machine-gun fire.

Allex then advanced alone for about 30 yards in the face of intense enemy fire and attacked the machine-gun nest. He killed five enemy soldiers with his bayonet, and when it broke, he used the butt of his rifle to smash the enemy. During the fighting, he captured 15 prisoners.

The action at Chipilly Ridge occurred during the Battle of Amiens, which took place Aug. 8-11, 1918. Allex and the rest of the 33rd Infantry Division would later fight in the Meuse-Argonne Offensive, the Second Battle of the Somme and the Battle of Saint-Mihiel.

The Medal of Honor was presented to Allex on April 22, 1919, in Ettelbruck, Luxembourg, by Army Gen. John J. Pershing, who commanded the American Expeditionary Forces during World War I.

Allex was honorably discharged from the Army on June 4, 1919, as a sergeant. He became a naturalized U.S. citizen Sept. 16, 1919.

After returning from the war, he worked for a time at the Morris & Co. meat-packing plant in Chicago, where the employees referred to him as Sgt. Jake. The 1930 U.S. census lists Allex as a construction foreman in Cook County, Illinois, and it also lists the value of his home at $1,800.

In 1931, Allex, who was a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, was invited by the Illinois governor to attend an address by President Herbert Hoover at the Lincoln Tomb in Springfield, Illinois, which he accepted.

Allex retired from the Chicago municipal water department in 1954. In December 1958, the Disabled American Veterans of Illinois presented him with a color television. Most people had black-and-white televisions at that time.

He died Aug. 28, 1959, and was buried at the Serbian Orthodox Cemetery and Monastery of Saint Sava in Libertyville, Illinois.

Oregon Guard Aircrews Support State Wildfire Response

July 31, 2026 | By Army Maj. Wayne Clyne, Oregon National Guard |

Two Oregon Army National Guard CH-47 Chinook helicopters and two HH-60M Black Hawk helicopters began water bucket operations, July 29, in support of wildland firefighting efforts on the Hagen Fire in Umatilla County, part of a broader Oregon National Guard response to the state's wildfire season. 

As of July 29, the fire had burned approximately 33,504 acres and was 3% contained, according to the Oregon Department of Forestry. Aircrews completed 44 water bucket drops that day, delivering approximately 50,000 gallons of water on the fire. 

The aircraft, flying out of Army Aviation Support Facility No. 2 in Pendleton, Oregon, home to the Oregon Army National Guard's CH-47 fleet, received its state active-duty activation order and completed joint reception, staging, onward movement and integration, July 28.

"Currently, we're activated on state active duty for forest fires," said Army Maj. Taylor Fry, Army Aviation Support Facility No. 2 operations officer. "We have two CH-47s and crews that are out fighting these fires, along with two Black Hawks ... to support our local community, to save land, to save livestock and to save homes." 

Fry said coordination with the Oregon Department of Forestry and partner agencies has been close, aided this year by fire management support from California. 

"We work very well with them and have for many years," Fry said. "We have a couple of representatives from [the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection] up here this year, helping us out with our helicopter management and coordination with them." 

Behind every aircraft in the air is a maintenance team working to keep it there. Army Staff Sgt. Amanda Hickman, an Army Aviation Support Facility No. 2 aircraft systems supervisor, oversees the ground crew responsible for keeping the Chinooks flight-ready, including the water buckets themselves.  

"There's a lot that goes into making sure that our buckets are operational," Hickman said. "The mechanics spend a lot of time making sure that all of our faults are minimized the best that we can. I do a little bit of production control, so a lot goes into verifying how much time I have available on each aircraft and then setting priorities for which aircraft can fly and how many hours each aircraft can fly." 

Hickman, who has served in the Oregon Army National Guard for 20 years, said aircraft turnaround time depends heavily on parts availability and keeping them flying is one of the least visible but most demanding parts of the mission.  

"I like that the National Guard is being used for something to help our community, and so if I can play a part in helping the community, that's what I want to do," she said. 

Once a Chinook is airborne, its crew chief takes on responsibility for the bucket itself. Army Sgt. Isaiah Torres, a Chinook crew chief, said the process starts well before the aircraft ever reaches a fire. 

"It's almost the same as for any other flight, except you have to get the bucket ready," he said. "We get our bucket staged ... inspect the bucket, make sure valves are good. We do an [operational] check before we actually take the bucket to the target site." 

In flight, he said two crew members work in the back of the aircraft to guide the pilots over the fire and monitor the load. The crew chief hits the trigger to release the water and then the aircraft returns to the dip site to load up again.  

Torres, who has served as a crew chief for two years, said the mission carries a sense of purpose. 

"It's better than just training flights. I think we're actually doing our job, which I enjoy," he said. "I've never been in a helicopter before the Army, so it's a pretty cool experience." 

Fry said the biggest challenge of sustaining the mission isn't equipment or coordination, but people — Oregon Army National Guardsmen balance activation with civilian jobs and families during peak summer months. 

"It takes our citizen soldiers away from their full-time jobs and their families," Fry said. "But the best part about this organization is that everybody is willing to do that, and everybody is willing to give up their summers and their time to come and support this mission." 

Fry added that the guardsmen flying and maintaining the aircraft are, in many cases, the same people Oregonians see every day. 

"These people are your neighbors. They're your friends," Fry said. "They're out here supporting you, supporting the state and supporting our interests to keep the state safe and beautiful." 

According to the Oregon Department of Forestry, the National Guard aircraft are expected to continue supporting firefighting efforts as long as needed, based on ground conditions.

USS Minnesota Completes First Forward-Deployment

July 31, 2026 | By Commander, Submarine Squadron 15 |

The submarine USS Minnesota returned to its home port at Naval Base Guam July 29, after completing its first deployment since becoming the Navy's first forward-deployed submarine.

"[The] Minnesota's return marks a significant milestone for the Pacific submarine force and demonstrates the Navy's ability to sustain and employ advanced Virginia-class capabilities in the Pacific," said Navy Capt. Christopher Carter, Submarine Squadron 15 commander. "Operating from Guam, this crew demonstrated the readiness, endurance and advanced capabilities the Virginia-class platform brings to the strategic outpost in the Western Pacific." 
 
The Minnesota participated in the multinational Exercise Valiant Shield 26 and made port visits to Okinawa and Sasebo, Japan. The Okinawa visit demonstrated the Navy's ability to sustain undersea capabilities at a variety of locations throughout the Pacific region. 

"This homecoming marks the successful completion of [the] Minnesota's first deployment from Guam," said Navy Cmdr. Jeffrey Cornielle, USS Minnesota commander. "The crew performed superbly while executing missions vital to the defense of the homeland and strengthening our alliances and partnerships.

"The experience they gained operating throughout the Western Pacific will shape [the] Minnesota's continued success for years to come," he continued. "I am proud of every sailor and deeply grateful to our families, whose strength and support made this deployment possible." 

 
During the deployment, two officers and 20 enlisted sailors earned their submarine warfare insignia. The insignia signifies qualification to operate at the highest standards of the undersea force and reflects mastery of submarine systems, watch stations and mission execution. 
 
"The sailors aboard [the] Minnesota represented the Navy with pride and professionalism, no matter the task," said Navy Master Chief Petty Officer Joshua Garrett, the Minnesota's chief of the boat. "Every time a challenge stood before them, they answered the call with discipline, character and an unwavering commitment to one another. Their readiness and effectiveness were evident throughout this deployment, and I could not be prouder of what this crew accomplished." 
 
The homecoming included the Navy's traditional first kiss and first hug, awarded to Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Jose Salazar and Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Jaccor Blakley, respectively. 

 
Since arriving in Guam November 2024, the USS Minnesota has visited Western Australia, where the crew conducted at-sea operations in support of the Submarine Command Course and participated in Exercise Lungfish, a tactical development exercise between the U.S. Navy and Royal Australian Navy.

The ship also visited Darwin, Australia, in support of bilateral engagements. These accomplishments add to the Minnesota's growing list of milestones and demonstrate its ability to deliver credible combat power from a forward-deployed location in the Pacific.

Hegseth: Department Success Buoyed by Courage, Spirit, Leadership

July 31, 2026 | By C. Todd Lopez, Pentagon News |

The War Department has had a lot of success in the past 19 months, said Secretary of War Pete Hegseth. And that's in no small part due to the dedication and training of the men and women in uniform who form the heart of the U.S. military.

But underwriting that success is presidential leadership from the very top, Hegseth told President Donald J. Trump today during a cabinet meeting at Camp David in Maryland.

"It's great Americans here and all around the country, and all around the world, who are the core of what keeps us safe," Hegseth said. "But in order to do that, you have to have a leader that's willing to put them in a position to do it."

The secretary listed three things Trump provides that make success possible for American warfighters: courage, a mandate to restore the warrior spirit and a generational investment in making the U.S. military the best it can be.

"I think people miss ... the courage it takes to seal the border, to say we're going to do it, and we're going to do it every single day, and we're going to do it on behalf of the American people," Hegseth said.

Since January 2025, American troops from all services, and with various skills, have been working first to gain and then maintain 100% operational control of America's southern border and to stop both drug traffickers and the flow of illegal immigration.

"[It takes] courage to bomb the Houthis and say we will maintain freedom of navigation," Hegseth said. "If you wonder why they're not involved in this conflict [in Iran], even though they're a proxy of Iran, it's because they've felt the weight of American power for 45 days, and you had the courage to do that."

In the Red Sea, Iran-backed Houthi forces had been attacking U.S. ships and those of other nations for years, disrupting legal commerce for all. In March 2025, the U.S. took steps to put an end to those attacks during Operation Rough Rider, when U.S. Central Command, at the direction of the president, began a series of attacks at key terrorist Houthi targets in Yemen. Two months later, the president announced that the Houthis agreed to a ceasefire.

Operation Midnight Hammer, the June 2025 mission to obliterate Iran's nuclear capability, also resulted in a ceasefire of the 12-day war, Hegseth noted, calling it a bold move no other president had dared to do.

"Other presidents had the option on their table to do [that], but they never pulled the trigger because of the complications, because of the challenges, because of the risk," he said. "Courage."

The secretary also cited presidential leadership and a willingness to take risks as key enablers for stopping the flow of illegal drugs in the Caribbean, the capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro as part of Operation Absolute Resolve and the willingness to undertake the significant Operation Epic Fury, to ensure the Iranian regime will never have a nuclear weapon.

Embolden Spirit

The secretary also credited the president with reinvigorating the spirit of the U.S. armed forces by providing a mandate to eliminate distractions in the force and refocus the warfighter on lethality, meritocracy, accountability, readiness and standards.

"You talk about spirit all the time, and you're right to do so," Hegseth told Trump. "When you rip out [diversity, equity and inclusion], when you rip out social engineering and social justice, and you put in merit; and then you untie the hands of commanders to be commanders, to enforce discipline and accountability, to get back to basics, then you get historic reenlistment inside our ranks."

The secretary said that reinvigorated spirit has caught on across the nation and ignited an interest in serving, adding that the U.S. military is reaping the benefits through increased enlistments and retention.

"Our best people ... are staying, because they want to be in that kind of department," he said. "And then [there is] the historic recruitment record amongst young Americans. Every month our department breaks records."

Investing in Now, Future

This year, the president has asked for $1.5 trillion to fund the U.S. military. However, Hegseth said it's not going to be business as usual for how that money will be spent, noting that Deputy Secretary of War Steve Feinberg will be responsible for ensuring the money is spent in a way that truly strengthens the department.

"This is a businessman in charge; this is the deputy secretary of our department, who's a turnaround guy, just like the president is — saying we will not fund ... the department the way we have in the past," Hegseth said.

In addition to funding, the secretary highlighted recent efforts to strengthen the defense industrial base, including being a better customer, which has resulted in America's industry partners reinvesting in themselves, ultimately driving down costs to the department.

"[There is] $75 billion in private investment from defense companies that are now investing in new plants, new equipment and new assembly lines, to build the munitions of the future faster than ever possible," the secretary told the president. "That's saving taxpayer dollars because the companies themselves are investing — the arsenal of freedom would never happen without you."