Multinational Forces Validate Defensive Readiness During Exercise Balikatan 2026

April 28, 2026

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Marines Debut New Ground Sensor Systems

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Army Medic Leads Life-Saving Response After Bear Attack in Alaska

April 28, 2026 | By Army Maj. Ian Roth, 11th Airborne Division |

When a bear attacked two soldiers during a land navigation exercise in the rugged Alaskan wilderness, Army Sgt. Zachariah Clark was not on duty as a medic; he was a participant, navigating the same challenging terrain as his fellow soldiers. But when the call for help came, Clark's training, leadership and commitment to his team took over. Clark, a combat medic and team leader assigned to the 11th Airborne Division, was conducting land navigation as part of a battalion team leader development event when he received word that two soldiers had been injured in a bear mauling.

"My first thought was ... 'They're alone, they're afraid, and they might be dying; I need to go get them,'" Clark recalled. 

Without hesitation, Clark rallied his battle buddy and other soldiers he encountered along the way, instructing them on bear safety and first aid as they moved through deep snow and dense woods.

"We started to push back, roughly to where we thought they might be. We didn't have an exact idea of where they were," he said. "As we were pushing through the rough terrain, I was finding groups of soldiers that hadn't been contacted or notified of the incident yet. I said, 'Hey, come to the sound of my voice. You follow me.'" 

Clark's experience in both military and civilian emergency medicine shaped his approach.  

"One of the lessons we learn is you're there to help someone on their worst day," he said. "Not rush into things, to not endanger yourself, but to also be proactive in your patient care." 

Upon reaching the scene, Clark quickly assessed the situation, triaged the casualties, and began directing other soldiers, none of whom were medics but had received combat lifesaver training prior to this training event.  

"As a medic, I prefer to work out of my aid bag, but being that I was conducting land [navigation,] I didn't have my aid bag with me. So, we were all working out of first aid kits. It's a unit standard that every soldier has a first aid kit on the left side of their fighting plate carrier. Having my first aid kit was essential that day," Clark said. 

He emphasized the importance of every soldier knowing how to use their first aid kit and being prepared for emergencies.  

"I highly recommend every soldier go through their first aid kit, practice pulling it out, know where everything is, and make sure it's up to the standard," he said. 

Clark's leadership extended beyond medical care. He organized the group for area safety, assigned tasks and ensured that everyone played a role in the response.  

"We went with what we had that day. We hustled. We moved to the casualties," he said. "Had we not done that, I don't know what would have happened to those casualties." 

As Air Force emergency medical services and security forces arrived, Clark coordinated the handoff and assisted with preparing the casualties for evacuation by helicopter. He and his team gave their own clothing to the injured soldiers to help prevent hypothermia, a critical consideration in Alaska's unpredictable spring weather. 

After the evacuation, Clark remained focused on accountability and recovery, ensuring all of the soldiers and equipment were accounted for before leading the group back through the challenging terrain to the start point. 

Reflecting on the experience, Clark said, "It is a privilege, and it is an honor to be able to take care of other soldiers and bring your friends home."  

He credits the Army's training and core values for guiding his actions.  

"If you can apply the warrior ethos to everything that you do every day that you show up, when big incidents happen, it'll be like muscle memory. You'll instinctively just know what it is that you have to do." 

Clark's advice to other soldiers is to take training seriously, be prepared and look out for one another.  

"The Army is a family, 100%. And those memories, with those people you have, will last for the rest of your life," he said.

Navy Commissions Submarine USS Idaho

April 27, 2026 | By Navy Chief Petty Officer Darren Moore, Submarine Readiness Squadron 32  |

The Navy commissioned the submarine USS Idaho in a traditional ceremony at Naval Submarine Base New London in Groton, Connecticut, April 25.  

The ceremony marked the culmination of a multiyear construction process and officially brought the USS Idaho into the fleet. It is the fifth Navy vessel named for the Gem State. The most recent predecessor, USS Idaho, was a battleship commissioned in 1919 that earned seven battle stars for its service during World War II, including action at Iwo Jima and Okinawa, Japan.  

Sen. James Risch of Idaho delivered the principal address as the ceremony's keynote speaker.  

Hung Cao, acting Navy secretary, also delivered remarks, emphasizing the strategic importance of the new submarine.  

"We are a maritime nation, bordering on both the Atlantic and the Pacific [Oceans]. Our commerce depends on safe and secure sea lanes of communication," Cao said. "President [Donald J.] Trump's commission to our military is simple: to achieve peace through strength. The USS Idaho joins the fleet ready to answer the call to action, in any ocean, at any time."  

Navy Cmdr. Chad J. Guillerault, commanding officer of the Idaho, addressed the attendees, speaking on behalf of the crew and the submarine's rich heritage.  

"The Idaho connection is more than a name, it is a legacy — a legacy built before us that is being reborn today," Guillerault declared. "I am incredibly proud to be the commissioning captain of a vessel so steeped in tradition ... and most importantly, honored to be the captain of a crew so mighty that they have outshone all those before them."  

The ship's sponsor, Teresa Stackley, gave the traditional order to "man our ship and bring her to life," at which point the crew ceremonially ran aboard to man the submarine. 

"This moment is for you, Cmdr. Guillerault, and your crew," Stackley said. "Please note that when you sail, my heart sails with you."  

The Idaho is the 26th Virginia-class submarine and the eighth of the advanced Block IV configuration. The ship was christened on March 16, 2024, at the shipyard in Groton.  

As the newest submarine to join the fleet, the Idaho brings cutting-edge warfighting capability to the nation's undersea forces. Virginia-class submarines feature enhanced stealth, sophisticated surveillance capabilities and special warfare enhancements to meet the Navy's multimission requirements.  

These submarines are 7,800 tons, 377 feet in length and have a beam of 34 feet. They are powered by a nuclear reactor plant that will not require refueling during the planned life of the ship, reducing lifecycle costs and increasing operational availability.  

The commissioning of the USS Idaho reinforces the Navy's commitment to maritime superiority and national security. For 250 years, American naval power has projected strength across the globe. That mission continues and intensifies with the addition of the nation's most advanced undersea assets.

Medal of Honor Monday: Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Marvin G. Shields

April 27, 2026 | By David Vergun, Pentagon News |

Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Marvin G. Shields has the distinction of being the only Seabee to ever be awarded the Medal of Honor.

He was born Dec. 30, 1939, in Port Townsend, Washington, and joined the Navy Jan. 8, 1962. He wanted to be a Seabee, construction mechanic, as he was good with his hands and liked the outdoors, having worked for a gold mining company in Hyder, Alaska, in 1958, just after high school.

On Nov. 1, 1964, he was assigned to Seabee Team 1104, Naval Construction Battalion 11, which consisted of eight enlisted service members and one officer.

Shields and his team deployed to Saigon, South Vietnam, Feb. 1, 1965, and were later assigned to a newly established Army Special Forces camp at Dong Xoai, about 55 miles northwest of Saigon, arriving June 4, 1965, to assist in repair and construction.

On the night of June 9, 1965, the camp was bombed and attacked by approximately 2,000 Vietcong soldiers. Besides the Seabees, the camp was manned by only 11 Green Berets and about 200 South Vietnamese soldiers.

By morning, the camp was overrun.

After being wounded by mortar fire, Shields fought alongside the Green Berets against the enemy, carrying ammunition to the firing line positions. Although wounded again by shrapnel and shot in the jaw, he helped a soldier and a Seabee carry a badly wounded special forces captain in charge of the camp to a safer position.

According to his Medal of Honor citation, Shields continued to resupply his fellow Americans with needed ammunition and returned enemy fire for approximately three hours. At that time, the Vietcong launched a massive attack at close range with flamethrowers, hand grenades and small-arms fire.

Wounded a second time during this attack, Shields helped carry a critically wounded man to safety and then resumed firing at the enemy for four more hours. When the commander asked for a volunteer to accompany him in an attempt to knock out an enemy machine-gun emplacement, Shields unhesitatingly volunteered for this extremely hazardous mission.

Proceeding toward their objective with a rocket launcher, they succeeded in destroying the enemy machine-gun emplacement and saved the lives of many of their fellow servicemen. However, Shields was mortally wounded by hostile fire while returning to his defensive position and died June 10, 1965. 
 
Two Seabees, Shields and Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class William C. Hoover lost their lives, and seven other Seabees were wounded in the battle. Three Green Berets were also killed, and many South Vietnamese soldiers were killed or wounded.

President Lyndon B. Johnson posthumously awarded Shields the Medal of Honor and presented it to his family Sept. 13, 1966. Shields is buried in Gardiner Cemetery in Gardiner, Washington, and his medal is displayed at the Seabee Museum and Memorial Park in North Kingstown, Rhode Island.

Shields' heroics during the Vietnam War continue to be appreciated. On Veterans Day in 2019, more than 100 service members, veterans and guests gathered at Gardiner Cemetery to honor him.

"It's a tremendous honor for Naval Facilities and Engineering Command Northwest to host this event every year," said Navy Capt. Chad Brooks, NAVFAC Northwest commanding officer. "We have great support from other units in the area, and it's a privilege every year to celebrate the Shields family and the Seabee community." 

"Of all of the opportunities I've had to share my thoughts at different events and ceremonies, being here today is by far the most humbling," said retired Navy Master Chief Petty Officer Doug Heiner, NAVFAC Northwest employee. "His Medal of Honor citation is the basis of legend and is retold every year as Seabee chief [petty officer] selectees are charged to keep our heritage alive."

The event included the placement of a Medal of Honor flower box on Shields' grave, as well as a 21-gun salute. 

 "Today was exceptionally moving and exceptionally thoughtful, and I'm very grateful for the Seabee family that continues to make this day very special for me and my family," said Joan Bennett-Shields, Marvin Shields' widow. "We couldn't do this without them." 
 
Camp Shields, a Seabee base in Okinawa, Japan, and the frigate USS Marvin Shields were named in his honor.

Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Ryan Batchelder contributed to this article.

From Battlefield Signals to Patriotic Soundtracks: The Evolution of Military Music in America

Long before the crack of muskets or the roar of artillery defined the battlefield, there was sound. Rhythmic, deliberate, and purposeful, music has accompanied warfare for thousands of years, shaping the movement of armies and the spirit of those who served within them. What began as a practical system of communication evolved over centuries into one of the most enduring symbols of military tradition. Today, that evolution can be heard in performances that range from the piercing notes of fifes and drums to the full, resonant power of modern military bands. The presence of both the Mountain Fifes & Drums and the 1st Marine Division Band at the San Dimas 2026 celebration reflects not only American history, but a much older human story rooted in discipline, coordination, and shared identity.

The origins of military music stretch back to the earliest organized societies. In ancient China, as early as the Zhou Dynasty, drums and gongs were used to coordinate troop movements and maintain order in battle. These instruments were essential tools for communication, capable of conveying commands across distances where voices could not carry (Van Aalst, 1884). Similarly, in ancient Greece, flutes were used to regulate marching pace, particularly among Spartan soldiers, whose discipline depended on synchronized movement (Anderson, 1966). The Romans developed one of the most sophisticated early systems of military signaling, employing instruments such as the tuba and cornu to transmit standardized commands for advancing, retreating, and maneuvering units on the battlefield (Goldsworthy, 2003). In each of these civilizations, music was not ornamental; it was functional, a means of imposing order on chaos.

As warfare evolved through the medieval and early modern periods, so too did military music. European armies increasingly relied on drums and horns to maintain formation and signal commands. By the seventeenth century, the fife and drum corps had become a defining feature of many military units, particularly in the British Army. The high-pitched fife could be heard over the din of combat, while the drum provided both rhythm and authority. These instruments were used not only in battle but also in camp life, marking daily routines such as reveille, meals, and lights out (McWhirter, 2016). Music had become both a practical necessity and a unifying force, reinforcing discipline and identity within the ranks.

When the American colonies entered into rebellion against Great Britain, they brought these musical traditions with them. The Continental Army relied heavily on fifers and drummers, many of whom were young boys, to relay commands and maintain order. On the battlefield, they signaled maneuvers and coordinated movements. In camp, they structured daily life and helped sustain morale. The sound of fifes and drums became inseparable from the experience of the Revolutionary War, echoing across fields where a new nation was being forged. These musicians did more than communicate; they embodied the resolve and unity of a disparate group of colonies striving toward independence (Camus, 1976).

The Mountain Fifes & Drums represent a living continuation of this tradition. By performing music from the eighteenth century on period instruments, they recreate not only the sounds of the Revolutionary War but also its spirit. Their presence serves as a reminder that many of the original musicians were themselves young, learning discipline and responsibility through their service. In this way, the group bridges past and present, allowing modern audiences to experience history not as a distant abstraction but as something immediate and tangible.

Following the Revolutionary War, military music in the United States began to evolve beyond its strictly functional roots. Advances in communication technology gradually reduced the need for musical signals on the battlefield, but the importance of music within military culture did not diminish. Instead, it expanded. Brass and woodwind instruments were incorporated into larger ensembles, giving rise to formal military bands. These groups played a central role in ceremonies, parades, and public events, helping to foster a sense of national identity and pride (Bowles, 2006). Music became a means of connecting the military with the civilian population, transforming from a tool of command into a symbol of shared values.

The United States Marine Corps played a significant role in this transformation. Founded in 1775, the Marine Corps quickly established a musical tradition that would grow in prominence over time. The United States Marine Band, often referred to as “The President’s Own,” became one of the nation’s most respected musical institutions, performing at official events and setting a standard for excellence (U.S. Marine Band, n.d.). Today, units such as the 1st Marine Division Band continue this legacy, representing the discipline, professionalism, and pride of the Marine Corps. Their performances are not merely entertainment; they are expressions of history, service, and national identity.

Despite the changes in instrumentation and function, certain elements of military music have remained constant across time. Whether on an ancient battlefield, a Revolutionary War encampment, or a modern parade ground, music has served to unify individuals into a cohesive whole. It has provided structure, reinforced discipline, and conveyed meaning beyond words. The rhythm of a drum or the call of a fife carries with it a sense of purpose that transcends generations.

The San Dimas 2026 celebration brings these traditions together in a powerful and symbolic way. The Mountain Fifes & Drums represent the origins of American military music, rooted in the struggle for independence. The 1st Marine Division Band represents its evolution into a modern expression of national pride and professional excellence. Together, they illustrate a continuous thread that runs from the earliest days of the nation to the present moment. Their performances are not simply a reflection of history; they are an active participation in it.

As the United States commemorates the 250th anniversary of its founding, the role of military music takes on renewed significance. The sounds that once guided soldiers through the uncertainty of battle now serve to bring communities together in remembrance and celebration. They remind us that history is not only something to be studied, but something to be experienced. In the rhythm of the drum and the melody of the fife, in the precision of a modern military band, the past speaks to the present. It calls us to remember where we have come from, to honor those who served, and to recognize the enduring power of unity through sound.

References

Anderson, W. D. (1966). Music and musicians in ancient Greece. Cornell University Press.

Bowles, E. A. (2006). The history of military music. In T. Sadie (Ed.), The new Grove dictionary of music and musicians. Oxford University Press.

Camus, R. (1976). Military music of the American Revolution. University of North Carolina Press.

Goldsworthy, A. (2003). The complete Roman army. Thames & Hudson.

McWhirter, C. (2016). Battle hymns: The power and popularity of music in the Civil War. University of North Carolina Press.

U.S. Marine Band. (n.d.). History of the United States Marine Band. https://www.marineband.marines.mil/About/Our-History/

Van Aalst, J. A. (1884). Chinese music. Kelly & Walsh.

Eyes, Ears of Joint Force: Caine Honors Unsung Intelligence Community Heroes

April 24, 2026 | By David Vergun, Pentagon News |

Successful military operations depend on those in the intelligence community, including the Defense Intelligence Agency, National Security Agency, National Reconnaissance Office, Central Intelligence Agency and others, said Air Force Gen. Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, during a press conference at the Pentagon today.

"The totality of their work is the culmination of days, months and in many cases, years of work by our uniform and civilian intelligence professionals," he said, adding that America's intelligence force, including collectors and analysts, has spent decades searching for every loose thread that could impact national security.

These intelligence professionals spend their careers answering important questions before, during and after operations.

"They live in the enemy's mind," Caine said, working in windowless sensitive facilities, 24/7, 365 days a year.

The general went on to commend them for their tireless work sifting through mountains of collected information using classified tools, tactics, techniques and procedures.

"The sun never sets on these world-class professionals, and their goal is, every minute of every day, to be on the account. And they know the enemy," he said. "They know their combat capability, their weapons, their industrial and economic systems, and they know their leaders, their leaders' pattern of life, where they go, what they think and what they do."

Thanks to their work, the War Department knows Iran, its leaders, its military and its capabilities, Caine said.

Children of Military Families Visit Arlington National Cemetery, Reflect on Meaning of Service

 April 24, 2026 | By Susanna Cox, Arlington National Cemetery |

When the Senate Youth Program visited Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia, March 13, the experience held special meaning for two students, both children of military service members.  

Their visit to the cemetery preceded the Month of the Military Child, observed every April. This observance recognizes that, while service members wear the uniform, their children share the unique challenges and sacrifices that come with military service. 

Senate Youth Program students Ava Ellis and Michael Carbone attend schools within the Department of War Education Activity, a school system that serves children on American bases worldwide. Visiting Arlington National Cemetery — where the stories of children like them are woven into the landscape — inspired reverence and prompted both to reflect on what it means to grow up in a military family. 

Ellis, whose father serves in the Air Force and is currently stationed at Camp Humphreys in South Korea, described the experience as "very emotional." She added that visiting the cemetery helped her understand parts of military life that many children may not see.  

"As a military child, a lot of times you see the good parts, but we are often shielded from the harder aspects, especially when my dad deploys or takes on a tougher job," she said. "Being here opens my eyes and helps me see all aspects of it."

For Carbone, the son of an Army soldier currently stationed at Garrison Wiesbaden in Germany, the visit brought back memories of his father's deployments.  

"Coming in, it was very emotional," he said. "It made me think back to when my dad was deployed to Afghanistan and wondering if he was going to come home," Carbone said, adding that he felt a greater appreciation for both of his parents' service, including his mother's role as a military spouse. 

Senate Youth Program students laid a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and then witnessed the changing of the guard. As the ceremony concluded and the familiar notes of taps echoed across the plaza, the moment prompted quiet reflection for Ellis and Carbone.  

"I forgot that they play taps during the ceremony," she said. "You hear it on military bases every night, but hearing it here reminds you of the sacrifice behind everything."

For military children like Ellis and Carbone, service is woven into daily life, shaping their perspectives in ways many of their peers may never see. Their visit to Arlington National Cemetery, shortly before the Month of the Military Child, enabled them to gain a deeper understanding of their families' sacrifices and their own place within the legacy that the cemetery preserves. Ellis and Carbone's reflections highlighted that military children are part of a longer history of service, sacrifice and remembrance — and that the cemetery honors not only those who served, but also the families who stand behind them.

U.S. Navy to Commission Submarine Idaho (SSN 799)

April 24, 2026 |

The Navy will commission the 26th Virginia-class fast-attack submarine, the future USS Idaho (SSN 799), during an 11 a.m. EDT ceremony Saturday, April 25, at Naval Submarine Base New London, Connecticut.

The Honorable James Risch, U.S. Senator from Idaho, will deliver the ceremony's principal address. Additional speakers are set to include the Honorable Richard Blumenthal, U.S. Senator from Connecticut; the Honorable Brad Little, Governor of Idaho; the Honorable Michael Simpson, U.S. Representative from Idaho; the Honorable Joe Courtney, U.S. Representative from Connecticut; the Honorable Hung Cao, acting Secretary of the Navy; Adm. William Houston, Director, Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program; and Mark Rayha, president, General Dynamics Electric Boat (GDEB).
 
The submarine's sponsor, Teresa Stackley, is the daughter of a Navy Sailor and the spouse of the Honorable Sean Stackley, a former Naval officer who served as Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Research, Development and Acquisition from 2008 to 2017. In keeping with Navy tradition, Stackley will give the crew the order to "man our ship and bring her to life." With the hoisting of the colors and commissioning pennant, acting Secretary Cao will formally place the ship in active service.

SSN 799 is the fifth Navy ship to be named for the state of Idaho. The first was a wooden-hulled steam sloop commissioned in 1866. The most recent was a New Mexico-class battleship, BB-42, which was commissioned in 1919. BB-42 participated in major Naval battles in the Pacific campaign from 1942 to 1945 and received seven battle stars for service in World War II.
 
Idaho is the 26th Virginia-class submarine co-produced by GDEB and HII-Newport News Shipbuilding through a long-standing teaming arrangement. The submarine is the 14th delivered by GDEB and the eighth Block IV-configured Virginia-class submarine. Idaho was christened March 16, 2024, at GDEB's shipyard in Groton.
 
As it joins the fleet, Idaho brings significant warfighting capability, underscoring the Nation's asymmetrical advantage at sea. Virginia-class fast-attack submarines have enhanced stealth, sophisticated surveillance capabilities and special warfare enhancements that enable them to meet the Navy's multi-mission requirements.
 
Each Virginia-class submarine is 7,800 tons and 377 feet in length and has a beam of 34 feet. It is designed with a reactor plant that will not require refueling during the planned life of the ship, reducing life-cycle costs while increasing underway time.
 
The commissioning of USS Idaho underscores the Navy's commitment to building America's Fleet of the Future. For 250 years, American naval power has projected strength globally. That mission continues – and intensifies. We operate forward 24/7, 365 days a year. This operational tempo demands continuous capability delivery, and the Fleet of the Future is our answer.
 
The commissioning ceremony will be streamed live at: https://www.dvidshub.net/webcast/37488.
 
Media may direct queries to the Navy Office of Information at (703) 697-5342. 
 
More information on the Virginia-class fast-attack submarine program can be found at: https://www.navy.mil/Resources/Fact-Files/Display-FactFiles/Article/2169558/attack-submarines-ssn

Department of War Showcases Progress on Golden Dome for America, the Nation's Next-Generation Homeland Defense

April 23, 2026 |

Senior leaders from the Department of War, U.S. government, and defense industry gathered at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story, April 23, to provide an update about Golden Dome for America (GDA), the nation's initiative to build a next-generation missile defense shield to protect the Homeland.

Speakers included Undersecretary of War for Research and Engineering and the Department of War's Chief Technology Officer Emil Michael; Director of Golden Dome for America Gen. Mike Guetlein; and Deputy Director of Operations at North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) Maj. Gen. Mark Piper. 

The event, set against a backdrop of current missile defense capabilities, underscored the urgent need to modernize the nation's defenses against a new generation of advanced threats, as directed by President Trump.

"Golden Dome is the decisive response to a new era of threats," said Gen. Mike Guetlein, Director of Golden Dome for America. "We are moving with purpose and urgency to forge a shield that is layered, integrated, and automated. The progress on display today is tangible proof that this is not a future concept, but a reality we must build now." 

GDA is a layered defense architecture designed to protect the United States from complex ballistic, hypersonic, and cruise missiles, as well as advanced aerial threats. It enhances national security by integrating a persistent space-based sensor network for global tracking, a portfolio of advanced interceptors providing defense-in-depth, and an integrated command and control system to manage threats at machine speed.

The program's momentum was a central theme, with officials confirming GDA is ahead of schedule and on budget. Key achievements highlighted include the completion of the initial architecture blueprint, the establishment of a Command-and-Control Consortium, and the awarding of active contracts for critical system components.

Emil Michael, Under Secretary of War for Research and Engineering, spoke to the program's innovative foundation.

"It is this Department's mandate to definitively secure our homeland," said Under Secretary Michael. "We are embracing an open architecture that harnesses the full power of American innovation—from artificial intelligence to the commercial space industry—to build the impenetrable shield that this nation deserves."

During remarks, the operational imperative for capabilities was validated by Piper.

"From a NORAD and NORTHCOM perspective, the requirement is clear," said Maj. Gen. Piper. "To defend North America and win tomorrow's fight, we must maintain our warfighting advantages and operate beyond stovepiped systems operating at human speed. Golden Dome is forging the integrated, automated battle management network needed to see every threat, make decisions in milliseconds, and keep America safe."

The choice of Hampton Roads for the event underscored the region's role in the national endeavor. The area hosts testing for the Army Long-Range Persistent Surveillance (ALPS), a key terrestrial sensor whose data directly informs the development of the broader GDA architecture.

Department officials explained GDA is a fiscally responsible, vital investment in national security. The program's modular, open-systems approach is designed to control costs and provide sustained, predictable demand signals to the U.S. industrial base, ensuring the nation can outpace emerging threats for decades to come.

Personal Property Activity Engages Industry Partners Ahead of Peak PCS Season

April 23, 2026 | By Army Maj. Matthew Visser and Air Force Staff Sgt. David Phaff |

The War Department's newest special activity — the Personal Property Activity — met today with moving, shipping and logistics leaders to provide an update on the accelerated reform aimed at improving one of the most critical quality-of-life issues facing military families, the permanent change of station moving process.

The engagement brought leaders from across the household goods industry together with Personal Property Activity officials to identify operational challenges, improve accountability and implement solutions ahead of the 2026 PCS peak season. It marked the organization's first in-person industry engagement since transitioning from a task force to a permanent special activity earlier this year. 
 
"If you want to influence the future, please work with us and give us your ideas," said Army Maj. Gen. Lance Curtis, PPA commander. "We cannot do it without you; we need you, alongside us, at the tip of the spear to rewrite our future."  
 
Discussions focused on increasing shipment predictability for service members and their families, improving communication, strengthening performance standards and modernizing the Defense Personal Property Program.

The engagement supported President Donald J. Trump's broader priority of delivering more efficient, accountable government services for military personnel. It also aligns with Secretary of War Pete Hegseth's directive to fix long-standing issues within the military moving system. 
 
When announcing the establishment of the Personal Property Activity in January, Hegseth called the organization "a permanent solution for all service members who move" and emphasized the department's responsibility to deliver reliable household goods services to warfighters worldwide. 
 
Personal Property Activity leaders emphasized that reform will be data-driven and facts-based and that industry plays a critical role in delivering results.

The organization also highlighted measurable progress already underway, including an increase in self-reported claims satisfaction from 52% to 69%, signaling improved service quality for service members and families navigating the relocation process. 
 
Army Col. Mike Ashton, Personal Property Activity director of operations, announced a departmentwide website, "where service members and providers will be able to find all the resources and advisories all collocated in one place."  
 
The website will be a one-stop shop for military movers and providers, and it will go live May 1.

Industry partners received an update on the reform and actions taken to address workforce challenges, commercial best practices, pricing structures and operational innovations experienced by industry. The improvements are intended to enhance the program's overall performance across the relocation enterprise and improve the quality of service delivered to military movers. 
 
"We have seen a noticeable increase in responsiveness to industry's concerns since Secretary Hegseth announced the Personal Property Activity," said Chuck Kuhn, an industry partner. "Maj. Gen. Curtis and his team have been aggressive with the right sense of urgency to engage with industry to hear and address our concerns, while proactively improving the overall moving experience for military families."  
 
The Personal Property Activity continues working with industry partners to modernize military relocations, improve the quality of life for service members and ensure PCS moves support readiness rather than disrupt it.

Braker Breakthrough: Drone-Delivered Bunker-Busting Warhead Passes Test

April 22, 2026 | By Eric Kowal, Picatinny Arsenal |

In a significant leap forward for battlefield technology, Army infantry drone operators successfully tested a new warhead designed for delivery by an unmanned aerial system. 
 
The live-fire demonstration of the bunker rupture and kinetic explosive round, which took place at Redstone Arsenal, Alabama, March 26, comes only weeks after the initial design and rapid prototyping of the system, and showcases the Army's accelerated approach to innovation in the face of evolving threats. 

The Army continuously transforms by using the latest technologies to gain a warfighting advantage, ensuring the force is lethal, modern and ready. The development of this air-delivered munition directly supports that mission, as well as Secretary of War Pete Hegseth's readiness and transformation priorities. 
 
The Braker project, led by a team from the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Armaments Center and Project Manager Close Combat Systems, aimed to create a lightweight, powerful and lethal warhead that could be deployed from a small, agile drone. 
 
"Our Picatinny team went from concept to live-fire in two weeks," said Army Col. Vinson Morris, project manager of Project Manager Close Combat Systems. "Braker proves our ability to rapidly develop and safely deliver devastating effects from small, unmanned aircraft systems. We are now creating the architecture with Picatinny Common Lethality Integration Kit and the small, universal payload interface for industry to scale this critical warfighter advantage." 

The Picatinny Common Lethality Integration Kit is a safe and effective method for integrating lethal payloads with UAS platforms, designed and developed by engineers at the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Armaments Center. 
 
The rapid development-to-testing timeline of Braker was made possible by the Army's emphasis on additive manufacturing, also known as 3D printing. 
 
In early March, engineers from the Armaments Center began designing, explosive pressing, housing manufacturing and integrating the warhead to be used on a low-cost and expendable one-way attack drone. 
 
Shortly thereafter, transfer and compatibility tests were conducted at Picatinny Arsenal, and approximately a dozen warheads were assembled, one of which was tested on a makeshift test range bunker. 

After proving worthiness and validating effectiveness, the prototype warheads departed Picatinny Arsenal, New Jersey, for Redstone Arsenal, where a live demonstration was conducted for Army leaders. 
 
The successful detonation of a target deployed by a device attached to a drone demonstrates a new and potent capability for the modern warfighter. It also illustrates how quickly engineers can design, fabricate and integrate hardware to meet urgent and compelling needs. 
 
"Rapid demonstrations of overwhelming lethality, such as Braker, are attributed to years of continued technology investments and the organic core technical competencies and facilities resident at the [U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command] Armaments Center," said Anthony Sebasto, executive director of the Munitions Engineering and Technology Center.