Document rBY3EZj0vw91XjeJ2ykvB6b0E
From: To: Sent: Subject:
Hunstad, Mary P CIV NAVSEA HQ, SEA 05 Berkoski, Daniel T CIV NAVSEA, SEA 05; Fletcher, Steven G CIV NAVSEA HQ, SEA 05 1/21/2016 3:38:10 PM RE: Early Bird Brief Navy: Drinking water contaminated at Fentress in Chesapeake (AFFF)
Thanks. I knew that wouldn't be good,
v/r Mary Hunstad TWH - Fire Protection Systems And Material Fire Performance SEA 05P5 WNYD bldg. 197, 3W-2827 202-781-3632
......Original Message...... From: Berkoski, Daniel T CIV NAVSEA, SEA 05 Sent: Thursday, January 21,2016 10:30 AM To: Hunstad, Mary P CIV NAVSEA HQ, SEA 05; Fletcher, Steven G CIV NAVSEA HQ, SEA 05 Subject: FW: Early Bird Brief Navy: Drinking water contaminated at Fentress in Chesapeake (AFFF)
Report of PFOS/PFOA contaminated well water at an old Navy firefighter training site.
......Original Message...... From: SIX, MICHAEL D GS-14 USAF AFMC AFCEC/COSM [mailto:michael.six.3@us.af.mil] Sent: Thursday, January 21,2016 10:21 AM To: Simone, Joseph A CIV NAVFAC HQ, Cl; Berkoski, Daniel T CIV NAVSEA, SEA 05 Subject: FW: Early Bird Brief Navy: Drinking water contaminated at Fentress in Chesapeake (AFFF)
FYI
......Original Message...... From: ZAPATA, MICHAEL G GS-14 USAF AFCEC AFCEC/CPAD Sent: Thursday, January 21,2016 7:54 AM To: WEBB, BILLY P GS-14 USAF AFCEC AFCEC/COSM; SIX, MICHAEL D GS-14 USAF AFMC AFCEC/COSM; CARMEAN, ANDREW S CIV USAF AFCEC AFCEC/COAF; BIDDLE, JUDY GS-13 USAF AFCEC AFCEC/COSM Subject: FW: Early Bird Brief Navy: Drinking water contaminated at Fentress in Chesapeake (AFFF)
FYI. Navy having issues as well with AFFF.
http://pilotonline.com/news/military/local/navy-drinking-water-contaminatedat-fentress-in-chesapeake/article_6f2be4bf-e5aa-5ce1-b5ca-f03e1154a8b6.html
Navy: Drinking water contaminated at Fentress in Chesapeake <http://pilotonline.com/news/military/local/navy-drinking-water-contaminated -at-fentress-in-chesapeake/article_6f2be4bf-e5aa-5ce1 -b5ca-f03e1154a8b6.html > (Virginian-Pilot) High levels of contaminants from a firefighting foam that was used for decades at Fentress Naval Auxiliary Landing Field were found in its well water during a recent laboratory test, leading Navy officials Wednesday to tell workers to drink only bottled water until a permanent solution is available. <http://pilotonline.com/news/military/local/navy-drinking-water-contaminated -at-fentress-in-chesapeake/article_6f2be4bf-e5aa-5ce1 -b5ca-f03e1154a8b6.html
>
MICHAEL G. ZAPATA, P.E., GS-14
AF Facilities AMP Manager
AFCEC Planning and Integration Directorate
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AFCEC/CPAD
2261 Hughes Ave, Suite 155
Joint Base San Antonio - Lackland, TX 78236-9853
COMM (210) 395-0781
DSN 969-0781
CELL (210) 577-6597 ****NEW NUMBER****
Email: michael.zapata@us.af.mil
From: Defense News [mailto:no-reply@defensenews.com] Sent: Thursday, January 21,2016 5:29 AM To: ZAPATA, MICHAEL G GS-14 USAF AFCEC AFCEC/CPAD Subject: Early Bird Brief
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January 21,2016
The Early Bird Brief<http://image.exct.net/lib/ff011577756600/m/1/EBB_logo.png>
January 21,2016
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Today's Top 5
1. The fight against the Islamic State just entered a new phase - and it could grow soon <https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/checkpoint/wp/2016/01/20/fight-againstthe-islamic-state-enters-a-new-phase-with-pledge-from-seven-countries/> (Washington Post) The U.S.-led military coalition's fight against the Islamic State militant group entered a new phase on Wednesday, with defense ministers from the seven countries most heavily involved in the operation pledging to continue fighting and look for ways to more aggressively target the group. <https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/checkpoint/wp/2016/01/20/fight-againstthe-islamic-state-enters-a-new-phase-with-pledge-from-seven-countries/>
2. Russian Strikes in Syria Have Stabilized Assad, Top U.S. General Says <http://www.nytimes.com/2016/01/21/world/middleeast/russia-syria-joint-chief s-chairman.html> (New York Times) Russia's campaign of airstrikes against opponents of President Bashar al-Assad of Syria has stabilized Mr. Assad's government, America's top general said Wednesday. <http://www.nytimes.com/2016/01/21/world/middleeast/russia-syria-joint-chief
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s-chairman.html>
3. Top Marine general: USMC reviewing aviation safety after fatal helicopter crashes <http://www.marinecorpstimes.com/story/military/2016/01/20/top-marine-genera l-usmc-reviewing-aviation-safety-after-fatal-helicopter-crashes/79080576/> (Marine Corps Times) The Marine Corps' top aviation commanders have been asked to look at what might be causing fatal aviation accidents, such as the recent crash of two CH-53E helicopters off the coast of Hawaii that killed 12 Marines, Commandant Gen. Robert Neller told Marine Corps Times. <http://www.marinecorpstimes.com/story/military/2016/01/20/top-marine-genera l-usmc-reviewing-aviation-safety-after-fatal-helicopter-crashes/79080576/>
4. Senators: Don't demote Petraeus <http://thehill.com/policy/defense/266541-mccain-reed-urge-defense-chief-not -to-demote-petraeus> (The Hill) Sens. John McCain (R-Ariz.) and Jack Reed (D-R.l.) on Wednesday wrote a joint letter urging Defense Secretary Ash Carter not to demote David Petraeus in a way that could take away his status as a retired four-star general. <http://thehill.com/policy/defense/266541-mccain-reed-urge-defense-chief-not -to-demote-petraeus>
5. VA Expert: 9/11 Made America Understand Post-Traumatic Stress <http://www.military.com/daily-news/2016/01/20/va-expert-911-made-america-un derstand-post-traumatic-stress.html> (Military.com) Terence M. Keane, Ph.D., director of the Behavioral Science Division of the Veterans Affairs Department's National Center for PTSD in Boston, last week called the decades-long advances in diagnosis and treatment "stunning." <http://www.military.com/daily-news/2016/01/20/va-expert-911-made-america-un derstand-post-traumatic-stress.html>
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Islamic State
ISIS in Afghanistan: U.S. forces OK'd to attack emerging offshoot <http://www.militarytimes.com/story/military/2016/01/20/us-military-afghanis tan-gets-green-light-targeting-islamic-state-offshoot/79067120/> (Military Times) The White House gave U.S. military commanders in Afghanistan a green light to target thousands of Islamic State militants who are seeking a foothold in the eastern province of Nangarhar, defense officials said. <http://www.militarytimes.com/story/military/2016/01/20/us-military-afghanis tan-gets-green-light-targeting-islamic-state-offshoot/79067120/>
Coalition Defense Ministers Plot Anti-ISIS Campaign <http://www.defensenews.com/story/defense/2016/01/20/coalition-defense-minis ters-plot-anti-isis-campaign/79089014/> (Defense News) The US presented to defense ministers of core partner nations a military campaign aimed at toppling Islamic State and asked for further contributions to speed up and widen the coalition effort, Defense Secretary Ash Carter said Wednesday.
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<http://www.defensenews.com/story/defense/2016/01/20/coalition-defense-minis ters-plot-anti-isis-campaign/79089014/>
Hundreds more U.S. troops may go to Iraq <http://www.militarytimes.com/story/military/2016/01/20/us-mulls-sending-mor e-t roops- iraq/79076740/> (Military Times) U.S. military officials are in high-level talks with the Iraqis about potentially sending hundreds of additional troops to Iraq for training and supporting the upcoming invasion of the Islamic State group's stronghold in Mosul. <http://www.militarytimes.com/story/military/2016/01/20/us-mulls-sending-mor e-t roops- iraq/79076740/>
Here's What Special Operators Want To Do In Libya <http://www.defenseone.com/threats/2016/01/heres-what-special-operators-want -do-libya/125286/> (DefenseOne) The next battleground in the war on ISIS is forming in the sands of Tripoli. <http://www.defenseone.com/threats/2016/01/heres-what-special-operators-want -do-libya/125286/>
A Place Where U.S. Troops Are Very Close To ISIS <http://www.npr.org/sections/parallels/2016/01/20/463616876/a-place-where-us-troops-are-very-close-to-isis> (National Public Radio) Some 700 American troops on a long-running deployment could be in danger of an attack by extremists affiliated with the Islamic State, the Pentagon worries, but it may not be able to get them out anytime soon. <http://www.npr.org/sections/parallels/2016/01/20/463616876/a-place-where-us-troops-are-very-close-to-isis>
USAF Vice Chief: ISIS, Russia Prompted Reconsideration of A-10 Retirement <http://www.defensenews.com/story/defense/air-space/air-force/2016/01/21/usa f-vice-chief-isis-russia-prompted-reconsiderat ion-10-retirement/79053734/> (Defense News) The spread of the Islamic State group and a resurgent Russia has prompted the US Air Force to reconsider immediate plans to retire the A-10 Warthog, according to a top service official. <http://www.defensenews.com/story/defense/air-space/air-force/2016/01/21/usa f-vice-chief-isis-russia-prompted-reconsiderat ion-10-retirement/79053734/>
Report: US strategy against ISIS overlooks Syrian al Qaeda affiliate <http://thehill.com/policy/defense/266443-report-us-strategy-against-isis-ov erlooks-syrian-al-qaeda-affiliate> (The Hill) The U.S. strategy against the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS) is completely overlooking al Qaeda's affiliate in Syria, the Nusra Front, and may be strengthening the affiliate, according to a new report. <http://thehill.com/policy/defense/266443-report-us-strategy-against-isis-ov erlooks-syrian-al-qaeda-affiliate>
Effects of UK intervention in Syria branded 'minimal' <https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/effects-of-uk-intervention-in-sy ria-branded-minimal-420982/> (Flightglobal) Defence experts have dismissed the significance of the UK's intervention against Islamic extremists in Syria, claiming that the worth is "minimal", and was only decided on to provide the government with a political advantage. <https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/effects-of-uk-intervention-in-sy ria-branded-minimal-420982/>
US Approves $2B in Bombs for Iraqi F-16s <http://www.defenseone.com/technology/2016/01/us-approves-2b-in-bombs-for-f16s/125279/> (DefenseOne) Five months after Iraq began flying its F-16 fighter jets against ISIS, the Obama administration has approved a $2 billion cache of
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guided bombs and missiles that will make them far deadlier. <http://www.defenseone.com/technology/2016/01/us-approves-2b-in-bombs-for-f16s/125279/>
Islamic State bombing sends a message to Turkey <https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/middle_east/islamic-state-bombing-send s-a-message-to-turkey/2016/01/19/f2708f36-ba1 c-11e5-85cd-5ad59bc19432_story. html> (Washington Post) "Turkey is now very vulnerable," said Nihat Ali Ozcan, a security expert at the Ankara-based think tank Tepav. The Islamic State can exacerbate existing instability and "push Turkey toward ethnic or sectarian war," he said. <https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/middle_east/islamic-state-bombing-send s-a-message-to-turkey/2016/01/19/f2708f36-ba1 c-11e5-85cd-5ad59bc19432_story. html>
German on Trial Accused of Being in IS 'Storm Trooper' Unit <http://abcnews.go.com/lnternational/wireStory/german-trial-accused-storm-tr ooper-unit-36401795> (Associated Press) A 25-year-old German has gone on trial accused of having been part of the Islamic State group's secret police. <http://abcnews.go.com/lnternational/wireStory/german-trial-accused-storm-tr ooper-unit-36401795>
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European generals: Military alone won't defeat Islamic State <http://www.naplesnews.com/news/european-generals-military-alone-wont-defeat -islamic-state-29b71f6d-b9d0-3634-e053-0100007f4850-365847781.html> (Naples Daily News) Scoffing at calls made last month by Republican presidential candidate Ted Cruz to carpet-bomb the terrorist group ISIS into oblivion, four European generals told a North Naples audience Tuesday that more bombs won't defeat the Islamic State. <http://www.naplesnews.com/news/european-generals-military-alone-wont-defeat -islamic-state-29b71f6d-b9d0-3634-e053-0100007f4850-365847781.html>
IS pays tribute to Paris attackers, identifies 2 as 'Iraqis' <http://abcnews.go.com/lnternational/wireStory/pays-tribute-paris-attackersidentifies-iraqis-36397675> (Associated Press) The Islamic State group has published an online photo tribute to the Muslim extremists who killed 130 people in Paris, including pictures of two unknown men identified as Iraqis. <http://abcnews.go.com/lnternational/wireStory/pays-tribute-paris-attackersidentifies-iraqis-36397675>
Kent State Professor Posted ISIS Pictures on Facebook <http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2016/01/20/kent-state-professor-poste d-isis-pictures-on-facebook.html> (Daily Beast) Julio Pino has praised suicide bombers and shouted "death to Israel," but now he's under FBI investigation for supporting the Islamic State. <http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2016/01/20/kent-state-professor-poste d-isis-pictures-on-facebook.html>
Man facing N.J. terrorism charges cited Islamic State: prosecutors <http://www.reuters.com/article/us-new-jersey-security-idUSKCN0UY2WW> (Reuters) A man accused of killing four people in New Jersey and Washington state to avenge U.S. foreign policy kept a journal where he expressed a desire to travel to Iraq to support the Islamic State militant group, according to state prosecutors in New Jersey. <http://www.reuters.com/article/us-new-jersey-security-idUSKCN0UY2WW>
Iran
Iran Foreign Minister Slams New U.S. Ballistic Missile Sanctions <http://time.com/4186797/iran-sanctions-coercion-foreign-minister/> (Associated Press) New U.S. sanctions over Iran's ballistic missile testing are an example of an American "addiction to coercion" despite improved relations and a historic nuclear deal, Iran's foreign minister said in an interview Wednesday. <http://time.com/4186797/iran-sanctions-coercion-foreign-minister/>
Khamenei praises arrest of U.S. sailors, condemns Saudi embassy attack <http://uk.reuters.com/article/uk-saudi-iran-khamenei-idUKKCN0UY11X> (Reuters) Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Wednesday thanked the Revolutionary Guards for briefly detaining U.S. sailors last week, but condemned the attack on the Saudi embassy in Tehran as an action that
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damaged the country. <http://uk.reuters.com/article/uk-saudi-iran-khamenei-idUKKCN0UY11X>
Iran Can't Find an American Hostage, U.S. Officials Say <http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2016/01/20/iran-can-t-find-an-america n-hostage-u-s-officials-say.html> (Daily Beast) Former FBI agent Robert Levinson was kidnapped in Iran. But he wasn't part of a recent prisoner swap. U.S. officials think that's because Tehran doesn't know where he is. <http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2016/01/20/iran-can-t-find-an-america n-hostage-u-s-officials-say.html>
Iran's president seeks more free and fair elections <http://bigstory.ap.org/article/5f3d49c2a7c44d18a71f50a70d9ff292/irans-presi dent-seeks-more-free-and-fair-elections> (Associated Press) Iran's president is lobbying for more free and fair elections in Iran, saying moderate and reformist political factions should also be allowed to run in next month's parliamentary elections. <http://bigstory.ap.org/article/5f3d49c2a7c44d18a71f50a70d9ff292/irans-presi dent-seeks-more-free-and-fair-elections>
Defense Industry
Israeli Government Official Moves to Sack IAI Chairman <http://www.defensenews.com/story/defense/international/mideast-africa/2016/ 01/20/israeli-government-official-moves-sack-iai-chairman/79068796/> (Defense News) In an extraordinarily public confrontation, the Israeli government's overseer of state-owned companies has moved to sack Rafi Maor, the chairman of Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), on grounds of "improper stewardship unworthy of the company." <http://www.defensenews.com/story/defense/international/mideast-africa/2016/ 01/20/israeli-government-official-moves-sack-iai-chairman/79068796/>
Booz Allen Hamilton to streamline Army tactical networks <http://www.c4isrnet.com/story/military-tech/it/2016/01/20/booz-allen-hamilt on-streamline-army-tactical-networks/79079076/> (C4ISR & Networks) Booz Allen Hamilton has been awarded an $159 million General Services Administration contract to streamline Army networks. <http://www.c4isrnet.com/story/military-tech/it/2016/01/20/booz-allen-hamilt on-streamline-army-tactical-networks/79079076/>
SPAWAR awards Serco C4ISR extension <http://www.c4isrnet.eom/story/military-tech/show-reporter/afcea-west/2016/0 1/20/spawar-awards-serco-c4isr-extension/79060428/> (C4ISR & Networks) Serco has been awarded a three-year extension on a Navy C4ISR contract. <http://www.c4isrnet.eom/story/military-tech/show-reporter/afcea-west/2016/0 1/20/spawar-awards-serco-c4isr-extension/79060428/>
Lockheed Martin brings mobile Aegis training system <http://www.janes.com/article/57348/lockheed-martin-brings-mobile-aegis-trai ning-system> (IHS Jane's 360) Lockheed Martin is introducing a mobile surface ship trainer that will enable sailors to hone their Aegis combat system skills alongside at the pier. <http://www.janes.com/article/57348/lockheed-martin-brings-mobile-aegis-trai ning-system>
Sotera awarded $89M Army info ops task order <http://www.c4isrnet.com/story/military-tech/cyber/2016/01/20/sotera-awarded -89m-army-info-ops-task-order/79058766/> (C4ISR & Networks) Sotera Defense Solutions has obtained an $89 million Army task order to support information operations. <http://www.c4isrnet.com/story/military-tech/cyber/2016/01/20/sotera-awarded -89m-army-info-ops-task-order/79058766/>
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Australia, France eye collaboration on special forces NH90 helicopters <https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/australia-france-eye-collaborati on-on-special-force-421028/> (Flightglobal) Australia and France are investigating a potential joint requirement for a special forces variant of the NH Industries (NHI) NH90 to trim development costs. <https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/australia-france-eye-collaborati on-on-special-force-421028/>
Canadian Gov Stands by LAV Sale to Saudis | UK Upgrading Challenger 2 Tank | France to get 2nd MQ-9 Reaper UAV in 2017 <http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/canadian-gov-stands-by-lav-sale-to-saud is-uk-upgrading-challenger-2-tank-france-to-get-2nd-mq-9-reaper-uav-in-2017032517/> (Defense Industry Daily) Despite recent protests arising from recent Saudi Arabian executions, the Canadian government will stand by external link a multi-billion dollar vehicle deal. <http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/canadian-gov-stands-by-lav-sale-to-saud is-uk-upgrading-challenger-2-tank-france-to-get-2nd-mq-9-reaper-uav-in-2017032517/>
Airbus Helicopters highlights benefits of pooled MRO capabilities <http://www.janes.com/article/57354/airbus-helicopters-highlights-benefits-o f-pooled-mro-capabilities> (IHS Jane's 360) Airbus Helicopters has demonstrated the success of its recently created Military Support Centre - France (MSC-F), with the heavy tempo of French overseas operations and associated increased MRO needs helping to drive the company to create a new and more efficient organisation. <http://www.janes.com/article/57354/airbus-helicopters-highlights-benefits-o f-pooled-mro-capabilities>
Bell preparing to affix V-280 wing as 'Valor' takes shape <https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/bell-preparing-to-affix-v-280-wi ng-as-valor-takes-421045/> (Flightglobal) Bell Helicopter begins 2016 with final assembly of its V-280 next-generation tiltrotor 23% complete and on target for first flight in September 2017, with the next major milestones being mating of the wing and fuselage in April. <https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/bell-preparing-to-affix-v-280-wi ng-as-valor-takes-421045/>
Veterans
Sarah Palin blames veteran son's arrest on PTSD, Obama <http://www.militarytimes.com/story/veterans/2016/01/20/palin-blames-sons-ar rest-ptsd-obama/79077266/> (Military Times) Former vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin blamed her veteran son's domestic violence arrest this week on both his post-traumatic stress and what she called President Obama's lack of "respect and honor" for American service members. <http://www.militarytimes.com/story/veterans/2016/01/20/palin-blames-sons-ar rest-ptsd-obama/79077266/>
Stigma of the 'Damaged Veteran' a Barrier to Treatment <http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2016/01/19/stigma-damaged-veteran-barrier-t o-treatment-as-suicides-claim-more-us-troops.html> (Fox News) Experts who work with both active-duty military and veterans say the stigma of mental illness - whether combat stress, depression, anxiety or substance abuse -- continues to be an impediment to treatment, often leading to tragic consequences. <http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2016/01/19/stigma-damaged-veteran-barrier-t o-treatment-as-suicides-claim-more-us-troops.html>
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Navy Veteran's Smart Home Rezoning Request Denied <http://www.military.com/daily-news/2016/01/20/iowa-veteran-smart-home-rezon ing-request-denied.html> (Associated Press) The Cedar Falls City Council has rejected a rezoning request for a disabled Afghanistan war veteran who wants to build a "smart home" in a remote area to accommodate his disabilities. <http://www.military.com/daily-news/2016/01/20/iowa-veteran-smart-home-rezon ing-request-denied.html>
93-year-old WWII soldier to spend Valentine's Day with long-lost wartime love <https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/inspired-life/wp/2016/01/20/93-year-old -wwii-soldier-to-spend-valentines-day-with-long-lost-wartime-love/> (Washington Post) The love story of Norwood Thomas, a 93-year-old World War II veteran, and Joyce Morris, the 88-year-old British woman he left behind when the war ended, captured hearts last year when their sons reconnected them via Skype after 71 years apart. <https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/inspired-life/wp/2016/01/20/93-year-old -wwii-soldier-to-spend-valentines-day-with-long-lost-wartime-love/>
Navajo Code Talker Alfred James Peaches dies at age 90 <http://www.militarytimes.com/story/military/2016/01/20/navajo-code-talker-a lfred-james-peaches-dies-age-90/79092678/> (Associated Press) Tribal officials announced Wednesday that Alfred James Peaches died last Saturday at a Flagstaff hospital at age 90. <http://www.militarytimes.com/story/military/2016/01/20/navajo-code-talker-a lfred-james-peaches-dies-age-90/79092678/>
Conservative-backed veterans group restructures after leader quits <http://www.militarytimes.com/story/veterans/2016/01/20/cva-hegseth-leadersh ip-changes/79055814/> (Military Times) The head of Concerned Veterans for America - a key voice on the GOP presidential campaign trail - quietly resigned earlier this month, forcing a leadership reorganization for the group just weeks before the first primaries. <http://www.militarytimes.com/story/veterans/2016/01/20/cva-hegseth-leadersh ip-changes/79055814/>
Dying WWII vet may get to be with wife in Colorado nursing home <http://gazette.com/dying-wwii-vet-may-get-to-be-with-wife-in-colorado-nursi ng-home/article/1568199> (Associated Press) An anonymous donor wants to help a World War II paratrooper dying of cancer spend his last days with his wife in a Colorado nursing home that's not approved by the Veterans Administration. <http://gazette.com/dying-wwii-vet-may-get-to-be-with-wife-in-colorado-nursi ng-home/article/1568199>
Long lost World War II love letter finally finds its way home <http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/post-tribune/opinion/ct-ptb-davich-lo ng-lost-letter-st-0120-20160119-story. html> (Post-Tribune) The yellowed, wrinkled envelope was postmarked July 15, 1945, at the Gary Post Office with a 6-cent airmail stamp. <http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/post-tribune/opinion/ct-ptb-davich-lo ng-lost-letter-st-0120-20160119-story. html>
Congress & Politics
Lawmakers Skeptical DoD Task Force Did Much Good In Afghanistan <http://www.defensenews.com/story/defense/2016/01/20/us-lawmakers-slam-penta gons-afghan-investment-program/79091946/> (Defense News) It remains to be seen how projects designed to spur economic growth in Afghanistan by a now-defunct Pentagon task force will turn out in the long run - like making carpets, raising goats for cashmere and tapping into compressed natural gas - but for the moment it appears that the money
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wasn't well spent. <http://www.defensenews.com/story/defense/2016/01/20/us-lawmakers-slam-penta gons-afghan-investment-program/79091946/>
Petraeus demotion talk provokes sharp response from John McCain <http://www.militarytimes.com/story/military/2016/01/20/mccain-petraeus-demo tion-rumors/79074638/> (Military Times) The head of the Senate Armed Services Committee called possible Pentagon plans to retroactively demote retired Army Gen. David Petraeus "disgraceful" and promised a full congressional investigation into the issue. <http://www.militarytimes.com/story/military/2016/01/20/mccain-petraeus-demo tion-rumors/79074638/>
Senate Blocks Bill on Tougher Refugee Screening <http://www.nytimes.com/2016/01/21/us/politics/senate-refugee-screening-bill -syria-iraq.html> (New York Times) A bill that would have greatly tightened screening procedures on refugees from Syria and Iraq failed on a procedural vote in the Senate on Wednesday, saving President Obama from another vexing veto scenario on an issue that has divided the country. <http://www.nytimes.com/2016/01/21/us/politics/senate-refugee-screening-bill -syria-iraq.html>
GOP senator: Give governors ability to block refugee resettlement <http://thehill.com/policy/national-security/266445-senate-goper-give-govern ors-ability-to-block-refugees> (The Hill) Sen. John Thune is hoping to link a measure giving governors the ability to block refugee resettlement to a House-passed refugee bill. <http://thehill.com/policy/national-security/266445-senate-goper-give-govern ors-ability-to-block-refugees>
Senate committee to tackle its own North Korea bill next week <https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/powerpost/wp/2016/01/20/senate-committe e-to-tackle-its-own-north-korea-bill-next-week/> (Washington Post) The Senate will turn to North Korea sanctions later this month - but lawmakers are unlikely to consider the same bill the House passed last week with huge bipartisan support. <https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/powerpost/wp/2016/01/20/senate-committe e-to-tackle-its-own-north-korea-bill-next-week/>
Sanders ad defends national security record <http://thehill.com/policy/defense/policy-strategy/266484-sanders-ad-defends -defense-record> (The Hill) Bernie Sanders is defending his foreign policy record with a new ad highlighting his opposition to the Iraq War, which Hillary Clinton supported, one day after Clinton supporters questioned Sanders's national security chops. <http://thehill.com/policy/defense/policy-strategy/266484-sanders-ad-defends -defense-record>
Sources: NATO Considers First Formal Talks With Russia Since 2014 <http://www.defensenews.eom/story/defense/2016/01/20/sources-nato-considersfirst-formal-taIks-russ ia-since/79092044/> (Agence France-Presse) NATO is discussing whether to invite Russia to their first formal talks since 2014, aiming to put ties damaged by the Ukraine crisis back on an even keel, diplomatic sources said Wednesday. <http://www.defensenews.com/story/defense/2016/01/20/sources-nato-considersfirst-formal-taIks-russ ia-since/79092044/>
Faced with EU and U.S. criticism, Israeli insults fly <http://news.yahoo.com/faced-eu-u-criticism-israeli-insults-fly-113433831 .ht ml> (Reuters) U.S. and European criticism of Israeli actions in the occupied
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West Bank have drawn a furious response from Israel this week, including a former official dismissing the U.S. ambassador to Tel Aviv as a "little Jew boy". <http://news.yahoo.com/faced-eu-u-criticism-israeli-insults-fly-113433831 .ht ml>
The 'Obama is a Muslim' conspiracy theory is still reverberating in the Middle East <https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/worldviews/wp/2016/01/21/the-obama-is-a -muslim-conspiracy-theory-is-still-reverberating-in-the-middle-east/> (Washington Post) One of the most persistent and widespread of these conspiracy theories gets more specific than its American variant: Obama isn't just a Muslim, this theory goes.... he's a Shiite Muslim. <https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/worldviews/wp/2016/01/21/the-obama-is-a -muslim-conspiracy-theory-is-still-reverberating-in-the-middle-east/>
Cybersecurity, Space, Surveillance
Pentagon Delays Cybersecurity Requirement for 10,000 Contractors <http://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2016-01-20/pentagon-delays-cybersecu rity-requirement-for-10-000-contractors> (Bloomberg) The Pentagon has delayed for almost two years a requirement that as many as 10,000 companies show that they have systems to protect sensitive but unclassified information from cyber-attacks before signing new defense contracts. <http://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2016-01-20/pentagon-delays-cybersecu rity-requirement-for-10-000-contractors>
New Bill Could Shift Space Tracking Away From DoD <http://www.defensenews.com/story/defense/air-space/space/2016/01/20/bridens tine-bill-space-pentagon/79024978/> (Defense News) One of Capitol Hill's most active lawmakers on space issues is planning to unveil a space reform bill this spring that could shift responsibility for tracking objects in orbit away from the Defense Department. <http://www.defensenews.com/story/defense/air-space/space/2016/01/20/bridens tine-bill-space-pentagon/79024978/>
Army tackles software risk <http://www.c4isrnet.com/story/military-tech/it/2016/01/20/army-tackles-soft ware-risk/79061962/> (C4ISR & Networks) Quantitative Software Management has been awarded an Army contract to mitigate software risk. <http://www.c4isrnet.com/story/military-tech/it/2016/01/20/army-tackles-soft ware-risk/79061962/>
Ukrainian hacker linked to U.S. cyber security expert pleads guilty <http://www.reuters.com/article/us-hacker-plea-vovnenko-idUSKCN0UY2R4> (Reuters) A Ukrainian computer hacker who fought extradition to the United States and has been accused of trying to frame a prominent cyber security expert pleaded guilty on Wednesday to using more than 13,000 computers to steal log-in and credit card data, federal prosecutors said. <http://www.reuters.com/article/us-hacker-plea-vovnenko-idUSKCN0UY2R4>
Researchers discover 'Planet Nine' <http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2016/01/20/researchers-discover-p lanet-nine/79056118/> (USA Today) Caltech researchers say they have found evidence of a giant planet tracing a "bizarre, highly elongated orbit in the outer solar system." <http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2016/01/20/researchers-discover-p lanet-nine/79056118/>
National Security & Intelligence
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Eyeing Clinton's tenure, Chaffetz probes State's FOIA program <https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/powerpost/wp/2016/01/20/eyeing-clintons -tenure-chaffetz-probes-states-foia-program/> (Washington Post) Does the State Department obstruct valid requests for public records? <https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/powerpost/wp/2016/01/20/eyeing-clintons -tenure-chaffetz-probes-states-foia-program/>
Putin 'Probably Approved' Litvinenko Poisoning, British Inquiry Says <http://www.nytimes.com/2016/01/22/world/europe/alexander-litvinenko-poisoni ng-inquiry-britain.html> (New York Times) A high-profile British inquiry into the poisoning of Alexander V. Litvinenko, a former K.G.B. officer turned critic of the Kremlin, concluded on Thursday that his murder "was probably approved" by President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia and the head of its spy service. <http://www.nytimes.com/2016/01/22/world/europe/alexander-litvinenko-poisoni ng-inquiry-britain.html>
Governor Calls on Feds to Act Against Oregon Armed Group <http://time.com/4188141/oregon-armed-group/> (Associated Press) Oregon's governor expressed frustration with federal authorities' handling of the continuing occupation of a national wildlife refuge in southeastern Oregon by an armed group and said it's time to end it. <http://time.com/4188141/oregon-armed-group/>
US to announce plan for new visa rules for some Europeans <http://news.yahoo.com/us-announce-plan-visa-rules-europeans-030206757-poli tics.html> (Associated Press) The Obama administration will announce as early as Thursday its plan to introduce new visa requirements for European travelers who are dual nationals of Iran, Iraq, Sudan or Syria, or who have visited any of these countries in the last five years. <http://news.yahoo.com/us-announce-plan-visa-rules-europeans-030206757-poli tics.html>
CDC: 'Dozen or so' cases of Zika virus among U.S. residents <https://www.washingtonpost.eom/news/to-your-health/wp/2016/01/20/cdc-dozenor-so-cases-of-zika-virus-among-u-s-residents/> (Washington Post) The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said Wednesday that there are at least "a dozen or so" confirmed cases of Zika virus in residents who recently traveled to countries where the mosquito-borne virus is spreading. <https://www.washingtonpost.eom/news/to-your-health/wp/2016/01/20/cdc-dozenor-so-cases-of-zika-virus-among-u-s-residents/>
Defense Department
DoD bases no longer accepting driver's licenses from 5 states as ID <http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2016/01/21/dod-bases-no-longer-accepting-dr ivers-licenses-from-5-states-as-id.html> (Fox News) The decision, which affects residents of Minnesota, Illinois, Missouri, New Mexico and Washington, was announced Wednesday. Residents from those five states, going forward, will need another form of ID such as a passport to enter. <http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2016/01/21/dod-bases-no-longer-accepting-dr ivers-licenses-from-5-states-as-id.html>
Americans who thwarted terrorist attack on Paris-bound train have book deal <http://www.militarytimes.com/story/military/2016/01/20/americans-who-thwart ed-terror-attack-have-book-deal/79070352/> (Associated Press) The three Americans who prevented a terrorist attack on a train from Brussels to Paris last summer have a book deal. <http://www.militarytimes.com/story/military/2016/01/20/americans-who-thwart ed-terror-attack-have-book-deal/79070352/>
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Army
PETA accuses Army MPs of mutilating wild pig; commander reprimanded <http://www.armytimes.com/story/military/2016/01/20/peta-accuses-army-mps-mu tilating-wild-pig-commander-reprimanded/79059444/> (Army Times) Animal rights group PETA wants answers from the Army after learning a company commander offered his soldiers $100 during a field exercise to hunt and kill a wild pig. <http://www.armytimes.com/story/military/2016/01/20/peta-accuses-army-mps-mu tilating-wild-pig-commander-reprimanded/79059444/>
82nd Airborne sending troops to Afghanistan <http://www.fayobserver.com/military/nd-airborne-sending-troops-to-afghanist an/article_2850b9f1-4664-5e44-9f4b-eb1e1a5efe40.html> (Fayetteville Observer) During their nine-month deployment, they will operate several Army Post Offices and conduct mail delivery operations within the U.S. Central Command Area of Responsibility, which stretches from Egypt to Kazakhstan. <http://www.fayobserver.com/military/nd-airborne-sending-troops-to-afghanist an/article_2850b9f1-4664-5e44-9f4b-eb1e1a5efe40.html>
Fort Knox to gain 223 employees in 2016 <http://www.lex18.com/story/31011836/fort-knox-to-gain-223-employees-in-2016
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(Associated Press) Fort Knox is expected to gain 223 employees this year as a result of the reorganization of the 4th Cavalry Brigade and addition of the U.S. Army Reserve Careers Division headquarters. <http://www.lex18.com/story/31011836/fort-knox-to-gain-223-employees-in-2016
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Accuser says she told West Point cadet in sex case: 'Stop' <http://gazette.com/accuser-says-she-told-west-point-cadet-in-sex-case-stop/ article/feed/309052> (Associated Press) A West Point cadet accused of sexually assaulting a fellow cadet he was dating was described by his accuser at his court martial on Wednesday as having an explosive side to his personality. <http://gazette.com/accuser-says-she-told-west-point-cadet-in-sex-case-stop/ article/feed/309052>
Bragg soldier claims $2 million lottery prize <http://www.fayobserver.com/news/local/fort-bragg-soldier-claims-million-pow erball-prize/article_7d30a353-44b2-5efc-a5be-575d0eee4fd9.html> (Fayetteville Observer) Fort Bragg soldier Johnny Charlestin was a $2 million winner in the Powerball drawing of the N.C. Education Lottery. <http://www.fayobserver.com/news/local/fort-bragg-soldier-claims-million-pow erball-prize/article_7d30a353-44b2-5efc-a5be-575d0eee4fd9.html>
Wife of fallen Green Beret shares their love story <http://www.armytimes.com/story/military/2016/01/20/wife-fallen-green-beretshares-their-love-story/79054808/> (Army Times) It took just one date for Alexandra McClintock to realize she wanted to marry the man sitting across from her. <http://www.armytimes.com/story/military/2016/01/20/wife-fallen-green-beretshares-their-love-story/79054808/>
Chemical soldiers training to respond to stateside emergencies <http://www.fayobserver.com/military/chemical-soldiers-training-to-respond-t 0-stateside-emergencies/article_c8f7fede-f9ee-5e41-8cf8-5795268f3a31 ,html> (Fayetteville Observer) The 21st Chemical Company is the active-duty Defense Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear Response Force, which consists of 5,200 soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines who deploy to conduct urban search and rescue, patient decontamination, casualty ground/air evacuation and general logistical support. <http://www.fayobserver.com/military/chemical-soldiers-training-to-respond-t
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Navy
Mabus, Congress & money: His fight to build a bigger Navy fleet <http://www.militarytimes.com/story/military/2016/01/20/mabus-congress-money -his-fig ht-build-bigger-fleet/78851914/> (Navy Times) The Navy's fleet has shrunk to its smallest size since World War I under Secretary Ray Mabus, who has spent his six-year tenure pushing forward with a plan to get the fleet back up to more than 300 ships. <http://www.militarytimes.com/story/military/2016/01/20/mabus-congress-money -his-fig ht-build-bigger-fleet/78851914/>
Tension between Navy secretary, congressman <http://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/news/2016/jan/20/mabus-hunter-tension-l etters/> (San Diego Union-Tribune) On Tuesday, U.S. Rep. Duncan Hunter dispatched a letter to the Pentagon suggesting that Navy Secretary Ray Mabus should be replaced because of an apparently abrupt order he issued to the Marine Corps to merge men's and women's training. <http://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/news/2016/jan/20/mabus-hunter-tension-l etters/>
Top US, Chinese Admirals Confer <http://www.defensenews.com/story/defense-news/2016/01/20/navy-admirals-rich ardson-wu-shengli-cno-chinese-us/79044780/> (Defense News) Adm. John Richardson, US chief of naval operations (CNO), and Chinese head of Navy Adm. Wu Shengli, "agreed that 2015 was a year of many highlights for the Navy-to-Navy relationship," said a US Navy official, adding that each leader conveyed the willingness to build on that progress in 2016. <http://www.defensenews.com/story/defense-news/2016/01/20/navy-admirals-rich ardson-wu-shengli-cno-chinese-us/79044780/>
Navy deploys first biofuel-powered Great Green Fleet to Asia-Pacific <http://www.navytimes.com/story/military/2016/01/20/stennis-strike-group-set s-sail-10-percent-beef-fat-fuel-blend/79054624/> (Navy Times) The dream of the Great Green Fleet came to life Wednesday as the aircraft carrier John C. Stennis left on its latest deployment, with five biofuel-powered ships alongside for the first time. <http://www.navytimes.com/story/military/2016/01/20/stennis-strike-group-set s-sail-10-percent-beef-fat-fuel-blend/79054624/>
PEO LCS Barred From Deploying Early Version Of Anti-Sub Mission Package <http://news.usni.org/2016/01/20/peo-lcs-barred-from-deploying-early-version -of-anti-sub-mission-package> (USNI News) The Navy will not be able to send its anti-submarine warfare (ASW) mission package out to sea this year as planned, due to a restriction lawmakers put into the Fiscal Year 2016 funding bill. <http://news.usni.org/2016/01/20/peo-lcs-barred-from-deploying-early-version -of-anti-sub-mission-package>
LCS Can Too Fight Russia, China: Navy Leaders <http://breakingdefense.com/2016/01/lcs-can-too-fight-russia-china-navy-lead ers/> (Breaking Defense) Is the Littoral Combat Ship a real warship? That question has bedeviled the small, sleek, lightly armed ships for years. Now it's taken on new urgency as the Defense Department and the Navy both refocus on high-intensity, high-tech warfighting against "great powers" - i.e. China and Russia. <http://breakingdefense.com/2016/01/lcs-can-too-fight-russia-china-navy-lead ers/>
Navy: Drinking water contaminated at Fentress in Chesapeake <http://pilotonline.com/news/military/local/navy-drinking-water-contaminated
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(Virginian-Pilot) High levels of contaminants from a firefighting foam that was used for decades at Fentress Naval Auxiliary Landing Field were found in its well water during a recent laboratory test, leading Navy officials Wednesday to tell workers to drink only bottled water until a permanent solution is available. <http://pilotonline.com/news/military/local/navy-drinking-water-contaminated -at-fentress-in-chesapeake/article_6f2be4bf-e5aa-5ce1 -b5ca-f03e1154a8b6.html
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Air Force
U.S. Air Force looks to increase armed presence on bases <http://www.airforcetimes.com/story/military/2016/01/20/us-air-force-looks-i ncrease-armed-presence-bases/79076504/> (Air Force Times) The Air Force said Wednesday installation commanders will be authorized to implement three programs that grant some service members the right to carry weapons, giving their bases additional security. <http://www.airforcetimes.com/story/military/2016/01/20/us-air-force-looks-i ncrease-armed-presence-bases/79076504/>
Air Force launches first cyberspace weapons system <http://www.c4isrnet.com/story/military-tech/cyber/2016/01/20/air-force-laun ches-first-cyberspace-weapons-system/79064684/> (C4ISR & Networks) The Air Force earlier this month reached full operational capability in its Air Force Intranet Control (AFINC) Weapon System, which service officials say is the first cyberspace weapons system to reach FOC status. <http://www.c4isrnet.com/story/military-tech/cyber/2016/01/20/air-force-laun ches-first-cyberspace-weapons-system/79064684/>
USAF enlisted personnel to operate Global Hawk UAVs <http://www.janes.com/article/57360/usaf-enlisted-personnel-to-operate-globa l-hawk-uavs> (IHS Jane's 360) The US Air Force (USAF) is preparing to allow enlisted personnel to operate Northrop Grumman RQ-4 Global Hawk unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) this year, according to the service's deputy chief of staff for operations. <http://www.janes.com/article/57360/usaf-enlisted-personnel-to-operate-globa l-hawk-uavs>
Reviving F-22 Raptor production a 'non-starter' <https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/james-reviving-f-22-raptor-produ ction-a-non-start e-421019/> (Flightglobal) The secretary of the air force has become the latest official to douse hopes of restarting Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor production, which was capped at 187 aircraft and closed in 2011. <https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/james-reviving-f-22-raptor-produ ction-a-non-start e-421019/>
Air Force picks Alion for spectrum management <http://www.c4isrnet.com/story/military-tech/communications/2016/01/20/air-f orce-picks-alion-spectrum-management/79059802/> (C4ISR & Networks) Alion has been awarded a $15 million Air Force contract for spectrum management. <http://www.c4isrnet.com/story/military-tech/communications/2016/01/20/air-f orce-picks-alion-spectrum-management/79059802/>
USAF issues Rfl for F-16 SLEP effort <http://www.janes.com/article/57336/usaf-issues-rfi-for-f-16-slep-effort> (IHS Jane's 360) The US Air Force (USAF) is moving ahead with a service-life extension programme (SLEP) of its fleet of Lockheed Martin F-16 Fighting Falcon combat aircraft, with an initial sources sought notice being issued
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to industry on 14 January. <http://www.janes.com/article/57336/usaf-issues-rfi-for-f-16-slep-effort>
America's F-16 Turns 42: The Viper's Enduring Legacy <http://nationalinterest.org/blog/the-buzz/americas-f-16-turns-42-the-vipers -enduring-legacy-14969> (The National Interest) Even after the stealthy Lockheed Martin F-35 Joint Strike Fighter enters service with the U.S. Air Force later this year, the F-16 will remain the backbone of the service's tactical fighter fleet for decades to come. <http://nationalinterest.org/blog/the-buzz/americas-f-16-turns-42-the-vipers -enduring-legacy-14969>
Marine Corps
Hekmati: Support of Fellow Marines Sustained Me Through Iran Captivity <http://www.military.com/daily-news/2016/01/20/hekmati-support-of-fellow-mar ines-sustained-me-iran-captivity.html> (Stars & Stripes) Former U.S. Marine Amir Hekmati said Tuesday that knowing he had the support of his fellow Marines helped sustain him through more than four years of captivity in an Iranian prison. <http://www.military.com/daily-news/2016/01/20/hekmati-support-of-fellow-mar ines-sustained-me-iran-captivity.html>
First Female Marines Apply to MARSOC <http://www.military.com/daily-news/2016/01/20/first-female-marines-apply-to -marsoc.html> (Military.com) Osterman said MARSOC is actively soliciting and recruiting qualified female Marines to join the command's ranks. The command does not have, as Osterman put it, a "street to fleet" recruiting program; rather, it recruits from within the ranks of the Marine Corps. <http://www.military.com/daily-news/2016/01/20/first-female-marines-apply-to -marsoc.html>
Large crowd gathers in Security to support family of missing Marine <http://gazette.com/large-crowd-gathers-in-security-to-support-family-of-mis sing-marine/article/1568247> (Colorado Springs Gazette) Scores of people gathered at the American Legion post in Security Wednesday night to support the family of a missing Marine feared dead after a helicopter crash last week off Hawaii. <http://gazette.com/large-crowd-gathers-in-security-to-support-family-of-mis sing-marine/article/1568247>
Coast Guard
Coast Guard: Migrants fleeing Cuba increasingly violent <http://gazette.eom/coast-guard-migrants-fleeing-cuba-increasingly-violent/a rticle/feed/309286> (Associated Press) The U.S. Coast Guard says it's documenting increasing instances of violence and noncompliance at sea among Cuban migrants. <http://gazette.eom/coast-guard-migrants-fleeing-cuba-increasingly-violent/a rticle/feed/309286>
National Guard
West Virginia gov mobilizes National Guard for winter storm <http://www.timesunion.com/news/article/West-Virginia-gov-mobilizes-National -Guard-for-6772146.php> (Associated Press) Tomblin on Wednesday took advantage of a statute passed in 2014 that allows him to organize state resources in advance of predicted severe weather. <http://www.timesunion.com/news/article/West-Virginia-gov-mobilizes-National -Guard-for-6772146.php>
Afghanistan & Pakistan
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What Can Pakistan's Security Services Learn from University Attack by Taliban? <http://www.defensenews.com/story/defense/2016/01/20/what-can-pakistans-secu rity-services-learn-university-attack-taliban/79071374/> (Defense News) An attack on a university in the northwestern town of Charsadda shows there are still lessons to be learned by Pakistan's security services, but what additional measures the military can take is uncertain. <http://www.defensenews.com/story/defense/2016/01/20/what-can-pakistans-secu rity-services-learn-university-attack-taliban/79071374/>
Chemistry teacher defies Taliban in Pakistan university attack <http://www.afp.com/en/news/chemistry-teacher-defies-taliban-pakistan-univer sity-attack> (Agence France-Presse) A chemistry teacher who tried to protect his students by opening fire on Taliban militants during a deadly attack at a Pakistani university has been hailed as a "martyr" and a "gentleman". <http://www.afp.com/en/news/chemistry-teacher-defies-taliban-pakistan-univer sity-attack>
Kabul blast: Suicide bomber kills seven TV staff <http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-35359215> (BBC News) Seven employees of a popular privately-run Afghan TV channel were killed after their bus was targeted by a suicide car bomber in the capital Kabul, <http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-35359215>
The $43 million gas station that wasn't <http://www.politico.com/story/2016/01/pentagon-defense-waste-afghanistan-21 7999> (Politico) An outside contractor says an overzealous inspector general is responsible for the Afghanistan filling station's overblown price tag. <http://www.politico.com/story/2016/01/pentagon-defense-waste-afghanistan-21 7999>
Corrupt' Afghan Army Leaders Hinder Fight in Helmand Province <http://www.military.com/daily-news/2016/01/20/corrupt-afghan-army-leaders-h inder-fight- in-heImand-provinee.html> (Military.com) The Taliban has taken over "some" districts in Afghanistan's flashpoint Helmand province as Afghanistan National Army (ANA) units struggle against their own corrupt leadership and desertions in the ranks, a U.S. military spokesman in Kabul said Tuesday. <http://www.military.com/daily-news/2016/01/20/corrupt-afghan-army-leaders-h inder-fight- in-heImand-provinee.html>
Afghan Official: More Troops Needed Against Taliban in South <http://abcnews.go.com/lnternational/wireStory/afghan-official-troops-needed -taliban-south-36391713> (Associated Press) Afghan troops are fighting the Taliban across most of southern Helmand province and are in desperate need of reinforcements, an Afghan official said on Wednesday. <http://abcnews.go.com/lnternational/wireStory/afghan-official-troops-needed -taliban-south-36391713>
Middle East, Turkey
Syria talks may not start on Jan. 25, 'pressure, momentum' needed: U.N. envoy <http://www.reuters.com/article/us-mideast-crisis-syria-envoy-idUSKCN0UY2L3>
(Reuters) The United Nations Special Envoy for Syria said on Wednesday that peace talks might not start as planned in Geneva on Jan. 25th but that major powers must maintain diplomatic pressure on the warring sides to come to the table. <http://www.reuters.com/article/us-mideast-crisis-syria-envoy-idUSKCN0UY2L3>
Russia's Lavrov says Syrian peace talks 'must start in the next few days'
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<https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/kerry-and-lavrov-meet-to-get-syrian-pe ace-talks-moving/2016/01/20/1669b444-bf13-11e5-98c8-7fab78677d51_story.html>
(Washington Post) Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Wednesday that neither Russia nor the United States supports a delay in Syrian peace talks, due to start next week, though it was not clear whether he and Secretary of State John F. Kerry had succeeded in determining which opposition groups would participate. <https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/kerry-and-lavrov-meet-to-get-syrian-pe ace-talks-moving/2016/01/20/1669b444-bf13-11e5-98c8-7fab78677d51_story.html>
UN General Assembly chief 'optimistic' about Syria talks <http://bigstory.ap.org/article/630ee53cf84342769468e9da4775686c/un-generalassembly-chief-optimistic-about-syria-talks> (Associated Press) The president of the U.N. General Assembly said Wednesday that he is "cautiously optimistic" about negotiations on a Syria peace deal because the main powers with a stake in the conflict share the goal of defeating Islamic State extremists. <http://bigstory.ap.org/article/630ee53cf84342769468e9da4775686c/un-generalassembly-chief-optimistic-about-syria-talks>
Hundreds of Syrian Families Return to Homes Near Damascus <http://abcnews.go.com/lnternational/wireStory/islamic-state-frees-270-civil ians-captured-eastern-syria-36392426> (Associated Press) Hundreds of families displaced by fighting in a neighborhood on the edge of the Syrian capital returned to their homes Wednesday as part of a truce between the government and local rebels reached last year. <http://abcnews.go.com/lnternational/wireStory/islamic-state-frees-270-civil ians-captured-eastern-syria-36392426>
Militants attack checkpoint in Egypt's volatile Sinai Peninsula, killing 5 policemen <http://www.usnews.com/news/world/articles/2016-01-21/militants-attack-check point-in-egypts-sinai-kill-5-police> (Associated Press) The Interior Ministry's media office says the attack took place at midnight on Wednesday in the city of el-Arish and that three policemen were also wounded. No group has so far claimed responsibility for the attack. <http://www.usnews.com/news/world/articles/2016-01-21/militants-attack-check point-in-egypts-sinai-kill-5-police>
German Think Tank Pulling out of Egypt Over Restrictions <http://abcnews.go.com/lnternational/wireStory/german-tank-pulling-egypt-res trictions-36393285> (Associated Press) A well-known German think tank says it is moving its Mideast operations out of Egypt, maintaining that ever-stricter government restrictions have made it impossible to carry out its work. <http://abcnews.go.com/lnternational/wireStory/german-tank-pulling-egypt-res trictions-36393285>
Report: Turkey arrests 2 more over deadly Istanbul attack <http://news.yahoo.com/report-turkey-arrests-2-more-over-deadly-istanbul-142 845398. html> (Associated Press) Turkey's state-run news agency says authorities have arrested two more people with suspected links to the suicide bomber who killed 10 Germans in Istanbul, raising the number of arrests to 12. <http://news.yahoo.com/report-turkey-arrests-2-more-over-deadly-istanbul-142 845398. html>
Israel drops criminal investigation into ex-military chief <http://news.yahoo.com/israel-drops-criminal-investigation-ex-military-chief -173117982. html> (Associated Press) Israel's attorney general on Wednesday dropped a criminal
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investigation into Lt. Gen. Gabi Ashkenazi, clearing the way for the former military chief to enter politics. <http://news.yahoo.com/israel-drops-criminal-investigation-ex-military-chief -173117982. html>
Israel assesses Russian and Syrian air co-operation <https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/israel-assesses-russian-and-syri an-air-co-operation-421010/> (Flightglobal) Moscow and Damascus are reportedly carrying out joint air operations in Syria, which has caused the Israeli air force to reassess its concept of operations as it works to prevent the flow of weapons through the country to other terrorist cells. <https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/israel-assesses-russian-and-syri an-air-co-operation-421010/>
Israel Air Force purchasing IMI's new, heavier MPR bombs <http://www.janes.com/article/57341/israel-air-force-purchasing-imi-s-new-he avier-mpr-bombs> (IHS Jane's 360) The Israel Air Force (IAF) is purchasing new variants of the Israel Military Industries (IMI) MPR series of air-to-ground bombs, IMI sources have told IHS Jane's. <http://www.janes.com/article/57341/israel-air-force-purchasing-imi-s-new-he avier-mpr-bombs>
Israel gives green light to F-151 upgrade <https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/israel-gives-green-light-to-f-15 i-upgrade-421013/> (Flightglobal) Israel will embark on a "deep" upgrade of its Boeing F-151 Ra'am fleet as it looks to maintain the type as the backbone of its air force's strike capability, despite the parallel acquisition of the Lockheed Martin F-35. <https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/israel-gives-green-light-to-f-15 i-upgrade-421013/>
Oman's Crossings With Yemen Closed Over Fears of Attacks <http://abcnews.go.com/lnternational/wireStory/omans-crossings-yemen-closedfears-attacks-36393061 > (Associated Press) Yemeni security officials say that Oman has closed its two border crossings with Yemen over fears of militant attacks, leaving Yemenis largely sealed off from the outside world. <http://abcnews.go.com/lnternational/wireStory/omans-crossings-yemen-closedfears-attacks-36393061 >
Hezbollah Recruited Palestinians to Attack Israel, Security Officials Say <http://time.com/4186645/hezbollah-israel-palestinian-attack/> (Associated Press) The Lebanese militant group offered training on explosives and suicide bombing, Israel says. <http://time.com/4186645/hezbollah-israel-palestinian-attack/>
Europe, Russia-Ukraine
Ukraine toughens position in negotiations to end conflict <http://abcnews.go.com/lnternational/wireStory/ukraine-toughens-position-neg otiations-end-conflict-36405119> (Associated Press) Ukraine is hardening its position in negotiations to end the conflict in the country's east, saying it must regain control of its entire border with Russia before elections can be held in the regions controlled by Russia-backed rebels. <http://abcnews.go.com/lnternational/wireStory/ukraine-toughens-position-neg otiations-end-conflict-36405119>
EU Kicks Off Green Energy Drive for Militaries <http://www.defensenews.com/story/defense/2016/01/20/eu-kicks-off-green-ener gy-drive-militaries/79067290/> (Defense News) A new EU-led initiative is underway to encourage militaries
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on both sides of the Atlantic to adopt green energy and become more energy efficient. <http://www.defensenews.com/story/defense/2016/01/20/eu-kicks-off-green-ener gy-drive-militaries/79067290/>
Denmark to deport Russian-born man for terror threats <http://bigstory.ap.org/article/efbc0463eafd4f6ab80cfe7db1aaadcf/denmark-dep ort-russian-born-man-terror-threats> (Associated Press) A Danish court has sentenced a Russian-born man to psychiatric care and eventual deportation after he was found guilty of threatening to commit acts of terror by killing members of the Danish government. <http://bigstory.ap.org/article/efbc0463eafd4f6ab80cfe7db1aaadcf/denmark-dep ort-russian-born-man-terror-threats>
Russia's Lada-class submarine project suffers further delays <http://www.janes.com/article/57350/russia-s-lada-class-submarine-project-su ffers-further-delays> (IHS Jane's 360) The delivery of Russia's second and third Lada-class (Project 677) diesel-electric attack submarines will be delayed until 2019, according to Russian Navy and defence industry sources. <http://www.janes.com/article/57350/russia-s-lada-class-submarine-project-su ffers-further-delays>
Germany still pushing multinational NH90 medevac fleet <https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/germany-still-pushing-multinatio nal-nh90-medevac-fle-421029/> (Flightglobal) Germany is continuing to promote the creation of a multinational pool of up to 20 NH90 rotorcraft to be used for combat medevac missions. <https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/germany-still-pushing-multinatio nal-nh90-medevac-fle-421029/>
Germany, Turkey Arrest 35 in Raids Against Traffickers <http://abcnews.go.com/lnternational/wireStory/germany-turkey-arrest-35-raid s-traffickers-36397734> (Associated Press) German and Turkish police said Wednesday they broke up a sophisticated smuggling ring that had been trafficking primarily Syrian refugees across the Mediterranean in freight ships into Europe. <http://abcnews.go.com/lnternational/wireStory/germany-turkey-arrest-35-raid s-traffickers-36397734>
How the Last Surviving Nazis Could Be Brought to Justice <http://time.com/4186602/prosecute-last-surviving-nazis/> (Time) The legal standard that allows such cases is less than a decade old. <http://time.com/4186602/prosecute-last-surviving-nazis/>
Moldova: govt sworn in after protesters storm Parliament <http://news.yahoo.com/moldova-govt-sworn-protesters-storm-parliament-083651 944.html> (Associated Press) Moldova's new pro-European government has been sworn in, after protesters stormed Parliament and scuffled with police following a vote that ended a standoff between the president and the legislature. <http://news.yahoo.com/moldova-govt-sworn-protesters-storm-parliament-083651 944.html>
Asia-Pacific
By 2030, South China Sea will be 'virtually a Chinese lake,' study warns <https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/worldviews/wp/2016/01/20/by-2030-southchina-sea-will-be-virtually-a-chinese-lake-u-s-study-warns/> (Washington Post) China will have so many aircraft carriers by 2030 that the South China Sea will be "virtually a Chinese lake," a new U.S. study has warns, arguing that the balance of power in Asia Pacific region was shifting away from the United States.
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<https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/worldviews/wp/2016/01/20/by-2030-southchina-sea-will-be-virtually-a-chinese-lake-u-s-study-warns/>
China closes military newspapers as part of reform program <http://bigstory.ap.org/article/2f885ff97a8248e1a2f4d40b429cf93e/china-close s-military-newspapers-part-reform- program> (Associated Press) China's armed forces have shut down newspapers published by the country's seven military regions as part of a program to downsize and streamline the world's largest standing military. <http://bigstory.ap.org/article/2f885ff97a8248e1a2f4d40b429cf93e/china-close s-military-newspapers-part-reform- program>
Magnitude-6.4 Quake Strikes China, Damaging Dozens of Homes <http://abcnews.go.com/Technology/wireStory/magnitude-64-quake-strikes-china -damaging-dozens- homes-36414283> (Associated Press) A magnitude-6.4 earthquake struck a remote region of northwest China early Thursday, damaging a few dozen homes but causing no casualties. <http://abcnews.go.com/Technology/wireStory/magnitude-64-quake-strikes-china -damaging-dozens- homes-36414283>
Singapore deports 26 Bangladeshis as suspected militants <http://bigstory.ap.org/article/fdee17224f3645a6a0fc306ce340a3e8/singapore-d eports-26-bangladeshis-suspected-militants> (Associated Press) Singapore on Wednesday said it had arrested and deported 26 Bangladeshi construction workers for forming a religious study group that spread the ideology of al-Qaeda and the Islamic State group. <http://bigstory.ap.org/article/fdee17224f3645a6a0fc306ce340a3e8/singapore-d eports-26-bangladeshis-suspected-militants>
RAN to receive two new Cape-class patrol vessels by mid-2017 <http://www.janes.com/article/57329/ran-to-receive-two-new-cape-class-patrol -vessels-by-mid-2017> (IHS Jane's 360) The Royal Australian Navy (RAN) will operate two new Cape-class patrol vessels on order from Australian shipbuilder Austal by the second quarter of 2017, a Department of Defence (DoD) spokesperson has told IHS Jane's. <http://www.janes.com/article/57329/ran-to-receive-two-new-cape-class-patrol -vessels-by-mid-2017>
Draft constitution for army-run Thailand 'strong medicine' <http://www.reuters.com/article/us-thailand-politics-idUSKCN0UY13E> (Reuters) A draft constitution for army-run Thailand to be unveiled this month will be "strong medicine", the constitution panel head said on Wednesday, adding that there was no guarantee it would pass a referendum, meaning a further extension of military rule. <http://www.reuters.com/article/us-thailand-politics-idUSKCN0UY13E>
Africa
Ugandan rebel appearing before judges at pretrial hearing <http://bigstory.ap.org/article/a7a3580b675342d6bfed6d7bde9330da/ugandan-reb el-appearing-judges-pretrial-hearing> (Associated Press) A commander in fugitive warlord Joseph Kony's brutal Ugandan rebel militia is facing a crucial hearing at the International Criminal Court to assess whether evidence against him is strong enough to merit making him stand trial. <http://bigstory.ap.org/article/a7a3580b675342d6bfed6d7bde9330da/ugandan-reb el-appearing-judges-pretrial-hearing>
Kenya Rattled as Shabab Turns Sights on Somalia Military Targets <http://www.nytimes.com/2016/01/21/world/africa/shabab-attacks-somalia-kenya ,html> (New York Times) Somali and Western officials now say that 80 to 100 Kenyan soldiers - and possibly more - were massacred during the attack, which took
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place on Friday at the El-Adde forward operating base. <http://www.nytimes.com/2016/01/21/world/africa/shabab-attacks-somalia-kenya ,html>
Libyan lawmaker says unity government likely to be rejected <http://bigstory.ap.org/article/8436fcaed4b04bcbb373b4d3b859c2ee/libyan-lawm aker-says-unity-government-likely-be-rejected> (Associated Press) An influential Libyan lawmaker says the internationally-backed parliament is unlikely to approve a U.N.-brokered unity government aimed at bridging the country's political rift. <http://bigstory.ap.org/article/8436fcaed4b04bcbb373b4d3b859c2ee/libyan-lawm aker-says-unity-government-likely-be-rejected>
Kenyan police kill 4 alleged Islamic extremists in shootout <http://abcnews.go.com/lnternational/wireStory/kenyan-police-kill-alleged-is lamic-extremists-shootout-36404021> (Associated Press) Kenyan police say they have killed four men described as most-wanted extremist suspects whose names were released to the public in December. <http://abcnews.go.com/lnternational/wireStory/kenyan-police-kill-alleged-is lamic-extremists-shootout-36404021>
Here's How Terrorists Recruit Africa's Children <http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2016/01/21/here-s-how-terrorists-recr uit-africa-s-children.html> (Daily Beast) Parents in Mali and elsewhere are persuaded to sell their sons and daughters to Islamic "teachers." And those who escape still may find themselves trafficked. <http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2016/01/21/here-s-how-terrorists-recr uit-africa-s-children.html>
Armed men kill 3 gendarmes in Mali's central region <http://bigstory.ap.org/article/142e18cc60914a88b2c5276b32584972/armed-men-k ill-3-genda rmes- malis-ce ntraI-reg ion> (Associated Press) Moussa Saye, who lives in the town of Mopti and has family who live near the attack, said Wednesday that the three members of the security forces were killed about 60 kilometers (37 miles) south of the central town on Tuesday. <http://bigstory.ap.org/article/142e18cc60914a88b2c5276b32584972/armed-men-k ill-3-genda rmes- malis-ce ntraI-reg ion>
UN downsizing Ivory Coast mission in sign of progress <http://bigstory.ap.org/article/d12f6da68c3c4861a178f00589082674/un-downsizi ng-ivory-coast-mission-sign-progress> (Associated Press) The U.N. Security Council is downsizing the peacekeeping mission in Ivory Coast, signaling faith in the West African country's stability six years after political upheaval left thousands dead. <http://bigstory.ap.org/article/d12f6da68c3c4861a178f00589082674/un-downsizi ng-ivory-coast-mission-sign-progress>
The Americas
Argentina declares state of emergency, allows shooting down aircraft <http://www.janes.com/article/57358/argentina-declares-state-of-emergency-al lows-shooting-down-aircraft> (IHS Jane's 360) The Argentine government on 19 January implemented a state of security emergency, setting in place new procedures aimed at making it easier to fight organised crime and human and drug trafficking, and to secure the country's borders. <http://www.janes.com/article/57358/argentina-declares-state-of-emergency-al lows-shooting-down-aircraft>
Haiti Senate approves measure calling for suspension of vote <http://bigstory.ap.org/article/d16a2ad8d2884733953b11e2afb4c3a5/haiti-senat e-approves-measure-calling-suspension-vote>
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(Associated Press) A majority of Haitian senators on Wednesday approved a resolution calling for the suspension of presidential and legislative runoffs set for this weekend. <http://bigstory.ap.org/article/d16a2ad8d2884733953b11e2afb4c3a5/haiti-senat e-approves-measure-calling-suspension-vote>
Colombia frees group of rebels to bolster peace talks <http://abcnews.go.com/lnternational/wireStory/colombia-frees-group-rebels-b olster-peace-talks-36411365> (Associated Press) Colombia released a group of imprisoned rebels late Wednesday, marking another milestone in a peace process that could end Latin America's longest-running armed conflict. <http://abcnews.go.com/lnternational/wireStory/colombia-frees-group-rebels-b olster-peace-talks-36411365>
Commentary and Analysis
Integration of Marine Corps recruit training: one shot to get it right <http://www.marinecorpstimes.com/story/opinion/2016/01/20/gender-integration -marine-recruit-training-commentary/79054826/> (Lt. Col. Kate Germano in Marine Corps Times) While the Marine Corps has long relied on the unverifiable theory that gender segregation at boot camp is necessary to build the confidence of female recruits and successfully train them, decades of data show that the Corps' model for training women is broken. <http://www.marinecorpstimes.com/story/opinion/2016/01/20/gender-integration -marine-recruit-training-commentary/79054826/>
10,000 WON'T DO IT: THE MATHEMATICS OF AN AMERICAN DEPLOYMENT TO FIGHT ISIL <http://warontherocks.com/2016/01/10000-wont-do-it-the-mathematics-of-an-ame rican-deployment-to-fight-isil/> (Col. (ret.) Kevin C.M. Benson in War On The Rocks) Although committing more troops seems unlikely now (the United States currently has approximately 3500 troops in Iraq and special operations forces in Syria) it is worth delving a bit deeper into the numbers being thrown about. <http://warontherocks.com/2016/01/10000-wont-do-it-the-mathematics-of-an-ame rican-deployment-to-fight-isil/>
Reframing the Debate: How Rethinking Special Forces Physical Fitness Standards Can Address the Unconventional Warfare Capability Gap <http://smallwarsjournal.com/jrnl/art/reframing-the-debate-how-rethinking-sp ecial-forces-physical-fitness-standards-can-address-t> (Maj. Rory O'Connor in Small Wars Journal) To better prepare for the requirements of unconventional and irregular warfare, SF as an organization should reassess what is required of its soldiers' physical fitness and change the way it uses physical readiness training to prepare soldiers to conduct unconventional warfare. <http://smallwarsjournal.com/jrnl/art/reframing-the-debate-how-rethinking-sp ecial-forces-physical-fitness-standards-can-address-t>
The Diplomat-in-Chief Hits a National Security Trifecta <http://www.defenseone.com/ideas/2016/01/diplomat-chief-hits-national-securi ty-trifecta/125250/> (Joe Cirincione in DefenseOne) If Barack Obama were a Republican, Congress would have already named an airport after him. <http://www.defenseone.com/ideas/2016/01/diplomat-chief-hits-national-securi ty-trifecta/125250/>
A Sneak Preview of President Obama's Last Defense Budget: Part I, Winners <http://www.forbes.com/sites/mackenzieeaglen/2016/01/21/a-sneak-preview-of-p resident-obamas-last-defense-budget-part-i-winners/#2715e4857a0b501138b17f70 > (Mackenzie Eaglen in Forbes) Whether or not Secretary of Defense Ashton Carter teases the fiscal year 2017 (FY17) defense budget before its official
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release on February 9th, the broad parameters and priorities are already clear. <http://www.forbes.com/sites/mackenzieeaglen/2016/01/21/a-sneak-preview-of-p resident-obamas-last-defense-budget-part-i-winners/#2715e4857a0b501138b17f70 >
Conservatives should help our 'banished veterans' <http://www.al.eom/opinion/index.ssf/2016/01/conservatives_should_help_our.h tml> (J. Pepper Bryars in AL.com) The government doesn't keep an official count of how many veterans we've deported, but advocates say the numbers are probably surprisingly high. <http://www.al.eom/opinion/index.ssf/2016/01/conservatives_should_help_our.h tml>
More Veterans Will Mean A Better And More Diverse Congress <http://taskandpurpose.com/more-veterans-will-mean-a-better-and-more-diverse -congress/> (Seth Lynn in Task & Purpose) Military service is certainly not a sufficient reason to elect a candidate, nor does it guarantee that he or she will remain honorable once in Washington, D.C. Still, if we want a Congress that truly inspires our trust and confidence, why wouldn't we want more representatives from the most trusted sector of our society? <http://taskandpurpose.com/more-veterans-will-mean-a-better-and-more-diverse -congress/>
Shi'ite Militias in Iraq Remain a Dangerously Potent Force <http://time.com/4187322/iraq-baghdad-kidnap-shiite-militia/> (Time) The kidnapping last week of three Americans in Baghdad underscores the central but volatile role of predominantly Shi'ite, progovernment militias in the ongoing crisis in Iraq. <http://time.com/4187322/iraq-baghdad-kidnap-shiite-militia/>
Commentary: Essential Capability, Smart Acquisition, Priority Investment <http://www.defensenews.com/story/defense/commentary/2016/01/20/commentary-e ssential-capability-smart-acquisition-priority-investment/78692002/> (M. Thomas Davis in Defense News) The US Air Force's award of its new Long-Range Strike Bomber (LRS-B) to Northrop Grumman was important for many reasons: It gives the country an advanced military capability in a vital area; it demonstrates the Air Force has learned well from past acquisition missteps; and it suggests guidance for the prioritization of finite aerospace budgets. <http://www.defensenews.com/story/defense/commentary/2016/01/20/commentary-e ssential-capability-smart-acquisition-priority-investment/78692002/>
Do Foreign Intelligence Services Care If Joe Biden Has Financial Difficulties? Of Course They Do. <http://www.overtaction.org/2016/01/do-foreign-intelligence-services-care-if -joe-biden-has-financial-difficulties-of-course-they-do/> (Aki Peritz in Overt Action) Vice President Joe Biden the other day opened up to CNN's Gloria Borger and recounted an anecdote about a severe financial hardship situation in his family. This vignette underscores that even the most important people in this nation can have significant vulnerabilities that intelligence services could and would try to exploit. <http://www.overtaction.org/2016/01/do-foreign-intelligence-services-care-if -joe-biden-has-financial-difficulties-of-course-they-do/>
THE U.S. INTELLIGENCE COMMUNITY WANTS DISRUPTIVE CHANGE AS LONG AS IT'S NOT DISRUPTIVE <http://warontherocks.com/2016/01/the-u-s-intelligence-community-wants-disru ptive-change-as-long-as-its-not-disruptive/> (Josh Kerbel in War On The Rocks) To change this situation, the intelligence community must get over its now illusory belief that its value-added comes mostly from information to which it alone has access - secrets.
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<http://warontherocks.com/2016/01/the-u-s-intelligence-community-wants-disru ptive-change-as-long-as-its-not-disruptive/>
A New Era in US-lranian Relations? <https://www.thecipherbrief.com/article/new-era-us-iranian-relations> (Pam Benson, The Cipher Brief) Iran's every move will be closely scrutinized by the international community now that sanctions have been lifted over its nuclear program, providing Iran access to tens of billions of dollars in frozen assets. <https://www.thecipherbrief.com/article/new-era-us-iranian-relations>
China Finally Centralizes Its Space, Cyber, Information Forces <http://thediplomat.com/2016/01/china-finally-its-centralizes-space-cyber-in format ion-forces/> (The Diplomat) The changes will give China more confidence in its ability to deter and compel adversaries. <http://thediplomat.com/2016/01/china-finally-its-centralizes-space-cyber-in format ion-forces/>
Here's What's Known About China's Shadowy New 'Combat' Force <http://www.defenseone.com/technology/2016/01/heres-whats-known-about-chinas -shadowy-new-combat-force/125261 /> (Lincoln Davidson, Council on Foreign Relations) On the last day of 2015, China overhauled the way its military was structured, creating a new force that's received very little attention in the foreign press. <http://www.defenseone.com/technology/2016/01/heres-whats-known-about-chinas -shadowy-new-combat-force/125261/>
What the World Can Learn From the ISIS Jakarta Attacks <http://nationalinterest.org/blog/the-buzz/what-the-world-can-learn-the-isis -jakarta-attacks-14967> (John McBeth in The National Interest) In a paper presented to a regional forum a week before the January 14 attack, Jones said the most immediate danger was if the new ISIS cells are strengthened by training from one or two returned fighters. <http://nationalinterest.org/blog/the-buzz/what-the-world-can-learn-the-isis -jakarta-attacks-14967>
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