The event will be live streamed live on http://www.defense.gov/live/
From a U.S. European Command News Release: Northern European Chiefs of Defense Address Russian Deterrence
By William Cole: Crew of Crashed Black Hawk Became Disoriented, Army Report Says
By Katie Lange: Purple Heart Recipients: You’re Exempt From GI Bill Transfer Policy Changes
The changes made in July were implemented to increase troop retention, but just this week, Defense Secretary James Mattis signed another policy immediately exempting wounded warrior Purple Heart recipients from that change.
In case you’re confused: This means that wounded warriors with Purple Hearts can transfer their benefits, regardless of their years of total service or ability to complete more obligatory service.
“Secretary Mattis has been clear – we must recognize the sacrifices these service members have made,” said Stephanie Miller, director of accessions policy within the Office of the Secretary of Defense. “This policy reflects our continuing commitment to wounded warriors and their families.”
All other laws and DoD policies concerning the transferability of unused Post-9/11 GI Bill educational benefits – including the changes from July – remain in effect.
By Collin Breaux: ‘Legendary’ Military Canine Remembered at Ceremony
By Air Force Airman 1st Class Andrew Sarver 99th Air Base Wing: Spine Surgery Team Adds Capability, Improves Readiness at Nellis Air Force Base
By Drew Brooks: Soldiers Honor History in First ‘Blood on the Water’ Competition
By Dale White: In Sarasota, Panelists Insist Cannabis Can Reduce Addictive Opioid Use
By David Vergun Army News Service: New Fitness Test Measures Combat Readiness, Army Secretary Says
WASHINGTON —
“If you can’t pass the Army Combat Fitness Test, then there’s probably not a spot for you in the Army,” said Secretary of the Army Mark T. Esper.
By Meredith Mathis: On Being Raped By My Commander
Vulnerability is terrifying. Sharing our dark struggles leaves us wide open for the masses to throw stones at our strength, or perceived lack of it. But something truly miraculous happens when we allow others the honor of hearing our stories, even the parts we don’t quite understand. Our shame cannot survive being talked about – it dies the moment we share it. And our authenticity frees others to own their stories, too. And that’s where the healing happens.
Meredith Mathis is a medically retired Army logistics-turned-Public Affairs Officer, having served in OEF in 2009-2010 and 2012. She recently published a book titled The Mountain Still Stands: A Young Soldier’s Battle for Peace in a Time of War. Meredith lives with her husband Tyler and owns a photo restoration business.
