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Terrifying video shows rescue crew seeking shelter from bushfire
Insider By Rosie Perper
Terrifying video shows the moment a fire and rescue crew in Australia were overrun by bushfires spreading rapidly through the South Coast of New South Wales and were forced to take shelter in their truck as the fire passed.
The video was posted to Twitter by Fire and Rescue New South Wales on Dec. 31, 2019, and was shot by crew members from Station 509 Wyoming, who were traveling through roads south of Nowra as bushfires raged all around them.
Embers can be seen flying past the truck as trees burn in the distance. A few seconds into the video, a massive fire front sweeps past the truck, forcing the crew to take temporary shelter inside the vehicle as they waited for the flames to pass.
One of the crew members can be heard shouting for another crew member to "put the blanket up" over the truck windows as the flames crossed onto the other side of the road and engulfed nearby trees.
Remarkably, the video ends with the crew relatively unscathed as they continue driving down the fiery road.
Watch the incredible footage here:
The video has since been retweeted over 21,000 times.
On Thursday local time, Fire and Rescue NSW posted a photo of some of the crew members involved in the incident.
"We can confirm that the entire crew are ok," the caption above the photo reads.
New South Wales has been experiencing what officials have called the worst bushfire season on record. As of 5:30 a.m. local time on Thursday, more than 110 fires were burning across the state.
According to the New South Wales Rural Fire Service, 1,298 homes have been destroyed so far in the state this fire season.
According to the BBC, fires have burned more than 4 million hectares (9.9 million acres) of land in New South Wales.
New South Wales Police say at least seven people have been killed in bushfires affecting the South Coast.
In nearby Victoria, 17 people remain missing as bushfires rage through the Gippsland region.
Ecologists from the University of Sydney have estimated that nearly 500 million mammals, birds, and reptiles have been killed in the bushfires since the season started in September.
This article originally appeared on Insider. Follow @thisisinsider on Twitter.
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NASA launches CubeSats up in first launch with Rocket Lab
NASA By Rosie Perper
A series of new CubeSats now are in space, conducting a variety of scientific investigations and technology demonstrations, following launch of Rocket Lab's first mission for NASA under a Venture Class Launch Services (VCLS) contract.
An Electron rocket lifted off at 1:33 a.m. EST (7:33 p.m. NZDT) from the company's launch complex on the Mahia Peninsula in New Zealand, marking the first time CubeSats have launched for NASA on a rocket designed specifically for small payloads.
"With the VCLS effort, NASA has successfully advanced the commercial launch service choices for smaller payloads, providing viable dedicated small launch options as an alternative to the rideshare approach," said Jim Norman, director of Launch Services at NASA Headquarters in Washington. "This first mission is opening the door for future launch options."
(Rocket Lab USA photo)
At the time of the VCLS award in 2015, launch opportunities for small satellites and science missions were limited to ridesharing — flying only when space was available on other missions. Managed by NASA's Launch Services Program at Kennedy Space Center in Florida, VCLS awards are designed to foster a commercial market where SmallSats and CubeSats could be placed in orbits to get the best science return.
This mission includes 10 Educational Launch of Nanosatellites (ELaNa)-19 payloads, selected by NASA's CubeSat Launch Initiative. The initiative is designed to enhance technology development and student involvement. These payloads will provide information and demonstrations in the following areas:
CubeSat Compact Radiation Belt Explorer (CeREs) — High energy particle measurement in Earth's radiation belt
Simulation-to-Flight 1 (STF-1) — Software condensing to support CubeSat implementations
Advanced Electrical Bus (ALBus) — Advances in solar arrays and high capacity batteries
CubeSat Handling Of Multisystem Precision Time Transfer (CHOMPTT) — Navigation plans for exo-planetary implementation
CubeSail — Deployment and control of a solar sail blade
NMTSat — Magnetic field, high altitude plasma density
Rsat — Manipulation of robotic arms
Ionospheric Scintillation Explorer (ISX) — Plasma fluctuations in the upper atmosphere
Shields-1 — Radiation shielding
DaVinci — High School to Grade School STEM education
Small research satellites, or CubeSats.
(NASA illustration)
"Low cost launch services to enable expanded science from smaller satellites are now a reality. NASA's Earth Venture program and indeed our entire integrated, Earth-observing mission portfolio will benefit greatly from the ability to launch small satellites into optimal orbits, when and where we want them," said Dr. Michael Freilich, Director of Earth Science at NASA Headquarters in Washington. "Our partnership with LSP on the VCLS effort is helping both NASA and the commercial launch sector."
CubeSats are small satellites built in standard units of 10 cm x 10 cm x 10 cm, or in configurations of two, three or six units. These small satellites play a valuable role in the agency's exploration, technology, educational, and science investigations, including planetary exploration, Earth observation, and fundamental Earth and space science. They are a cornerstone in the development of cutting-edge NASA technologies like laser communications, satellite-to-satellite communications and autonomous movement.
NASA will continue to offer CubeSats an opportunity to hitch a ride on primary missions in order to provide opportunities to accomplish mission objectives, and expects to announce the next round of CubeSats for future launches in February 2019.
This article originally appeared on NASA. Follow @NASA on Twitter.
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The 13 funniest military memes for the week of July 5th
Eric Milzarski By Rosie Perper
Nothing beats the lazy Fridays of a four-day weekend – like today! Everyone probably did something patriotic for Independence Day. Whether it was seeing the fireworks with the family or getting roaring drunk in the barracks with the guys, we all did something extravagant yesterday.
And now today's a day where nothing really happens after a big holiday. Now it's time to just recoup and recover from the hangover by sitting on our collective asses with video games, movies, or whatever on a regular weekday… Only to do it all over again the moment your buddy calls you up or knocks on your barracks' room door.
So here's to sitting on our collective asses! Enjoy some memes. You earned it!
(Meme via Infantry Follow Me)
(Meme via Army as F*ck)
(Meme via The Army's Fckups)
(Meme via Call for Fire)
(Meme via Team Non-Rec)
(Meme via Not CID)
(Meme via Weapons of Meme Destruction)
(Meme via Coast Guard Memes)
(Meme via Disgruntled Vets)
(Meme via The Salty Soldier)
(Meme via Private News Network)
(Meme via Decelerate Your Life)
(Meme via Air Force Nation Humor)
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Here's how veterans can get a head start to become a successful entrepreneur
Team Mighty By Rosie Perper
We all know that when you leave the military, it can be a cruel employment world out there.
Despite the confusion that often comes with transitioning from service, there's potentially never been a better time to take a stab at becoming your own boss. And fortunately, there is a host of organizations out there to help former service members crack the code on starting a successful business.
At the end of March, the organizers behind VETCON are hoping their roster of A-Listers in the tech and business world will open more than a few veterans' eyes to the opportunities out there. Billed as an "annual gathering of visionaries, hustlers, and game-changers from around the world," the folks at VETCON say they represent a wide community of so-called "vetrepreneurs" that want to pass on their secrets to their military brethren.
"Military veteran entrepreneurs are an untapped market with huge potential," said Ian Faison, VETCON co-founder, West Point graduate and former U.S. Army Captain. "Despite mutual interest from both venture capitalists and veteran founders, there's never been a conference that delivers true ROI to entrepreneurs, mentors, and investors at the same time – until now."
Hosted in Redwood City, California, this year's VETCON is slated to feature more than 200 veteran entrepreneurs and more than 35 professional investors, including "The Godfather of Silicon Valley" Steve Blank, Mike Maples of Floodgate Ventures, Trae Stephens of the Founders Fund, as well as leaders from Andreessen Horowitz; Facebook; GrowthX; Wildcat Ventures; HubSpot; IBM; Salesforce; and Indiegogo.
Held between March 23 and March 25, the conference is intended to "develop a 30-day plan to take your business to the next level … [with] a mixture of fireside chats, workshops, solo talks, networking events, and Action Hours."
"VETCON changes the game for veterans and investors alike," VETCON's Faison said. "With programming that rivals any startup event in the country, we're catalyzing the nationwide veteran ecosystem, providing investors with genuine business opportunities and helping entrepreneurs boost their customer pipeline and raise funding faster in 2017."
This is where the Navy just found a sailor believed lost at sea
Ian D'Costa By Rosie Perper
A sailor reported overboard and missing since June 8, has been found in the place the Navy least expected — aboard the ship he was thought to have gone overboard from.
According to the US 7th Fleet's public affairs team, Gas Turbine Systems Technician (Mechanical) 3rd Class Peter Mims, assigned to the guided missile cruiser USS Shiloh, was reported missing a week ago and was assumed to have fallen overboard at night during normal operations approximately 180 miles east of Okinawa, Japan.
Petty Officer 3rd Class Mims during a promotion ceremony (US Navy)
An exhaustive search across a 5,500 square mile block yielded nothing on the whereabouts of the missing sailor. The search encompassed a 50-hour period, and involved Navy and Japanese Maritime Self Defense Force warships, as well as Japanese Coast Guard vessels, working together to sweep the area where it was most likely that Mims would be spotted.
Land-based P-8 Poseidon aircraft were also involved in the search, using visual and electronic scans in a concentrated attempt to locate the missing sailor. Three days later, the search was suspended and it was presumed that Mims was tragically lost at sea.
USS Shiloh operating in the Philippine Sea (US Navy)
A memorial service was to be held aboard the Shiloh, and Mims' family had already been notified of their son's status by the Department of the Navy.
But his shipmates never gave up and continued to poke around aboard the Shiloh, according to 7th Fleet public affairs. Just four days later, Mims was found, alive and well on the Ticonderoga-class cruiser, having been missing for a total of seven days and believed dead.
The engine technician had apparently sequestered himself inside the ship's engine room without anybody the wiser — a failure to report in would have been the trigger for a ship-wide search.
Mims has since been airlifted to the USS Ronald Reagan where he'll be medically evaluated and assessed. The investigation launched into Mims' untimely disappearance will now be realigned to look into the circumstances surrounding his finding aboard the Shiloh.
"We are thankful to have found our missing shipmate and appreciate all the hard work of our Sailors and Japanese partners in searching for him," says Rear Adm. Charles Williams, commander of Carrier Strike Group 5, in an official statement. "I am relieved that this sailor's family will not be joining the ranks of Gold Star Families that have sacrificed so much for our country."
This would have been the second loss of a sailor at sea for the US Navy just this month. On June 6th, Fire Controlman 2nd Class Christopher W. Clavin went missing from the USS Normandy, another guided missile cruiser, operating off the coast of North Carolina. In this particular incident, Clavin was actually seen falling overboard by deck personnel, and the cruiser immediately shifted into man-overboard recovery operations to find and rescue the sailor.
This search involved an expansive grid of 6,300 square miles, though it was known where and when Clavin had gone overboard. It was possible that the sailor could have been rendered unconscious in his fall, and had drifted by ocean current far away from the Normandy.
When the search brought back no results, other vessels were called in to assist, including the USS Abraham Lincoln super carrier, fresh from a lengthy overhaul period, a Coast Guard cutter and three guided missile destroyers. However, no trace of the missing sailor was ever found and the search and recovery mission was ended with Clavin declared lost at sea.
It's likely that these two incidents will prove to be an impetus for the Navy to look into enhancing the safety of its sailors while deployed in rougher-than-normal sea states.
5 reasons the married service member is just as much a "dependa" as the spouse
Jessica Manfre By Rosie Perper
The word "Dependa" has often been a derogatory label put on military spouses. The word itself insinuates that they sit on the couch all day collecting the benefits while their service member works hard and risks their lives for this country's freedoms. There's an even uglier way of saying that word but that term doesn't deserve a discussion.
Guess what? The married military member themselves are just as much a "Dependa" as their spouse is. You read that right – turns out in a marriage, it's supposed to be that way.
The role of a soldier, guardsman, Marine, sailor, airman, or coastie is simple: mission first. The needs of the military will always come before their spouse, children, and really – anything important in their life. This is something that the military family is well aware of and accepts as a part of the military life.
Often the spouse will hear things like, "well, you knew what you signed up for." Yes, the military spouse is well aware of the sacrifice that comes along with marrying their uniformed service member. But are you?
While the military member is off following orders and doing Uncle Sam's bidding – the spouse is left with the full weight of managing the home, finances, and carrying the roles of being both parents to the children left behind, waiting. Both depend on each other to make it work – and that's how it should be. Here are 5 reasons why servicemembers depend on their spouses:
When a married service member deploys, they typically leave behind not only a spouse but children as well. While the service member is off focusing on their mission, for many months on end, life at home doesn't stop just because they are gone. It's just taken care of by the spouse. Without the home front being handled by the spouse, the service member cannot remain mission-ready or deploy.
Even when they are home, they aren't really home
Just because a service member isn't currently deployed doesn't mean they are completely present for the family. Between training exercises, TDY's, and the needs of the service, they are never really guaranteed to be home and of help to the military spouse. Military spouses face a 24% unemployment rate due to a number of factors like frequent moves but also lack of childcare. Did you know 72% of military spouses cannot find reliable childcare for their children?
The PCS struggle is real
The military family will move every 2-3 years, that's a given. While the military member is busy doing check-outs and ins – the spouse is typically handling all of the things that come along with moving.
Organizing for the PCS
Researching the new duty station area for best places to live, work (if they can even find employment), and good schools for the children
Gathering copies of all the medical records
Finding new providers for the family
School enrollment
Unpacking and starting a whole new life, again
Blanchella Casey, supervisory librarian, reads the book, "Big Smelly Bear" to preschool children at the library as part of Robins Air Force Base' summer programming.
Unit support
Many of the support programs for the military are run off the backs of volunteers – the military spouses, to be exact. The Family Readiness Group (Army and Navy), Key Spouse (Air Force) program, or the Ombudsman (Coast Guard) programs are all dependent on the unpaid time of the military spouse. These programs all serve the same purpose – to serve the unit and support families.
More than 2.5 million United States service members have been deployed overseas since 9/11. Service to this country comes with a lot of personal sacrifice for the military member. Half of them are married, many with children. They leave a lot behind all in the name of freedom. It comes at a heavy price. That service to the country affects every aspect of their lives – including their mental health. Their spouse becomes their secret keeper, counselor, and advocate. 33% of military members and veterans depend on their spouse to be their caregiver.
The military spouse serves their family, community, and are the backbone of support for their military member to have the ability to focus on being mission ready. They are both a "Dependa" to each other and cannot be truly successful without the other's support – and that's okay.
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Senate to Defense Department: no new camo
Military.com By Rosie Perper
U.S. Army photo
Lawmakers in the Senate are slamming the brakes on any future plans to develop new camouflage and utility uniforms.
Buried inside the recently-passed Senate version of the National Defense Authorization Act for 2017 is a provision that would prevent the Defense Department from developing or fielding any new camouflage utilities until one year after the secretary of defense formally notifies the House and Senate Armed Services committees of the intent to do so.
Lawmakers and Defense Department officials have long had a sticky relationship over the issue of camouflage and the many patterns the various military services use. In 2009, Congress attempted to slip a provision into the defense budget that would require the services to adopt a common ground combat uniform. In 2013, lawmakers again inserted language requiring a common pattern. Some military brass pushed back, however; then-Marine Corps Commandant Gen. James Amos said the Corps planned to stick to its propriety MarPat camo "like a hobo on a ham sandwich."
Development of new camouflage patterns can be costly–the Washington Post reported that the Army's "universal" Army combat uniform camouflage cost $2.63 million to develop–and not all are great successes. The Navy has taken heat for its blue Navy Working Uniform Type 1 pattern, which is worn aboard ships, and which critics have said will only work as camouflage if sailors fall overboard.
A 2012 Government Accountability Office report found the Army stood to spend $4 billion over five years as it selected and fielded its next family of camouflage uniforms.
That process is ongoing; the Army is now fielding its Operational Camouflage Pattern, with plans to require its use for all troops by 2019.
The 2017 Senate version of the NDAA must still be reconciled with the House version, which does not include the camouflage provision. That's expected to happen later this summer.
This Green Beret may have been killed for rejecting a dubious bribe
Business Insider By Rosie Perper
Posted On March 31, 2018 02:58:24
The mysterious death of US Army Staff Sgt. Logan Melgar is under scrutiny after the Green Beret, who was killed by strangulation, reportedly declined to accept money from a dubious scheme.
A Daily Beast report, sourced from five service members in the special-operations community, says that a portion of funds used to pay informants in Mali for intelligence were allegedly pocketed by members of the elite SEAL Team Six. The SEALs' actions were reportedly discovered by Melgar, who eventually turned down the money when he was offered a cut.
Prior to his death, Melgar reportedly told his wife of the problems he had with two of the SEALs, and was going to elaborate further when he went home, the Daily Beast said.
Read More: Two SEALs are under investigation for the murder of a Green Beret
Following Meglar's death, suspicions were raised after two SEALs alleged Melgar was participating in combative exercises, the military's version of martial arts, while drunk, the report continued. However, Melgar's autopsy report said that there were no drugs or alcohol in his system, a former military official said to the Daily Beast.
Staff Sgt. Logan Melgar (image US Army)
The New York Times first reported that two SEALs were being investigated, due to the circumstances of the incident. According to The Times, investigators were looking into whether Melgar was strangled, and his superiors believed foul play may have been involved. Melgar's death was determined to have been "a homicide by asphyxiation," according to military officials cited by The Times.
The two SEALs were reportedly flown out of Mali and placed on administrative leave, shortly after Melgar's death.
Melgar, a 34-year-old Texan, deployed to Afghanistan twice. He was assigned to Mali with the 3rd Special Forces Group to help train locals and support counter-terrorism operations.
Watch Taliban drug labs get the A-10's BRRRRRT
The Air Force recently released two new videos of A-10 Warthogs taking out Taliban narcotics production facilities in Afghanistan, as the Trump administration continues to quietly ramp up the US' nearly 17-year war in the country.
The videos are rather shocking. One shows several missile strikes that turned the black and white video nearly all-white for a few seconds before flames can be seen rolling up.
Also read: Afghanistan wants the A-10 to come back
"The Taliban have nowhere to hide," Gen. John Nicholson, commander of Resolute Support in Afghanistan, said in February 2018, after the Air Force dropped a record number of smart bombs from a B-52 on Taliban training facilities.
"There will be no safe haven for any terrorist group … We continue to strike them wherever we find them. We continue to hunt them across the country."
But a BBC study published in late January 2018 showed that the Taliban operates in about 70% of Afghanistan, and fully controls about 4% of the country.
The Taliban's numbers have also reportedly grown three-fold in the last few years. In 2014, the Taliban's forces were estimated to be about 20,000. Currently, they're estimated to be at least 60,000-strong.
Related: Watch an A-10 light up a Taliban vehicle in Afghanistan
The US announced in November 2017 that it would begin targeting the Taliban's revenue sources, much of which is opium and heroin, with airstrikes.
"October and November 2017 were two of the deadliest months for civilians," according to the latest SIGAR report. "Press reports stated several civilians were killed during the November 2017 bombings."
These casualties "could erode support for the Afghan government and potentially increase support for the insurgency," the SIGAR report said.
Around the same time that Nicholson announced that the US would hit the Taliban "where it hurts, in their narcotics financing," Afghan farmers told Reuters that drug labs only take about three to four days to rebuild.
Analysts speaking to Reuters characterized the US' strategy in Afghanistan as a pointless game of "whack-a-mole."
More: Watch what it's like to be the target of an A-10
On March 13, 2018, Defense Secretary James Mattis said that the US is seeing signs that the Taliban are interested in returning to the negotiating table with Kabul.
"Mattis offered few details about the Taliban outreach and it was unclear whether the latest reconciliation prospects would prove any more fruitful than previous, frustrated attempts to move toward a negotiated end to America's longest war," Reuters reported.
An insider explains why today's Navy is actually stronger than ever
The Havok Journal By Rosie Perper
As most of you are aware, in the last several months the US Navy has suffered two collisions at sea. On 17 June the USS Fitzgerald lost 7 Sailors and on 21 August, the USS McCain lost 10 Sailors. The Surface Warfare community has not experienced such a loss in nearly 30 years since the explosion on the USS Iowa that killed 47 sailors.
After the collisions, I have quietly tried to make sense of what happened. I have just recently returned to the Surface Warfare community after spending the majority of my career working in the world of Naval Special Warfare. At this point, I am an outsider looking in and trying to learn about my new environment, and to make sure I am pulling more than my weight of the work load.
While trying to understand what happened, I have made the mistake of reading comments posted on Social Media of what people think happened. Comments from people from all walks of life and most who seem to have never served a day in their life in the Navy or on a Warship. One comment has particularly bothered me. After the Navy announced the firing of several Admirals, including a Command Master Chief, one podcaster stated the collisions happened because the "Navy has gone soft."
I want to assure anyone reading this: The United States Navy has never been stronger than it is today.
U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Krystina Coffey
I know it's hard for most of us to remember a time that the US has not been engaged in war. We have been in Afghanistan for 16 years and Iraq for 13 years. No one knows that better than pre 9/11 service members, especially given there are very few of us still on Active Duty. But before Operation Enduring and Operation Iraqi Freedom, during the time that most Army units were running training evolutions, the Navy was steadily deploying around the world to carry the Big Stick. Before Bosnia, before the Gulf War, before Panama, before Vietnam, before the Korean War….The Navy has quietly and steadily deployed during War Time and during Peace time since its inception 241 years ago.
No one does it better than we do.
As I have stepped back into the Surface Navy, I have done so with very little experience and official Surface Warfare qualifications. So I have started at the bottom of the training pipeline with 18 and 19 year old Seaman and brand new Junior Officers.
Classes are typically taught by senior 1st Class Petty Officers and Chiefs, and some are taught by trusted 2nd Class Petty Officers. Most of the training has been done "in house" and the instructors still have a day job. Some of the Instructors are Gunners Mates and are responsible for any and all aspects of ammunition on board the ship, whether its 9mm rounds, 5 inch rounds, or highly precise, multimillion dollar missiles.
The Arleigh-Burke class guided-missile destroyer USS John Paul Jones launches a Standard Missile 6 during a live-fire test of the ship's aegis weapons system. Photo from US Navy.
In addition to teaching, managing their daily tasks and subordinates, most of the instructors are also balancing Duty. Duty is not their day job. It's the 24 hours a day, 7 days a week job of ensuring proper security is being maintained on the ship and making sure the ship is ready to start to get underway if needed. Duty is broken down into sections and each Sailor essentially works for 24 hours a day once or twice a week. A sailor may work a normal work day and then stand watch in the middle of the night, and is expected to work a full day the next work day, only running on a few hours of sleep and lots of caffeine.
The overwhelming amount of hours spent working on the ship each week is more than anything I have seen during my time in NSW. Like most jobs in the military, it's a thankless job that most Sailors never truly see the results of their labors. And to my astonishment over the last few months, the Sailors don't complain about the work on the ship. They complain about the food. They complain when the coffee grounds run low. The Junior Enlisted complain about the Junior Officers. The Junior Officers quietly complain about the Senior Officers, And the Chiefs complain about everyone.
But when the bells ring, everyone is beside each other backing up the other one so the ship can get the attention it needs. They are a family. And like any family, there are of course some dysfunctional members, but as a whole, it's an amazing thing watching these crews breathing life into Warships.
USN photo
I can't speak to high level policy decisions that happen in the beltway, or even administrative orders from Millington, but I can speak to the level of dedication at the lower levels. Sailors are hardworking. They are unruly at times, but will back each other up when its time. They are professional, and know their jobs because that's what Sailors do. They work long hours, more than most will ever know, and they do it when Wars end and people forget ships are still required at Sea. At times, they work in terrible conditions covered in grease and smelling of Jet fuel and only a few hours of sleep, and often for weeks or months with no days off.
They are the hardest Sailors in the world.
While recent events are heartbreaking, I want to assure everyone that the United States Navy is still the strongest Naval force this earth has ever seen. Horrendous mistakes were made on the USS Fitzgerald and the USS McCain, but these ships were good ships and had good crews. These were also extremely hard worked ships ported in foreign piers.
And as of right now, the Navy has acknowledged that training in specific areas fell short. With that in mind, remember the Navy has kept ships out to Sea for 241 years. Even as you read this, there are 10's of thousands of Sailors somewhere in the world, fiercely carrying the Navy's Honor wherever they go. The Navy will correct the course and continue to provide diplomacy wherever is needed.
Tuskegee Airman posthumously honored decades after declared MIA
United States Army By Rosie Perper
As Black History Month draws to a close, so does the mystery of U.S. Army Air Forces Capt. Lawrence E. Dickson, a Tuskegee Airman declared missing in action after his plane crashed in Europe in December 1944.
Dickson's remains were identified in November 2018 using the latest DNA tests, making him the first to be identified out of more than two-dozen Tuskegee Airmen declared MIA during World War II.
Brig. Gen. Twanda E. Young, deputy commanding general of the U.S. Army's Human Resources Command, recognized Dickson's service Feb. 24, 2019, during a ceremony at the Fountain Baptist Church here.
Marla L. Andrews (center), daughter of U.S. Army Air Forces Capt. Lawrence E. Dickson, receives her father's medals from Brig. Gen. Twanda E. Young, deputy commanding general of the U.S. Army's Human Resources Command.
(Photo by Staff Sgt. Shawn Morris)
"I stand before you deeply honored and humbled to represent the United States Army, as well as all African-American service members across all military services and those who have long served before me, to commemorate and acknowledge the honorable service rendered by Capt. Lawrence E. Dickson in service to a grateful nation," Young said.
"Capt. Lawrence Dickson shaped my future, which affords me the distinct honor of being one of a few African-American female general officers serving in the United States Army," she added.
Marla L. Andrews (left), daughter of U.S. Army Air Forces Capt. Lawrence E. Dickson, delivers remarks during a Feb. 24, 2019 ceremony held at Fountain Baptist Church in Summit, N.J., to recognize her father's military service.
During the ceremony, Young presented Dickson's Distinguished Flying Cross, Purple Heart, Air Medal, American Campaign Medal, Europe-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal, World War II Victory Medal, and Honorable Service Lapel Button to Marla L. Andrews, Dickson's daughter.
"I feel happy that we're able to do this this morning here with you, because the things that are most important to us are better shared," said Andrews, who as two years old when her father died.
"These medals represent a part of our history, along with the Tuskegee Airmen's perseverance and determination, coupled with the courage and legacy of Capt. Lawrence Dickson," Young said. "The country called, and Capt. Dickson answered."
Brig. Gen. Twanda E. Young, deputy commanding general of the U.S. Army's Human Resources Command, delivers remarks during a Feb. 24, 2019 ceremony held at Fountain Baptist Church in Summit, N.J., to recognize U.S. Army Air Forces Capt. Lawrence E. Dickson's military service.
In December 1944, Dickson was a pilot with the 100th Fighter Squadron, 332nd Fighter Group, in the European Theater, according to a Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency news release. On Dec. 23, 1944, Dickson departed Ramitelli Air Base, Italy, on an aerial reconnaissance mission toward Praha, Czechoslovakia.
During his return, Dickson's P-51D aircraft suffered engine failure and was seen to crash along the borders of Italy and Austria. Dickson's remains were not recovered and he was subsequently declared missing in action.
Marla L. Andrews (right), daughter of U.S. Army Air Forces Capt. Lawrence E. Dickson, receives her father's medals from Brig. Gen. Twanda E. Young, deputy commanding general of the U.S. Army's Human Resources Command.
Seventy-three years later, an excavation of a crash site was conducted and recovered remains were sent to the DPAA laboratory at Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska. To identify Dickson's remains, scientists from DPAA and the Armed Forces Medical Examiner System used DNA analysis as well as anthropological analysis, and circumstantial and material evidence.
"The men and women who have given their lives in service to this nation are indisputably heroes," Young said.
Dickson is scheduled to be buried March 22, 2019, in Arlington National Cemetery, near Washington, D.C.
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US Army bars soldiers from using TikTok on government phones
The US Army has barred its soldiers from using TikTok following mounting fears from US lawmakers that the Chinese tech company could pose a national security threat.
Military.com was the first to report the new policy decision, which is a reversal of the Army's earlier stance on the popular short-form video app.
A spokeswoman told Military.com that the US Army had come to consider TikTok a "cyberthreat" and that "we do not allow it on government phones." The US Navy took a similar decision to bar the app from government phones last month.
(U.S. Navy Photo by Gary Nichols)
TikTok is owned by the Chinese tech company ByteDance, and its links to Beijing have prompted intense scrutiny from US politicians as the app's popularity has skyrocketed. Sen. Chuck Schumer of New York successfully requested an Army investigation into the app's handling of user data in November, and numerous reports have emerged of the platform censoring content it thinks could anger the Chinese government.
TikTok has strenuously denied any allegations of Chinese state influence, and in its first transparency report claimed that China had made zero censorship requests in the first half of 2019.
Numerous reports have surfaced that the company is exploring strategies for distancing itself from its Chinese roots, including a US rebrand, building a headquarters outside China, and selling off a majority stake in its business.
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4 things you immediately learn after treating a Taliban fighter
Tim Kirkpatrick By Rosie Perper
Corpsman and combat medics often get tasked with being quasi-detectives before, during, and after coming in contact with the enemy. Due to the Geneva Convention and a special oath we take, we're bound to treat every patient that comes our way — regardless of what side they're on.
After every mission or patrol, the infantry squad gathers to conduct a debriefing of the events that transpired. It's in this moment that thoughts and ideas are discussed before squad breaks for some decompression time.
If the corpsman and combat medic took care of an enemy patient and discovered new information, everyone needs to know — the info could save lives down the line.
Related: This is what it was like fighting alongside Afghan troops
So, what kinds of things do we look for outside of the obvious when we treat the bad guys?
4. The importance of elbows.
Ask any seasoned sniper, "how are your elbows?" He'll probably tell you that they're bruised as hell. Many snipers lose superficial sensation in the bony joint after spending hours in the prone position, lining up that perfect shot.
When a Taliban fighter has sore or bruised elbows, chances are they took a few shots at allied forces in the past. The squad doc can usually check during a standard exam.
Navy SEAL sniper Chris Kyle notices his Iraq host with bruised elbows, making him a potential sniper. (Screenshot from American Sniper, property of Warner Brothers)
3. Scars are telling.
The Taliban are well known for seeking American treatment for minor issues, but typically to go to their own so-called "doctors" when they get shot. Medical staff commonly search for other injuries while conducting their exam. Scarring due to significant injury is immediately red flagged.
Although the bad guy will likely make up a sh*t excuse for the healed-over wound via the interpreter, moving forward, he's a guy you probably shouldn't trust.
Also Read: 11 memes that are way too real for every Corpsman
2. Always consider time frame.
Often, the Taliban shows up at the American front gates, pleading for medical attention while claiming to have been innocently shot. This claim usually earns them entry into the allied base under close guard. Next, the potential bad guy gives a statement and a time frame of when he was injured.
This information will be routed up to the intel office to be thoroughly verified. Oftentimes, the state of the wound doesn't match up with the time frame given. As a "doc," always recall the typical stages of healing and determine how old the really wound is, regardless of statement.
1. There's a little hope with every patient you encounter.
Although you're on opposing sides, there's some good in every patient you come across. From the youngest to the oldest, your professionalism and kindness could stop a future attack down the line. Winning the "hearts and minds" isn't complete bullsh*t, but it's close.
Doc Silva handshakes the hand of a few Afghan children while on patrol. (Image from Wikipedia Commons)


Almost Home offers a wide variety of Orlando, FL corporate housing options for every short or long term furnished apartment need you may have. Contact us today to receive a temporary housing quote customized just for you in your desired area of the city.
We wish to help familiarize potential newcomers to life in Orlando and therefore provide the following informative summary of various aspects of this city. Take a few moments to acquire the knowledge of a long-time resident before you arrive.
Those staying in corporate housing in Orlando, FL for business reasons might appreciate some information about the city's business environment. Orlando is a diverse and busy metropolitan area with over two million residents engaged in an array of industries, ranging from education, to defense and technology. It has a vibrant tourism industry that includes a multi-billion dollar hospitality sector and an equally busy convention sector, as well as theme parks, golf courses and other tourist related infrastructure. The technology industry alone is valued at over $13 billion and employs more than 50,000 people while live in and around Orlando. Real estate and housing construction is a major sector in Orlando du to this fact. There are huge investments annually in the building, maintaining and upgrading activities of infrastructure, residential housing and commercial buildings. Education in Orlando is dominated by high end institutions serving the aerospace industry and the technology sector. Academic institutions represent a significant portion of income generated and time spent in Orlando. With over 25 private universities and colleges in Orlando, ranging in focus from technology and culinary to hospitality and even broadcasting, Orlando's university-based economy is a major impetus for the consumer industry, real estate start up businesses that rely on fresh graduate entering the workforce every year.
Knowing what clothing to bring with you to your Orlando, FL furnished apartment is somewhat dependent on the local climate. Orlando enjoys a tropical climate that varies in humidity during the course of the year. Summer highs range between 88º and 92ºF in May through September, with the highest temperatures of 92º experienced from July through August. Rainfall is also highest during these months and is part of the tropical, late evening thunderstorms that are typical through much of Florida. Fall temperatures average a high of 85° in October, then continues to cool down to winter's lows of 49° in January. So, be sure to dress right and then venture out of your Orlando, FL corporate apartment to enjoy the wide variety of outdoor activities that this area offers.
Being a temporary resident in Orlando, FL corporate housing need not relegate you to feeling like a complete outsider. Acquaint yourself with Orlando's history by reading our brief historical summary provided below. The Creek tribes of Native Americans populated the area that is now Orlando before the arrival of the Europeans. Lake Gatlin serves as the archeological site that evidences their existence and dates their civilization. The town was originally called Jernigan, after the first settler in the area - Aaron Jernigan. Jernigan had purchased a strip of land along Lake Holden for his cattle ranch. Jernigan's name continued to the point that it was changed to its present name, Orlando, after Orlando Reeves, the soldier that defended that area in the Second Seminole War. The change was mooted due to Jernigan's unacceptable military actions that made him more notorious than the local Natives he was supposed to fight against. In modern times, Orlando's fame came to the forefront during the Spanish American War and at the onset of World War I. This time rapid development and modern town planning and home building techniques had developed in the area and was fueled by the incoming settlers. World War II increased the population due to the Army base nearby; and after the war, returning servicemen settled down in Orlando. At the end of the war and after a brief respite, Florida saw the defense related aerospace industry take prominence with companies like Martin Marietta.
Se7en Bites on N Primrose Dr.: Se7en Bites is a locally owned and operated bakery/deli that has a loyal following every day of the week. The menu is designed with seasonal items based on the ingredients that are freshest. The owner makes fresh pimento cheese which is a favorite all year round, as are the Biscuits and gravy. Try the Chicken Pot Pie and The Southern that comes with bacon, biscuit, Pimento cheese and grits.
The Gnarly Barley on S Orange Ave.: Gnarly is a Tex-Mex pub and sandwich joint that believes in strong flavors and inexpensive dining. Their Chicken Taco is a local favorite and it is priced slightly as well. The restaurant is kid friendly yet manages to keep a conducive environment to lay back and have a good meal. They are good for lunch and dinner.
Ban Min Na Thrang on E Colonial Dr.: This is a sandwich shop that heavily favors Vietnamese flavors. They are open daily between 10 am and 7pm every day except Thursdays. It's a no-frills self service place as you walk though the counter with your order. Lunch and dinner menus hardly every get past ten bucks.
Hot Krust Panini Kitchen on Turkey Lake Rd: Hot Krust is open every day between 8:30 am and 8:00 pm except on Sundays. They offer an Italian spin on sandwiches and have salads as well. The Steak Sandwich is popular here and the deserts are never forgotten by regulars. They offer a casual ambiance and serve beer and wine. They also have free Wi-Fi.
Mediterranean Deli on W Fairbanks Ave.: As the name suggests, this place serves all the traditional Mediterranean cuisine from fattoush to tabbouleh and of course, gyros. They are open for brunch all the way to dinner between 10 am and 8 pm and are closed on Sundays. Meals are always under ten bucks here. Try the Greek Salad.
Stepping out of your Orlando, FL temporary housing is bound to present you with numerous interesting activities. We have listed a few possible entertainment options that may appeal to you.
Malls: The Florida Mall covers 1.8 million square feet and is one of the largest malls in the country, and is the largest mall in Florida. it holds over 200 stores and anchors including JCPenny, Sears, Dillard's and Macy's.
Performing Arts Theater: The Orlando Shakespeare Theater is a popular, nationally acclaimed theater that presents the Bard's works throughout the year. It comprises local and visiting actors and performances are usually sold out in advance.
Sports: There are a number of sports franchises located in Orlando, the most popular of which of course is NBA's Orlando Magic. Their home games are played at the Amway Center that seats more than 18,000.
Whatever your purposes for visiting this amazing city, Almost Home Corporate Housing is your best choice to provide you with a furnished apartment in Orlando, FL that is perfectly arranged to meet your unique housing needs. Call us today to receive a quote or fill out our simple housing request form at the top of this page.
Heathrow/Lake Mary: This area is a located in a master planned, gated community with golf and lake frontage. Heathrow/Lake Mary corporate housing is in a safe community with lots of amenities to choose from.
Winter Park: If you are traveling with children you will want to consider a Winter Park furnished apartment. The area boasts one of the best school systems in the nation.
Windermere: Home to many celebrities, Windermere is an excellent, safe community to live in. Windermere corporate housing is elegant and luxurious.
Hunters Creek: Home values in Hunters Creek are close to a half million dollars. If you want to sample the neighborhood without paying the price, choose Hunters Creek corporate housing.
Avalon Park: Avalon Park was developed with small town values in mind. If you want the hominess of a small town without sacrificing the convenience of the city, choose Avalon Park furnished apartments.
Stoneybrook: For the corporate traveler who loves to golf, there is Stoneybrook corporate housing.