U.S. Department of Defense

Military & Veterans News

Vet News: Statement from Secretary of Defense Ash Carter on the 5th anniversary of the repeal of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell"

 I am proud to report that five years after the implementation of the repeal of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" our military, drawn from a cross-section of America, is stronger than ever and continues to exemplify the very best that our great nation has to offer. The American people can take pride in how the Department of Defense and the men and women of the United States military have implemented this change with the dignity, respect, and excellence expected of the finest fighting force the world has ever known.

Military & Veterans News

Vet News: Secretary Mabus Names Destroyer for Medal of Honor Recipient

 Today, in a ceremony at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton in California, Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus announced that Arleigh-Burke class destroyer, DDG 122, will be named John Basilone in honor of the United States Marine Corps Gunnery Sergeant who was awarded the Medal of Honor for heroism during the Battle of Guadalcanal in World War II. He was the only enlisted Marine to receive both the Medal of Honor and the Navy Cross in World War II.

Military & Veterans News

Vet News: Statement from Secretary of Defense Ash Carter on the Tragedy at Fort Hood

 During my trip to Asia, I have been constantly updated on the situation at Fort Hood. I am deeply saddened by the loss of nine brave soldiers in this training accident. This tragedy has touched the 1st Cavalry Division, the Fort Hood community, and the entire Department of Defense. It painfully demonstrates, along with the loss of a Blue Angels ‎pilot this week, the risks our men and women in uniform take on behalf of the American people everyday.

Military & Veterans News

Vet News: Statement from Pentagon Press Secretary Peter Cook on Secretary Carter's Approval of Women in Service Review Implementation Plans

 Three months after his historic decision to open all combat positions to women, Secretary of Defense Ash Carter today formally approved the final implementation plans prepared by the military services and U.S. Special Operations Command. This action allows them to carry out their plans to fully integrate women throughout the armed forces.

Military & Veterans News

Vet News: Statement by Secretary of Defense Ash Carter on the Netherlands Expansion of Air Campaign Against ISIL in Syria

 I want to commend the government of the Netherlands for its announcement today that Dutch pilots will expand their current mission over Iraq to participate in coalition air strikes against ISIL in eastern Syria. I also appreciate the announcement of additional funding to support moderate armed Syrian opposition groups with civilian means and medical assistance, consideration of additional support to the Iraqi security forces and the Peshmerga, and additional funding for the restoration of damaged hospitals, schools and other infrastructure.

Military & Veterans News

Vet News: Statement by Secretary of Defense Ash Carter on Change of Command in Afghanistan

 I want to thank Gen. John Campbell for his extraordinary leadership and dedication in his dual role as commander of United States Forces – Afghanistan, and as commander of the NATO Resolute Support mission. While many challenges remain, we have made gains over the past year that will put Afghanistan on a better path, and much of the credit for that progress rests with Gen. Campbell.

Military & Veterans News

Vet News: Military Academies Making Progress in Efforts to Address Sexual Assault

 Today, the Department of Defense released its Annual Report on Sexual Harassment and Violence at the United States Military Service Academies (MSA) for academic program year (APY) 2014 - 2015.  As part of a comprehensive review, DoD officials conducted site visits at the U.S. Military Academy, U.S. Naval Academy and the U.S. Air Force Academy, held focus groups with cadets and midshipmen, and reviewed academy policies, training, and procedures.
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