Sailor Charged in Assault Ship Fire
A seaman apprentice on the USS Bohomme Richard was charged late last week for starting the fire that destroyed the amphibious assault ship in July 2020 while it was docked in San Diego.
2011 PFAS Risk Alert Triggered No Action
An inspector general report from 2020 found DoD issued a “risk alert” regarding PFAS in 2011 without accompanying action instructions. The first risk management actions regarding the toxic chemicals used throughout the military for firefighting came in 2016. The IG report comes two years after dozens of lawmakers requested a review.
PG Delegate Tapped for MD US Attorney
President Joe Biden has nominated Prince George’s County Del. Erek Barron to become the next US Attorney for Maryland. If confirmed, he would be the first Black person to hold the post, and the first Democrat in 20 years.
Will Women Register for the Draft in FY22?
In addition to wanting more equipment for all services, the Senate Armed Services Committee would like women to begin registering, as to men, for the possibility of a future draft. Currently the US has an all-voluntary military, but almost all male US citizens and immigrants between 18 and 25 must register with the US Selective Service System.
Navy Implements New Fire Safety Practices
VADM Roy Kitchener said he is encouraged by new fire safety protocols for ships undergoing maintenance in port. He said among the changes the Navy has invested in fire detection systems and added industrial-environment safety training at surface officer school.
Proposed 2.7% Pay Raise for DoD Civilians & Troops
The Senate Armed Services Committee has joined the Biden administration and House leaders supporting a 2.7% DoD pay hike for troops and civilians in 2022.
US Calls Out China Over Cyberattacks
US and NATO allies have condemned China’s aggressive behavior in cyberspace and place blame on China for a January hack, while the US Justice Department indicts four Chinese nationals for the cyberattack on Microsoft.
1st Ship in Fleet Oiler Class Is Christened
The US Navy christened the future USNS John Lewis on Saturday. It is the first ship in the service’s fleet oiler program.
Milestone for Marines F-35C Squadron
The Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 314 Black Knights are the first Marine Corps F-35C squadron to achieve full operational capability.
HAC OKs $706B Military Budget
The House Appropriations Committee approved a $706 billion defense spending bill for fiscal 2022 with a 33-23 party line vote. Republicans object that the $10 billion increase is insufficient to counter threats from China and around the globe.
