ROA SmartBrief

Reading this on a mobile device? Try our optimized mobile version here: http://r.smartbrief.com/resp/eczyCfbwoceWjgcZkfza

December 18, 2012

News for Reservists

Top Story

Transition programs to become mandatory
Starting next year, all departing military service members will be required to participate in at least three days of classroom training as part of the military's Transition Assistance Program, which aims to prepare departing service members for the civilian workforce. TAP participants will compile résumés, sign up for applicable benefits and receive training on personal finance. Air Force Times (free registration) (12/17)

In the Pentagon

Analysis: Relations between U.S. and Iraq are in flux
The U.S. is still engaged in Iraq a year after the departure of American troops from the region. The U.S. is Iraq's biggest arms supplier, and it maintains an embassy in the region the size of the Vatican. However, Iraq has shown signs that it is looking to distance itself politically from the U.S., with a recent example being its decision to defy U.S. officials by freeing a Hezbollah commander. Army Times/The Associated Press (12/17)

On the Home Front

Sen. Inouye leaves a legacy of service, valor
Sen. Daniel Inouye, D-Hawaii, the second-longest-serving senator in U.S. history, died Monday of respiratory complications. Inouye was awarded the Medal of Honor for combat actions in World War II and was among the delegates sent to Congress when Hawaii became a state in 1959. Los Angeles Times (tiered subscription model) (12/17)

Service Section News

F-35 pilot training will start at Fla.'s Eglin Air Force Base in January
Thirty-six pilots will begin training next year at Florida's Eglin Air Force Base on the Lockheed Martin F-35 Joint Strike Fighter jet. The Air Force on Monday approved the training, which is expected to be challenging due to the F-35's complexity. Reuters (12/17)

No injuries reported in Guard helicopter incident
A UH-60 Black Hawk operated by the South Dakota Army National Guard struck an airport hangar Sunday while taxiing. The aircraft was damaged, but no injuries were reported. Army Times/The Associated Press (12/17)

Reserve Strength

Research groups bridge political divide on defense cuts
Left- and right-leaning think tanks are coming together on how much the defense budget should be cut over the next 10 years, a survey by the National Security Network shows. The study shows that groups across the political spectrum suggest an average reduction of $510 billion, a much higher number than the defense industry has suggested is viable. The Hill/DEFCON Hill blog (12/17)

Reserve Life

Marine Corps to start conducting random Breathalyzer tests
The Marine Corps has begun sending Breathalyzer kits to commanders around the globe as part of an initiative to clamp down on drinking while on duty. The screening program will see Marines tested randomly twice a year. The Washington Times (12/14)

Navy uniforms are highly flammable, tests show
Tests conducted by the Navy have revealed that uniforms worn by sailors on ships and bases are extremely flammable, the service branch said last week. The Navy says it provides alternate fire-resistant clothing in situations where sailors are exposed to fire risk. Stars and Stripes (12/15)

SmartQuote

There are two things that one must get used to or one will find life unendurable: the damages of time and injustices of men."

--Nicolas Chamfort,
French writer

Subscriber Tools

Print friendly format | Web version | Search past news | Archive | Privacy policy

Advertise

Associate Publisher: Jim Eubanks (202) 407-7822