Welcome to our show, “Defense Briefing,” I’m your host: Liang Jun. Today, we’re diving into some heartfelt moments as Austin Middle School celebrated Veterans Day, honoring 14 brave military veterans. The event was filled with emotional tributes, including a moving performance by the eighth-grade concert band and a slideshow honoring those who served. It’s a beautiful reminder of the sacrifices made by these heroes, and the community will continue to commemorate them with upcoming parades and ceremonies on November 11.
Next, we have a somber update from Chicago, where a suspect has been arrested in connection with the tragic shooting deaths of two workers at Navy Pier. The police acted quickly after releasing surveillance images, leading to the apprehension of a man who had previously been fired from his job. As investigations continue, our thoughts are with the victims’ families during this difficult time.
Finally, we turn our attention to the Pentagon as President-elect Donald Trump prepares to take command of the military for a second term. With a Republican-controlled Senate, Trump’s agenda is expected to push forward, including proposals for a new missile defense shield and potential changes to military personnel policies. As we navigate these developments, it’s crucial to keep an eye on how they will shape our national defense strategy. Please stay tuned for more detailed coverage!
Yahoo US reports on a heartfelt Veterans Day program held at Austin Middle School, where Navy veteran Bob Russell found himself overwhelmed with emotion as the eighth-grade concert band played “Anchors Away” and other military theme songs. The program honored 14 veterans, including Russell, who served a decade in the Navy during the Vietnam War. Students participated actively, learning about the significance of Veterans Day and expressing gratitude for the sacrifices made by service members. The event featured a moving slideshow of veterans, and the music performed by the school’s band and choir was praised for its quality, with attendees reflecting on the importance of honoring those who have served.
In Chicago, the Associated Press reports on a tragic incident at Navy Pier, where two workers were fatally shot. A suspect has been arrested following the release of surveillance images that captured him entering an office space near the scene of the crime. The victims, aged 51 and 47, were pronounced dead shortly after being taken to the hospital. The suspect had been terminated from his job at Navy Pier just weeks before the shooting, raising questions about the motive behind this violent act in a popular tourist destination known for its vibrant atmosphere and attractions.
Foreign Policy outlines President-elect Donald Trump’s potential plans for the Pentagon as he prepares for a second term in office. With a Republican-controlled Senate, Trump may face minimal opposition in implementing his agenda, which includes proposals for domestic military deployment and the creation of a missile defense system akin to Israel’s Iron Dome. The article highlights Trump’s controversial stance on military personnel policies, including a potential reinstatement of a ban on transgender service members and efforts to eliminate diversity training within the military. As speculation swirls about his cabinet appointments, the article also touches on significant international developments, including military aid to Ukraine and Canada’s move against TikTok, reflecting the complex landscape Trump will navigate upon his return to the White House.
Associated Press reports that Mel Ponder, a former Republican state lawmaker from northwest Florida, has been selected as the next president of Northwest Florida State College, despite lacking a background in academia. Ponder, who has a bachelor’s degree in finance from Florida State University, has previously served in the state Legislature and held various local government positions, including mayor of Destin. His appointment reflects a growing trend in Florida, where conservative politicians are increasingly taking leadership roles in public colleges and universities under Governor Ron DeSantis. Critics, including the United Faculty of Florida, express concern that such appointments may prioritize political connections over educational expertise, potentially undermining the quality of education.
South China Morning Post highlights the recent deployment of American F-15 fighter jets to the Middle East as a strategic warning to Iran amidst escalating tensions. The U.S. military confirmed the arrival of the F-15E Strike Eagles from England, coinciding with a broader military buildup in the region that includes bombers and missile defense systems. This deployment comes in the wake of Israeli strikes against Iranian military infrastructure, and as Iran has threatened retaliation for previous attacks. Pentagon officials have made it clear that the U.S. is prepared to defend its personnel and interests in the region against any aggression from Iran or its allies.
NY Times mourns the passing of Elwood Edwards, the iconic voice behind AOL’s “You’ve got mail” alert, who died at the age of 74 from complications of a stroke. Edwards’ voice became synonymous with the early days of the internet, greeting users as they navigated the new digital landscape in the 1990s. His simple yet memorable phrase marked the arrival of messages at a time when email was just beginning to gain popularity. Edwards began his broadcasting career in AM radio and became a beloved figure in many American households, with his voice reportedly heard over 35 million times a day at the peak of AOL’s popularity. His contributions to internet culture and the nostalgia of early online communication will be remembered by many.
Associated Press reported on the sentencing of Zachary Alam, a man involved in the January 6 Capitol riot, who received eight years in prison for his violent actions. Alam was one of the first rioters to be sentenced following the electoral victory of President-elect Donald Trump, who has hinted at pardoning those involved in the Capitol attack. Despite acknowledging his law-breaking, Alam claimed he was acting out of patriotism and demanded a “full pardon with all the benefits.” U.S. District Judge Dabney Friedrich dismissed his comments, labeling him as one of the most aggressive rioters whose actions were far from patriotic. Witnesses recall Alam smashing glass panels with a helmet, moments before another rioter, Ashli Babbitt, was shot by police while attempting to breach the barricade. Alam’s actions, which included inciting violence and attacking police, led to a conviction on multiple charges, including obstruction of Congress.
BBC highlighted the groundbreaking sale of a digital artwork titled “A.I. God,” created by the Ai-Da Robot, which fetched a staggering $1.3 million at auction. This sale marks a significant milestone in the art world, as it is the first time a piece by a humanoid robot artist has been sold at auction. The artwork, a portrait of the famed mathematician and codebreaker Alan Turing, was initially estimated to sell for much less, indicating the growing intersection between artificial intelligence and contemporary art. Ai-Da Robot, designed to engage in dialogues about technology, aims to provoke thought on the ethical implications of AI advancements. The director of Ai-Da Robot Studios emphasized that this event reflects societal changes as we navigate the complexities of AI’s rise, urging viewers to consider the agency and power AI holds in our future.
Associated Press also reported on Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin’s directive to the military to ensure a smooth transition of power to President-elect Donald Trump. In a rare memo, Austin reminded military personnel of their oath to uphold the Constitution and follow lawful orders from their new commander-in-chief. This message comes amid concerns about Trump’s potential use of federal forces and plans to replace career civilians with loyalists. Austin’s emphasis on the military’s commitment to professionalism and nonpartisanship echoes similar sentiments expressed during previous transitions of power. The Pentagon has been proactive in protecting civil servants from political interference, particularly in light of Trump’s previous executive orders aimed at diminishing job security for federal employees. As the nation braces for a new administration, the military’s role in maintaining stability and governance remains a critical focus.
South China Morning Post: Naomi Biden, the granddaughter of President Joe Biden, is set to become a mother as she announced her pregnancy on November 5, coinciding with election day. Naomi, who is 30 and a graduate of Columbia Law, is expecting her first child with her husband, Peter Neal. Peter, born on April 17, 1997, in Los Angeles, is an Army lawyer working within the Judge Advocate General’s Corps (JAG). He has a rich background, having interned for Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton, and met Naomi in 2018 through a mutual friend. The couple married in November 2022 in a ceremony at the White House attended by 250 guests, where the Bidens expressed their pride and joy for Naomi’s choice in Peter. The two have embraced family traditions, celebrating Thanksgiving together and participating in family activities, showcasing a strong bond with the Biden clan.
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