GORE-TEX Military Fabrics

Direct Action Celebrates 10 Years

November 25th, 2024

Direct Action: Experience Based Gear from Poland

Founded in 2014, Direct Action set out with a clear mission: to provide top-tier personal equipment for NATO military and law enforcement special operations units. The brand’s success stems from creating a comprehensive, fully modular system that allows users to tailor gear to their individual needs and mission requirements. This philosophy is perfectly encapsulated in the brand’s “Individual-as-a-system” approach. Furthermore, in-house production ensures world-class quality in finishing, durability, and attention to detail. Moreover, the company offers custom product solutions. Through ongoingcollaboration with special forces operators and continuous feedback collection, Direct Action constantly evolves and refines its products.

The core of Direct Action’s product line features names that pay homage to aircraft flown by Polish pilots during the Battle of Britain and beyond (Spitfire, Hurricane, etc.). This naming convention emphasizes the brand’s roots and identity and honors these heroes. Special units across numerous countries, including Poland, France, Switzerland, Germany, Austria, Greece, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Lithuania, currently utilize Direct Action gear. All production takes place in three Polish facilities, with manufacturing processes certified to AQAP 2110:2016 and ISO 9001:2015 standards.

Direct Action Timeline:

2013

-Gained access to laser-cutting technology

-Developed initial backpack and bag designs using this innovative technology

2014

-Established Direct Action as a line within Helikon-Tex

-Debuted at the IWA trade show in Nuremberg

-Transformed into an independent brand with a new logo

-Launched the first production facility in Poland

-Secured first tender for a Polish special unit

-Participated in the Paramedic tactical medicine competition

2015

-Launched an online store for the US market

-Welcomed Grzegorz “Zwiru” Urbanski, a JW GROM veteran, to the team

-Presented full product range at Enforce Tac in Nuremberg

-Expanded international distribution network

2016-2019

-Expanded into international markets

-Participated in key industry trade shows (SHOT Show, Enforce Tac, SOFIC, Milipol)

-JW GROM selected Spitfire as their primary plate carrier

-Obtained AQAP and ISO certifications

-Introduced the Spitfire MK II system

2020-2024

-Continued growth despite the COVID-19 pandemic

-Opened two new production facilities in Poland

-Acquired license for ballistics trading

-Showcased new product categories (clothing, membrane and insulation solutions, and ballistic peripherals) at Enforce Tac and MSPO trade shows

Direct Action remains steadfast in its mission to deliver the highest quality tactical gear.

Stay sharp, stay safe, go loud!

2024 Black Friday / Cyber Monday Sales Page – Sponsored By Tactical Distributors

November 24th, 2024

Once again, our friends at Tactical Distributors are sponsoring our Black Friday/Cyber Monday master list. To see it, updated regularly with the latest sales info, click here.

Deals are updated daily, so check often!

Streamlight Continues Support for Breast Cancer Research With $20,000 Donation

November 24th, 2024

Company Marks 14 Years of Partnership with Breast Cancer Research Foundation®

EAGLEVILLE, PA, November 20, 2024 – Streamlight®Inc., a leading provider of high-performance lighting, announced its continued commitment to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation® (BCRF) with a $20,000 donation to support breast cancer research and prevention. Each year, Streamlight contributes proceeds from sales of specially marked pink lights to BCRF, reflecting the company’s commitment to improve outcomes and save lives for those impacted by breast cancer.

As the largest private funder of breast cancer research worldwide, BCRF recently announced its commitment of $70.3 million to support global breast cancer research in 2024-2025, awarding grants to over 260 researchers across 15 countries.

According to BCRF, a woman in the US is diagnosed with breast cancer every two minutes, with over 42,000 women and 530 men projected to die from the disease this year. Research has significantly improved outcomes, with breast cancer mortality rates down 44% since 1989.

Streamlight donated the proceeds from sales of its pink Nano Light® keychain light, pink Siege® AA ultra-compact lantern, and pink Strion® LED tactical light. For each of the lights, Streamlight donates $1.00, $2.00, and $5.00, respectively. 

“Our support for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation is a cause very close to our hearts,” said Streamlight Chief Revenue Officer Michael F. Dineen. “With survivors among our employees, we are honored to contribute to BCRF’s groundbreaking work. Our pink lights allow us to not only fundraise but also raise awareness for this important cause.”

Streamlight first introduced its line of pink lights in 2008 and has since maintained its dedication to helping BCRF advance research and improve survival rates for those impacted by breast cancer.

To learn more about Streamlight’s pink lights and other Lights for a Cause, please click here.

R.T. Weatherman Foundation Launches Targeted Trauma Treatment (T3) Program for Ukraine’s Elite Defenders

November 24th, 2024

KYIV, Ukraine, November 19, 2024 – On the 1,000th day of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, the Romulus T. Weatherman Foundation reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the Ukrainian people by launching its Targeted Trauma Treatment (T3) Program.

This groundbreaking initiative will deliver essential PTSD treatment to Ukraine’s elite defenders. Specifically tailored to meet the mental health needs of personnel with extensive combat experience, this program aims to profoundly improve the lives of soldiers and their families while bolstering Ukraine’s fight for freedom and sovereignty.

The T3 Program leverages the advanced Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) injection protocol, a proven trauma treatment that will help Ukrainian soldiers recover quickly from combat stress and return to duty. This cutting-edge treatment is a game-changer for Ukrainian warriors, enabling soldiers to regain their mental and emotional resilience and continue to play vital roles in defending their nation.

Andrew Duncan, co-founder of the R.T. Weatherman Foundation, stressed the importance of the program: “I’ve seen these soldiers carry the burden of an entire nation and the free world. The T3 Program is about giving them back their strength. These are the people standing between Ukraine and tyranny. By providing this trauma treatment, we are not only saving lives—we are ensuring Ukraine’s defenders remain sharp, focused, and ready to win.”

Meaghan Mobbs, President of the R.T. Weatherman Foundation and driving force of the T3 Program, is a dedicated advocate for Ukraine’s military personnel. Since the onset of the full-scale invasion, she has traveled to Ukraine over 17 times, spearheading the delivery of $150 million in humanitarian aid and creating critical programs to support foreign fighters who have been wounded, killed, or reported missing in action.

“Trained and qualified fighters are one of Ukraine’s most important assets,” Mobbs said. “The T3 Program is about giving them the support they need to recover quickly and get back into the fight. We’re not just treating trauma; we’re helping ensure Ukraine’s elite forces remain mission-capable. This program gives them an edge to keep pushing forward to victory.”

The T3 Program aims to initially treat 400 elite Ukrainian soldiers, delivering immediate and lasting benefits both to these individuals and to the country. With rising demand for trauma-informed care, the program is expected to shape future best practices for treating combat-related PTSD and expand its services to thousands more.

Healing More Than Just Soldiers

This program isn’t just about soldiers returning to the battlefield; it’s about soldiers returning to their families, to their communities, and to the life they once knew. It’s about healing the invisible wounds that war leaves behind. Every soldier treated in the T3 Program represents a ripple effect—helping to rebuild a stronger, more resilient Ukraine.

Mobbs continues: “We’re giving them a lifeline back to normalcy, to stability. Every treatment administered is a victory in its own right, and the impact it will have on these defenders and their families cannot be overstated.”

As the demand for trauma-informed care continues to rise, the T3 Program is expected to grow, reaching thousands more Ukrainian soldiers and informing global best practices for combat-related PTSD treatment. The lessons learned from this program will undoubtedly shape the future of trauma recovery for soldiers across the globe.

About the R.T. Weatherman Foundation

The Romulus T. Weatherman Foundation is a 501(c)(3) private operating foundation dedicated to supporting democracy, valuing each life, and meeting urgent needs in conflict zones. Through strategic partnerships and innovative programs, the foundation has become a leader in providing aid and care to those affected by war.

For more information, visit www.WeathermanFoundation.org

Offshore Windmill Farm Connection to Power Grid: Rheinmetall Clears Explosive Ordnances in Baltic Sea

November 24th, 2024

The Düsseldorf-based Technology Corporation Rheinmetall has gained a valuable order for clearing explosive ordnances in the Baltic Sea in order to establish the condition for connecting an offshore windmill-farm to the power grid. The value of this commissioning is within a low double-digit million Euro range.

The order to Rheinmetall was placed by grid operator 50Hertz within the OST-6-1 project and contains the detection of contaminations, their identi¬fication, the documentation, and hence, the recovery of explosive ordnances. Recovered trans¬portable contaminated waste and remains of weapons will be handed-over to the authorities or blown up on site.

This is the first major order for the Cooperation concerning offshore explosives ordnances detection and clearing. The offshore work to be carried out by Rheinmetall Project Solutions GmbH began in July 2024 and is expected to be completed in May 2025.

The commissioning underlines Rheinmetall’s expertise in the field of offshore explosive ordnance detection and safe clearance, in which all legal and environmental aspects are taken into account.

The aim is to clear the area in order to enable grid operator 50Hertz to lay offshore extra-high voltage cables and install two offshore platforms off the coast of the Fischland-Darß region. This project involves Rheinmetall AG being the project lead, alongside specialized companies from Germany and Norway.

LWRC International Announced as Official Coffee Sponsor of Industry Day at the Range 2025

November 23rd, 2024

LAS VEGAS, N.V. – November 21, 2024 – LWRC International, the renowned firearm manufacturer and CAGE defense contractor, is proud to announce its role as the Coffee Sponsor for Industry Day at the Range 2025, the premier event that kicks off the much-anticipated SHOT Show. Industry Day at the Range is set to take place on January 20, 2025, at the Boulder Rifle & Pistol Club in Boulder City, Nev.

Known for its high-performance firearms, LWRC International is trusted by outdoor enthusiasts, hunters and shooters. The partnership with Industry Day at the Range reinforces LWRC International’s commitment to providing great products for individuals who demand the best in performance and quality.

“We’re thrilled to be a part of Industry Day at the Range as the Coffee Sponsor,” said David Ridley, senior vice president of sales and marketing at LWRC International. “LWRC International firearms are the gold standard of reliability and durability in the industry, trusted by customers worldwide. We are honored to support this range event.”

LWRC International’s firearms are manufactured with advanced features and will be showcased at SHOT Show 2025. Attendees at Industry Day at the Range can look forward to seeing and shooting several new products that will be showcased at this year’s event.

“We are confident that LWRC International’s involvement will add a new dimension to Industry Day at the Range, enhancing the experience of all participants,” said Kelsey Puryear, event manager of Industry Day at the Range. “LWRC International is synonymous with quality, and we are delighted to have them on board as the Coffee Sponsor for this year’s event.”

Remaining Sponsorships and Exhibit Spaces:

Media Lunch Sponsor – Exclusive Shooting Bay; 25 or 50 yards

Event App Sponsor – Exclusive Shooting Bay; 25 or 50 yards

Shared Bay: 100 yards

10×10 Shooting Area: Ranging from 25-500 yards, a Suppressor Area and Shotgun: Clay Targets

10X10 Non-Shooting Display

“We would like to emphasize that being an exhibitor at SHOT Show is not a prerequisite for participation at Industry Day. We welcome all eligible exhibitors to join us at this exclusive event,” said Puryear.

Exhibit pricing is available here and exhibitors can secure their spot by registering, registration is expected to close December 6, or sooner as space sells out.

For more information about the 2025 SHOT Show Industry Day at the Range visit ShotShowRangeDay.com.

For more information about LWRC International visit www.LWRCI.com.

In Memoriam – COL (Ret) Warner D. “Rocky” Farr

November 23rd, 2024

COL(R) Warner D. “Rocky” Farr

November 20, 2024 (Age 76)

Temple Terrace, Florida

Special Forces & MACV-SOG

DMOR 2016

SFA Chapter 60

SOA Mem# 1574

Dr. Rocky Farr passed away on November 20, 2024 while under hospice care in Tampa, FL. Awaiting obit.

Rocky Farr enlisted in Airborne in 1967. He was the distinguished honor graduate of his Special Forces medic class, and served as a team medic with 7th SFG(F). In Vietnam, he served as a medic and recon team member with MACV-SOG, CCS. He served with SGM Billy Waugh in Cambodia in an operation written about in the book “Chasing the Jackal. In 1971 he joined Det. A, Berlin. He became the SF instructor at Northeast Louisiana University. As an SFC, he taught in the SF Medical Course and was selected for promotion to MSG. He was then commissioned 2LT.

While a medical student, he was the medical platoon leader for the 11th SFG(A). Receiving his M.D. in 1983, he served as commander, Co. F (Abn), running the Special Operations Medical Sergeants Course. He was the Division surgeon of the 10th Mountain Division and deputy commander of the Aeromedical Center, Fort Rucker.

He attended Air War College before becoming deputy chief of staff, Surgeon, USASOC, and Surgeon, Special Forces Command and Civil Affairs and Psychological Operations Command. He served in Vietnam, Cambodia, Bosnia, Kosovo, Kuwait and Afghanistan.

May He Rest In Peace

Via Special Forces Taps, Facebook

Air Force to Evaluate Hanscom AFB for Air Force Information Dominance Systems Center

November 23rd, 2024

ARLINGTON, Va. (AFNS) —  

The Department of the Air Force identified Hanscom Air Force Base, Massachusetts, as the sole candidate location to host the headquarters for the new Air Force Information Dominance Systems Center. 

The Air Force announced the creation of AFIDSC within Air Force Materiel Command as part of the service’s Great Power Competition initiative to strengthen and elevate the Air Force’s focus on Command, Control, Communications, and Battle Management; Cyber; Electronic Warfare; Information Systems; and Enterprise Digital Infrastructure.   

Four existing information dominance-related Program Executive Offices will re-align from AFMC’s Air Force Life Cycle Management Center to create the new center, led by a 3-star commander. The commander will be dual-hatted as the DAF Command, Control, Communications & Battle Management Program Director. 

The PEO directorates aligning under AFIDSC’s command are: 

C3BM 

Cyber and Networks 

Electronic Systems  

Business Enterprise Systems 

The current estimate for the center staff is 136 positions.  There will be minimal impact on the Program Offices designated to become part of this center, as personnel are expected to re-align in place.  

The DAF anticipates making a final basing decision by the end of the year and plans to standup the new center in 2025. 

Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs