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Archive for November, 2020

Shadow Systems Launches Defense Website

Thursday, November 12th, 2020

Plano, TX (November, 2020) – The U.S.-based handgun manufacturer has launched its direct-to-agency website, shadowsystemsdefense.com to help Law Enforcement departments and Military units purchase directly to outfit their officers and servicemembers.

Shadow Systems, makers of the compact MR920, the long-slide MR920L, and the soon-to-be-released full-size DR920 have designed their pistols with LEOs and servicemembers in mind. Most Shadow Systems employees have a background in either law enforcement or military service, so for this team producing a bet-your-life-reliable pistol has always been the top priority. With the launch of shadowsystemsdefense.com, Shadow Systems is streamlining the process for agencies to test and evaluate Shadow pistols for their team. With just four clicks, procurement officers can request guns for testing and evaluation.

“Once you shoot a Shadow Systems pistol, you understand why the design works so well for so many different people. The interchangeable backstraps that change the grip angle to fit natural point of aim, the drop-safe flat-faced trigger, the directional serrations, they all work together to make this firearm incredibly intuitive. The features of our pistols and the fact that, in many cases, there is no new gear or training required make it easy to see why Shadow Systems pistols are starting to be adopted by agencies.” Chad Jewett, National Director of Sales.

T&E guns are now shipping for agencies considering Shadow Systems pistols for their team. Learn more about the pistol offerings and request T&E at shadowsystemsdefense.com.

Female Military Working Dog Handlers Honored at Military Women’s Memorial

Thursday, November 12th, 2020

WASHINGTON –- It was a hot and muggy evening at Fort Clayton, Panama, as then-Pfc. Renae Johnson scanned the jungle tree line in an attempt to stop thieves from gaining entry into the installation.

It was 1992, and Johnson was a member of the Missouri National Guard’s 205th Military Police Battalion. Determined to protect and serve, she enlisted just a year prior at age 17, which landed her a short deployment to support local law enforcement efforts with the 534th MP Company.

A career with the Missouri Guard felt like the right path at the time, or at least that was what Johnson thought until that evening, she said.

“That is when I met my first military working dog (MWD) handler coming out of the jungle,” as she crossed paths with then-Staff Sgt. John McKinney and his narcotics detection dog “Solo 503P” out on patrol, she explained.

McKinney was an imposing figure, standing over 6-feet tall with stacked airborne and air assault badges on his uniform, Johnson said. Solo stood idly beside him and appeared just as large and threatening as his handler.

He stuck around to answer all of Johnson’s questions and even suggested she move to active-duty to pursue a career as a MWD handler, she said.

Six months later, she finalized her transition paperwork and moved to active-duty. Johnson would then go on to spend the next seven years, to include multiple deployments and assignments, working toward her goal, she said.

“I just knew it was something I was meant to do,” she said. “Being an MWD handler is an intense and high-impact job — a way of life.”

On Oct. 17, the Military Women’s Memorial unveiled its first monument on the eve of its 23rd anniversary. The memorial honors and tells the stories of women, past and present, who have served the nation.

The monument, titled “The Pledge,” captures a moment of mutual respect and love between a female handler and her Belgian Malinois, said Susan Bahary, its artist.

The monument depicts a dog reaching up to her handler as she kneels beside the dog. It captures a feeling of commitment and support, as both reach out to each other with a desire to accomplish their mission, Bahary added.

Johnson proudly served as a handler before retiring in 2012 as a sergeant first class with a military occupational specialty code of 31BZ6, or a MP officer with a working dog additional skill identifier, she said. The Army transitioned to the new 31K MWD handler career field just two years later.

“The job was physically and mentally draining, but none of that mattered if I had my dog beside me,” she said.

As a career handler, Johnson attended the unveiling ceremony with other military handlers. Together, they showed their combined support for their career field and paid respect to the female handlers who helped paved the way, she said.

“It is a beautiful monument that will one day change the trajectory of some little girl’s life,” Johnson said, much like the way her life changed when she first met Solo and McKinney.

MWD impact

Military working dogs are a force multiplier, often used to provide patrol, narcotics, and explosive detection capabilities in garrison or on the battlefield, said Sgt. Maj. Viridiana Lavalle, the Army’s most senior ranking 31K MWD handler.

These dogs can do “a plethora of things that no piece of equipment or Soldier can emulate … with their sense of hearing, smell and ability to detect,” said Lavalle, who is the provost sergeant major for the directorate of emergency services at Fort Sill, Oklahoma.

Handlers often operate as individual augmentees and can deploy at home or abroad with any unit or agency to provide immediate animal support, she said.

“Dog handlers must be extremely self-sufficient and independent, regardless if they are an 18- or 19-year-old private first class or a seasoned staff sergeant,” Lavalle added.

These Soldiers need to display a high level of maturity and professionalism to find success, she said. Handlers are considered subject-matter experts the moment they arrive and must be able to articulate the limitations and capabilities of the MWD to their chain of command.

Like Johnson’s experience in Panama, Lavalle’s passion for dogs led her to join the military police corps in 2001 and later transition to a MWD handler in 2003.

“I think we have evolved when it comes to women serving in the MWD MOS,” Lavalle said, adding that more women should choose to serve as a 31K.

The Army currently has close to 650 Soldiers in the MWD field, with nearly 20% of them female, she said.

“We have made a tremendous amount of progress, but we are still facing various obstacles,” Lavalle said. “I have faith we will continue to overcome them and exceed the standards.”

Overall, the MWD career field is one of the best jobs the Army has to offer, she said.

“I can’t even explain how rewarding it is,” Lavalle said. “When you first get your MWD assigned to you and you start to build that bond — then you start to see that team concept.”

Developing trust

Building trust with a K-9 counterpart is a critical aspect of the career field, Johnson said, as she recalled one incident with her explosives detection dog named Fido that warned Soldiers of a possible danger.

While deployed to Iraq, Johnson and another MWD handler joined a quick reaction force to track down an escaped prisoner in a vast junkyard filled with decommissioned Iraqi military equipment and vehicles.

The junkyard spanned across several acres with multiple entry points, Johnson said. Leaders decided to split the handlers into smaller squads and enter the scrapyard on opposing sides to cover more ground.

“I am telling my dog, ‘Find the bad guy,’ as he almost pulls my arm out of the socket,” Johnson said. “We are moving through the junkyard when he starts going crazy and immediately sits down.”

Thinking Fido was just confused by her command, Johnson encouraged him to get back up and continue the search. He pressed forward a little further before deciding to sit once again.

That was when it dawned on her that she recognized her dog’s signal for unexploded ordinances in the area.

Military working dogs are trained to receive praise or reward after completing a task, Johnson explained. An MWD never stops working. In this instance, Fido made the right choice to signal instead of blindly searching the area for the escaped individual.

“I turned around to the squad leader and said, ‘Shut off all your radios, let my dog in front of you and only step where we step.’”

Johnson led the team out of the junkyard and ran around to extract the other squad. The second handler was paired with a narcotics detection dog and was not trained to detect explosives in the area.

“Establishing a bond and rapport is everything to that handler,” Lavalle said. “Without it, that team will not be effective” or could become a liability.

“That is something that we establish from day one when a Soldier goes through dog handling school,” she added. “Understanding the need for a common mutual respect between the dog and handler, and building the rapport and fundamentals during training” is critical to the mission.

The Pledge

Planning for the monument started just under two years ago after the U.S. War Dogs Association commissioned a memorial to honor the service and sacrifice of female MWD handlers, Bahary said.

“With ‘The Pledge,’ we felt it had to represent all women in the military,” Bahary said. “When you can move people emotionally through a work of art, it can open their hearts and make them more apt to learn.”

As Bahary started designing the monument, she was determined to convey a strong message of duty, capability, commitment and compassion in both figures. She began by looking at many photos of MWD handlers to draw inspiration for her design.

At one point in the design process, Bahary physically kneeled as if to pose herself in front of a dog sitting with an outstretched paw. Doing so helped ensure a level of authenticity in her final design, she said.

Bahary then went on to start the female figure using a metal armature as a base and covering it with layers upon layers of clay, she said. She then began the sculpting of the military working dog and later added the intricate details of the uniform and equipment.

The model was then cast to create a series of molds, she said. From these molds a multi-step process known as a lost-wax was used to produce a bronze casting of the final figure. The metal process can take two to three months to complete.

The final piece was welded together, the metal was finished, sprayed, and brushed with different chemicals and heated to create color variations. It was then mounted onto a granite base for display at the memorial.

Bahary created the country’s first official war dog memorial, “Always Faithful,” in 1994 to honor all military working dogs killed during service. It was unveiled at the Pentagon and dedicated at the Marine Corps War Dog Cemetery in Guam. It depicts the well-known Marine Corps Doberman named Kurt that fought during the Second Battle of Guam during World War II.

She is also working on the National Service Animals Monument. This monument will be dedicated to the deeds and sacrifices of all animals employed by the military, police, and search and rescue groups, along with the animals providing assistance and companion services or emotional support.

“As an artist, this is an incredible honor,” Bahary said. “It feels so gratifying to know that the women in the military are finally getting this kind of well-deserved recognition in our nation’s capital.”

The Pledge monument is genuinely humbling, Lavalle said, adding that Bahary did a phenomenal job representing all female handlers.

“It is an honor to have the opportunity to be the first female handler to achieve the rank of sergeant major, and to be a part of this era where women handlers are starting to be formally recognized and honored for their sacrifices and commitment to the military working dog program,” Lavalle said.

“As a 31K dog handler, it is my duty and the duty of other women handlers to continue to pave the way,” she added. “This is my passion, and I couldn’t see myself doing anything else. I was born to be a dog handler and trainer.”

By Devon Suits, Army News Service

Marine Veteran Scooter Brown (Band) // “Something Waylon Would Sing” 11/11

Wednesday, November 11th, 2020

Both the double single and the Scooter Brown Merica Bourbon Signature Series were released today, Veterans Day, November 11. This day holds special meaning to the band as Scooter Brown is a Marine Veteran himself, serving multiple tours overseas, and Matt Bledsoe, the drummer in the band, an Army Vet, as well as Merica Bourbon, which was crafted by Military Veterans and made by Americans that want to share the taste of freedom. 

Their new double single honors Jennings with an original song, “Something Waylon Would Sing,” and with a cover, “Don’t You Think This Outlaw Bit’s Done Got Out Of Hand.”

Co-written by frontman Scooter Brown, “Something Waylon Would Sing,” takes us back to the outlaw era of country music as the single begins with Brown speaking the lyrics, then slowly builds into the toe tapper that it is.Their rich, familiar vocals highlight thematic references to traditional outlaw country and Waylon himself. The band’s cover of “Don’t You Think This Outlaw Bit’s Done Got Out Of Hand” pays homage to Jennings by staying close to the original, but with their unique spin, modernizing the tune. Listen to both songs here.

“Something Waylon Would Sing” is sure to resonate with those that are longing for the days of the outlaws.

Polaris Off Road and Zac Brown Band Partner on Exclusive Concert to Support Veterans

Wednesday, November 11th, 2020

Polaris Off Road to Stream Exclusive Performance on December 27th to Raise Money for Camp Southern Ground’s Veterans Programs

MINNEAPOLIS, MN (November 11, 2020) – Polaris Off Road, the world leader in powersports and off-road innovation, teamed up with Zac Brown Band and Camp Southern Ground for the Proud American Thank You initiative to honor veterans and active military personnel. The initiative kicks off on Veterans Day and culminates with an exclusive performance by Zac Brown Band, available to stream, on December 27th with all donations going to Camp Southern Ground’s veteran programs.

Beginning today, you can join Polaris and Zac Brown Band in honoring our nation’s veterans by donating to Camp Southern Ground. Then on December 27th, Zac Brown Band and Polaris will host the Proud American Thank You concert, where Polaris will match every dollar donated during the performance, up to $25,000. Camp Southern Ground is a non-profit organization committed to providing extraordinary experiences with a dedicated veterans program designed to serve post-9/11 veterans and their transitions to life after military service.

To donate or learn more, visit CampSouthernGround.org/Polaris.

“Polaris takes pride in being an American company built on the values that shaped our nation, values that are protected and exemplified by the brave men and women who have—or are currently—serving our country. Together with Zac Brown Band and Camp Southern Ground, we want to say, ‘thank you’ for their service, sacrifice and commitment to our nation,” said Steven Menneto, President of Polaris Off Road.

“Teaming up with Polaris to raise money to support veteran programs at Camp Southern Ground is a privilege that I don’t take for granted,” added Mike Dobbs, CEO of Camp Southern Ground. “Camp Southern Ground’s veteran programs, Warrior Week and Warrior PATHH, were developed to support the mental health and wellbeing of transitioning veterans. Our goal with the Proud American Thank You is to raise funds to continue to provide that programming at no cost to veterans.”

Zac Brown Band is a frequent collaborator with Polaris and shares the same commitment to supporting our nation’s veterans. Brown started Camp Southern Ground to serve children with diverse backgrounds and abilities, and the project has grown to address the needs of service members transitioning to civilian life after active duty.

In addition to the Proud American Thank You fundraising concert, Polaris will continue its Heroes Advantage Program, offering discounts on vehicles to America’s active military, veterans, first responders, and medical professionals. Polaris works with other programs like its Salute to Service initiative with the Wounded Warriors Project. As a longtime partner of the United States military and allies around the world, Polaris produces a versatile lineup of utility, transport, and tactical off-road vehicles through its Polaris Government’s Defense business. With hundreds of current and former services members part of the Polaris team, including Chairman and CEO Scott Wine, Polaris believes in supporting those who protect this nation’s freedoms, especially after their service is completed.

For more information about the Proud American Thank You and to make a donation, visit CampSouthernGround.org/Polaris, and join the conversation on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

*Camp Southern Ground is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, Tax ID #27-3082862. All gifts are tax-deductible to the extent allowable by law. If you have any questions, please contact a Camp Southern Ground representative by email  at development@campsouthernground.org.

Cooper Wins Top Tactical at Bushnell Southeast Regional Finale with Elite Tactical XRS II

Wednesday, November 11th, 2020

Elite Tactical XRS II Riflescope Helps Cooper Claim Tactical Division for PRS Season

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. – November 5, 2020 – Bushnell®, an industry leader in performance optics, served as title sponsor of the Precision Rifle Series (PRS) Southeast Regional Finale hosted by Alabama Precision. At the conclusion of the two-day match, Team Bushnell’s Mark Cooper and his Elite Tactical XRS II 4.5-30×50 riflescope once again stood victorious, winning the Tactical Division for the match and claiming the coveted Tactical Division championship for the entire season.

“It’s been a long but wonderful season and I know that I wouldn’t be here without the support of my family, friends and sponsors,” said Mark Cooper of Team Bushnell. “No one could have predicted the weather for the finale to be as bad as it was, but despite the cold and the rain it feels good to have accomplished a season long goal. Through it all, my Elite Tactical XRS II never failed me. The trust I have in this riflescope is unmatched and I don’t plan to shoot another match without it.”

The Bushnell Southeast Regional Finale took place under less than ideal conditions with a diverse course of fire challenging competitors and their gear. Throughout the match, competitors took on a multitude of barricades, moving targets and distances ranging out to 1,200 yards with the rain ending just as the last shots were fired.

“Alabama Precision was honored to host this year’s PRS Regional Finale sponsored by Bushnell,” said Jim Saunders, Match Director. “As the largest region, the southeast has some of the best competitors in the country. They were put through a true test with a challenging course of fire and equally challenging weather. Bushnell has supported the PRS for many years and has even bigger plans for the future with Elite Tactical. Thanks to Bushnell and the shooting community for a great Regional Finale.”

Be sure to follow Bushnell social media pages on Instagram at www.instagram.com/bushnell_official and Facebook at www.facebook.com/bushnell for event updates.

For more information on Bushnell Elite Tactical, visit www.bushnell.com.

Sneak Peek – UF PRO STRIKER XT Gen.2 in WASP II Z3a Camo from Recon Company

Wednesday, November 11th, 2020

Germany’s Recon Company is doing an exclusive run of UF PRO’s STRIKER XT Gen.2 in the WASP II Z3a camouflage pattern.

These feature full camouflage – even the stretch and the Cordura is IR compliant.

Coming soon from www.recon-company.com

Patchwork Camo Teddy Bears

Wednesday, November 11th, 2020

999 Defense creates patchwork teddy bears featuring a wide variety of camouflage patterns.

The fabric comes from old military uniforms and each run of 12 bears is made in collaboration with Kumanokoido in Brooklyn, NY.

They feature US Desert Night Camo and a combination of all or some of the following camo:
Czech Jehlici
Filipino NP SAF Camo
German Flecktarn
Guyanese Defense Force Tiger Stripe
Irish Paddyflage
Italian M29
Norwegian M98
Russian Arbuz
Slovenian SloCam
Swedish M90
Swiss TAZ 83
Turkish Tubitak Arid
UK DPM
US MARPAT

999defense.com

Limited Edition Veteran’s Day Raptor Charging Handle from Radian Weapons

Wednesday, November 11th, 2020

On September 2, 1901 as Vice President, Theodore Roosevelt used the phrase “speak softly, and carry a big stick” to describe his position on foreign policy. Later to be defined as Big Stick diplomacy, this theory set the foundation for his future presidency.

A decorated Veteran of the Spanish American War, lieutenant colonel of the Rough Rider Regiment, and youngest President of the United States, Theodore Roosevelt is our inspiration for this year’s Limited Edition Raptor Charging Handle.

Finished with an OD green cerakote handle, a clear anodized shaft and laser engraved with the famous quote, “Speak Softly and Carry a Big Stick; You Will Go Far.” this one-of-a-kind Raptor & Talon Combo is one you can’t afford not to add to your collection. A portion of the proceeds from this product will be donated to Warfighter Outfitters; Veterans helping Veterans on the water and beyond.

radianweapons.com/accessories/charging-handles/2020-veterans-day-combo

*Limited Quantities Available. While Supplies last. The purchase of a Limited Edition Raptor cannot be combined with any other discounts, offers, or promotions. Limit 2 per customer.