April 2025 | Soldier Systems Daily Soldier Systems Daily

Archive for April, 2025

Thurston Introduces Initial Collection of Performance Headwear

Monday, April 7th, 2025

(Aspen, Colo.) – Thurston, designer and developer of premium-quality performance headwear, introduces updates on classic silhouettes featuring outstanding materials, functional and simple designs, and meticulous construction.

Comprising two beanies, a skull cap and a balaclava made from Polartec® Power Wool™ and Wind Pro® fabric technologies, the initial products advance the concept of high-quality ski and snowboard headwear as multifunctional by nature of its refined reliability. The results are dynamic and wearable pieces that work perfectly for alpine environments and beyond.

The Power Wool™ Beanie, Skull Cap and Balaclava are made of Polartec® Power Wool™, which uniquely isolates plush merino wool on the inside, and a high-stretch technical knit on the outside. This maximizes the natural isothermic powers of wool (warming yet pleasantly cooling), while significantly improving its resilience. No other wool fabric comes close to its total comfort and long-lasting performance.

The Wind Pro® Beanie is made of Polartec® Wind Pro®, a superfleece that resolves the weakness of regular fleece: wind chill. It’s engineered with proprietary yarns in a compact knit construction to supply 4x more wind resistance, while retaining critical breathability for temperature regulation. It outperforms and outlasts any other fleece.

Made in British Columbia, the collection is now available at thurstonunlimited.com.

Posted in Arctic, Clothing, Mountaineering | Comments Off on Thurston Introduces Initial Collection of Performance Headwear

MATBOCK Monday: Low-Vis Medical Pouch

Monday, April 7th, 2025

Designed around a customer request to hold the Phokus Research Low Vis trauma kit, our medical pouch is ready to hold your medical supplies out of the way and secure until you need it. Two flaps on either side allow easy access in a rush, and there are no complicated snaps, cables, or buttons, making it easier to repack and close while on the small of your back. The back of the pouch is made from our laser-cut Ghost material and has cuts to allow vertical or horizontal belt carry and two columns of molle-compatible slits for various clips and strips. The medical pouch can also be directly mounted to the Soteria belt cage using the horizontal belt pass-throughs. At a mere 1.6oz it’s simple, multifunctional, and clean.

Features:

-Slim design keeps the pouch close to the body and accessible

-Belt, molle, or direct mount to our Cage system, giving you multiple ways to carry

-Large loop field accommodates modular identification and medical information

Specs:

Dimensions: laid flat 8.25” x 6” x .25“ (21cm x 15cm x 0.6cm)

Weight: 1.6oz (45 Grams)

Volume: approx 61 cubic inches (1 liter)

Material: Ghost, Ghost Lite

For a quote, email sales@matbock.com or check it out here: www.matbock.com/collections/pouches/products/low-vis-trauma-kit-medical-pouch

Posted in Advertiser, Guest Post, Load Carrying, Medical | Comments Off on MATBOCK Monday: Low-Vis Medical Pouch

Shell Shock Technologies Announces Online Auction to Benefit Legends and Heroes Shootout Charity Event

Monday, April 7th, 2025

The online-only auction features an exclusive selection of signed memorabilia by MLB legends, military artwork, and unique hand-crafted items to raise funds for K9 Heroes 4 Heroes and the NRA.

“Paratroopers Answering the Call” by Stuart Brown

Eubank, KY (April 2025) – Shell Shock Technologies, LLC. (SST), a leading innovator in the ammunition industry, is proud to announce the launch of its Online Only Auction in support of its 1st Annual Legends and Heroes Shootout, a premier two-day charity event dedicated to supporting veterans and first responders. The auction features an exclusive selection of military artwork, collector’s items, unique experiences, and signed sports memorabilia from MLB legends. Bidding is now open and will close on April 28, 2025. All proceeds from the auction will benefit K9 Heroes 4 Heroes, which provides service dogs to veterans and first responders at no cost, and the NRA, which offers mental health services, career transition assistance, and critical resources to veterans and their families.

“This auction is an opportunity to own exclusive collector’s items while supporting an incredible cause,” commented Peter Foss, Managing Partner and CEO of Shell Shock Technologies. “Every bid helps provide vital resources for veterans and service dogs through K9 Heroes 4 Heroes and the NRA.”

Signed by Albert Pujols.

Auction items include:

Exclusive MLB Legends Signed Baseballs by:

Raúl Ibañez – A 2009 World Series contender and MLB All-Star. Over his 19-season career, Ibañez racked up over 2,000 hits and 300 home runs.

Jayson Werth – A key player in the Philadelphia Phillies’ 2008 World Series Championship run. Over his 15-season career, Werth earned two Silver Slugger Awards (2009, 2010) and was named a 2009 All-Star.

Plácido Polanco – A 2x MLB All-Star and the only player in MLB history to win Gold Gloves at both second and third base. Over his 16-season career, Polanco was known for his elite defense, clutch hitting, and leadership, playing a key role in the 2006 ALCS MVP run that helped the Detroit Tigers reach the World Series.

Adrián Beltré – One of the greatest third basemen to ever play the game. A 4x MLB All-Star (2010, 2011, 2012, 2014) and 5x Gold Glove winner, Beltré combined elite defense with power at the plate, finishing his career with 477 home runs and over 3,000 hits – a milestone achieved by only a select few in baseball history.

Albert Pujols – One of the greatest hitters of all time. A 3x MVP (2005, 2008, 2009) and 2x World Series Champion (2006, 2011), Pujols finished his career with over 3,384 hits, 703 home runs, and 2,218 RBIs, securing his place as one of the game’s all-time greats.

Max Scherzer – One of the most dominant pitchers of his generation, Scherzer is a 3x Cy Young Award winner, an 8x All-Star, and a 2019 World Series Champion with the Washington Nationals. With over 3,000 career strikeouts, multiple no-hitters, and a reputation as one of baseball’s toughest aces, his legacy is cemented among the game’s elite.

Military-Themed Signed Prints and Drawings by Stuart Brown

“Contact Front” – A powerful limited-edition print capturing a Marine Corps Fire Team in Helmand Province, Afghanistan.

“Brothers in Arms” – A detailed pencil drawing depicting four soldiers in front of a military helicopter.

“Paratroopers Answering the Call” – Honoring the 82nd Airborne Division, featuring generations of paratroopers standing ready for battle.

“Relentless Pursuit” – A striking portrayal of modern warfare, featuring special operations forces in action.

One-of-a-Kind Collectibles and Experiences

Original Oil Painting of MPC Layka – A hand-rendered portrait honoring the legendary multi-purpose canine, created by artist David Holzemer.

Dormie Network Stay & Play Package – A two-day, one-night golf getaway for four at an exclusive private golf club.

Handcrafted Legends & Heroes Decanter – A stunning 14” decanter made in England, presented in a custom wooden case.

Handmade Valor Board – A laser-engraved tribute to K9 heroes and veterans, featuring the “Heeling is Healing” motto.

Commemorative Legends & Heroes Slate Coaster Set – An exclusive set of eight laser-engraved coasters crafted from premium natural slate.

All winning bids are subject to a 12% buyer’s premium, ensuring that 100 percent of proceeds directly support the benefitting charity. If you would like to donate an item to be included in the online auction, please contact Foss at peter@shellshocktech.com.

The Legends and Heroes Shoutout will feature two days of exciting activities, starting on April 27, 2025, with the Range Day. Taking place at Markham Park Shooting Range in Sunrise, Florida, from 10 am to 3 pm, participants will have the opportunity to engage in dynamic shooting competitions using Shell Tech’s cutting-edge precision pistol and rifle ammunition. Instruction will be led by Jake Holt, a well-known firearms social media influencer from Regional Operations. Desert Tech, a Shooting Range Event Partner, will be providing a rifle demonstration featuring its latest innovative and custom weaponry. Competition prizes will be awarded from Four Brothers Custom Gun Holsters and Heritage Distilling Company. The overall winner of the shooting competition will win the Grand Prize, which is an automatic entry into the NRA World Shooting Championship, where over 500 of the world’s top shooters compete for cash and prizes totaling over $250,000.

The second day, April 28, 2025, focuses on the charity golf tournament at The Club at Weston Hills in Weston, Florida. This tournament will feature a scramble-style format with multiple contests and challenges, including four separate hole-in-one contests with total prizes valued at $55,000 and a unique AR-15-style golf ball launcher experience. Participants can use this innovative launcher to tee off on a select Par 4, adding something different to the competition. The tournament will conclude with an outdoor grill lunch, an open bar, and an awards ceremony, as well as an online auction featuring exclusive memorabilia and sponsor-donated items. There will also be a Whiskey Tasting featuring Service to America SALUTE™: War Dogs™ Edition, Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey by Heritage Distilling Co. Inc. This “Whiskey That Honors the Worthy”™, aged 5 years (35 in dog years) and bottled at 98.6 proof, honors our US Military Working Dogs.

Sponsorship opportunities are available, offering high-impact brand exposure and networking opportunities, from Gold to Premier level, as well as several Golf Specific Sponsorship options. For those interested in participating, more information can be found here. For more information about sponsorship opportunities, participant registration, or general inquiries, please contact Foss at peter@shellshocktech.com.

Posted in Charity, Fundraising, Industry, Press Release | Comments Off on Shell Shock Technologies Announces Online Auction to Benefit Legends and Heroes Shootout Charity Event

SilencerCo Strengthens Leadership in Suppressor Advocacy with $370K+ in Contributions

Sunday, April 6th, 2025

West Valley City, UT – The American Suppressor Association (ASA) is proud to announce that SilencerCo will continue its Tier 1 sponsorship for 2025. Since the start of 2024, SilencerCo has contributed over $370,000 through their annual sponsorships, website round-up program, and legal advocacy support, making them one of the largest supporters of ASA and the ASA Foundation’s missions.

“SilencerCo’s commitment to advancing suppressor rights is unmatched,” said Knox Williams, Executive Director of ASA. “Their support is instrumental in driving pro-suppressor reform and defending the rights of enthusiasts nationwide. They have continuously stepped up as a leader in our industry, putting their resources and influence behind meaningful change.”

SilencerCo’s financial contributions have directly impacted ASA’s ability to advocate for pro-suppressor reform across the United States. From funding legal battles to supporting educational initiatives, their partnership ensures ASA and the ASA Foundation have the resources to fight for suppressor owners in all 50 states. The over $370,000 they have contributed is a testament to their dedication to this cause and to the entire suppressor community.

“Continuing our Tier 1 sponsorship reflects our belief in ASA’s vital work,” said Mike Aland, SilencerCo’s VP of Marketing. “We are proud to stand with ASA in advocating for pro-suppressor legislation and shaping a more accessible future for suppressors. We believe in the importance of this mission and remain committed to making suppressors more widely available and understood.”

In addition to their annual sponsorships, SilencerCo’s website round-up program allows customers to contribute directly to the ASA’s advocacy work, further amplifying their impact. Their unwavering commitment and innovation have made them a cornerstone of the suppressor industry and an invaluable ally to the ASA.

Posted in 2A, Industry, Press Release | Comments Off on SilencerCo Strengthens Leadership in Suppressor Advocacy with $370K+ in Contributions

Call to Action – WW II Veteran Turns 100

Sunday, April 6th, 2025

Via US Army WTF Moments on IG:

*** MAIL CALL (Saugerties, NY) ***

Paul Donlon is turning 100 on May 2nd. Served with 3rd ID in WW2.

He is also the older brother of Roger Donlon, the first Medal of Honor recipient of the Vietnam War. Let’s get some birthday cards to him.

Send to:

Saugerties VFW Post 5034

30 John St.

Saugerties, NY 12477

(In care of Paul Donlon)

Posted in Guest Post, Veterans | Comments Off on Call to Action – WW II Veteran Turns 100

New Fit Exchange by DXL + Military & First Responders Discount Offers New Savings for All Big + Tall Men

Sunday, April 6th, 2025

CANTON, Mass., April 2, 2025 — Destination XL Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: DXLG), the leading integrated-commerce retailer specializing in Big + Tall men’s clothing and shoes, is proud to announce two new cost-saving initiatives designed to bring a heightened level of exceptional value and recognition to its guests – our newly announced Fit Exchange by DXL program and a program supporting those who serve us all.

In late February, Fit Exchange by DXL launched, offering customers an easy way to donate clothing and refresh their wardrobe, while giving back. Customers can bring in clothing that no longer fits them to any of the 250+ DXL Big + Tall or Casual Male XL locations and receive 20% off their in-store purchase of new, better-fitting styles. All donated items will be distributed locally, supporting those in need within the community.

“At DXL, we believe every man deserves clothing that fits perfectly, so he can look good and feel good.” said Harvey Kanter, President and Chief Executive Officer of DXL. “That said, we are dedicated to continuing to find ways to provide value at a time when customers are really looking for it.”

The next exciting announcement is the introduction of the DXL Heroes Discount. This exclusive 15% discount is available to active military personnel, veterans, first responders, healthcare workers, and teachers – both in-store at DXL Big + Tall and Casual Male XL locations, as well as online at DXL.com.

As a token of appreciation for their dedication, this program helps these everyday heroes refresh their wardrobes with great-looking styles that fit comfortably. By teaming up with GOVX, the largest online marketplace dedicated to serving those who serve, DXL will be added to a list of respected retailers offering such discounts.

“These new initiatives are about more than just savings – they’re about empowering our guests to step into the styles they love and to wear what they want,” Kanter went on to say. “Whether it’s through our Fit Exchange by DXL program or exclusive discount honoring heroes, we’re here to ensure every man can find the perfect fit and embrace his unique style.”

Posted in Clothing, Off-Duty, Press Release, Veterans | Comments Off on New Fit Exchange by DXL + Military & First Responders Discount Offers New Savings for All Big + Tall Men

Practicum Prepares Students for Division Assignments in Large Scale Combat Operations

Sunday, April 6th, 2025

THE ARMY UNIVERSITY, FORT LEAVENWORTH, Kansas – Classrooms at the Command and General Staff College, organized to replicate a real division command post, were a flurry of communications and activity March 26-28, 2025, as students participated in a Division Offensive Operation practicum.

Significant time was devoted to conducting a targeting working group, which was a student led replication of division staff directing combat actions and setting conditions for division offensive operations in a large-scale combat operation.

Additionally, students benefited from on-the-spot mentoring from experienced leaders.

Department of the Army Tactics Instructors, Matt McKinley and Brian Leakey, bring decades of technical and education experience.

Two targeting warrant officers, CW4 Calvin Cameron and CW3 Jerry Burks, enhanced student understanding through candid conversation based on their operational experience with targeting.

Students who complete the practicum are prepared for their future roles as division staff officers responsible for providing recommendations to commanders to lead their organizations in combat.

“In our first field grade roles as junior majors, our job is to integrate operations at echelon within the division,” Cpt. Michael West, CGSOC student stated. “This past year has been an opportunity to learn from the different branches in our small group and understand how to synchronize information, planning, and execution preparation. Over the last three weeks, the opportunity to see this at the division level was good preparation before going into our next job.”

Students had specific roles and were responsible to identify and nominate targets for the division, corps, and joint assets to enable a division offensive operation 24-96 hours out from execution.

Planning and preparing the operation in detail, rehearsals in time and space, and constant communication across cells ensured synchronization of the overall operation across multiple echelons and divergent staff sections.

Maj. Stewart Tice filled the role of a division chief of staff and shared that the TWG allows participants to understand the various roles and functions in warfighting and how those processes integrate across time.

“We learned to conduct current operations while leaning forward to determine what we are doing next, or how we respond if something happens,” Tice said. “It’s thinking beyond where we were in our careers, focused on here and now; and thinking what we need to do today, to enable the brigade’s success tomorrow.”

To culminate the event, students presented an after-action review to leadership.

“Everything we do training wise is meant to replicate real-world experiences we will face when we go back to the force,” Maj. James Corbitt said. “This is a good, immersive exercise to see the way rotations are run, practice processes, and take feedback with the AAR, as it’s the major last part of the military operations process.”

Reviewing and assessing outcomes of actions and decisions as division staff during a large-scale combat operation captures lessons learned and reinforces the learning objectives.

“Before attending CGSS, I completed a broadening assignment with the Mission Command Training Program. I realized our discussions before execution were very similar to what takes place at MCTP, so this is a sign of success,” West stated.

By Jessica Brushwood, The Army University Public Affairs Office

Posted in Army, Guest Post, Profession of Arms | Comments Off on Practicum Prepares Students for Division Assignments in Large Scale Combat Operations

Laura Burgess Marketing (LBM) Announces Ashley Burgess Gall as President

Saturday, April 5th, 2025

Ashley Burgess Gall will take over the leadership role at the 22-year-old PR and marketing firm, while founder Laura Burgess will take on an advisory role.

Ashley Burgess Gall, President, LBM

Laura Burgess, Founder, LBM

Saint Augustine, Fla. (April 202) – Laura Burgess Marketing (LBM), public relations and marketing communications for the law enforcement, public safety, military, outdoor, shooting sports, hunting, boating, fishing, and forensic communities, is proud to announce the well-deserved promotion of Ashley Burgess Gall to President. Laura Burgess, founder of the company in 2003, will be taking the role of advisor, providing Gall with assistance during this transition phase.

Throughout her sixteen-year career with LBM, Gall has played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s strategic direction. She originally joined LBM to introduce social media as a key marketing tool for the industry but quickly expanded her expertise to encompass public relations, media strategy, brand positioning, and content development. Over the years, she has led comprehensive marketing campaigns, managed client communications, written for industry publications, and presented on PR and marketing strategies at industry-leading events such as the NAUMD Convention and SHOT Show. Her leadership, strategic vision, and deep understanding of the industry have been instrumental in LBM’s continued success.

“Ashley came aboard LBM just as the tide was incoming on social media. With her business school degree and several years working within the digital industry, she was an instant positive addition to the LBM team,” Burgess stated. “She has continued to demonstrate she is ready for this leadership role by assuming direct managerial relationships with all our clients, guiding their public relations and marketing projects. I cannot tell you how proud I am to have her take the reins of our family business and make it her own.”

“As I step into this new role, I am honored to carry forward the legacy that Laura has built,” said Gall. “LBM has always been about more than just marketing—it’s about building lasting relationships, amplifying our clients’ voices, and staying ahead of the curve in an ever-evolving industry. I look forward to continuing our tradition of excellence while bringing fresh ideas and strategies to the table.”

Over the next several months, the www.lauraburgess.com website will undergo updating to reflect the transition. Burgess will continue to work with Gall as she steps into her new role.

Posted in Industry, Press Release | 2 Comments »