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MATBOCK Raider Line

Tuesday, September 5th, 2023

The Raider Line, a cutting-edge waterproof low-profile pouch system meticulously designed to seamlessly integrate with your plate carrier. Say goodbye to waterlogged gear and sandy inconveniences – our Raider pouches form an impenetrable barrier, ensuring your essentials remain pristine in even the harshest conditions.

Innovation takes center stage as the Raider Line allows for swift and efficient access. With a single, fluid motion, operators can unzip the pouches, granting them unfettered access to their gear. What once took an eternity can now be accomplished in a fraction of the time – a true revolution in tactical efficiency.

The numbers speak for themselves: a staggering 60% reduction in time when comparing the Raider Line to legacy waterproof solutions. This isn’t just an upgrade; it’s a leap into the future of tactical gear management. Embrace the advantage that MATBOCK brings to the table and elevate your mission-readiness.

Reach out to sales@matbock.com for more information.

www.matbock.com/collections/maritime/raider

Posted in Advertiser, Guest Post, Load Carrying | Comments Off on MATBOCK Raider Line

DAF Unveils Art Commemorating 75 Years of Air and Space Power

Tuesday, September 5th, 2023

ARLINGTON, Va. (AFNS) —

Department of the Air Force senior leaders presided over a ceremony unveiling commemorative wall art titled, “A Shared Foundation; Celebrating 75 Years of Air and Space Power,” at the Pentagon Aug. 29.

DAF celebrated the 75th Anniversary of Air and Space heritage in September 2022 and commissioned the art to help tell the stories of the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Space Force, which required nearly 18 months to complete due to the artist’s extensive research into each of its numerous elements.

The artist, Warren F. Neary, focused the content of the piece on the contributions of Airmen and Guardians throughout the eras. Beginning with the earliest airpower innovators in the Army Air Corps, the art highlights significant milestones and achievements.

“[Neary] met with DAF leadership and visited bases around the country to capture the range of the missions and the people that compose our Air and Space Forces,” Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall remarked. “The people you see in the painting are depictions of real Airmen, real Guardians; both are part of our heritage and those who are currently serving … [This artwork shows] people who helped build our organization, the aircraft and equipment that shaped our experiences and the missions that drove it all.”

In addition to depicting Airmen and Guardians, the artwork features various Air Force and Space Force platforms and systems. In total, 114 unique visual elements are incorporated into the piece.

Each group of elements in the artwork is designed to form the shape of the delta or infinity symbols. The delta symbol carries a deep, historic meaning for both the Air Force and Space Force and signifies upward trajectory and rapid advancement. The infinity symbol represents the ever-present requirements for adaptation, improvement, innovation and vigilance.

“Our heritage is incredibly important — it tells our story. It reminds us of who we are and where we have come from, and why it all matters. The images that surround this piece are powerful. They shape our culture, our sense of purpose and our warfighter mindset.”

-Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall

Neary has created many works of art throughout his career depicting subjects of air and space power. He has received national-level recognition, and his artwork has been exhibited in the National Museum of the Air Force, the Museum of Aviation, the U.S. Air Force Art Collection and the U.S. Army Center for Military History, in addition to private collections.

Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs

U.S. Air Force photos by Eric Dietrich

Posted in Air Force, Aviation, Guest Post, History, Space | 1 Comment »

Annual Conference Refines Military and Civilian Aviation Safety

Monday, September 4th, 2023

DESTIN, Fla. —

The 492d Special Operations Wing safety office organized the annual Mid-Air Collision Avoidance conference at Destin Executive Airport in Destin, Florida, August 10, 2023.

This year’s MACA conference brought together the 96th Test Wing from Eglin Air Force Base, the 919th Special Operations Wing from Duke Field, the 1st Special Operations Wing and 492nd SOW from Hurlburt Field. Planners refined the event to extend outreach to several civilian airports within the Eglin AFB range of operations, covering the world’s largest U.S. military airspace range. Civilian pilots that fly out of multiple airfields within the range received an integrated brief from the MACA safety team, Federal Aviation Administration officials, and local air traffic controllers.

“A lot of the (civilian) pilots around here have been flying for several years and know the military airspace,” said Ray Mansfield, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) safety education and training team volunteer. “They don’t always know the changes that occur every year, but this meeting tells us what aircraft are there and what’s going on.”

This annual event aims to bolster the knowledge of general aviation aircrew about operating in and around the military airspace from fields like the Destin Executive Airport and the surrounding area. Every branch of the U.S. military conducts aircraft training in this local area at times. Attendees benefit by gaining an understanding of military aircraft types they may encounter, insights from Air Traffic Control officials and lessons learned from the previous year. Civilian pilots attending the event learn more about the functions and procedures of this unique airspace over the bases in the Florida Panhandle.

“What makes it unique here is the total mixture of airfields,” said Eric Zimmerman, chief of airspace management mission planning at Eglin AFB. “You have everything from Hurlburt’s combat type aircraft to Eglin’s fighters, the fast movers, and then we’re mixing that with civilian air traffic like here at the Destin airport.”

The joint participation raises safety awareness and fosters stronger bonds with the wider area aviation community. Education and awareness learned in the conference also results in stronger cooperation between bases using the shared airspace and operating environment. While existing safety agreements are in place across the wings at Duke, Eglin, and Hurlburt, this collective effort significantly strengthens wing and Air Force safety relationships.

“Public outreach and conversation with the general aviation community about past experiences promotes a mutual exchange for military and civilian aviators, enhancing airspace safety for all,” said Major Brent Dillard, 492nd SOW flight safety officer. “We’re pleased with this year’s achievements and look forward to growth in next year’s event.”

This annual alliance with civilian partners achieves safer skies and fosters a commitment to shared airspace safety. The collaboration solidifies and strengthens the backbone of military air power and general aviation, in dedication to safe flying experiences for all.

By TSgt Jonathan McCallum, 492d Special Operations Wing

Posted in Air Force, Aviation, Guest Post | Comments Off on Annual Conference Refines Military and Civilian Aviation Safety

DAF Selects JetZero to Develop Blended Wing Body Aircraft Prototype

Sunday, September 3rd, 2023

ARLINGTON, Va. (AFNS) —

The Department of the Air Force selected JetZero for the next phase of a blended wing body prototype aircraft project Aug. 16.

The effort aims to mature BWB technology and demonstrate its capabilities, giving the department and commercial industry more options for future air platforms.

With a design that differs from a traditional tube-and-wing aircraft, the BWB blends the aircraft body into its high-aspect-ratio wing, decreasing aerodynamic drag by at least 30% and providing additional lift. This increased efficiency will enable extended range, more loiter time, and increased payload delivery efficiencies, capabilities that are vital to mitigating logistics risks.

“Blended wing body aircraft have the potential to significantly reduce fuel demand and increase global reach,” said Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall. “Moving forces and cargo quickly, efficiently, and over long distance is a critical capability to enable national security strategy.”

Several military transport configurations are possible with the BWB. Together, these aircraft types account for approximately 60% of the Air Force’s total annual jet fuel consumption.

As outlined in the fiscal year 2023 National Defense Authorization Act, the Department of Defense plans to invest $235 million over the next four years to fast-track the development of this transformational dual-use technology, with additional private investment expected. The effort is the result of collaboration between the Department of the Air Force, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and the Defense Innovation Unit, with assistance from the DoD’s Office of Strategic Capital.

“It’s been a little over a hundred years since a few brave Airmen took to the skies and proved the first aerial refueling capability, extending the global reach of our Air Force. This announcement marks another game-changing milestone for the Air Force in our efforts to maintain the advantage of airpower effectiveness against any future competitors,” said Dr. Ravi Chaudhary, assistant secretary of the Air Force for Energy, Installations, and Environment. A former C-17 Globemaster III pilot and engineer, Chaudhary is leading efforts to ensure efficiencies in operational energy to build greater agility for theater commanders.

While the BWB concept has been around for decades, more recent technology advancements in structural design, materials technology, manufacturing, and other areas have made large-scale production achievable.

The commercial industry, including passenger airlines and air freight companies, stand to benefit from development of this technology as well, increasing available cabin or cargo space while decreasing operational fuel costs.

The Air Force Operational Energy Office expects completion of initial flight testing as early as 2027.

Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs

Posted in Air Force, Aviation, Contracts, Guest Post | Comments Off on DAF Selects JetZero to Develop Blended Wing Body Aircraft Prototype

100 Year Old WWII Veteran Awarded Green Beret and SF Tab

Saturday, September 2nd, 2023

Celebrate the newest member of the Special Forces Regiment!

At the incredible age of 100, Ellsworth “Al” Johnson was awarded the Special Forces Tab and coveted Green Beret tomorrow. He just might be the last living member of the Office of Strategic Services Operational Group (OSSOG) and likely the last WWII veteran to get his SF tab!

On August 14th, 1944, Mr. Johnson bravely jumped into France as a member of OG PATRICK. His remarkable efforts helped prevent the destruction of the Eguzon Dam, one of the largest hydroelectric dams in Europe. On July 27th, 1945, Mr. Johnson jumped with the 2nd Chinese Commando into an occupied China as part of the BLUEBERRY mission, leaving an incredible mark in history. Mr. Johnson was also sent to China and trained Chinese Commandos, helping establish their first airborne capability.

In case you didn’t know, Operational Groups (OG)are the original model for the Operational Detachment Alpha (ODA). The multi-faceted mission of the Operational Groups was to organize, train, and equip local resistance organizations, and to conduct ‘hit and run’ missions against enemy-controlled roads, railways, and strong points, or to prevent their destruction by retreating enemy forces during WWII. Most members of OG were Airborne and language qualified.

To honor Ellsworth’s incredible contributions and heroism, the USASOC Deputy Commanding General Maj. Gen Patrick Roberson and the 1st Special Forces Command – Airborne Brig. Gen. Lawrence Gil Ferguson presented Mr. Johnson with a SF Tab on 1 September, 2023, officially recognizing him as a Green Beret.

Posted in Guest Post, History, SOF | 6 Comments »

SETAF-AF Welcomes New Civil Affairs Battalion

Saturday, September 2nd, 2023

VICENZA, Italy – The U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) Civil Affairs Battalion conducted a change of responsibility during a ceremony Aug. 25, 2023, at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy.

During the ceremony, the 489th Civil Affairs Battalion, from Knoxville, TN, assumed responsibility as the SETAF-AF CA Battalion from the outgoing 450th Civil Affairs Battalion.

“Our Civil Affairs Battalion provides us a critical capability,” said Maj. Gen. Todd Wasmund, SETAF-AF commanding general. “They help us understand the concerns and perspectives of the civilian populations in the countries in which we partner and help to meet their needs. They help our African partners build their own capacity to increase civil-military engagement and build trust between the military and those they protect.”

SETAF-AF coordinates all U.S. Army activities in Africa in support of U.S. Africa Command and U.S. Army Europe and Africa.

The U.S. Army Reserve, Maryland-based battalion worked hand-in-hand with several African partners including Côte d’Ivoire, The Gambia, Malawi, Liberia, Morocco, Djibouti, Kenya, Ghana, and Tunisia during their nine-month deployment to the U.S. Africa Command Area of Responsibility. Across the continent, the battalion played a vital role in fostering partnerships between the U.S. Army, host nation forces and their respective public.

Army Civil Affairs Soldiers work closely in partnership with other government agencies or the militaries of allied nations.

“I would like to thank all of our African Partners and the Soldiers of SETAF-AF for laying a solid foundation of operations for us,” said 540th Civil Affairs Battalion Commander Lt. Col. Kevin. Martin. “The past nine months has been an incredible experience, and we wouldn’t endeavor to continue forward with the mission, jointly with all partners for success.”

The incoming civil affairs battalion assumes responsibility for all Army civil affairs duties within the African continent supporting the SETAF-AF mission.

“I would like to thank the outgoing Civil Affairs Battalion for laying a solid foundation of operations for us and we will endeavor to continue forward with the mission, jointly with all partners for success,” said Lt. Col. James Favuzzi, the commander of 489th Civil Affairs Battalion.

Over the next nine months, the battalion will provide approximately 90 Soldiers, 10 civil affairs teams, and one medical functional specialist team to conduct engagements across Africa in support of SETAF-AF.

“We receive tremendous support to our mission from the U.S. Army Reserve, evidenced by the work and accomplishments of the 540th,” said Wasmund. “We’re confident that the new team from the 489th will build upon that important work in the months ahead.”

By Billy Lacroix

Posted in Army, Forces Focus, Guest Post, SOF | Comments Off on SETAF-AF Welcomes New Civil Affairs Battalion

TacJobs – 525 EMIB Seeks WOs, CPTs, MAJs

Friday, September 1st, 2023

If you want to serve at Fort’s Liberty, Stewart and Campbell in the 525th E-MIB, please review the flyer below for positions in the 24-02 AIM Marketplace!!

We are looking for Warrant Officers, Captains, and Majors that want to serve in the XVIII Airborne Corps and in the Army’s premiere Expeditionary Military Intelligence Brigade.

If interested, please contact our POCs below:

Deputy Commander: MAJ Chris Mitrevski (christopher.g.mitrevski.mil@army.mil)

Brigade S-1: MAJ Juliette Gula (juliette.e.gula.mil@army.mil),

Command Chief Warrant Officer: CW4 Chuck Damboise (chuck.s.damboise.mil@army.mil)

Posted in Army, Guest Post, TacJobs | Comments Off on TacJobs – 525 EMIB Seeks WOs, CPTs, MAJs

FS Friday Focus – OD Green Silkies

Friday, September 1st, 2023

You asked, we delivered. FS Silkies are now in OD Green.

Whether you’re at the gym or shopping for groceries, FS Silkies have you covered. Paired with a deployment beard and a sweet pair of shades, these are sure to turn heads. Our friends at 1st Phorm agree.

Embrace the short shorts life and get ’em before they’re gone. No Returns — Sorry friends, if it touches junk, we can’t resell it.

Visit FirstSpear to find American Made kit and accessories, Built For The X.

Posted in Clothing, FS Friday Focus, Guest Post | 3 Comments »