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NEXTORCH TA30D MAX: Power & Thermal Control for Tactical Operations

Monday, October 6th, 2025

Seattle, WA – (September 30th, 2025) – NEXTORCH North America, the primary U.S. distributor of global manufacturer NEXTORCH Industries, proudly introduces the TA30D MAXTactical Flashlight. Delivering a powerful 4000 lumens of output that can blast a beam 450 meters (492 yards), the TA30D Max combines its compact size with maximum tactical performance. Since its debut, it has become a trusted companion for law enforcement, military personnel, emergency responders, and tactical professionals around the world.

Power Meets Performance

The TA30D MAX is built for professionals who require both tactical responsiveness and long-range illumination. The TA30D MAX is not only a tactical tool, it’s also a compact searchlight capable of handling wide-area scanning, perimeter defense, and long-range threat detection.

Designed for instinctive use under pressure, the TA30D MAXfeatures NEXTORCH’s patented one-step strobe technology. A quick press of the tail switch instantly activates the disorienting strobe function, while a half-press engages high output for threat identification or search operations. A magnetic rotary mode selector ensures smooth switching between brightness levels even while wearing gloves or in high-stress scenarios.

Most high-output flashlights suffer from heat buildup leading to throttling (reduced brightness), discomfort, or even the risk of burn. The TA30D Max patented Ultra Thermal Buffer (U.T.B.)system changes that dynamic. It delays or prevents thermal throttling while maintaining full performance, not just short bursts. This third-generation temperature control system, uses phase-change materials plus an intelligent chip to maintain peak brightness while keeping the grip under 50°C (120°F).

Rugged, Field-Tested Construction

Built from 6061-T6 aerospace-grade aluminum and fitted with a titanium alloy bezel embedded with nano-ceramic glass breakers, the TA30D MAX is engineered to endure extreme conditions. It is IPX8 waterproof, impact-tested to 2 meters (6.5 ft), and designed for high-stakes use in the field.

Key Features:

• 4000 lumens max output

• 450-meter (492 yards) beam distance

• 50,625 candela

• Ultra Thermal Buffer System

• USB-C rechargeable 21700 battery (included)

• IPX8 waterproof & impact resistance to 3 meters (6.5 ft)

MSRP: $137.99

Available for Evaluation

Law enforcement, military, and security agencies in the U.S. are invited to participate in the NEXTORCH 30-Day-Free Test & Evaluation Program. To learn more about the T&E program “click here”.

Posted in Lights, Press Release | Comments Off on NEXTORCH TA30D MAX: Power & Thermal Control for Tactical Operations

Shield of Odin Responds to VA Backlog: Offering Veterans an Alternative Pathway to Overcome Delayed Disability Claims

Sunday, October 5th, 2025

ORLANDO, Fla., Oct. 2, 2025 — The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) currently reports a disability claims backlog of more than 190,000 unresolved cases across the country. While this marks progress compared to historic highs, veterans are still facing average wait times of 12 to 18 months — and in many cases, delays stretching two years or morebefore receiving a decision.

In recent years, the backlog has swelled dramatically, topping 300,000 cases and even approaching 400,000 at its peak, driven in part by the implementation of the PACT Act and a surge of new claims related to toxic exposure. For veterans with urgent health needs, these numbers translate into months — and often years — of uncertainty, lost income, and untreated conditions.

Shield of Odin, a veteran-focused healthcare and medical-legal services provider, is working to close that gap by offering veterans an alternative pathway to strengthen their claims and avoid repeated cycles of denials and appeals. Through its nationwide network of licensed physicians, nurse practitioners, psychologists, and vocational experts, the organization provides independent medical evaluations, Nexus Letters, Disability Benefits Questionnaires (DBQs), vocational assessments, and peer-reviewed evidence tailored to VA rating criteria.

The goal: ensure veterans can submit fully developed claims that stand on solid medical-legal evidence, reducing the risk of denial and expediting access to benefits.

“The VA’s official backlog today is just under 200,000 claims — but anyone watching this system knows how quickly those numbers can rise, and how devastating the wait can be,” said Ryan Hawley, CEO of Shield of Odin. “For a veteran with lung disease from burn pit exposure or PTSD from combat service, being forced to wait 18 months or longer is not simply a delay; it’s a barrier to care, stability, and dignity. Our mission at Shield of Odin is to ensure those veterans are not left behind.”

Shield of Odin emphasizes that the backlog is not merely a matter of statistics but of lived human impact. Veterans awaiting benefits often face mounting medical costs, difficulty maintaining employment, and mental health struggles as they navigate a system strained by volume and complexity.

“The averages don’t tell the full story — behind every number is a veteran and a family in crisis,”said Dean Johnston, COO of Shield of Odin and a board member of Heros of the Sea. “We see veterans waiting 24 months or more for a claim to move forward. Some pass away before ever receiving a decision. That’s why we’ve built a system to provide timely, accurate evidence that can cut through the bureaucracy and accelerate the process.”

VA Backlog by the Numbers (2025)

Current backlog (May 2025): 190,000+ unresolved claims (VA official reporting)

Peak backlog in recent years: Over 300,000 cases, with spikes near 400,000

Average wait time: 12–18 months for resolution

Extended delays: 24+ months common in complex or toxic exposure cases

First-time claim denials: Nearly 70% linked to insufficient or incomplete medical evidence

Rural veterans: Face 30–40% longer waits due to limited examiner availability

(Sources: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, VA News, Military Times, Federal News Network, advocacy group analyses)

Shield of Odin’s Role in Solutions

Shield of Odin has developed a nationwide telehealth platform that connects veterans with qualified practitioners across all 50 states, ensuring even those in rural or underserved areas can access timely support. Services include:

Telehealth Nexus Letters and DBQs to establish medical connections between service and condition

Independent Medical Exams (IMEs) for complex or contested cases

Vocational impact assessments linking disabilities to occupational limitations

Peer-reviewed, evidence-based opinions aligned with VA rating criteria and legal precedent

By providing medical-legal documentation that is both rigorous and veteran-centric, Shield of Odin helps veterans avoid common pitfalls that result in denials, repeat appeals, and further time lost in the system.

Posted in Medical, Press Release, Veterans | Comments Off on Shield of Odin Responds to VA Backlog: Offering Veterans an Alternative Pathway to Overcome Delayed Disability Claims

Clear Path for Veterans Receives Generous Donation from Martin’s Point Health Care

Sunday, October 5th, 2025

SYRACUSE, N.Y., Oct. 2, 2025 — Clear Path for Veterans has received a generous donation from Martin’s Point, a not-for-profit health care organization that provides the greater Syracuse region with US Family Health Plan [TRICARE Prime] insurance plans for eligible military retirees, their families, and certain active-duty family members.

The contribution supports the ongoing mission of Clear Path for Veterans to walk alongside and empower service members, veterans, and their families as they navigate their personal journeys, strengthen relationships, and discover a clear, hopeful path to a more fulfilling future.

The gift from Martin’s Point will enable Clear Path for Veterans to reach even more veterans in the greater Syracuse, NY, region, helping to create connections for veterans within their communities, re-adjust to their life after service, and leverage their military experience to develop new skills and discover a new sense of purpose.

“We are incredibly grateful to Martin’s Point Health Care for their generous support of Clear Path’s mission. This donation directly fuels our ability to provide comprehensive programs and services that empower veterans and their families to thrive,” said Alex Behm, Chief Community Officer at Clear Path for Veterans. “Partnerships like this not only sustain our work — they strengthen the community bonds that are vital to the well-being of those who have served.”

As a Department of Defense-sponsored health plan provider for over 40 years, Martin’s Point has a long-held and deep commitment to those who serve and have served our country, and to organizations throughout our regions working to support, connect, and care for the veteran community.

“Contributing to the work of Clear Path for Veterans represents our profound commitment to improving the emotional well-being and long-term success of veterans in our communities,” said Steve Amendo, chief marketing and communications officers at Martin’s Point. “We are incredibly honored to support the work of Clear Path, and all they do to provide important resources and connectivity for those who have served our country.”

For more information about Clear Path for Veterans and the services they provide, please visit www.clearpath4vets.com. To learn more about Martin’s Point Health Care and their USFHP plans visit martinspoint.org/US-Family-Health-Plan.

Posted in Charity, Press Release, Veterans | Comments Off on Clear Path for Veterans Receives Generous Donation from Martin’s Point Health Care

SDS Arms Expands Spandau Arms S2 Line with 20-Gauge

Saturday, October 4th, 2025

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – October 3, 2025 – SDS Arms is proud to announce the expansion of its Spandau Arms S2 line with the addition of the 20-gauge caliber. Following the success of the S2 12-gauge, this latest offering is now available in response to the demand for more variety. The Spandau Arms S2 20-gauge delivers the performance seen in the 12-gauge, with the added benefit of reduced recoil that hunters have been seeking in the field.

Working with the input from partners at leading hunting and conservation organizations, including the National Wild Turkey Federation, Pheasants Forever, Quail Forever, Ducks Unlimited and Delta Waterfowl, SDS Arms saw an essential need for the 20-gauge among hunters. Through the development of this expansion, the team carefully paired heritage-driven craftsmanship with a strong value proposition. These efforts resulted in the S2 20-gauge shotgun, allowing hunters to focus on valuable hunting traditions.

“The introduction of the Spandau Arms S2 20-gauge reflects our dedication to listening to hunters and delivering the products they want,” said SDS Arms’ Digital Marketing Manager Jahred Gamez. “Sub-gauge shotguns like the 20-gauge continue to be in strong demand, especially among conservation and hunting groups. They provide reduced recoil with modern performance, while staying true to the heritage of the sport. With the S2 20-gauge, we’re proud to give hunters more options, more value and more reasons to spend time in the field.”

Featuring a dependable Inertia operating system, the Spandau Arms S2 20-gauge delivers lightweight power and high-performance. It comes equipped with a customizable Benelli/Mobil choke tube system and a fiber optic front sight for enhanced accuracy. Engineered for ease, precision and versatility, the S2 also includes oversized controls, a widened loading gate and compatibility with Benelli® M2 accessories. The Spandau Arms S2 20-gauge is now available in Mossy Oak Bottomland with 24” or 28” barrel lengths, and Traditional Matte Black finish with Turkish Walnut furniture with a 28” barrel length.

Product No. / Description / MSRP

21000194/ Spandau S2 20/24 Mossy Oak Bottomland / MSRP $647.89

21000195 / Spandau S2 20/28 Mossy Oak Bottomland / MSRP $647.89

21000172 / Spandau S2 20/28 Traditional Matte Black / MSRP $551.75

To learn more and see all the firearm brands and products available from SDS Arms, please visit the SDS Arms website or find SDS Arms on Instagram or Facebook.

Posted in Firearms, Press Release | Comments Off on SDS Arms Expands Spandau Arms S2 Line with 20-Gauge

Darley and National Fallen Firefighters Association Announce Winners of the 2025 Fire Service Thought Leadership Essay Competition

Saturday, October 4th, 2025

Itasca, IL, October 3, 2025 – Darley, in partnership with the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF), is proud to announce the winners of the 2025 Fire Service Thought Leadership Essay Contest – Understanding the “Why” Behind Mental Health Challenges in the Fire Service. Now in its fourth year, this year’s initiative challenged firefighters nationwide to explore the critical yet often overlooked mental health issues within their ranks.

The purpose of this competition was to explore and uncover the underlying factors that shape mental health challenges in the fire service, beyond the obvious demands of a high-risk, life-saving profession. “Understanding the ‘why’ behind these challenges is crucial if we want to create meaningful, lasting solutions,” said Paul Darley, President & CEO of Darley. “This competition gives firefighters and thought leaders a unique platform to share insights that can drive real change. With 85 entries submitted, it’s clear the fire service is ready to engage in this critical conversation and lead the way forward.”

We are incredibly thankful to everyone who participated. The essays were graded using the following criteria, ranked and weighted in importance:

Specific Solutions Offered –?Do you present specific recommendations for change? How innovative, impactful, and viable are the proposed solutions?

Potential Impact on the Fire Service –?Can this impact the fire service in the short and long term? Can this concept move the fire service forward in a positive manner?

Quality of Writing –?How is the essay structure, vocabulary, readability, and overall authorship?

Intangibles –?Is this exciting? Does it challenge preexisting assumptions? Does it invoke a thought-provoking discussion? Is the core message courageous?

Congratulations to the Following Winners of this Year’s Contest:

First Place: Marc Wysocki, Sheffield Volunteer FD, Captain (MA)

Second Place: Marc Revere, Mountain View & Monterey Park FD, Fire Chief (Ret., CA)

Third Place: John Murphy, Eastside Fire and Rescue, Deputy Fire Chief (Ret.) Fire Commissioner (WA)

First Runner Up: Stephen Lindsey, Palo Alto Fire Department, Deputy Fire Chief (CA)

Second Runner Up: Shawn McKerry, Lakeland College Emergency Training Center, Dean (AB, CAN)

“Our strength as a fire service has always been in how we show up for each other,” said Victor Stagnaro, Chief Executive Officer of the NFFF. “This competition is about more than awareness — it’s about creating solutions together. By sharing ideas and experiences, we can move upstream, address the root causes of mental health challenges, and build a culture where well-being is part of who we are in the fire service.”

For more information, visit

www.firehero.org.

Learn more on our websites:

www.darley.com and

shop.darley.com.

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AV Selected for $499M AFRL Contract to Advance Electromagnetic Spectrum Survivable Materials, Awarded $246M in Task Orders

Friday, October 3rd, 2025

ARLINGTON, Va., October 1, 2025 – AeroVironment, Inc. (“AV”) (NASDAQ: AVAV), a leading provider of advanced research and development innovation for national security missions and warfighter protection, has been selected for a 10-year single-award, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) contract valued at $499 million by the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) for the High-Performance Electromagnetic Spectrum Survivable Materials Advancement (HELMSSMAN) program. Work completed under the program will mature material technology development and deploy protective solutions to the frontlines, guarding warfighters against exposure to harmful electromagnetic radiation.

“As technologies advance and battlespace tactics evolve, AV is helping warfighters stay ahead of emerging threats,” said Wahid Nawabi, AV Chief Executive Officer. “Whether through our autonomous systems, our layered counter-drone technologies, our advancements in satellite communication and space domain awareness, or–like HELMSSMAN–our advanced research and development, we are taking on the most critical challenges and rapidly transitioning innovation from the lab to the frontlines.”

AV has been awarded two initial task orders for this contract valued at $246 million:

Under the “Advanced Development of Vision Protection Materials” task order, valued at $98M, AV will develop a suite of viable electromagnetic spectrum (EMS) protection capabilities that do not increase operational risk or degrade mission performance. The team will research the interaction of EMS elements with materials, systems, and personnel to develop future-proofed vision protection systems for our warfighters.

Under the “Advanced Development of Materials for EMS Resilience” task order, valued at $148M, AV will conduct research on the impacts of EMS sources on U.S materials, components, and systems and provide mitigation options to the warfighter to ensure effective kill chain execution in complex environments. The team will develop test infrastructure and modeling methods to accelerate the fielding of measures validated in realistic environments for warfighter protection.

With these task orders, AV will research, develop, test, evaluate, prototype, demonstrate, and transition technologies to advance the development of vision protection materials and materials for electromagnetic spectrum (EMS) resilience. Work is planned to begin this month.

Leveraging its multi-domain, multi-mission expertise and past performance delivering innovative R&D material solutions to AFRL, AV will advance electronic protection materials through directed energy solutions, test range experience, modeling, and simulation (M&S) capabilities, and space technology transitions. The company has previously supported AFRL through the development of laser-hardened materials and techniques and electronic, photonic, electro-optical, and quantum materials for Intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) and electronic warfare (EW) missions.

“We have demonstrated unique strengths in managing and executing strategic research programs,” said Dr. John Hogan, Vice President of Advanced Research and Development at AV. “This contract complements and continues our research and development work in material development with AFRL. We are honored to be a trusted partner in this effort.”

The Advanced R&D team at AV, located in Dayton, OH, is dedicated to developing hardened, smart materials that dynamically adapt properties to protect warfighters, their sensors, and their assets, like ground vehicles, aircraft, and structures. With expertise in thermal, optical, and electronic systems, the team identifies challenges and vulnerabilities across various domains and develops material solutions to counteract threats.

Posted in Air Force, Contracts, EW, Materials, Press Release | Comments Off on AV Selected for $499M AFRL Contract to Advance Electromagnetic Spectrum Survivable Materials, Awarded $246M in Task Orders

Draganfly Enlisted by US Army to Deliver Drones on Heels of Developing Drones for Border Security

Friday, October 3rd, 2025

Tampa, FL. October 2, 2025 – Draganfly Inc. (NASDAQ: DPRO) (CSE: DPRO) (FSE: 3U8) (“Draganfly” or the “Company”), an industry-leading developer of drone solutions and systems, today announced its selection by the U.S. Army to provide Flex FPV drone systems.

Under the initial order, Draganfly will deliver Flex FPV drones designed for high-performance operations as well as help establish on-site manufacturing of the Flex FPV (First Person View) within overseas U.S. Forces facilities to accelerate deployment and reduce supply-chain timelines.

The Company will also provide both flight and manufacturing training to enable Army personnel to sustain operations, and will manage logistics to ensure a secure, NDAA-compliant supply chain practice. This marks a significant milestone in evolving critical drone capabilities closer to the theater of operations, reducing logistical vulnerabilities and enhancing force readiness.

Recent exercises have underscored the importance of FPV technology for U.S. forces. During the Swift Response 2025 exercise in Lithuania, paratroopers operated and detonated in-house-built FPV drones against dismounted and vehicle-sized autonomous targets. The unit has also established its own drone lab for design, training, and rapid innovation. In August 2025, the U.S. Army executed the first-ever air-to-air kill with an armed FPV drone, advancing the evolution of drone warfare. Draganfly’s Embedded Manufacturing Program and the Flex FPV Drone systems are in direct support of this strategic shift to decentralized and agile innovation.

“We are honored to support the U.S. Army as it moves critical drone capabilities closer to front lines,” said Cameron Chell, President & CEO of Draganfly. “By combining advanced Flex FPV Drone systems, embedded manufacturing, training and secure logistics, we are helping reinforce operational agility and sustainment for forward deployed forces. This helps ensure personnel have the tools, training and capabilities required when and where they need them most.”

For more information, visit www.draganfly.com

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Mission First Tactical Guardian Duty Holster for Law Enforcement & Military

Friday, October 3rd, 2025

Horsham, PA – (October 1st, 2025) – Mission First Tactical (MFT), proudly introduces the Guardian Duty Holster, a revolutionary holster engineered specifically for law enforcement and military professionals, made in the USA and patent-pending.

Too many duty holsters sacrifice either speed or security, putting lives at risk. The MFT Guardian Duty Holster eliminates the need for that compromise, without impeding a master grip. This revolutionary design reduces the risks of gun grabs, foreign object and finger ingress, and optic bobble when drawing. The instinctive locking system and automatic optic hood reset offer consistent reholstering, giving officers the confidence they need while on duty. Backed by over 25 years of tactical experience and real-world feedback, it’s built for professionals who demand rapid access and reliable retention for every shift and every draw.

The Guardian Duty Holster features include:

Instinctive Locking System (ILS): External locking system that secures a duty pistol when holstered by automatically locking the pistol over the rear of the pistol slide.

MFT Master Grip Principle: Built from real-world hand mapping, delivering a perfect grip on contact: no shifting, no adjusting. Just a secure, natural draw every time, especially critical for optic-mounted firearms. For in use video: “click here”

Optics-Ready Protection: Includes an auto-closing, anti-snag optic cover and suppressor-height co-witness sight channels for streamlined use with modern optics.

Full Containment Locking System: ILS arm locks on the outward side of the holster when duty pistol is pulled in multi directions. For in use video: “click here”

Patented In-Line Magnetic Retention: A powerful nickel-plated NEO magnet provides constant holding force for secure reholstering, creating a rattle-free experience.

Thumb Activated Lock Block Guard: Optional Inline Lock Block

Guard is a thumb activated lock that clears the ILS pivot arm allowing, a clear pathway and ideal thumb location. When pushed down during the draw stroke, the operator’s thumb will be positioned on the ILS thumb pad, allowing for a fast, instinctive draw for both operations.

Debris-Flush Design: Open-bottom construction with internal passage ribs helps flush out brass and debris, keeping your equipment operational in any situation.

Carbon-Reinforced Lightweight Structure: Aerospace-grade carbon fiber rods reinforce the two-piece body, delivering durability without bulk.

MID-RIDE Duty Belt Mount: Features a patent-pending convex comfort system, flared bottom, and minimized hot spots.

MSRP: $214.99

“Full containment is a new level up in the next generation of retention duty holsters”, said Bobby McGee, EVP of Product Management & Innovation and the inventor of the MFT Duty Holster. “We push the limits of retention by utilizing our Instinctive locking system’s full containment technology. It maximizes strength and durability using aerospace carbon fiber rod technology. McGee goes on to say, “We wanted to design and create a system that is safer, faster, and lighter for the frontliners that demand that out of their safety equipment.”

To learn more about Mission First Tactical, and their completeproduct lineup, please visit www.missionfirsttactical.com. Stay connected with the latest updates by following MFT on Facebook and Instagram.

Posted in Advertiser, Holsters, Press Release | Comments Off on Mission First Tactical Guardian Duty Holster for Law Enforcement & Military