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Silencer Central Continues Partnership with Buck Commander

August 13th, 2023

Sioux Falls, South Dakota – August 11, 2023 – Silencer Central, America’s largest silencer dealer, has announced its continued ambassador partnership with Buck Commander. The Buck Commander guys continue to embody passion for being in the woods and showcase the simple process of owning a suppressor.

The Buck Commander men have established a strong connection over the years, fueled by their unwavering devotion to the outdoors and the thrill of taking down big bucks. With a dynamic group including Adam LaRoche, Jason Aldean, Luke Bryan, Ryan Langerhans, Tombo Martin, Tyler Farr and Willie Robertson, expect endless antics, fierce competitiveness and endless entertainment.

“This partnership has played a vital role in representing Silencer Central and connecting with customers and hunting enthusiasts,” said Brandon Maddox, CEO of Silencer Central. “From events like the Buck Commander Sportsmen’s Camp to the Buckmen visiting our headquarters, we’re excited to expand upon this relationship and showcase silence made simple.”

Through the ambassador program, Silencer Central strives to break the stigma surrounding silencers and showcase how hunting safely means hunting with a suppressor. This ambassador renewal signifies the commitment of Buck Commander and Silencer Central’s shared vision of promoting hunting and encouraging a love for the great outdoors.

“We’re extremely excited to continue working with Silencer Central and expand upon all they have built,” said Willie Robertson, CEO of Buck Commander. “If you haven’t had the chance to hunt with a Silencer Central suppressor, you’re missing out. The team has created the smoothest process in the game for owning a silencer.”

With a legacy spanning over 18 years, Silencer Central emerged as a pioneer, offering customers a streamlined process for legally obtaining firearm sound suppressors. Today, this industry-leading company plays a vital role in the firearms industry, tirelessly advocating for silencer owners across the nation.

For more information visit SilencerCentral.com, or call 888-781-8778.

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Cutting-Edge Defence Capabilities, Ammunition and Equipment for Land Operations Set to be Displayed at DSEI 2023

August 13th, 2023

Defence and Security Equipment International (DSEI) returns to ExCeL in London this year from 12-15 September. Attracting leading companies from the UK and abroad, DSEI will feature the latest advances in land-based technology including new capabilities in high-mobility defence vehicles, lightweight-but-durable armour and respiratory equipment to support armed forces in specialised environments.

Since the start of the Ukraine conflict, the UK has given assistance by supplying Ukrainian forces with equipment such as Challenger 2 tanks (Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land), Mastiff patrol vehicles (General Dynamics) and the highly effective, NLAW light anti-tank weapons (Saab). All the organisations that developed this equipment will exhibit at DSEI.

Supporting Ukraine however goes further, and the British Army has been training Ukrainian soldiers in the UK, with approximately 10,000 people being trained every 120 days. At DSEI, the UK Army will focus on how the implementation of technology can enhance not only military capabilities but also how it can be used to efficiently train forces now and in the future.

The Land Zone is supported by the British Army, which will use DSEI to explore the latest innovations in the Land domain. The Zone will host 73 innovative exhibitors, each showcasing standout solutions to the shifting challenges that modern warfare presents.

Notable companies such as Mercedes Benz Trucks UK will attend for the first time in 12 years. The company is set to showcase its high-mobility defence trucks, tailor-made to meet specific operational or environmental parameters, including its Mercedes-Benz Zetros, an off-road truck for extreme operations.

In addition to well-known names, DSEI will host many hundreds of specialist providers of platforms, products and services. For example, Avon Protection develops market-defining technologies, which protect over 3.5 million users every day across the British Armed Forces and military/first responders in more than 60 countries worldwide. Its mission-critical Chemical, Radiological, Biological, and Nuclear (CBRN) protection solutions represent the best of British technology innovation and will be on display alongside its full range of Team Wendy ballistic head protection systems.

Speaking on the event Grant Burgham, DSEI Director, commented:

“We are grateful to the British Army for its steadfast support of the Land Zone at DSEI 2023. It is a key platform to see first-hand the latest developments and innovations from both UK and international exhibitors. In addition to companies within the zone, it’s great to see companies from the land domain across the DSEI floor space with Saab, Rheinmetall and Thales all planning a significant presence.”

Rear Adm (Ret’d) Jon Pentreath, DSEI Senior Military Adviser (Land) said:

“The war in Ukraine has increased the urgency of modernising the UK’s land forces, ensuring that combined arms warfare can be fought effectively. This is not all about mere platforms or numbers of soldiers, but includes strengthened stockpiles, true readiness and a resilience in the supply chain that will allow for a sustained use of force. The Army’s response to these challenges will be on full display at DSEI 2023, not only on the show floor but importantly also in the conceptual space in the keynote addresses and other conference sessions.

“The British Army will focus on the Land Operating Concept and being a net contributor to the multi-domain enterprise at DSEI. This will be viewed through the lens of delivering the capabilities we need now and, in the future, and on continuing to build the broad alliances to protect our vital national and international interests.”

www.dsei.co.uk

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Frogtoberfest – An Evening With SEALKIDS

August 13th, 2023

The SEALKIDS non-profit invites you to join them for Frogtoberfest, Friday, October 6th, at the Citadel Beach Club in coastal South Carolina. Tickets are $200 per individual and $300 per couple.

This organization provides the children of fallen Naval Special Warfare personnel with educational support.

bidpal.net/2023charleston

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Investing In Our Next Generation: Air Commandos Partner with FWBHS Football Program to Build Expert Teams

August 13th, 2023

HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. —

The Fort Walton Beach High School Vikings football team recently took part in a three-day Youth Athletic Camp in collaboration with the U.S. Air Force’s Air Commandos at Hurlburt Field, Florida.

The camp, organized in partnership with Hurlburt Field’s school liaison, Ms. Lacey Allen, and the Okaloosa County School District, was held on July 19, July 26, and August 2, 2023. The primary goal is to invest into the next generation and enhance their teamwork skills while educating them about the Air Force Special Operations Command mission. The football camp also aimed to bridge the gap between the military and the local community by promoting teamwork and collaboration through various activities.

Col. Allison Black, 1st Special Operations Wing commander, stated that the team wanted to create an engaging experience that would have a long-lasting impact on the young athletes. She also emphasized that the skills they were reinforcing would help define their future success.

The first day of the camp focused on Basic Military Training exercises led by our AFSOC Airmen who were former skilled Military Training Instructors, providing the students with a glimpse into the dedication and discipline required in the military. During this time, athletes completed a circuit workout including push-ups, weighted vest runs, tire flips and more.

On the second day, the football team joined the Air Commandos for a formation run, highlighting the importance of unity and teamwork. The athletes then participated in rigorous military-style drills in the sand and surf that tested their endurance and resilience.

During the final day of the camp, the Vikings learned how to build military tents with the 1st Special Operations Squadron’s Mission Sustainment Team. They also engaged in a friendly competition, racing against the clock to set up their tents with precision, further strengthening their teamwork skills and attention to detail.

At the conclusion of the camp, Okaloosa School District superintendent Marcus Chambers and Col. Black presented each participant with 1st SOW patches and offered words of encouragement to the team members.

“These athletes are part of a team. They’re committed! Their energy and enthusiasm is contagious.” said Black. “Our hope is that this program will continue to grow, involving our local high school athletes from all sports. Through this, they can experience the grit, determination, perseverance, and teamwork that it takes to be an Air Commando.”

“The Okaloosa County School District is fortunate to have an amazing partnership with the Military installments in our community and with that comes the opportunity for experiences like this one,” stated Chambers. “These athletes will remember this experience for the rest of their lives. They have gained so many valuable life skills in the sessions spent with the Air Commandos that will be used both on the field and off the field. We appreciate Col. Allison Black, Chief Master Sgt. Joey Meininger, and their troops, for the time and effort they poured into our student athletes this summer as it not only had a direct impact on them but will have a lasting impact on the friends they interact with.”

The Fort Walton Beach High School Vikings football team left the camp with lasting memories and a deeper understanding of the power of teamwork and unity.

Col. Black and Mr. Chambers expressed that this was just the beginning of a deliberate effort to connect the base with the next generation of leaders and problem solvers in the community. The Hurlburt Field Community Engagement Council is actively exploring ways to engage meaningfully with the community.

For now, the bonds formed and lessons learned during the training camp are expected to empower these young athletes to overcome any challenges in the future, inspired by the spirit of the Air Commandos.

By SSgt Miranda Mahoney, 1st Special Operations Wing Public Affairs

Posted in Air Force, Guest Post, SOF | Comments Off on Investing In Our Next Generation: Air Commandos Partner with FWBHS Football Program to Build Expert Teams

Mystery Ranch Presents: How to Clean Your Pack

August 12th, 2023

Now you see it, now you don’t.

As school approaches, vacations end, and hunting season draws near, it’s essential to give your pack some well-deserved attention.

It is no secret that packs are our specialty; therefore, it is only natural that we’ve honed the perfect method for washing them. Our top recommendation is using Nikwax Tent & Gear SolarWash; The only cleaner designed to protect against UV damage and revitalize water repellency for all weatherproof textiles. Not only is it easy to apply by hand, but it’s also non-flammable, PFAS, and aerosol-free, making it a safe choice for your gear. This powerful cleaner not only effectively removes dirt but also increases fabric strength and shields against UV deterioration.

However, please avoid using a washing machine for this task. While we know it’s tempting, machine washing can reduce your pack’s longevity, water resistance, and increase the chances of it needing a visit to our backpack infirmary.

To maintain excellent water repellency and revitalize the performance of your tent and gear, we also recommend using Nikwax Tent & Gear SolarProof.

This dynamic combination will help your pack withstand the elements and extend its active life, ensuring it remains reliable throughout your adventures.

Pictured is the Mystery Ranch CATALYST 18 in STONE.

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Veteran Business Focus – Silver Oak Leaf Inc

August 12th, 2023

I asked fellow veteran John Long about his company Silver Oak Leaf Inc. The name is a no-brained as he’s a retired Lieutenant Colonel but what he’s up to is pretty interesting although John sums to up nicely, saying he’s “Creating Strategic Teaming Relationships.”

He went on to say, “I launched Silver Oak Leaf Inc six years ago to continue to improve Personal Protective Equipment.”

John’s position is that protection begins at the uniform layer out and includes more than ballistic protection – such as flame resistance, specific developments for extreme cold weather (artic) and extreme hot/humid (jungle). ?

He helps industry transfer innovative textile based products such as lighter weight fabrics to innovative cold weather fibers to power and data e-textiles and working to improve flame resistance and increased durability.

This year he expanded to focus on developing and delivering innovation for hands, feet and face extreme cold weather protection.

Using the experience he gained over the last 30+ years as a US Army officer and industry executive, John helps assist in navigating organizational structures to overcome barriers in funding, testing and trial.

John wrapped up our conversation by relating, “So I was the PEO Soldier guy then after retiring joined Propper Intl as Dir Business Development then to INVISTA and the Cordura brand as Innovation Manager. Then launched my own company Jan 2018. I manufacture uniforms for DLA as well as specific development projects and do strategic planning on a project basis.”

silveroakleafinc.com

Posted in Clothing, Industry, Veterans | 1 Comment »

BDG Rehearses ACE, Validates SFS Tactics at Red Flag

August 12th, 2023

MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. — The 820th Base Defense Group (BDG) honed their air base defense expertise necessary for Agile Combat Employment, July 16 to 30, 2023, during exercise Red Flag 23-3 at Nellis AFB, Nev.

During the exercise, 83 air base defense professionals and security forces members combined forces from seven squadrons to independently rehearse forward operating site and contingency-location missions while validating security force-specific implementation.

“The BDG is unique in that we focus on the downrange deployment related execution tasks,” said Col. Joe Sorensen, 820th BDG Commander. “The BDG benefits from being singularly focused on expeditionary and contingency operations, allowing us to develop combat-related capabilities and provide that expertise to elevate the security forces enterprise.”

A BDG headquarters element aligned 66-members from various organizations’ Air Force Specialty Codes into a blue force team which executed three iterations of establishing the temporary basing structure required for Agile Combat Employment.

ACE relies on the agile combat support provided by forward operating sites and contingency locations to provide temporary basing options for refueling and rearmament of aircraft closer to the fight to provide flexibility to combatant commanders in how they employ air assets.

“The first thing that we highlighted was the success of our headquarters element,” said Master Sgt. Bradley Akers, 820th BDG weapons and tactics chief. “We haven’t had a formal battle staff training program in the BDG for quite a while, so this has been the opportunity for us to redesign it, retrain it, and see how it operates.”

This headquarters element received warning orders and air tasking orders anywhere from 30 to 72 hours in advance of a mission and was responsible for generating operations orders, organizing squads, aggregating mission information and directing security and sustainment for up to 36 hours of continuous field operations.

“Had we not had the BDG’s headquarters element, it would not have been nearly as successful as it was,” said Master Sgt. Niles Bartram, 377th Weapons System Security Squadron weapons and tactics chief. “It was a pretty clear indicator that the BDG members bring a significant capability, and we need to find a way to duplicate that in some of our traditional squadrons if we’re going to be able to execute these ACE mission-sets or future theater operations.”

These personnel didn’t have access to aircraft to perform their training, but they didn’t allow this limitation to impede their ability to provide a realistic training and testing opportunity required to validate the tactics they generated. A motivated adversary force led by Air Force Special Operations Command’s Deployed Aircraft Ground Response Element provided a very real threat which tested defensive fortifications and Airmen’s fortitude alike.

These blue force air base defenders entrenched in the desert landscape in temperatures elevating to a peak of 117 degrees Fahrenheit as their adversaries launched physical attacks with blank rounds and attempted to exploit vulnerabilities found through ground reconnaissance.

Through this arduous testing of defensive capabilities, 820th BDG members and their mission partners validated that their new squad sizes and formations function and survive first contact with an adversary.

“We took a lot of tactics that are in development at the BDG, new [unit type code] squad sizes, to include rifle squad, weapons squads, headquarters elements, reconnaissance teams, and we’ve tested all those out there with non-BDG security forces members to see what kind of leveling training is needed security forces-wide,” said Akers. “We learned that a lot of our new squad sizes and formations work, and they can be trained throughout the enterprise with minimal leveling training.”

These validations contribute to the 820th BDG objectives of restructuring to meet future warfighting demands.

“We’re trying to bring ourselves back to focusing on defense aligned with doctrine,” said Akers. “We’re reorganizing ourselves, and we’re trying to use that information to reorganize the whole career field to do any type of defensive operation.”

Story by 1st Lt Christian Little, 93rd Air Ground Operations Wing

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Olympic Hopefuls on the Path to Paris: One Year Out from the 2024 Games

August 11th, 2023

COLO SPRGS, CO – It’s said that all roads lead to Rome, but for Team USA, the destination is Paris, the host city of the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Athletes all over the country are working tirelessly day in and day out to hone their strength and skills with their sights on one goal: the opportunity to represent their country on an Olympic team. With opening ceremonies taking place July 26, 2024, we are now one year out from the world’s preeminent contest of sport.

American competitive shooting has a rich and proud history, boasting legends like Olympic Hall of Fame inductee Lones Wigger, women’s trailblazer Margaret Murdoch, and icons Gary Anderson and Lanny Bassham. The USA claims the most Olympic medals of any country in shooting at 116, almost twice the count of the second-place country, China. Bolstered by a culture that values the safe, sporting use of firearms, today’s Olympic heroes and hopefuls follow in the footsteps of history’s giants to make history of their own. Each is pursuing a dream many years in the making, with a unique story that led them to the Path to Paris.

Dubbed “The King of Skeet,” three-time gold medalist and Paris Olympic hopeful Vincent Hancock found his competitive drive-in baseball as a child, but by age 11, thanks to shooting with his father, skeet shooting had captured his full attention. By age 14, he had won his first Junior National Championship, and at 16 he had captured a World Championship title. In 2006, at age 17, he joined the United States Army Marksmanship Unit (USAMU) to further his training. Only two years later, he stepped atop the highest podium in the world to be awarded the gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, the youngest winner ever in that event. His Olympic path continued in 2012 as he won another gold in London, the first shotgun athlete to win consecutive Olympic gold medals. Hancock again dominated at the 2020 Tokyo Games to win an unprecedented third gold medal in skeet.

“I’m not a superstitious person, so I’m not much on good luck charms or rituals,” says Hancock. “What I do believe in is consistency. With that in mind, I do like to compete in the same clothing and shoes that I practice in, so I have multiples of everything!”

Now on the Path to Paris, looking to qualify for the 2024 Olympics, Hancock is also intent on giving back to the sport by coaching and mentoring other athletes. “I would say to my younger self to always remember to have fun,” said Hancock. “Remember why you started shooting.”

Rifle Olympic hopeful Sagen Maddalena also had important early influences leading her to shooting sports: her father and grandfather. Starting out in a 4-H shooting sports program, she later joined the award-winning California Grizzlies junior high-power rifle team, where she was motivated to beat the boys. Maddalena went on to shoot for the University of Alaska Fairbanks rifle team and earned eight All-American titles. Like Hancock, Maddalena also joined the USAMU, going on to earn multiple national titles, set national records, and earn a spot on the 2020 Tokyo Olympic team, finishing 5th in Women’s 50m Rifle 3-Positions. Later that year, she won the prestigious invitation-only International Shooting Sports Federation President’s Cup in the same event, then secured the silver medal and a USA quota spot for the Paris Olympic Games at the 2022 World Championships in a nail-biter final. She hopes to be the one filling that quota on her Path to Paris.

Among her many memories of competing overseas, tobogganing in Austria remains a favorite. She targets bass at the end of a fishing rod while off the range. “Be a sponge,” she would tell her younger self. “Listen and watch your mentors and coaches. Watch and learn from your competitors.”

A 4-H club and a father’s influence also gave pistol Olympic hopeful Katelyn Abeln her start in shooting sports, though it wasn’t until she shot air pistol at a makeshift target in a CrossFit gym that she fell in love with the sport. She competed at her first National Junior Olympic Championships at the age of 12 and hasn’t looked back. Rising in the junior ranks, Abeln joined the Ohio State University pistol team and has since become an accomplished open competitor, winning a gold medal at the 2022 Championship of the Americas in Women’s 25m Sport Pistol and securing a quota spot for the 2024 Paris Games for USA.

While shooting is serious business for Abeln, she emphasizes the importance of fun, from upbeat music prior to a competition to making memories with other competitors. At her first international competition in the Czech Republic, she recalls, “We played cards in the hallway of the hotel, explored the city, and ate new food. It doesn’t seem like much when you are in the moment, but looking back, [the memories] seem more special than ever.” Crowned this year’s National Champion in 25m Sport Pistol, Abeln has the Path to Paris clearly in her sights.

These and numerous other hopefuls train with determination as they dream of representing the USA on the world stage next year, building upon an impressive history of American competitive shooting athletes. While only a select few will be named to the team, every athlete’s sacrifice and drive for excellence in the shooting sports makes us proud.

Opening Ceremonies for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games will take place July 26, 2024. Watch for Paralympic athlete features as we approach one year out from the Paralympic Games Opening Ceremonies, to be held August 28, 2024.

Support your Olympic and Paralympic hopefuls on the Path to Paris and beyond by donating to USA Shooting at usashooting.org/get-involved/donate or by becoming a member at members.usashooting.org/memberregistration.

By Reya Kempley, USAS Strategic Communications Coordinator

Posted in Press Release, Shooting Sports | Comments Off on Olympic Hopefuls on the Path to Paris: One Year Out from the 2024 Games