U.S. UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE WEEKLY CLAIMS REPORT FOR WEEK ENDING NOVEMBER 3, 2012



Photo:  Sewing Machine.  Credit:  Wikimedia Commons.

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF LABOR

SEASONALLY ADJUSTED DATA

In the week ending November 3, the advance figure for seasonally adjusted initial claims was 355,000, a decrease of 8,000 from the previous week's unrevised figure of 363,000. The 4-week moving average was 370,500, an increase of 3,250 from the previous week's unrevised average of 367,250.

The advance seasonally adjusted insured unemployment rate was 2.4 percent for the week ending October 27, a decrease of 0.1 percentage point from the prior week's unrevised rate. The advance number for seasonally adjusted insured unemployment during the week ending October 27 was 3,127,000, a decrease of 135,000 from the preceding week's revised level of 3,262,000. The 4-week moving average was 3,227,750, a decrease of 38,500 from the preceding week's revised average of 3,266,250.
UNADJUSTED DATA
The advance number of actual initial claims under state programs, unadjusted, totaled 355,406 in the week ending November 3, an increase of 15,489 from the previous week. There were 402,532 initial claims in the comparable week in 2011.

The advance unadjusted insured unemployment rate was 2.1 percent during the week ending October 27, a decrease of 0.1 percentage point from the prior week's unrevised rate. The advance unadjusted number for persons claiming UI benefits in state programs totaled 2,742,581, a decrease of 94,962 from the preceding week. A year earlier, the rate was 2.5 percent and the volume was 3,210,417.

The total number of people claiming benefits in all programs for the week ending October 20 was 5,077,231, an increase of 41,864 from the previous week. There were 6,835,604 persons claiming benefits in all programs in the comparable week in 2011.

Extended Benefits were only available in New York during the week ending October 20.

Initial claims for UI benefits filed by former Federal civilian employees totaled 1,959 in the week ending October 27, an increase of 373 from the prior week. There were 2,656 initial claims filed by newly discharged veterans, a decrease of 161 from the preceding week.

There were 18,401 former Federal civilian employees claiming UI benefits for the week ending October 20, an increase of 257 from the previous week. Newly discharged veterans claiming benefits totaled 39,541, a decrease of 177 from the prior week.

States reported 2,117,175 persons claiming EUC (Emergency Unemployment Compensation) benefits for the week ending October 20, an increase of 18,529 from the prior week. There were 2,953,824 persons claiming EUC in the comparable week in 2011. EUC weekly claims include first, second, third, and fourth tier activity.

The highest insured unemployment rates in the week ending October 20 were in Alaska (4.5), Puerto Rico (4.0), Virgin Islands (3.7), California (3.2), Pennsylvania (3.2), New Jersey (3.1), Connecticut (3.0), Oregon (2.9), Arkansas (2.7), and Nevada (2.7).

The largest increases in initial claims for the week ending October 27 were in Oregon (+2,379), Indiana (+1,663), California (+1,139), Minnesota (+592), and Wisconsin (+589), while the largest decreases were in North Carolina (-3,782), Tennessee (-1,756), Maryland (-1,361), Florida (-1,141), and New Jersey (-1,080).

DOD News Briefing with George Little from the Pentagon

DOD News Briefing with George Little from the Pentagon

MARINE WORKS TO ELIMINATE THE FAILURE TO COMMUNICATE

 

Marine Corps Capt. Benjamin Leatherbury is promoted by Navy Capt. Cathal S. O'Connor on the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard, Nov. 2, 2012. The Bonhomme Richard is part of a U.S. Navy group currently operating in the South China Sea. U.S. Navy photo by Seaman Lacordrick Wilson

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
Face of Defense: Marine Bridges Communications Gap
By Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Karen Blankenship
Amphibious Squadron 11


SOUTH CHINA SEA, Nov. 5, 2012 - Marine Corps Capt. Benjamin Leatherbury, a communications officer, was promoted Nov. 2 while serving aboard amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard on deployment here.

Leatherbury, the officer-in-charge of the Marine Communication Detachment from Expeditionary Strike Group 7 and commander of Task Force 76 aboard the Bonhomme Richard, works to ensure the integration of the Marine Air Ground Task Force's communication structure into the ship's existing communication system.

"Our main responsibilities are keeping the Marines' spaces operational for communications when they come on board," Leatherbury said. "For example, if an antenna on one of the ships used by the Marines does not work, we work to ensure the blue side is working on the issue and follow up until the problem is solved."

Leatherbury, an Indianapolis native, graduated from Indiana University. He said that he joined the Marines because he wanted to serve his country and to travel and see the world.

"I like being around Marines and the cohesiveness of a disciplined unit," he said. "After working in a joint environment, I now have a much better appreciation for the camaraderie that Marines have."

Leatherbury said he enjoys his job and plans to stay in the Marines for a few more years. He added he would eventually like to become a foreign area officer.

"I like the challenge and difficulty that my job presents, and I like working with the extremely bright people who are in my field," Leatherbury said. "They do some pretty amazing work and many outside the field don't realize what goes into making even the basic communications work."

The Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group, commanded by Navy Capt. Cathal S. O'Connor, is made up of amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard, the amphibious dock landing ship USS Tortuga and the amphibious transport dock ship USS Denver. The group is currently operating in the 7th Fleet area of responsibility.

U.S. State Department Daily Press Briefing - November 8, 2012

Daily Press Briefing - November 8, 2012

DVIDS - Video - DoD Briefing

DVIDS - Video - DoD Briefing

IRAN ATTACKS AMERICAN DRONE OVER INTERNATIONAL WATERS

Iran Map Credit:  CIA World Factbook.

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
Iranians Attacked U.S. Drone Over International Waters

By Army Sgt. 1st Class Tyrone C. Marshall Jr.
American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Nov. 8, 2012 - A recent Iranian attack on a U.S. drone occurred over international waters, but the aircraft suffered no damage and returned safely to base, Pentagon Press Secretary George Little said today.

Speaking to Pentagon reporters, Little said the Iranian aircraft fired on the drone and followed it as it flew over the Arabian Gulf last week.

"I can confirm that on November 1, at approximately 4:50 a.m. Eastern Daylight Time, an unarmed, unmanned MQ-1 U.S. military aircraft conducting routine surveillance over the Arabian Gulf, was intercepted by an Iranian SU-25 Frog-foot aircraft and was fired upon with guns," he said.

"The incident occurred over international waters, approximately 16 nautical miles off of the Iranian coastline," Little said. "The MQ-1 was not hit, and returned to its base safely."

Little provided further details regarding the Iranian attack.

"The aircraft, once it came under fire at approximately the 16 nautical mile range, moved further out," he said. "The Iranian aircraft continued to pursue the MQ-1 for some period of time before letting it return to base."

"We believe they fired at least twice and made at least two passes," Little added.

The press secretary confirmed both Congress and the White House were notified of the incident, and the U.S. responded to Iran through the "Swiss protective powers."

"The United States has communicated to the Iranians that we will continue to conduct surveillance flights over international waters, over the Arabian Gulf, consistent with longstanding practices and our commitment to the security of the region," Little said.

Little emphasized the U.S. can respond using a "wide range of options -- from diplomatic to military -- to protect our military assets and our forces in the region, and will do so when necessary."

"Our aircraft was never in Iranian airspace. It was always flying in international airspace," he said. "The internationally recognized territorial limit is 12 nautical miles off the coast, and we never entered the 12 nautical-mile limit."

Little said Defense Department officials believe this is the first time an unmanned aircraft has been shot at over international waters in the Arabian Gulf.

"There is absolutely no question that the aircraft fired on the U.S. military aircraft," he said.

All 25 Apps From Department Of Health And Human Services

All 25 Apps

U.S. FDA TIPS ON FOOD AND WATER SAFETY DURING DISASTERS

Photo Credit:  U.S. Food And Drug Administration.

FROM: U.S. FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION
What Consumers Need to Know About Food and Water Safety During Hurricanes, Power Outages, and Floods

Be Prepared for EmergenciesMake sure you have appliance thermometers in your refrigerator and freezer.
Check to ensure that the freezer temperature is at or below 0 °F and the refrigerator is at or
below 40 °F.
In case of a power outage, the appliance thermometers will indicate the temperatures in the refrigerator and freezer to help you determine if the food is safe. Freeze containers of water for ice to help keep food cold in the freezer, refrigerator, or coolers in case the power goes out. If your normal water supply is contaminated or unavailable, the melting ice will also supply drinking water.
Freeze refrigerated items such as leftovers, milk, and fresh meat and poultry that you may not need immediately. This helps keep them at a safe temperature longer.
Group food together in the freezer. This helps the food stay cold longer.
Have coolers on hand to keep refrigerated food cold if the power will be out for more than 4 hours.
Purchase or make ice cubes in advance and store in the freezer for use in the refrigerator or in a cooler. Freeze gel packs ahead of time for use in coolers.
Check out local sources to know where dry ice and block ice can be purchased, just in case.
Store food on shelves that will be safely out of the way of contaminated water in case of flooding.
Make sure to have a supply of bottled water stored where it will be as safe as possible from flooding.
Power Outages: During and After

When the Power Goes Out . . .

Here are basic tips for keeping food safe:
Keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible to maintain the cold temperature.
The refrigerator will keep food cold for about 4 hours if it is unopened.
A full freezer will keep the temperature for approximately 48 hours (24 hours if it is half full) if the door remains closed.
Buy dry or block ice to keep the refrigerator as cold as possible if the power is going to be out for a prolonged period of time. Fifty pounds of dry ice should hold an 18-cubic foot fully-stocked freezer cold for two days. If you plan to eat refrigerated or frozen meat, poultry, fish or eggs while it is still at safe temperatures, it's important that each item is thoroughly cooked to the proper temperature to assure that any foodborne bacteria that may be present is destroyed. However, if at any point the food was above 40 °F for 2 hours or more — discard it.
Wash fruits and vegetables with water from a safe source before eating.
For infants, try to use prepared, canned baby formula that requires no added water. When using concentrated or powdered formulas, prepare with bottled water if the local water source is potentially contaminated.
Once Power is Restored . . .

You'll need to determine the safety of your food. Here's how:
If an appliance thermometer was kept in the freezer, check the temperature when the power comes back on. If the freezer thermometer reads 40°F or below, the food is safe and may be refrozen.
If a thermometer has not been kept in the freezer, check each package of food to determine its safety. You can't rely on appearance or odor. If the food still contains ice crystals or is 40 °F or below, it is safe to refreeze or cook.
Refrigerated food should be safe as long as the power was out for no more than 4 hours and the refrigerator door was kept shut. Discard any perishable food (such as meat, poultry, fish, eggs or leftovers) that has been above 40°F for two hours or more.
Keep in mind that perishable food such as meat, poultry, seafood, milk, and eggs that are not kept adequately refrigerated or frozen may cause illness if consumed, even when they are thoroughly cooked.

When Flooding Occurs — Keep Water Safe

Follow these steps to keep your WATER SAFE during — and after — flood conditions.
Use bottled water that has not been exposed to flood waters if it is available.
If you don't have bottled water, you should boil water to make it safe. Boiling water will kill most types of disease-causing organisms that may be present.
If the water is cloudy, filter it through clean cloths or allow it to settle, and draw off the clear water for boiling.
Boil the water for one minute, let it cool, and store it in clean containers with covers. If you can't boil water, you can disinfect it using household bleach. Bleach will kill some, but not all, types of disease-causing organisms that may be in the water.
If the water is cloudy, filter it through clean cloths or allow it to settle, and draw off the clear water for disinfection.
Add 1/8 teaspoon (or 8 drops) of regular, unscented, liquid household bleach per each gallon of water. Stir it well and let it stand for at least 30 minutes before you use it.
Store disinfected water in clean containers with covers. If you have a well that has been flooded, the water should be tested and disinfected after flood waters recede. If you suspect that your well may be contaminated, contact your local or state health department or agriculture extension agent for specific advice. '
When Flooding Occurs — Keep Food Safe

Follow these steps to keep your FOOD SAFE during — and after — flood conditions.
Do not eat any food that may have come into contact with flood water.
Discard any food that is not in a waterproof container if there is any chance that it has come into contact with flood water.
Food containers that are not waterproof include those with screw-caps, snap lids, pull tops, and crimped caps.
Also, discard cardboard juice/milk/baby formula boxes and home canned foods if they have come in contact with flood water, because they cannot be effectively cleaned and sanitized. Inspect canned foods and discard any food in damaged cans. Can damage is shown by swelling, leakage, punctures, holes, fractures, extensive deep rusting, or crushing/denting severe enough to prevent normal stacking or opening with a manual, wheel-type can opener.
Undamaged, commercially prepared foods in all-metal cans and "retort pouches" (like flexible, shelf-stable juice or seafood pouches) can be saved if you follow this procedure:
Remove the labels, if they are the removable kind, since they can harbor dirt and bacteria.
Brush or wipe away any dirt or silt.
Thoroughly wash the cans or retort pouches with soap and water, using hot water if it is available. Rinse the cans or retort pouches with water that is safe for drinking, if available, since dirt or residual soap will reduce the effectiveness of chlorine sanitation.
Sanitize cans and retort pouches by immersion in one of the two following ways:
Place in water and allow the water to come to a boil and continue boiling for 2 min., or
Place in a freshly-made solution consisting of 1 tablespoon of unscented liquid chlorine bleach per gallon of drinking water (or the cleanest, clearest water available) for 15 minutes. Air dry cans or retort pouches for a minimum of 1 hour before opening or storing.
If the labels were removable, then re-label your cans or retort pouches, including the expiration date (if available), with a marking pen.
Food in reconditioned cans or retort pouches should be used as soon as possible thereafter.
Any concentrated baby formula in reconditioned, all-metal containers must be diluted with clean, drinking water. Thoroughly wash metal pans, ceramic dishes, and utensils (including can openers) with soap and water, using hot water if available. Rinse, and then sanitize them by boiling in clean water or immersing them for 15 minutes in a solution of 1 tablespoon of unscented, liquid chlorine bleach per gallon of drinking water (or the cleanest, clearest water available).
Thoroughly wash countertops with soap and water, using hot water if available. Rinse, and then sanitize by applying a solution of 1 tablespoon of unscented, liquid chlorine bleach per gallon of drinking water (or the cleanest, clearest water available). Allow to air dry.

U.S. ENVOY SPEAKS TO UN HUMAN RIGHTS REPORT ON NORTH KOREA

Map Credit:  CIA World Factbook.

FROM: U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT

UNGA Third Committee Interactive Dialogue With the Special
Rapporteur on the Situation of Human Rights in the Democratic
People's Republic of Korea (DPRK)
Press Statement
Robert R. King
Special Envoy for North Korean Human Rights Issues
Washington, DC
November 5, 2012


The United States appreciates the report by UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the DPRK, Marzuki Darusman, and finds it regrettable that the DPRK government continues to exclude him from visiting the country. We hope the DPRK will recognize the benefits of cooperating with Mr. Darusman, the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, and other thematic Special Rapporteurs.

The people of the DPRK continue to suffer from widespread human rights violations. The Special Rapporteur notes reports of the extensive use of political prison camps, poor prison conditions and prisoners being subjected to forced labor, and torture, and has called on the UN General Assembly and the international community to consider setting up a more detailed mechanism of inquiry. We look forward to future reporting on this topic by the Special Rapporteur.

The Special Rapporteur also notes severe restrictions on the rights to freedom of opinion, expression, and assembly, despite constitutional guarantees of these rights. The Special Rapporteur notes deep concerns about several articles in the Criminal Code that are either not in line with international standards or contain vague terms that allow for misinterpretation and abuse by the State.

The United States remains deeply concerned about the well-being of DPRK citizens. Improving conditions for the people in the DPRK requires an integrated and collaborative approach. We welcome the Special Rapporteur’s insights on constructive interventions and how to encourage non-traditional partners to take up the issue of human rights in the DPRK.

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN FOR NOVEMBER 8, 2012



Coalition Forces Train Afghan Police in Farah Province A NATO international coalition force member maintains security during an Afghan-led joint security patrol to deny the enemy freedom of movement in Khak-E-Safed in Afghanistan's Farah province, Oct. 30, 2012. U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Pete Thibodeau

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
Force Arrests Taliban Leader
American Forces Press Service
KABUL, Afghanistan, Nov. 8, 2012 - A combined Afghan and coalition security force arrested a Taliban leader in Afghanistan's Logar province today, military officials reported.

The arrested insurgent leader is linked to indirect-fire attacks on Afghan and coalition forces and led several indirect-fire attacks on Forward Operating Base Shank in the province.

The security force also detained two suspected insurgents.

In other Afghanistan operations today:

-- A combined force arrested a Taliban facilitator in Nangarhar province. The force killed one insurgent and wounded a second after being attacked as they approached the Taliban facilitator's location. The arrested facilitator enabled the distribution of weapons, ammunition, improvised explosive devices and suicide vests for use in attacks against Afghan and coalition forces. The security force also arrested two suspected insurgents and seized several grenades and an assault-style rifle with associated gear and ammunition.

In Nov. 6 operations:

A combined force seized more than three dozen one-liter bottles filled with homemade explosives primed with detonating cord and a number of pressure plates in Helmand province. All of the items were destroyed.

U.S. AIR FORCE SPACE COMMAND SATELLITE MILESTONE

 

The Air Force Space Command-operated Defense Support Program (DSP) satellites are a key part of North America’s early warning systems. DSP satellites help protect the United States and its allies by detecting missile launches, space launches and nuclear detonations
 

FROM: U.S. AIR FORCE SPACE COMMAND
30th Anniversary Milestone: First DSP satellite, I MEWS 1, launched aboard a Titan IIIC missile
11/6/2012 - Peterson AFB, Colo. -- Air Force Space Command is celebrating its 30th Anniversary! Here is a significant milestone from the command's history ...

Following the end of the MIDAS program, plans to deploy an operational system led to the Integrated Missile Early Warning Satellite program, or IMEWS. Unlike MIDAS, which was designed to use large numbers of satellites in low Earth orbit, IMEWS consisted of a smaller number of satellites in geosynchronous orbit.

On November 6, 1970, the U.S. Air Force launched a classified satellite on a Titan IIIC rocket from Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla. This was the first of many DSP satellites to be launched over the next 30 years.

MARINE MACHINE-GUN LEADER



Marine Corps Cpl. Michael Sheets is a machine-gun leader for 4th platoon, Company F, 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines, in Now Zad, Afghanistan. The Enid, Okla., native enlisted in the Marine Corps after three years of study at Oklahoma State University. U.S. Marine Corps photo by Master Sgt. Brenda Varnadore

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
Face of Defense: Marine Gunner Relishes Military Service

By Marine Corps Master Sgt. Brenda Varnadore
Regional Command Southwest
NOW ZAD, Nov. 2, 2012 - After three years at Oklahoma State University, Michael Sheets took a long, hard look in the mirror and decided he wanted to be a Marine

Today, four years into his six-year enlistment contract with the Marine Corps, Sheets holds a corporal's rank and is a machine-gun leader here with 4th platoon, Company F, 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines.

Sheets said he has no regrets.

"I got to the point where I had to decide what I wanted to do," said Sheets, who hails from Enid, Okla. "I wanted to be a Marine, so I signed a six-year contract to be infantry. I thought that was the only way to be a Marine."

He said his parents, Tom and Cynda Sheets, were initially surprised, but stood by their son.

"They are very supportive and proud," Sheets said. "They send care packages all the time to show their support."

Sheets joined 2nd Bn., 7th Marines, during March 2009 after completing recruit and infantry training. He has deployed twice with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, based out of Okinawa, Japan. During his second deployment with the MEU, he went to Australia. His battalion set up the Marine Corps' new unit deployment program in Australia.

Now Sheets is in Afghanistan where he said he has wanted to be since he enlisted. He said from what he has heard and seen, the Marines have made progress in Now Zad.

"We have definitely helped a great number of people here," Sheets said. "You can tell they feel safer with us and are starting to feel safer with the Afghan forces."

Because of the development of capability and capacity within the Afghan National Security Forces, the Marines of Fox Company have more time on their hands. Sheets said he works on growing as a Marine and a leader, and credits his machine-gun team.

"They keep me on my toes," Sheets said. "They teach me something new constantly, and it makes me a better Marine."

Sheets said he also takes every opportunity he has to catch up on sports.

"I watch any [Oklahoma State] sport and the Cowboys," he said. "I follow the Internet and game tracker whenever I can."

Sheets said he isn't sure whether he is going to make the military a career, but he knows that his ultimate goal is to serve in federal law enforcement. Until then, he said he wants to make the most of being a Marine.

BE PREPARED FOR THE FEMA HOME INSPECTION

BE PREPARED FOR THE FEMA HOME INSPECTION

Preteens, teens and vaccines

Preteens, teens and vaccines

DOD REQUESTS NEW APPLICATIONS FOR MOBILITY DEVICES

Photo Credit:  Wikimedia Commons

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

DOD Issues Request for New Mobility Applications, Devices

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Nov. 7, 2012 - Service members could be downloading applications for government BlackBerrys, iPhones, Androids and other "mobility devices" by the beginning of next year, said Air Force Maj. Gen. Robert E. Wheeler, the deputy chief information officer for the department.

The goal, he said, is to have the "military app store" set up by early 2013. "It all depends on if we get a good bid," Wheeler explained in an interview. The request for procurement closes out at the end of the year, and "it should not take long" to put the store in play once the decision is made, he added.

Wheeler said the needs of the department are at the core of the request.

"We're looking at things from a 'three-bin' perspective," he added.

The first bin, he said, contains mobility devices that don't need to connect with a DOD official or classified network. These include devices used for training, communications in an unclassified nonsecure realm, research and so on, he said.

He said the second bin holds those devices that are connected to the secure but unclassified network. Today, these are mainly BlackBerrys, Wheeler said, but there are pilot programs incorporating Androids, iPhones and tablets in this bin.

The third group connects with the classified network, he said.

The department's future "app store" will feature applications appropriate for each bin, the general said, and he expects the security performance of these items will change to encompass DOD's strict needs. DOD personnel use 271,000 BlackBerrys alone, he noted, and Research In Motion -- the Canadian company that developed BlackBerrys -- has a security protocol the department approves.

"We hope other companies develop this," Wheeler said.

Overall, he said, the larger issue is "as we move forward with technology, we're trying to make sure we are making it less costly to DOD, we're trying to make it more secure and we're trying to jump the productivity curve here."

Jumping the curve is key for the department and to do that, Wheeler said, the department needs to get these devices into the hands of the young men and women to whom they are second nature. The so-called digital generation is developing new uses for these devices every day, the general noted, and this has bridged into the tactical world, as well. These devices have uses "far beyond just talking to each other and e-mail," he said.

The department is "basically going for diversity in our products, and that goes back to trying to get the best price for the government and finding the most secure device," he said. "So we will have a family of options that don't favor any one device."

U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT COMMENTS ON PIRATES SENTNCED IN REPUBLIC OF SEYCHELLES

Republic Of Seychelles Map Credit:  CIA World Factbook

FROM: U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT

Republic of Seychelles Conviction of Pirates

Press Statement
Victoria Nuland
Department Spokesperson, Office of the Spokesperson
Washington, DC
November 7, 2012
We welcome the November 5 sentencing by the Republic of Seychelles to sentence of 15 in connection with an attack on a merchant ship and the abduction of 13 Iranian fishermen rescued by the U.S. Navy. This sentencing brings the total number of convicted pirates to 631 – 98 in Seychelles alone – with 440 other suspected pirates facing justice in 21 countries, including the United States.

We appreciate Seychelles’ regional leadership on counter-piracy, as seen in their willingness to prosecute and incarcerate Somali pirates, as well as their hosting of a regional intelligence coordination center to support future piracy prosecutions. The sentencing marks a positive step forward for building a strong and unified international response against piracy originating from Somalia and for promoting freedom of navigation worldwide.

STOLEN I.D. AND TAX REFUND FRAUDSTER SOUGHT $120 MILLION IN REFUNDS

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE
Wednesday, November 7, 2012
Barbados National Sentenced to Prison for Using Stolen Identities to Obtain Tax Refunds

Defendant Filed False Returns Seeking Over $120 Million in Fraudulent Refunds
Andrew J. Watts, a Barbados national, was sentenced in Chicago by U.S. District Judge Joan Gottschall to 114 months in prison and ordered to pay restitution of just under $1.7 million for devising and executing a stolen identity federal income tax refund fraud scheme, the Justice Department and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) announced today.

According to court documents, between 2007 and 2011, Watts filed false federal income tax returns in the names of deceased taxpayers seeking fraudulent refunds. Watts either signed the name of the deceased taxpayer to the tax return, or would falsely list himself as the deceased taxpayer’s representative. As part of the scheme, Watts filed over 470 false federal income tax returns, claiming fraudulent refunds in excess of $120 million, and the IRS issued refunds in excess of $10 million. Watts directed the IRS to either mail the refund checks to an address he controlled or to electronically deposit the refund into a bank account under his control.

"While all taxpayers are victims when criminals file false tax returns using stolen identities, those who falsely use the names of deceased individuals add to the grief and burdens of their families," said Kathryn Keneally, Assistant Attorney General for the Justice Department's Tax Division. "We will prosecute and seek just punishment against those who seek to commit these crimes."

"IRS-Criminal Investigation has made investigating refund fraud and identity theft a top priority and we will vigorously pursue those who undermine the integrity of the U.S. tax system," said Richard Weber, Chief, IRS-Criminal Investigation. "Individuals who commit refund fraud and identity theft of this magnitude deserve to be punished to the fullest extent of the law."

On July 10, 2012, Watts pleaded guilty to one count of mail fraud and one count of aggravated identity theft.

The case was investigated by IRS-Criminal Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick J. King, Jr., Northern District of Illinois, and Trial Attorney Michelle Petersen, Department of Justice, Tax Division.

Honičky mraků nad Venuší

Honičky mraků nad Venuší

PRESIDENT OBAMA PROCLAIMS NOVEMBER 11 AS VETERANS DAY

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
President Proclaims Nov. 11 as Veterans Day
American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Nov. 7, 2012 - "Our men and women in uniform have taught us about strength, duty, devotion, resolve -- cornerstones of a commitment to protect and defend that has kept our country safe for over 200 years. In war and in peace, their service has been selfless and their accomplishments have been extraordinary," President Barack Obama said in his proclamation issued today declaring Nov. 11 as Veterans Day.

The proclamation reads:

"Whether they fought in Salerno or Samarra, Heartbreak Ridge or Helmand, Khe Sanh or the Korengal, our veterans are part of an unbroken chain of men and women who have served our country with honor and distinction. On Veterans Day, we show them our deepest thanks. Their sacrifices have helped secure more than two centuries of American progress, and their legacy affirms that no matter what confronts us or what trials we face, there is no challenge we cannot overcome, and our best days are still ahead.

"This year, we marked the 200th anniversary of the War of 1812. We began to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War. We welcomed our veterans back home from Iraq, and we continued to wind down operations in Afghanistan. These milestones remind us that, though much has changed since Americans first took up arms to advance freedom's cause, the spirit that moved our forebears is the same spirit that has defined each generation of our service members. Our men and women in uniform have taught us about strength, duty, devotion, resolve -- cornerstones of a commitment to protect and defend that has kept our country safe for over 200 years. In war and in peace, their service has been selfless and their accomplishments have been extraordinary.

"Even after our veterans take off the uniform, they never stop serving. Many apply the skills and experience they developed on the battlefield to a life of service here at home. They take on roles in their communities as doctors and police officers, engineers and entrepreneurs, mothers and fathers. As a grateful Nation, it is our task to make that transition possible -- to ensure our returning heroes can share in the opportunities they have given so much to defend. The freedoms we cherish endure because of their service and sacrifice, and our country must strive to honor our veterans by fulfilling our responsibilities to them and upholding the sacred trust we share with all who have served.

"On days like this, we are called to reflect on immeasurable burdens that have been borne by so few. We pay tribute to our wounded, our missing, our fallen, and their families -- men and women who have known the true costs of conflict and deserve our deepest respect, now and forever. We also remember that our commitments to those who have served are commitments we must honor not only on Veterans Day, but every day. As we do so, let us reaffirm our promise that when our troops finish their tours of duty, they come home to an America that gives them the benefits they have earned, the care they deserve, and the fullest opportunity to keep their families strong and our country moving forward.

"With respect for and in recognition of the contributions our service members have made to the cause of peace and freedom around the world, the Congress has provided that November 11 of each year shall be set aside as a legal public holiday to honor our Nation's veterans.

"NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim November 11, 2012, as Veterans Day. I encourage all Americans to recognize the valor and sacrifice of our veterans through appropriate public ceremonies and private prayers. I call upon Federal, State, and local officials to display the flag of the United States and to participate in patriotic activities in their communities. I call on all Americans, including civic and fraternal organizations, places of worship, schools, and communities to support this day with commemorative expressions and programs."

SEC ACCUSES MAN OF RUNNING ILLEGITIMATE CREDIT UNION

FROM: U.S. SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

SEC Charges Purported Credit Union and Its Principal with Offering Fraud
On Nov. 8, 2012, the Securities and Exchange Commission filed a civil injunctive action in the United States District Court for the District of Colorado against Stanley B. McDuffie, a resident of Denver, Colorado, and his entity, Jilapuhn, Inc., d/b/a Her Majesty's Credit Union (HMCU), in connection with a fraudulent and unregistered offering through which McDuffie and HMCU sold more than $532,000 in alleged certificates of deposits (CDs) to investors.

In its complaint, the Commission alleges that from 2008 to 2012, McDuffie and HMCU lured investors to purchase the CDs through the HMCU website and a branch office in the U.S. Virgin Islands. McDuffie and HMCU held out HMCU as a secure, legitimate, regulated credit union, promised to pay above-market interest rates, and assured investors that their deposits were insured by Lloyd's of London or the U.S. Virgin Islands' government. In reality, HMCU was an unregulated, illegitimate credit union that never held share insurance covering investor deposits, and McDuffie and HMCU misappropriated investors' funds.

The Commission alleges that McDuffie and HMCU violated Sections 5(a), 5(c) and 17(a) of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 10(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (Exchange Act) and Rule 10b-5 thereunder, and, alternatively, that pursuant to Section 20(a) of the Exchange Act, McDuffie is liable as a control person for HMCU's violations of Section 10(b) of the Exchange Act and Rule 10b-5 thereunder.

The Commission appreciates the assistance of the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies, Division of Securities, in this matter.

NASA VIDEO: SPACEWALK TALK

FROM: NASA

 

RECENT U.S. NAVY PHOTOS

FROM:  U.S. NAVY
The amphibious transport dock ship Pre-Commissioning Unit (PCU) Anchorage (LPD 23) visits Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, for logistic support including fuel and water. The San Antonio-class ship is currently on her homeport transit to Naval Base San Diego, Calif. Anchorage is scheduled to be commissioned May 2013 in her namesake city of Anchorage, Alaska. Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, serves as the logistical hub for military and merchant vessels operating in the United States Southern Commmand (SOUTHCOM) area of responsibilitiy. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Justin Ailes (Released) 121106-N-WW127-780

Landing Craft Air Cushion 29, assigned to Naval Beach Unit (NBU) 7, exits the well deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) carrying equipment belonging to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (31st MEU) as they offload to White Beach, Okinawa. Bonhomme Richard is the lead ship of the only forward-deployed amphibious ready group. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Adam M. Bennett (Released) 121105-N-SO729-101

PENTAGON PROVIDES STORM RESPONSE UPDATE

Photo Credit:  Wikimedia Commons.

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
Pentagon Officials Provide Storm Response Update
American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Nov. 7, 2012 - The Department of Defense is a fully integrated partner in the federal, state, and local response to Hurricane Sandy and is appropriately postured to provide additional assistance to civilian authorities as a result of the northeaster currently sweeping through the mid-Atlantic and northeastern United States, defense officials reported today.

To address potential issues that may result from the northeaster, DOD has kept significant capacity in the region to provide emergency, temporary power and pumping capability and to distribute fuel, food, cold-weather clothing and other comfort items as requested by civil authorities, officials said.

DOD's response to Hurricane Sandy continues, officials said. Significant updates over the past 24 hours, as of 11 a.m. EST, include:

-- U.S. Transportation Command has delivered 354 power restoration vehicles and 449 technical personnel on 64 missions from California, Arizona, Nevada, and Washington to Stewart Air National Guard Base, N.Y.; Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, N.J.; and John F. Kennedy International Airport, N.Y. Seven more flights are scheduled today from McChord Air Force Base, Wash., to McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst.

-- Since Hurricane Sandy struck the east coast, Air Force, Air Force Reserve and Air National Guard C-17 Globemaster IIIs, C-5 Galaxies, C-27J Spartans and C-130 Hercules have flown nearly 200 sorties, moving more than 700 passengers and approximately 3,000 tons of cargo. The Air Force delivered equipment, supplies and crews ranging from teams of power company employees and blankets to generators, water pumps and utility trucks being used to restore power to areas devastated by the disaster.

-- Marine Corps pump teams assigned to the 19th Engineering Battalion, Fort Knox, Ky., pumped 256,000 gallons from basement areas at three apartment complexes in Queens, N.Y., and are continuing operations in the same neighborhoods. Air Force teams provided pump support to the New York City Fire Department in Brooklyn and at the Rockaway Waste Water Treatment Plant. A Navy dive detachment is providing pump support at the World Trade Center. Army divers are assisting with assessments at Craven Point, and Amtrak Substation in Kearney, N.J.

-- The USS San Antonio and the USS Carter Hall repositioned from Breezy Point, N.Y., due to storm warnings. The USS Wasp will weather the storm at anchor.

-- Navy and Marine Corps teams have begun pumping operations in Breezy Point, N.Y.

-- Navy divers assisted with surface and underwater infrastructure assessments, evaluating storm damage to Coast Guard Station Sandy Hook. Navy personnel also assisted with debris cleanup operations at the station.

-- Marine teams are removing debris from locations and routes in Staten Island and at the Hoboken Ferry Terminal.

-- The secretary of defense approved the use of a fourth vessel, the Maine Maritime Training Ship, State of Maine, to provide accommodations and meals to first responders in New York City. The TS State of Maine will join the TS Empire State, TS Kennedy, and Ready Reserve Fleet Vessel SS Wright already at anchor in New York City.

-- Over the past 24 hours, the Defense Logistics Agency delivered one million meals to JBMDL and Floyd Bennett Field, N.Y., and 850,000 gallons of fuel to Federal Emergency Management Agency-supported sites s throughout the affected region. DLA is providing 600,000 meals, 600,000 bottles of water, propane, and diesel fuel to support 11 American Red Cross sites in New York and New Jersey.

-- The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is responsible for water drainage operations at 14 sites. To date, seven sites have been completed, seven sites are being pumped and engineers expect to complete operations at two sites in the next 24 hours. The Corps of Engineers has processed more than 470 requests for power restoration services to date.

-- More than 7,100 National Guard members are supporting the governors of Connecticut, Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island and West Virginia. These National Guard troops continue to provide critical assistance to local first-responders and FEMA with damage assessments, route clearance, power generation, fuel distribution, debris reduction and removal, search and rescue, delivery of essential equipment and supplies, support at evacuation shelters and first-responder bed-down locations, and the employment of unique engineering capabilities.

-- The New York National Guard has 4,248 people and more than 600 vehicles on state active duty supporting relief efforts. The New York National Guard is conducting 20 point-of-distribution missions, which have provided 115,000 cases of meals, 62,283 cases of bottled water and 31,558 blankets to date.

-- The New Jersey National Guard has 2,011 people on state active duty supporting relief efforts. New Jersey National Guard members are assisting emergency responders with fuel distribution, with over 170,232 gallons distributed since Nov. 2. Guard members also distributed 6,618 blankets, 1,740 cots and 3,648 towels throughout the state. The New Jersey National Guard is assisting law enforcement agencies with security support in Monmouth and Ocean counties.

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN FOR NOVEMBER 7, 2012

 

U.S. Army Spc. Pete Sigala prepares to hook a sling-load of supplies to a civilian helicopter on Forward Operating Base Salerno in Afghanistan's Khowst province, Nov. 5, 2012. U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Abram Pinnington

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
 
Combined Force Arrests Taliban FacilitatorFrom an International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Release

KABUL, Afghanistan, Nov. 7, 2012 - An Afghan and coalition security force arrested a Taliban attack facilitator during a security operation in Afghanistan's Logar province today, military officials reported.

The detained facilitator is linked to mortar, indirect-fire and improvised explosive device attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.

The security force also detained six suspects and seized a rocket-propelled grenade and associated equipment, RPG munitions, numerous rockets, IED-making materials and an assault rifle.

In other Afghanistan operations today:
-- A combined force arrested a Taliban leader in Kandahar province. The detained insurgent leader is believed to have planned and executed ambush-style attacks on Afghan and coalition forces.

-- In Helmand province, a combined force arrested a senior Taliban leader and seized multiple firearms. The detained insurgent leader is suspected of having served as the head of a Taliban direct-action cell and directing the movement of lethal aid to support the insurgency.

In operations yesterday:
-- A combined force killed three insurgents and seized 1,430 pounds of dry opium during an operation in Helmand province. The security force destroyed the insurgent vehicle and recovered a machine gun, ammunition and other military items.

-- In Helmand province, Afghan Provincial Response Company Uruzgan, enabled by coalition forces, detained one insurgent, killed about 12 fighters and seized some wet opium.

SUMMARY OF ELECTORAL COLLEGE PROCESS FOR SELECTING AN U.S. PRESIDENT AND VICE PRESIDENT

Apoll 11 Launch.  Credit:  NASA

FROM: U.S. OFFICE OF THE REGISTER, NATIONAL ARCHIVES AND RECORDS ADMINISTRATION

Summary of Key Dates for the 2012 Presidential Election
November 6, 2012—Election Day
Registered voters cast their votes for President and Vice President. By doing so, they also help choose the electors who will represent their state in the Electoral College.

Mid-November through December 17, 2012

After the presidential election, the governor of your state prepares seven Certificates of Ascertainment. "As soon as practicable," after the election results in your state are certified, the governor sends one of the Certificates of Ascertainment to the Archivist.

Certificates of Ascertainment should be sent to the Archivist no later than the meeting of the electors on December 17, 2012. However, federal law sets no penalty for missing the deadline.

The remaining six Certificates of Ascertainment are held for use at the meeting of the Electors on December 17, 2012.

December 11, 2012

States must make final decisions in any controversies over the appointment of their electors at least six days before the meeting of the Electors on December 17, 2012. This is so their electoral votes will be presumed valid when presented to Congress. The deadline for resolving any controversies is December 11, 2012.

Decisions by states’ courts are conclusive, if decided under laws enacted before Election Day, November 6, 2012.

December 17, 2012

The Electors meet in their state and vote for President and Vice President on separate ballots. The electors record their votes on six "Certificates of Vote," which are paired with the six remaining Certificates of Ascertainment.

The electors sign, seal, and certify six sets of electoral votes. A set of electoral votes consists of one Certificate of Ascertainment and one Certificate of Vote. These are distributed immediately as follows:
one set to the President of the Senate (the Vice President) for the official count of the electoral votes on January 6, 2013;
two packages to the Secretary of State in the state where the electors met—one is an archival set that becomes part of the public record of the Secretary of State’s office and the other is a reserve set that is subject to the call of the President of the Senate to replace missing or incomplete electoral votes;
two packages to the Archivist—one is an archival set that becomes part of the permanent collection at the National Archives and Records Administration and the other is a reserve set that is subject to the call of the President of the Senate to replace missing or incomplete electoral votes; and
one set to the presiding judge in the district where the Electors met—this is also a reserve set that is subject to the call of the President of the Senate to replace missing or incomplete electoral votes.
December 26, 2012

The deadline for receipt of the electoral votes by the President of the Senate and the Archivist is December 26, 2012. States face no legal penalty for failure to comply.

If votes are lost or delayed, the Archivist may take extraordinary measures to retrieve duplicate originals.

On or Before January 3, 2013

The Archivist and/or representatives from the Office of the Federal Register meet with the Secretary of the Senate and the Clerk of the House in late December or early January. This is, in part, a ceremonial occasion. Informal meetings may take place earlier.

January 6, 2013

The Congress meets in joint session to count the electoral votes on January 6, 2013. Congress may pass a law to change this date.

The Vice President, as President of the Senate, presides over the count and announces the results of the Electoral College vote. The President of the Senate then declares which persons, if any, have been elected President and Vice President of the United States.

If a State submits conflicting sets of electoral votes to Congress, the two Houses acting concurrently may accept or reject the votes. If they do not concur, the votes of the electors certified by the Governor of the State on the Certificate of Ascertainment would be counted in Congress.

If no Presidential candidate wins 270 or more electoral votes, a majority, the 12th Amendment to the Constitution provides for the House of Representatives to decide the Presidential election. If necessary the House would elect the President by majority vote, choosing from the three candidates who received the greatest number of electoral votes. The vote would be taken by state, with each state having one vote.

If no Vice Presidential candidate wins 270 or more electoral votes, a majority, the 12th Amendment provides for the Senate to elect the Vice President. If necessary, the Senate would elect the Vice President by majority vote, choosing from the two candidates who received the greatest number of electoral votes. The vote would be taken by state, with each Senator having one vote.

If any objections to the Electoral College vote are made, they must be submitted in writing and be signed by at least one member of the House and one Senator. If objections are presented, the House and Senate withdraw to their respective chambers to consider their merits under procedures set out in federal law.

January 20, 2013 at Noon—Inauguration Day
The President-elect takes the Oath of Office and becomes the President of the United States.

General Authority
The Archivist of the United States, as the head of the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA), is responsible for carrying out ministerial duties on behalf of the States and the Congress under 3 U.S.C. sections 6, 11, 12, and 13.

NARA is primarily responsible for coordinating the various stages of the electoral process by helping the States prepare and submit certificates that establish the appointment of electors and validate the electoral votes of each State.

The Archivist delegates operational duties to the Director of the Federal Register. The Federal Register Legal Staff ensures that electoral documents are transmitted to Congress, made available to the public, and preserved as part of our nation’s history.

The Office of the Federal Register Legal Staff reviews the electoral certificates for the required signatures, seals and other matters of form, as specified in federal law.

Only the Congress and the courts have the authority to rule on substantive legal issues.

U.S. SECRETARY OF DEFENSE PANETTA ON MILITARY'S COMMITMENT TO DEMOCRACY



U.S. Secretary Of Defense Leon E. Panetta

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE,

Message on the 2012 Election
As Written by Secretary of Defense Leon E. Panetta, The Pentagon, Wednesday, November 07, 2012
This week, millions of Americans exercised their most important responsibility as citizens and participated in the electoral process.

Throughout the campaign season, we at the Department of Defense have been squarely focused on our mission of defending the nation. Now that the campaign is over, we will stay just as focused on that critical mission.

America's elected leaders, in turn, now have the responsibility to do everything possible to ensure that we succeed in our mission.

As the country moves beyond the 2012 election, DoD personnel should take heart in one thing that will always unite the American people, and that is their strong support for the millions of men and women in uniform who put their lives on the line to defend to keep our country safe.

Let us renew our pledge as a Department to keep fighting for a safer and stronger future for the United States, and to ensure this always remains a government of, by, and for all people.

FEMA APPROVES $156 MILLION FOR INDIVIDUAL STORM VICTIMS IN NEW YORK

In Maryland, Disaster Volunteers Board Buses For New York.  Credit:  FEMA

FROM: FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY

FEMA Approves $156 Million in Individual Assistance for New York’s Sandy Survivors

Release date:
November 6, 2012
Release Number:

NEW YORK CITY — Since Hurricane Sandy struck New York a week ago, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has approved more than $156 million to help individuals and families recover from the disaster.

FEMA provides the following snapshot of the disaster recovery effort as of Nov. 6:
More than 123,000 New Yorkers have registered with FEMA for disaster assistance.
20 Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC) have been opened in the nine declared counties.
1,556 FEMA personnel deployed to New York in response to Hurricane Sandy.
More than 800 Community Relations (CR) specialists are strategically positioned throughout affected communities, going door to door explaining the types of disaster assistance available and how to register. More teams continue to arrive daily.
More than 1,000 inspectors in the field have completed more than 13,300 home inspections.
New York’s major disaster declaration was amended so that the nine declared counties are approved for all categories of Public Assistance, which includes reimbursement for eligible costs of emergency response services, debris removal and repairs to public infrastructure.
Individuals can register online at www.disasterassistance.gov or via web-enabled phone at m.fema.gov. Applicants may also call 1-800-621-3362 or (TTY) 1-800-462-7585. Those who use 711-Relay or Video Relay Services (VRS) should call 1-800-621-3362. The toll-free telephone numbers operate from 7 a.m.to 10 p.m. EDT seven days a week until further notice.

President Obama Wins Reelection - Find Results by State

President Obama Wins Reelection - Find Results by State

Larger numbers of the very large

Larger numbers of the very large

TRANSCOM IN SYNC



Army Maj. Charles Ward, U.S. Northern Command joint military operations officer with U.S. Transportation Command, mans his station in the Transcom Fusion Center Nov. 2, 2012, as Air Force Lt. Col. Ron Shouse checks a map location. U.S. Transportation Command photo by Bob Fehringer

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
From Afghanistan to Sandy, Transcom Synchronizes Support

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill., Nov. 6, 2012 - As Hurricane Sandy hurtled menacingly toward the New Jersey shore last week, the staff in U.S. Transportation Command's sprawling fusion center weren't resting on their laurels waiting for a call for help.

The center serves as the central point for synchronizing, collaborating, monitoring and executing Transcom's global transportation and distribution network, explained Air Force Col. Rob Brisson, who oversees its day-to-day operations.

The staff – more than 300 representatives from throughout Transcom, all 10 divisions within its J3 operations directorate, every service component, every other combatant command and several Defense Department agencies -- ensures the smooth, timely and uninterrupted flow of troops, equipment and supplies around the world, Brisson said.

Meanwhile, they keep a close eye on what's happening around the world to anticipate and prepare for the next requirement, even before a combatant commander has issued it. That, Brisson said, ranges from the drawdown in Afghanistan, an effort already begun and expected to intensify leading up to December 2014, to less predictable events such as Superstorm Sandy.

A recent visit to the classified fusion center proved to be a relatively "quiet day," by Transcom standards, Brisson said. Members of one of the largest divisions, dubbed "J3 East," peered into computer screens or gathered in small groups to discuss Transcom's highest operational priority: supporting the mission in Afghanistan.

As Transcom's Sustainment Division focuses on keeping deployed forces throughout Southwest Asia -- and around the globe -- supplied with everything from food to ammunition, the J3 East team concentrates on deployments and the daunting task of redeploying troops and their equipment, Brisson explained.

The J3 East team also has responsibility for planning Transcom support U.S. European Command, U.S. Africa Command and U.S. Special Operations Command.

Across the room, its sister division, "J3 West," is dedicated to planning transportation and logistics support to U.S. Northern Command, U.S. Southern Command, U.S. Pacific Command and U.S. Strategic Command.

Several of the division staff had been participating via computer in Exercise Global Thunder 2012. The annual Stratcom exercise, with an emphasis on nuclear command and control, is designed to train forces to deter, and if necessary, defeat a military attack on the United States.

But as a different kind of adversary – the largest Atlantic hurricane on record – roared north on a trajectory targeting New Jersey, J3 West's Northcom branch quickly turned its attention there.

Anticipating a role if the states turned to the federal government for help, Transcom already had stood up a joint planning team to project what Northcom might request. Based on past disaster responses, the team knew Transcom could be called on to do anything from providing airlift support to delivering military forces, supplies or water, distillation or sanitation capabilities, Brisson said.

"This is not just us back there going, 'What if?'" he said. "It is a bunch of people sitting back there, looking at lessons learned from the myriad of other hurricane support efforts that we have done, and putting together a coherent initial plan to provide support."

The order ultimately came down when the affected states turned to the Federal Emergency Management Agency, which in turn approached Northcom for U.S. military support. Based on its planning, Transcom already was ready to move out when Northcom issued the requirements.

The Air Force's Air Mobility Command, Transcom's airlift component, was called on beginning Oct. 31 to fly sorties in support of relief efforts, delivering personnel and equipment as well as Department of Health and Human Services personnel, reported Army Maj. Charles Ward, the Northcom joint mobility operations officer at Transcom.

Transcom's Joint Enabling Capabilities Element also deployed its Joint Public Affairs Support Element and Joint Communications Support Element.

As of today, Transcom has conducted 78 air missions, delivering more than 630 personnel and 3,000 short-tons of vehicles, equipment and relief supplies in support of relief operations, command officials reported. Included in Transcom's deliveries to the stricken region were about 200 line, bucket, drill, digger, pickup and work trucks; pump equipment and generators; and more than 30,000 blankets.

In addition to HHS employees, Transcom transported search-and-rescue, public utilities, and dewatering experts, as well as engineers and veterinarians, officials said. In addition, Air Mobility Command has postured aeromedical evacuation support forces for rapid deployment, if required.

"The value Transcom brings is that we maximize the pace of the response to alleviate suffering and help those affected get back to a normal state of life as soon as possible," Ward said.

As the fusion center's J3 West division focused on support for Super Storm Sandy and J3 East, on Centcom's ongoing requirements, the rest of the staff went about its daily business overseeing the rest of the massive Transcom mission around the world.

During any given day, they oversee operations as Transcom's organic and commercial partners move 26 ships and load and unload another nine ships. They conduct 100 railcar shipments, 2,000 truck cargo shipments, 2,000 household goods movements, 900 airlift sorties, 97 operational air refueling sorties, seven air evacuation sorties and 30 courier deliveries.

To Brisson and his staff, it's all in a day's work. "We do a lot around here. But you can see the enthusiasm behind it, and the fact that we are all very proud of what we do," he said. "We are the peaceful professionals who sit back behind the supported commander and do what we need to do to effect a mission that needs to get done."

NASA GOES PENGUIN

FROM: NASA
Penguin Beach
Members of the IceBridge team visited a colony of Magellanic penguins near Punta Arenas on a no-flight day.

NASA's Operation IceBridge is an airborne science mission to study Earth's polar ice. For more information about IceBridge, visit:
www.nasa.gov/icebridge

Image Credit-NASA-Maria-Jose Vinas

U.S. OFFICIAL ADDRESSES INTERPOL ON HUMAN TRAFFICKING AND TRANSNATIONAL ORGANIZED CRIME

FROM:  U.S. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE
Confronting Transnational Organized Crime and Human Trafficking in a Global Society

November 6th, 2012 Posted by Tracy Russo

On November 5th, Deputy Attorney General James M. Cole addressed the 81st INTERPOL Ministerial and General Assembly meeting in Rome, Italy. This gathering of INTERPOL member countries marked an important opportunity to recognize joint achievements, build relationships, discuss issues critical to our domestic and global security, and develop a path forward on international law enforcement.

Deputy Attorney General Cole noted the unprecedented level of cooperation between INTERPOL member countries which has led to the development of critical law enforcement tools of 24/7 communication, information sharing and coordinated responses. He also emphasized two important areas that would benefit greatly from INTERPOL’s continued leadership and support and member countries’ investment, vigilance and cooperation: Transnational Organized Crime and Human Trafficking.
"Transnational organized crime poses a significant and growing threat to the security of each of our nations (and citizens) and the international community as a whole. Not only are criminal networks expanding, but they are also diversifying their activities – with dire implications for public safety, public health, democratic institutions and, in this already tough economic climate, the financial stability of nations across the globe. The United Nations estimates that, in 2009, transnational organized criminal activities generated $870 billion in illegal proceeds – equivalent to almost 7 percent of world exports."
To respond to the threat of transnational organized crime, Deputy Attorney General Cole called for a "whole-of-government approach" focused on coordinating resources and expertise:
"We realized that law enforcement measures alone would not fully counter the threat of transnational organized crime. Included in this approach was: the work of our Department of the Treasury to impose financial sanctions on major transnational organized crime groups and individuals; and the work of our Department of State to deny entry to the United States to transnational criminal aliens and others who have been targeted for financial sanctions. As a direct result of these actions, five transnational organized crime groups that span the globe already have been subjected to these crippling financial sanctions."
Deputy Attorney General Cole also stressed the need for "enhanced global attention and a unified law enforcement response" to fight against human trafficking:
"One of the greatest horrors of this crime is that traffickers view their victims as nothing more than a commodity, something that can be bought and sold, or simply taken, and eventually discarded… This crime can take many forms. It is the young woman who moves to another country for the promise of a new life – but instead finds herself enslaved and repeatedly sold for sex. Or the child who ran away from home and finds herself in the same situation because, in desperate need, she accepted help from the wrong person."
Although the specific details may differ, these heinous crimes often have two common elements. First, human trafficking is hidden in plain sight – behind the veil of a prostitution offense, a domestic abuse incident, a physical or sexual assault, a labor dispute, or an immigration crime. Second, victims are often traumatized, and can be weary of – and reluctant to corporate with – law enforcement officials for fear of repercussions from their captors. This is why educating first responders about the factors that may indicate a potential human trafficking offense is a critical step in improving our ability to identify and help trafficking victims.

In front of an international audience, Deputy Attorney General Cole reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to preventing and fighting human trafficking in all of its forms. Last year, the department set a new record in the number of defendants charged in human trafficking cases. Additionally, over the last three years, there has been a 30 percent increase in the number of forced labor and human trafficking cases charged.

The United States has also partnered with law enforcement officials from Mexico and Ukraine, to Germany and Canada to dismantle sex traffic networks and successfully bring perpetrators behinds these crimes to justice. This work – which showcases the value of engaging in global partnerships to combat human trafficking –sends an unmistakable message: we will relentlessly pursue those who trade in the misery of other human beings and we will rescue their victims and bring the perpetrators to justice.

However, these efforts are only the beginning. To successfully combat human trafficking, as Deputy Attorney General said, "prosecution alone is not the answer," which is why we are bringing a renewed focus to preventative measures like:
Prevention through prosecution of trafficking rings before they can ensnare other victims;
prevention through deterrence so that our prosecutions dissuade others who may consider engaging in this crime;
prevention through public awareness; and, lastly,
prevention through the education of potential victims who, driven by fear, poverty, or lack of education, often unwittingly place their lives in the hands of exploitative traffickers.
No single country or law enforcement agency has the power, or the means, to tackle the global criminal enterprises we face. Only by communicating effectively, sharing intelligence and combining resources – within our own governments and with our law enforcement partners around the globe – can we truly understand current and emerging trends and build effective strategies to anticipate, combat and put an end to these crimes.