SEC CHARGES MICHIGAN BUSINESSMAN DEFRAUDED INVESTORS IN REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT SCHEME

Photo Credit:  U.S. National Guard.

FROM: U.S. SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
The Securities and Exchange Commission announced that it has obtained an emergency court order against a Bay City, Michigan-based real estate promoter, and that it has suspended trading in one of the promoter's companies, American Realty Funds Corporation.

According to the SEC's complaint, Joel I. Wilson defrauded investors who bought unregistered securities offered by his company, Diversified Group Partnership Management, LLC, and sold through his brokerage firm, W R Rice Financial Services, Inc. Wilson raised approximately $6.7 million from approximately 120 investors who bought Diversified Group's securities from September 2009 through October 2012, and used the funds to finance his business of buying, renovating, and selling houses in and around Bay City, the SEC alleged.

Although Wilson promised investors that he would invest their money in real estate that would yield returns of 9.9% per year, he used most of it to make unsecured loans to his real estate business, which did not generate enough income to repay the investors. Wilson also diverted $582,000 of investor money to pay personal expenses, including $75,000 he used to buy W R Rice Financial, $46,780 he spent on travel, and $35,000 for his wife's business. In addition, the SEC said Wilson used investors' money to pay for a sponsorship and tickets to the Saginaw Sting football team and to buy thousands of dollars worth of tickets to the Detroit Red Wings.

The SEC alleges that Wilson raised additional funds for his real estate business through stock sales for another of his companies, American Realty Funds Corporation, which trades on the OTC Bulletin Board under the symbol ANFDE. The complaint alleges that there were misrepresentations and omissions in some of the reports the company filed with the SEC, which Wilson signed, including that American Realty has failed to make loan payments and that its purportedly independent directors have undisclosed personal and business relationships with Wilson. American Realty is delinquent in filing its annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2012, which was due October 15, and its quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, which was due on November 14. Because of the questions concerning the accuracy of publicly disseminated information in the company's public filings and financial statements, the SEC issued an administrative order suspending trading in American Realty stock until 11:59 p.m. EDT on November 29, 2012.

The SEC's complaint, filed on November 15, 2012 in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan, charges Wilson and Diversified Group with violations of the registration and antifraud provisions of the federal securities laws and American Realty with violations of the antifraud and reporting provisions of the federal securities laws. The Court granted the SEC's request for an order prohibiting the defendants from altering or destroying documents and an order granting the parties leave to conduct expedited discovery. The Court scheduled a hearing on the SEC's motions for an asset freeze and preliminary injunction for December 10, 2012, at 10:00 a.m. at the U.S. District courthouse located at 1000 Washington Ave. in Bay City, Michigan.

THE ASEAN REGION AND MODERN SLAVERY

　
FROM: U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT

Addressing Modern Slavery in the ASEAN Region
Fact Sheet
Office To Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons
November 20, 2012
With its partners at home and around the world, the United States is committed to enhancing efforts to end human trafficking, a crime President Obama has called a "debasement of our common humanity…which must be called by its true name—modern slavery."

Together with the members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), and in partnership with civil society, the United States looks forward to enhancing regional efforts to protect and rehabilitate trafficking survivors, bring traffickers to justice, and raise awareness so that trafficking can be stopped before it starts.

During the ASEAN-U.S. Leaders’ Meeting, held in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, on November 19, 2012, President Obama and the 10 ASEAN heads of state agreed to improve cooperative efforts to tackle modern slavery, including the forced labor and sex trafficking of women, men, and children. The United States agreed to work with ASEAN members to harmonize legal frameworks in defining and prohibiting human trafficking, increase cross-border joint investigation, and build capacity for a standardized response to trafficking victims’ needs. To advance these objectives, the United States pledged $500,000 in technical assistance and training for ASEAN and its member states.

This new commitment complements these existing U.S. Government programs in the region:
In Cambodia, the United States works with the Royal Government of Cambodia and civil society to provide psychological support and other services to address trauma and other mental health needs of victims of sex and labor trafficking. Assistance also provides economic support to trafficking victims through training and job placement.
In the Philippines, the United States helps build the capacity of frontline service providers and funds victim support activities, which makes prosecution efforts more effective and increases conviction rates. The programs support awareness campaigns as well as comprehensive and integrated protective services to trafficking victims to ensure they gain new life skills and reduce their vulnerability to re-trafficking. In addition, the Partnership for Growth between the Philippines and the U.S. will promote inclusive growth that is focused on generating meaningful employment and income opportunities for the traditionally neglected segments of the population—those most vulnerable to human trafficking.
In Vietnam, U.S.-funded efforts have led to valuable research on victim protection and prosecution procedures, and key pilot projects have improved shelter conditions and services provided to victims.
In an anti-trafficking prevention effort across the region, USAID funds MTV-EXIT (End Exploitation and Trafficking), a global multimedia campaign. In Southeast Asia, the program raises awareness of trafficking among youth and vulnerable populations to prevent human trafficking in Cambodia, Indonesia, Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam, and will open in Burma in December through a public concert held in Rangoon’s People’s Square. Since 2006, MTV EXIT has produced 30 major concert events, 76 television and online programs, and dozens of outreach activities and has engaged over 700,000 regional youth. Beginning in late November, ASEAN and MTV Exit will host a Youth Session to provide training in social media to combat TIP and build regional networks to further enhance awareness. Read more at mtvexit.org/liveinmyanmar.

BURMA: This September, President Obama made a public commitment to enhancing the United States’ partnership with Burma on trafficking in persons, as part of our continued support for Burma’s ongoing reforms.

"Last week I was proud to welcome to the Oval Office not only a great champion of democracy but a fierce advocate against the use of forced labor and child soldiers—Aung San Suu Kyi. And as part of our engagement, we’ll encourage Burma to keep taking steps to reform—because nations must speak with one voice: Our people and our children are not for sale."

To honor this commitment, and in light of the progress made by the Government of Burma on combating trafficking in persons over the last two years, this week the Governments of the United States and Burma announced a new joint plan to counter trafficking in persons, which will include the establishment of a formal, senior-level dialogue. The United States is committed to enhancing Burma’s progress through the sharing of technical knowledge and best practices, heralding a new era of U.S.-Burma cooperation.

Areas of cooperation under the joint action plan include:
Identifying trafficking offenses;
Investigating and prosecuting trafficking offenders;
Providing victims with access to services in line with existing international guidelines; and
Preventing Burmese citizens from being subjected to sex trafficking or forced labor either within the country’s borders or abroad.

A BRIEF HISTORY OF THANKSGIVING

FROM: U.S. LIBRARY OF CONGRESS
 
Let’s Give Thanks
November 21, 2012
 by
Erin Allen

Thanksgiving is just a day away, and I’ve been noticing on Facebook, friends posting what they are thankful for this holiday season. Those statuses certainly have given me pause to count my own blessings.

First and foremost, I am thankful for my family, who, no matter how far away I am from them, help me stay grounded in where I came from. You can take the girl out of Mississippi, but you can’t take Mississippi out of the girl!

I’m thankful for roller derby. Yes, that may be a strange thing to say, but it’s through participation in this sport that I have not only found lifelong friends but also strength and courage to stick with something very challenging and really live up to the "never give up" mantra. There’s definitely a life lesson in that.

Last but certainly not least, I’m thankful for having the opportunity to really learn something new every day. Part of the mission of the Library of Congress is to further human understanding by providing access to knowledge through its amazing collections. I can honestly say that I really do take advantage of that. And, so can you. Currently, the Library makes freely available on its website more than 31 million items, from manuscripts and newspapers to films, sound recordings and photographs.

To bring it home in celebration of turkey, stuffing, pecan pie, a table full of friends and family and anything else you can think of that makes Thanksgiving special to you, here are some interesting facts I’ve learned about the holiday thanks to working here at the Library.

One could argue the first "thanksgiving" was actually celebrated In May 1541, when Spanish explorer Francisco Vasquez de Coronado and 1,500 men celebrated at the Palo Dur Canyon — located in the modern-day Texas Panhandle — after their expedition from Mexico City in search of gold. In 1959 the Texas Society Daughters of the American Colonists commemorated the event as the "first Thanksgiving."

Another "first Thanksgiving" occurred on June 30, 1564, when French Huguenot colonists celebrated in a settlement near Jacksonville, Fla. This "first Thanksgiving," was later commemorated at the Fort Carolina Memorial on the St. Johns River in eastern Jacksonville.

The harsh winter of 1609-1610 generated a famine that caused the deaths of 430 of the 490 settlers in Jamestown, Va. In the spring of 1610, the surviving colonists enjoyed a Thanksgiving service after English supply ships arrived with food. This colonial celebration has also beenconsidered the "first Thanksgiving."

Following the Revolutionary War, the Continental Congress recognized the need to give thanks for delivering the country from war and into independence. Congress issued a proclamation on October 11, 1782, which proclaimed the observation of Thursday the twenty-eight day of November next, as a day of solemn Thanksgiving to God for all his mercies."

Today, Thanksgiving is celebrated on the fourth Thursday in November. But that was not always the case.

When Abraham Lincoln was president in 1863, he proclaimed the last Thursday of November to be our national Thanksgiving Day. Newport native Sarah Josepha Hale had written a letter to President Lincoln in the midst of the Civil War, entreating him to make Thanksgiving an official national holiday

In 1865, Thanksgiving was celebrated the first Thursday of November, because of a proclamation by President Andrew Johnson, and, in 1869, President Ulysses S. Grant chose the third Thursday for Thanksgiving Day. In all other years, until 1939, Thanksgiving was celebrated as Lincoln had designated, the last Thursday in November. Then, in 1939, responding to pressure from the National Retail Dry Goods Association to extend the Christmas shopping season, President Franklin D. Roosevelt moved the holiday back a week, to the next-to-last Thursday of the month.

Weekly Address: Wishing the American People a Happy Thanksgiving | The White House

Weekly Address: Wishing the American People a Happy Thanksgiving | The White House

LEBANON'S INDEPENDENCE DAY

Map:  Lebanon.  Credit:  CIA World Factbook. 

FROM:  U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT
Lebanon's Independence Day
Press Statement
Hillary Rodham Clinton
Secretary of State
Washington, DC
November 21, 2012


On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I am delighted to send best wishes to the people of Lebanon as you celebrate the anniversary of your independence this November 22.

The United States strongly values its ties with the people of Lebanon, who have faced and overcome adversity time and again and committed to building a society based on religious diversity, democratic values, and security. As Lebanon contends with regional and internal challenges, we reaffirm our commitment to Lebanon’s independence, sovereignty, and stability.

We firmly believe that preserving a peaceful, prosperous, democratic, and stable Lebanon is essential for the security of the Lebanese people and for the region. I wish the people of Lebanon a happy independence day. We will continue to deepen cooperation between our countries and our institutions, as we help build a future defined by freedom, security, and prosperity.



Lebanon Locator Map.  Credit:  CIA World Factbook.

ADDITONAL INFORMATION FROM CIA WORLD FACTBOOK
Following World War I, France acquired a mandate over the northern portion of the former Ottoman Empire province of Syria. The French separated out the region of Lebanon in 1920, and granted this area independence in 1943. A lengthy civil war (1975-90) devastated the country, but Lebanon has since made progress toward rebuilding its political institutions. Under the Ta'if Accord - the blueprint for national reconciliation - the Lebanese established a more equitable political system, particularly by giving Muslims a greater voice in the political process while institutionalizing sectarian divisions in the government. Since the end of the war, Lebanon has conducted several successful elections. Most militias have been reduced or disbanded, with the exception of Hizballah, designated by the US State Department as a Foreign Terrorist Organization, and Palestinian militant groups. During Lebanon's civil war, the Arab League legitimized in the Ta'if Accord Syria's troop deployment, numbering about 16,000 based mainly east of Beirut and in the Bekaa Valley. Israel's withdrawal from southern Lebanon in May 2000 and the passage in September 2004 of UNSCR 1559 - a resolution calling for Syria to withdraw from Lebanon and end its interference in Lebanese affairs - encouraged some Lebanese groups to demand that Syria withdraw its forces. The assassination of former Prime Minister Rafiq HARIRI and 22 others in February 2005 led to massive demonstrations in Beirut against the Syrian presence ("the Cedar Revolution"), and Syria withdrew the remainder of its military forces in April 2005. In May-June 2005, Lebanon held its first legislative elections since the end of the civil war free of foreign interference, handing a majority to the bloc led by Sa'ad HARIRI, the slain prime minister's son. In July 2006, Hizballah kidnapped two Israeli soldiers leading to a 34-day conflict with Israel in which approximately 1,200 Lebanese civilians were killed. UNSCR 1701 ended the war in August 2006, and Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) deployed throughout the country for the first time in decades, charged with securing Lebanon's borders against weapons smuggling and maintaining a weapons-free zone in south Lebanon with the help of the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). The LAF in May-September 2007 battled Sunni extremist group Fatah al-Islam in the Nahr al-Barid Palestinian refugee camp, winning a decisive victory, but destroying the camp and displacing 30,000 Palestinian residents. Lebanese politicians in November 2007 were unable to agree on a successor to Emile LAHUD when he stepped down as president, creating a political vacuum until the election of LAF Commander Gen. Michel SULAYMAN in May 2008 and the formation of a new unity government in July 2008. Legislative elections in June 2009 again produced victory for the bloc led by Sa'ad HARIRI, but a period of prolonged negotiation over the composition of the cabinet ensued. A national unity government was finally formed in November 2009 and approved by the National Assembly the following month. Inspired by the popular revolts that began in late 2010 against dictatorships across the Middle East and North Africa, marches and demonstrations in Lebanon were directed instead against sectarian politics. Although the protests gained some traction, they were limited in size and unsuccessful in changing the system. Opposition politicians collapsed the national unity government under Prime Minister Sa'ad HARIRI in February 2011. After several months in caretaker status, the government named Najib MIQATI Prime Minister.

　

　

　

　

STATE MARIJUANA LAWS VS FEDERAL LAW AND UNIFORM CODE OF MILITARY JUSTICE

On election day, the state of Colorado voted to legalize marijuana; however, its use is still against federal law and the Uniform Code of Military Justice, even for service members stationed in the state. (U.S. Air Force graphic by Staff Sgt. Nicholas Rau)

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

Caution urged to service members after Colorado legalizes marijuana

by Staff Sgt. Nicholas Rau
460th Space Wing Public Affairs

11/16/2012 - BUCKLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- On election day, the state of Colorado voted to legalize marijuana; however, its use is still against federal law and the Uniform Code of Military Justice, even for service members stationed in the state.

This should come as no surprise to military members as the use of narcotics, in or out of uniform, is illegal. For family members and civilians with access to the base, they need to remember one crucial fact if they do participate in recreational marijuana use -- marijuana is not allowed on Buckley or any other military base.

"Once they cross over that threshold and enter a federal installation, they are under our jurisdiction and will be prosecuted," stated 1st Lt. David Bruton, 460th Security Forces Squadron acting commander. "There is no give, no fine line; it's black and white."

There are many scenarios that could place an Airman in the crossfire when it comes to marijuana exposure, especially now that there may be increased usage by civilians within the state. Military members should be continuously cautious of their surroundings and know when they're at a house where the drug is present, be aware if marijuana is baked into food, or realize when they are in an establishment that allows recreational use of the drug. All of these situations are potential pitfalls a service member could fall into if not careful, but Bruton offers advice to Team Buckley to stay out of trouble.

"Play it smart and just stay away from it," explained the 460th SFS acting commander. "Be aware of your surroundings and who you hang out with, because it is usually that other person that gets you in trouble."

The passing of the new amendment will have no affect on the Drug Demand Reduction Program, and random drug testing will continue as scheduled to ensure individuals are in compliance with the UCMJ.

"Amendment 64 does not change the UCMJ," said Chief Master Sgt. William Ward, 460th Space Wing command chief. "If our members are engaging in the use of marijuana and are found out through random urinalyses or other investigative means, I would expect commanders to bring the full force of the UCMJ. Marijuana use immediately jeopardizes their continued service in the United States Air Force."

With a drug that is federally illegal, tested for regularly and ends military careers, the best option is to simply avoid marijuana.

"You're saving yourself a lot of trouble by just staying away from it all together," stated Capt. Eric McCutchen, 460th Space Wing Judge Advocate Office chief of military justice.


　

TURKEY'S REQUEST FOR PATRIOT MISSILE SUPPORT CONSIDERED BY U.S. AND UN

Photo:  Turkey/Syria Coast.  Credit:   U.S. CIA World Factbook.

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

U.S., NATO Consider Turkey Request for Missile Support
By Claudette Roulo
American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Nov. 21, 2012 - The U.S. will work closely with its NATO allies to determine the best way to respond to a recent request from Turkey for Patriot missile support, a defense official said today.

Turkey is seeking to deploy the Patriot missiles along its southeastern border in an effort to de-escalate crisis conditions due to the civil war in neighboring Syria, NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen said in a statement.

"The deployment would be defensive only," Rasmussen said. "It will in no way support a no-fly zone or any offensive operation."

Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta said in a Nov. 15 Voice of America interview that the U.S. was talking with Turkey about the threats to its security. "Turkey is obviously facing a difficult situation as refugees pour into their country and they're threatened by the instability in Syria," he said.

"They have asked that we work with them to try to see what we can do to give them some missile defense capability," he continued. "And we are working with them. And our hope is that we can help provide that kind of assistance."

"If approved, the deployment would be undertaken in accordance with NATO's standing air defense plan," Rasmussen said. "It is up to the individual NATO countries that have available Patriots -- Germany, the Netherlands and the United States -- to decide if they can provide them for deployment in Turkey and for how long."

"We will remain in close dialogue with our NATO allies as we work through this request for support. We take Turkey's concerns very seriously," the defense official said.

SUCCESSFUL U.S.-UK TALKS IN NEW BOSTON ON OAKHANGER TRACKING STATION

Members of New Boston Air Force Station, N.H., Air Force Space Command and the United Kingdom’s Ministry of Defense held talks for the first time at NBAFS Nov. 7 and 8.

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
U.S., U.K. talks prove success at New Boston
by Staff Sgt. Robert Cloys
50th Space Wing Public Affairs

11/20/2012 - NEW BOSTON AIR FORCE STATION, N.H. -- For the first time, New Boston Air Force Station, New Hampshire, hosted talks with the United Kingdom's Ministry of Defense Nov. 7 and 8.

Twice a year for the past seven years, the United States, through Air Force Space Command, and the U.K. Ministry of Defense, met to discuss issues and the site status of Oakhanger Tracking Station, call sign LION. The talks typically alternate between Oakhanger and Air Force Space Command Headquarters at Peterson Air Force Base, Colo. After the spring 2012 talks in England however, the 23rd Space Operations Squadron volunteered to host the fall meetings.

LION is a geographically separated unit of the 23 SOPS who oversee operations, maintenance and facility support for the site.

The base is a British military installation with a U.S. military mission and is physically located in the village of Oakhanger, Hampshire, U.K. The site has conducted operations in support of the U.S. Air Force since 1978.

The unique partnership is mutually beneficial. The U.S. is able to strategically position its antennas, and in return, the U.K. is able to utilize those antennas to operate British communications satellites.

"The United Kingdom is one of our strongest partners and this relationship is very important to both countries," said Lt. Col. David Hanson, 23 SOPS commander. "Plus, it allows the U.K. to have access to space."

Topics covered at the talks included spectrum issues, support plan annexes, a five-year project outlook, site familiarization and finances. Attendees included Squadron Leader Dempster Hamilton, TCS Oakhanger base commander, Maj. Nate Case, the 23 SOPS operations officer assigned to LION and other notable distinguished visitors from both the U.S. and U.K.

"These discussions are integral to understanding and solving complex foreign relations, contracting, financing and general state of health issues at Oakhanger Tracking Station," said Hanson. "As LION is the busiest of the seven tracking stations in the AFSCN, it is important we continue to meet with our British counterparts to work through these issues and ensure operations and support functions continue to flourish."

　

　

RECENT U.S. NAVY PHOTOS

FROM: U.S. NAVY
Family members of Sailors assigned to the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) gather to greet the ship as it returns to Fleet Activities, Yokosuka. George Washington and embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 5 provide a combat-ready force that protects and defends the collective maritime interest of the U.S. and its allies and partners in the Asia-Pacific region. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Amanda S. Kitchner (Released) 121120-N-IY633-264

An F/A-18 Hornet launches from the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69). Dwight D. Eisenhower is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and support mission as part of Operation Enduring Freedom. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Nathanael Miller (Released) 121117-N-YX169-171

U.S. SECRETARY OF DEFENSE PANETTA'S THANKSGIVING DAY MESSAGE

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

Thanksgiving Day Message

As Written by Secretary of Defense Leon E. Panetta, The Pentagon, Wednesday, November 21, 2012

This week, as Americans everywhere gather to recount the blessings of freedom and prosperity that we enjoy as citizens of the greatest country on earth, I want to extend my deepest thanks to you, the men and women of the Department of Defense, and your families.

Whether serving in uniform or as a civilian, whether deployed abroad or stationed here at home, you are fighting and working every day to secure for all Americans the blessings that we celebrate on Thanksgiving. I hope that wherever you are, you take a moment on Thanksgiving to reflect on the vital role you play in defending our nation and our values, and take pride in the contribution you have made to help make America more safe and secure.

I know that for service members on deployment and for their families back home, this time of year is especially difficult to be away from loved ones. But I also know that what you are doing, on this day and every day, is making a profound difference for the country. America is blessed that there are those who are willing to fight and die for all of us, and I know that all Americans will keep you in their thoughts and prayers this Thanksgiving.

You give this country its spirit and strength, and you give me hope and confidence in a better future. We are thankful to God for his blessings on our nation, our families, and our men and women in uniform. Thank you again and best wishes for a Happy Thanksgiving to all.

U.S. PRESIDENT OBAMA THANKSGIVING DAY PROCLAMATIKON

 

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE,

President Issues Thanksgiving Day ProclamationAmerican Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 20, 2012 - "As we reflect on our proud heritage, let us also give thanks to those who honor it by giving back. This Thanksgiving, thousands of our men and women in uniform will sit down for a meal far from their loved ones and the comforts of home. We honor their service and sacrifice. We also show our appreciation to Americans who are serving in their communities, ensuring their neighbors have a hot meal and a place to stay," President Barack Obama said in his proclamation issued today declaring Nov. 22 as Thanksgiving Day.

The proclamation reads:

"On Thanksgiving Day, Americans everywhere gather with family and friends to recount the joys and blessings of the past year. This day is a time to take stock of the fortune we have known and the kindnesses we have shared, grateful for the God-given bounty that enriches our lives. As many pause to lend a hand to those in need, we are also reminded of the indelible spirit of compassion and mutual responsibility that has distinguished our Nation since its earliest days.

"Many Thanksgivings have offered opportunities to celebrate community during times of hardship. When the Pilgrims at Plymouth Colony gave thanks for a bountiful harvest nearly four centuries ago, they enjoyed the fruits of their labor with the Wampanoag tribe -- a people who had shared vital knowledge of the land in the difficult months before. When President George Washington marked our democracy's first Thanksgiving, he prayed to our Creator for peace, union, and plenty through the trials that would surely come. And when our Nation was torn by bitterness and civil war, President Abraham Lincoln reminded us that we were, at heart, one Nation, sharing a bond as Americans that could bend but would not break. Those expressions of unity still echo today, whether in the contributions that generations of Native Americans have made to our country, the Union our forebears fought so hard to preserve, or the providence that draws our families together this season.

"As we reflect on our proud heritage, let us also give thanks to those who honor it by giving back. This Thanksgiving, thousands of our men and women in uniform will sit down for a meal far from their loved ones and the comforts of home. We honor their service and sacrifice. We also show our appreciation to Americans who are serving in their communities, ensuring their neighbors have a hot meal and a place to stay. Their actions reflect our age-old belief that we are our brothers' and sisters' keepers, and they affirm once more that we are a people who draw our deepest strength not from might or wealth, but from our bonds to each other.

"On Thanksgiving Day, individuals from all walks of life come together to celebrate this most American tradition, grateful for the blessings of family, community, and country. Let us spend this day by lifting up those we love, mindful of the grace bestowed upon us by God and by all who have made our lives richer with their presence.

"NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim Thursday, November 22, 2012, as a National Day of Thanksgiving. I encourage the people of the United States to join together -- whether in our homes, places of worship, community centers, or any place of fellowship for friends and neighbors -- and give thanks for all we have received in the past year, express appreciation to those whose lives enrich our own, and share our bounty with others."

EXPEDITION 33 LANDS IN KAZAKHSTAN

FROM: NASA

Expedition 33 Lands in the Snowy Steppe of Kazakhstan
Expedition 33 Commander Suni Williams and Flight Engineers Aki Hoshide and Yuri Malenchenko undocked from the International Space Station in their Soyuz TMA-05M spacecraft at 5:26 p.m. EST Sunday Nov. 18, 2012. The trio landed just before sunrise in the snowy steppe of Kazakhstan at 8:56 p.m. Sunday (7:56 a.m. Monday, Kazakhstan time).
Credti-NASA/ISS

U.S. UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE WEEKLY CLAIMS REPORT FOR WEEK ENDING NOVEMBER 17, 2012

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF LABOR

SEASONALLY ADJUSTED DATA


In the week ending November 17, the advance figure for seasonally adjusted initial claims was 410,000, a decrease of 41,000 from the previous week's revised figure of 451,000. The 4-week moving average was 396,250, an increase of 9,500 from the previous week's revised average of 386,750.

The advance seasonally adjusted insured unemployment rate was 2.6 percent for the week ending November 10, unchanged from the prior week's unrevised rate. The advance number for seasonally adjusted insured unemployment during the week ending November 10 was 3,337,000, a decrease of 30,000 from the preceding week's revised level of 3,367,000. The 4-week moving average was 3,285,000, an increase of 19,500 from the preceding week's revised average of 3,265,500.
UNADJUSTED DATA
The advance number of actual initial claims under state programs, unadjusted, totaled 397,671 in the week ending November 17, a decrease of 80,872 from the previous week. There were 440,157 initial claims in the comparable week in 2011.

The advance unadjusted insured unemployment rate was 2.3 percent during the week ending November 10, unchanged from the prior week's unrevised rate. The advance unadjusted number for persons claiming UI benefits in state programs totaled 2,926,884, a decrease of 36,314 from the preceding week. A year earlier, the rate was 2.7 percent and the volume was 3,374,259.

The total number of people claiming benefits in all programs for the week ending November 3 was 5,241,296, an increase of 244,125 from the previous week. There were 6,728,664 persons claiming benefits in all programs in the comparable week in 2011.

Extended Benefits were only available in New York during the week ending November 3.

Initial claims for UI benefits filed by former Federal civilian employees totaled 2,076 in the week ending November 10, an increase of 532 from the prior week. There were 2,801 initial claims filed by newly discharged veterans, an increase of 152 from the preceding week.

There were 19,368 former Federal civilian employees claiming UI benefits for the week ending November 3, an increase of 968 from the previous week. Newly discharged veterans claiming benefits totaled 39,603, an increase of 671 from the prior week.

States reported 2,156,363 persons claiming EUC (Emergency Unemployment Compensation) benefits for the week ending November 3, an increase of 60,758 from the prior week. There were 2,896,640 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 November 3 were in Alaska (5.1), Puerto Rico (3.8), New Jersey (3.6), Virgin Islands (3.5), Connecticut (3.4), Pennsylvania (3.3), California (3.2), New York (3.1), Oregon (3.1), Arkansas (2.8), Nevada (2.8), and West Virginia (2.8).

The largest increases in initial claims for the week ending November 10 were in New York (+43,956), New Jersey (+31,094), California (+24,693), Pennsylvania (+7,037), and Connecticut (+1,808), while the largest decreases were in Ohio (-4,996), Indiana (-877), Arkansas (-665), Massachusetts (-607), and Maryland (-576).

U.S. Department of State Daily Press Briefing - November 21, 2012

Daily Press Briefing - November 21, 2012

HORMATS MAKES REMARKS AT WORLD WILDLIFE FUND FULLER SYMPOSIUM ON WILDLIFE CRIME

Photo Credit:  CIA World Factbook.

FROM: U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT
Remarks: World Wildlife Fund: Fuller Symposium on Wildlife Crime

Remarks
Robert D. Hormats
Under Secretary for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment
National Geographic Grosvenor Auditorium
Washington, DC
November 14, 2012
(as prepared)
Thank you Ginette for inviting me to speak today at this wonderful event. Thank you and the World Wildlife Fund for your inspiration and leadership on this issue, and thank you to the Fuller Symposium for hosting this important event.

The issue of the illegal slaughter and trafficking in wildlife is one that has personally captivated and increasingly enraged me. I appreciate the opportunity to talk with you today about the efforts the State Department is making.

Our aims are: to raise the profile and political will to address wildlife slaughter and trafficking, to raise awareness through our public diplomacy efforts, to enhance enforcement and training action, and to develop strategic partnerships to eliminate wildlife slaughter and trafficking and the criminality it represents.

As you've heard from the experts earlier today - wildlife slaughter and trafficking is escalating in scale and sophistication. It is more organized, more lucrative, and more dangerous than ever before. While the full statistics for 2012 are not in yet, CITES reports three of the five largest annual ivory seizures on record were 2011, 2010, and 2009. Additionally 2012 does not look better. We have seen single incidents where hundreds of elephant are slaughtered at a time. The situation for rhinos is also exceedingly grim.

This has to stop. Massive poaching is compromising the future of some of these species and the associated ecosystems. It is also quite likely a source of financing for transnational criminal networks, and possibly even terrorist groups. This undermines the stability, security, and economic opportunities for communities in many countries around the world. These in turn undermine the ability to govern in nascent democracies or fragile states.

During our trip to Africa this summer, Secretary Clinton and I heard firsthand about the challenges South Africa that is facing. And before I joined her in South Africa, I received similar information in Botswana and Namibia, although so far they have not encountered the kind of slaughter now taking place in South Africa and other parts of that continent.

Many other African countries are dealing with major slaughter and border incursions as well. Many are having to militarize their national parks in order to defend these animals and maintain control over these vast lands. The poachers have access to more sophisticated tools, like night-vision goggles, AK-47s, and helicopters, leaving park rangers often outmanned and outgunned. There have been retaliatory killings of park rangers for protecting these animals. Upwards of one hundred park rangers are killed annually. With the prices for elephant ivory and rhino horn soaring, the financial incentive to commit these crimes is growing. The high prices in turn fuel the engine of corruption that keeps the illegal enterprise thriving.

Hearing these problems from the highest levels of Southern African leadership - following similar alerts from NGOs with whom we have spoken over the last couple of years, including, of course, WWF- were the wake-up calls that led to unprecedented levels of attention at the State Department.

Secretary Clinton and I returned from the trip seized with this issue, and both of us were inspired by what we heard and really angered by these horrible criminal acts. We and our colleagues developed the "Conservation Matters" Strategy at the State Department, which lays out a four pronged approach.

First, we are working to raise the level of political attention and political will to combat wildlife slaughter and trafficking through our diplomatic engagement in multilateral and in bilateral relationships. Quite frankly, this issue so far has not garnered the appropriate attention at the highest levels.

At APEC in Vladivostok in September 2012, we were successful in getting language into the Leaders' Statement and the outcome document. President Obama and Secretary Clinton will also look to advance this issue in the East Asia Summit meeting next week, November 19, in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. In addition to the formal multilateral engagement, Under Secretary Maria Otero, for Civilian Security, Democracy, and Human Rights, and I recently hosted a roundtable with many ambassadors here in Washington. We used this dialogue to identify our common challenges and to look at efforts that governments can take to combat the trafficking. This was a good first step in looking at how harmonizing and coordinating our actions can address this problem.

And, as many of you know, last week, Secretary Clinton hosted "Wildlife Trafficking and Conservation: A Call to Action." Secretary Clinton appealed for governments, the private sector, and NGOs to work together urgently to eliminate wildlife trafficking.

So, as you can see, we are making good headway in using our diplomatic engagement to advance the political will to address this issue. We will continue to advance these issues through the CITES 40th Anniversary in March, and beyond. But clearly this is just the beginning.

Our second goal is to raise public awareness. Stemming from the Secretary's Event, I have had the opportunity to meet with press from a variety of international media outlets. This will help to get our message out to many audiences in Asia and Africa. I know many of you have been doing this for a long time.

To further public awareness, we have designated December 4 as "Wildlife Conservation Day." We are asking our embassies around the world to host events and to use all of the tools at their disposal, including social media, to raise awareness with partner governments, NGOs, and the private sector. I will be in Beijing, and will work with our partners there and our embassy to do several events, including one with the Chinese NGOs, as part of Wildlife Conservation Day.

We are looking to the youth to take on this issue and use social media tools to spread the message that consuming endangered wildlife parts is not a "cool" thing to do, or the right or moral thing to do. Social status, in some cases, is driving upswings in consumption - we need to address this demand head on. We need to make sure that people realize that it is not acceptable – and indeed, highly immoral - to buy and consume these products.

The recent NGO survey suggesting that 70% of Chinese consumers think that elephants are not slaughtered for their ivory is shocking – and needs to be corrected.

There are many other misconceptions out there that are quite horrendous, such as - rhino horn can cure cancer. We must address these through education and awareness campaigns.

Our efforts here are a good first step, but we really need trusted local voices to amplify this message in high-demand countries. We will work with other countries to do this.

Our third goal is to strengthen law enforcement capacity through training. We have a number of successful existing efforts underway, and we are building on these. We provide multilateral, regional law enforcement training through the International Law Enforcement Academy (ILEA) in Gabarone and Bangkok. We also provide bilateral training to improve investigation and prosecution of wildlife crimes. The Wildlife Enforcement Networks (WENs) are good models for regional cooperation on enforcement and prosecution. Central Africa, and the Horn of Africa are taking promising steps to build up this type of cooperation to improve enforcement.

Last week, we committed $100,000 to support the establishment of a global system of regional wildlife enforcement networks. This effort will leverage the respective strengths of each affiliate to improve communication, enforcement and prosecutorial capabilities. It will also help to reduce demand for illegally traded wildlife and wildlife products. We believe the Global System should have a strong technological component, taking advantage of new and innovative technologies to improve communication and information sharing. These are just some of the programs we have underway, and we will look for opportunities to enhance these and other efforts.

This brings me to the final aspect of our strategy - working with partners. We support the expansion and strengthening of existing partnerships, such as the Coalition Against Wildlife Trafficking (CAWT), to engage governments, civil society, and the private sector to combat wildlife crime. We are working with the transportation industry, NGO’s, and relevant organizations to develop best practices to prevent the illegal transport of wildlife and wildlife products. We look forward to other partnerships moving forward.

For me, protecting wildlife is a very personal issue and a deeply moral issue. I spent a year in Kenya and Tanzania as a graduate student, where I experienced the spectacular beauty of wild animals in magnificent national parks such as Amboseli, Maasai Mara, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro. That's why I'm especially appalled - on a very personal level - by the horrendous pace, scale, and violence associated with wildlife crime.

We all, collectively, share a moral and political responsibility to protect the worlds’ wildlife, to be good stewards of our planet, and to support the development and security of countries suffering from wildlife slaughter and trafficking. That's why wildlife conservation and anti-trafficking are foreign policy priorities for the Department of State. Our governments and citizens cannot afford to stand idle while poachers and wildlife traffickers hunt down and kill elephants, rhinos, tigers, bears, or any threatened species.

We need to show collective outrage against wildlife crimes to galvanize bold, comprehensive, worldwide action. Let’s call it what it is – organized crime against these majestic animals, against dedicated wildlife rangers, the many countries where these animals live, and against future generations. None of us is doing enough. Secretary Clinton's meeting last week was a call to action to work harder, and to work together.

We can put an end to wildlife crime by supporting the efforts of governments whose animals and rangers fall victim to poachers: by strengthening and strictly enforcing laws against poaching and wildlife trafficking; by educating our citizens about the horrors of poaching; and by encouraging them to stop buying ivory, rhino horns, animal skins, exotic birds, and other endangered animals and their products.

Anything less than bold and comprehensive efforts will result in further decimation of nature's magnificent legacy to our planet. That would be the world's loss and our generation's shame.

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN FOR NOVEMBER 21, 2012

Photo:  Harrier Jet In Afghanistan.  Credit:  U.S. DOD 

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
Combined Force Kills Several Insurgents

From an International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Release

KABUL, Afghanistan, Nov. 21, 2012 - An Afghan and coalition security force killed several insurgents during a search for a high-ranking Taliban leader and weapons facilitator in Afghanistan's Logar province today, military officials reported.

As the security force approached the Taliban leader's location, multiple insurgents armed with rocket-propelled grenades and small arms attacked the force, officials said.

The security force returned fire, killing several insurgents and defeating the attack. The security force also detained one suspect and seized several RPGs and a large quantity of assault rifles as a result of the operation.

In other Afghanistan operations today:
-- A combined force arrested five insurgents during a search for a Taliban weapons and lethal aid facilitator in Nimroz province.

-- In Khost province, a combined force arrested a Haqqani leader and weapons supplier, detained three other suspects and seized improvised explosive device-making materials, RPG equipment, ammunition, and firearms. The detained Haqqani leader is believed to be responsible for conducting convoy and IED attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.

In operations yesterday:
-- A combined force killed Taliban leader Saifullah in Ghazni province. Saifullah, also known as Allah Dad, was responsible for ensuring freedom of movement for Taliban fighters to gather intelligence and conduct indirect-fire and IED attacks against Afghan and coalition personnel. Prior to his death, Saifullah was involved in an IED attack against Afghan National Security Forces.

In Nov. 19 operations:
-- In Kandahar province, a combined force killed several insurgents, detained one suspect and seized weapons, ammunition and equipment including several AK-47 rifles.

-- A combined force seized 660 pounds of wet opium and detained one insurgent in Daykundi province.

U.S. DEFENSE SECRETARY PANETTA ADRESSES STEPS TO END THE AL-QAEDA THREAT

Photo Credit:  U.S. Department Of Defense.

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

Panetta Details Steps Needed to End Al-Qaeda Threat
By Cheryl Pellerin
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 20, 2012 - For the United States and its allies, ending the al-Qaida threat calls for a modified military footprint, close work with partners, and continued U.S. involvement in regions of the world where violent extremism has flourished, Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta said tonight.

Addressing a large audience here at the Center for a New American Security, the secretary discussed significant national security challenges and opportunities ahead.

He also outlined priorities that characterize the approaching end of the longest period of sustained armed conflict in the nation's history.

The priorities, Panetta said, are fighting the war against al-Qaida and its affiliates, ending the war in Afghanistan, implementing the new defense strategy, meeting fiscal responsibilities, countering nuclear proliferation, improving cybersecurity, achieving greater energy security, implementing the Asia-Pacific rebalance, and taking care of service members, veterans and military families.

"But tonight I wanted to focus on the goal that still remains at the top of the priority list, as it must. That goal that the president made very clear -- that we have a responsibility to disrupt, degrade, dismantle and ultimately defeat those who attacked America on 9/11 -- al-Qaida," the secretary said.

" ... To protect Americans at home and overseas," he added, "we need to continue to pursue al-Qaida wherever they go, whatever form they take, wherever they seek to hide. We must be constantly vigilant, we must be constantly determined to pursue this enemy."

What will it take, he asked, to achieve the end of al-Qaida?

The essential first step is to finish the job that the United States and its coalition partners began in Afghanistan, he said, "and we are on track to do that."

As the United States and its NATO partners agreed at the 2010 summit in Lisbon, Panetta said, Afghans must be responsible for their own security by the end of 2014.

This transition will require continued commitment by the international community and the United States to help Afghan forces achieve this goal, he added.

"We have come too far. We have invested too much blood and treasure not to finish the job," the secretary said. "There are no shortcuts, nor can we afford to turn away from this effort when we are so close to achieving success and preventing al-Qaida from ever returning to this historic epicenter for violent extremism."

In Afghanistan and Pakistan, prolonged military and intelligence operations have significantly weakened al-Qaida, Panetta said.

The terrorist group's most effective leaders are gone, its command and control has been degraded and its safe haven is shrinking, he added, but al-Qaida remains.

"We have slowed the primary cancer but we know that the cancer has also metastasized to other parts of the global body," the secretary said. Two examples of that spreading al-Qaida presence are Yemen and Somalia.

In Yemen, for example, the capabilities of al-Qaida in the Arabian Peninsula, or AQAP, are growing. This group has targeted the United States for attack and sowed violence and chaos in Yemen itself, Panetta said.

"We have struck back in an effort to disrupt and dismantle this group through a very close partnership with the government of Yemen ... and the Yemenese themselves," he added.

In Somalia, against the militant group al-Shaabab, progress also has been made, the secretary said, "in large part because of an effective partnership between the United States and the African Union Mission in Somalia."

But the challenge is far from over, Panetta said.

"President [Barack] Obama has made clear, we will fight not just through military means but by harnessing every element of American power -- military, intelligence, diplomatic, law enforcement, financial, economic and above all the power of our values as Americans," the secretary said.

The second step in achieving the end of al-Qaida, Panetta said, involves maintaining pressure on al-Qaida in Pakistan, on AQAP in Yemen, and on al-Qaida-associated forces in Somalia.

That means degrading the terrorists' senior leadership, dismantling their organizational capabilities, remaining vigilant to ensure the threat does not reconstitute, and working to build the capacity of U.S. partners, including Pakistan, to confront these shared threats, he added.

"Despite challenges in the bilateral relationship between the United States and Pakistan," the secretary said, "one area in which our national interests continue to align is defeating the terrorists on Pakistan soil that threaten both of us. We remain committed to pursuing defense cooperation based on these shared interests."

A third step is to prevent the emergence of new safe havens for al-Qaida elsewhere in the world that the group could use to attack the United States or its interests, he said.

"The last decade of war has shown that coordinated efforts to share intelligence, to conduct operations with partners, are critical to making sure that al-Qaida has no place to hide," Panetta told the audience.

"We will expand these efforts, including through support and partnership with governments in transition in the Middle East and North Africa," he added.

"This campaign against al-Qaida will largely take place outside declared combat zones, using a small-footprint approach that includes precision operations, partnered activities with foreign special operations forces, and capacity building so that partner countries can be more effective in combating terrorism on their own," the secretary said.

DOD will work whenever possible with local partners, he added, supporting them with intelligence and resources they need to deter common threats.

In Mali for example, Panetta said, "we are working with our partners in Western Africa who are committed to countering the emerging threat to regional stability posed by AQIM."

A fourth step needed to bring an end to al-Qaida involves investing in the future, he added, in new military and intelligence capabilities and security partnerships.

"Our new defense strategy makes clear -- the military must retain and even build new counterterrorism capabilities for the future," Panetta said.

As the size of the military shrinks, for example, special operations will continue to ramp up, growing from 37,000 members on 9/11 to 64,000 today and 72,000 by 2017, the secretary noted.

"We are expanding our fleet of Predator and Reaper [unmanned aerial vehicles] over what we have today. These enhanced capabilities will enable us to be more flexible and agile against a threat that has grown more diffuse," Panetta said.

"We are also continuing to invest in building partner capacity, including through Section 1206 authority to train and equip foreign military forces. Our new Global Security Contingency Fund has been very helpful in placing new emphasis on cultivating regional expertise in the ranks," the secretary added.

A final point that too often takes a backseat to operations against al-Qaida, Panetta said, is how to prevent extremist ideologies from attracting new recruits.

"Over the past decade we have successfully directed our military and intelligence capabilities at fighting terrorism," he added. "And yet we are still struggling to develop an effective approach to address the factors that attract young men and women to extreme ideologies, and to ensure that governments and societies have the capacity and the will to counter and reject violent extremism."

To truly end the threat from al-Qaida, the secretary said, "military force aimed at killing our enemy alone will never be enough. The United States must stay involved and invested through diplomacy, through development, through education, through trade in those regions of the world where violent extremism has flourished."

This means continued engagement in Pakistan, he added, and following through on U.S. commitments to Afghanistan's long-term stability.

Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton has outlined a comprehensive strategy for North and West Africa that combines security assistance and economic development, strengthens democratic institutions and advances political reforms, Panetta said.

" ... We will be vigilant and we will posture our military and intelligence forces to prevent and if necessary respond to threats of violence against our interests throughout the Middle East and North Africa, including threats against our embassies and consulates, and our diplomats themselves," the secretary said.

"But to truly protect America, we must sustain and in some areas deepen our engagement in the world –- our military, intelligence, diplomatic and development efforts are key to doing that," he added.

Pursuing an isolationist path, the secretary said, "would make all of us less safe in the long-term."

"This is not a time for retrenchment. This is not a time for isolation. It is a time for renewed engagement and partnership in the world," Panetta said.

EARNING COMBAT SKILLS

Airmen assigned to the 606th Air Control Squadron based at Spangdahlem, Germany, carry simulated casualties to a safe location during combat readiness training, Nov. 15, 2012. U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Dillon Davis

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

Face of Defense: Airmen Practice Vital Combat Skills
By Air Force Staff Sgt. Nathanael Callon
52nd Fighter Wing
SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany, Nov. 21, 2012 - Crack! Crack! Crack!

Excitement and confusion whirled across the base camp, as gunfire echoed through the tents and airmen scrambled to find cover.

The airmen peered out from the safety of makeshift bunkers as they searched for the source of the sounds.

Reports flooded across the radio of a team outside the wire with an unconscious young captain in tow.

"Get positive control of the casualty and return to base immediately," the voice on the radio commanded.

Just then, the alarm for incoming mortar fire sounded, and the airmen outside the perimeter hit the ground and braced for an explosion.

The cold, soggy ground quickly turned to mud and the wind managed to cut through the bundles of layers, uniforms and chemical protective gear they wore. Water engulfed one poor airman as he dove for the ground and landed in a puddle of water, the cold of which he would have to endure for the next 12 hours.

Although this was a controlled scenario and not an actual combat environment, airmen from the 606th Air Control Squadron here spent 72 hours braving the frigid German weather and spending every minute of it guarding their base to prepare them for the real thing.

The exercise prepares the airmen for the worst, said Air Force Staff Sgt. Robert Messing, a Bremerton, Wash., native who runs the combat readiness training course these airmen experienced.

The course combined two weeks of classroom instruction with three days of practical exercise. The trainees set up a base camp and defended it at all costs, surviving scenario after scenario featuring mock enemy combatants.

"They can set up in the middle of nowhere, deploy a radar site and have to defend their own base," Messing said.

The field exercise requires participants to apply the lessons they've learned in the classroom over the past two weeks. They must react to exercise challenges by implementing the proper use of force, securing unexploded ordnance and being aware of their surroundings.

The field exercise is designed to overwhelm the trainees, creating a sort of stress inoculation, Messing said. It is also unique because the 606th has many airmen in support roles who normally would not experience combat or austere deployments.

"Not everyone gets training like security forces, but when these airmen come to an [air control squadron] you have to learn how to fight and defend" against the enemy, he said. "If they can survive here with what we throw at them, they have a better chance when the real thing happens."

The 606th is a rapidly deployable unit that can quickly pack up and convoy to any location in the European theater to set up radar sites and control air assets from strategic remote locations. Because the unit is self-sufficient, it needs everyone at the same combat readiness level. Every new member must complete the training.

Air Force Staff Sgt. Amanda Bailey, a data systems technician from Cocoa Beach, Fla., said she's never experienced training like this, but she enjoyed working with other airmen from around the squadron.

Bailey said she learned critical combat skills.

"You're going to mess up, but the beauty of it is that it's a controlled learning environment," she said.

F-35 BEGINS INTEGRATION PHASE OF WEAPONS TEESTING

An F-35A Lightning II joint strike fighter from the 33rd Fighter Wing at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., and an F-22A Raptor from the 43rd Fighter Squadron at Tyndall Air Force Base, Fla., soar over the Emerald Coast Sept. 19, 2012. This was the first time the two fifth-generation fighters have flown together for the Air Force. (U.S. Air Force photo/Master Sgt. Jeremy T. Lock)

FROM:  U.S. AIR FORCE
F-35 begins integration phase of weapons testing

by Laura Mowry and Jess Lozano
412th Test Wing Public Affairs and 461st Flight Test Squadron


11/20/2012 - EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. (AFNS) -- The F-35 Lighting II, Joint Strike Fighter began the integration phase of weapons testing Oct. 26, when the F-35A Conventional Takeoff and Landing aircraft successfully completed the first in-flight test with an AIM-120 Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missile.

It was the first time a weapon communicated with the aircraft during flight using a data link.

The program's milestone rounded out a successful month of flight test for the program, which also included inert weapons separation tests of both the AMRAAM and Joint Direct Attack Munition.

"In October, we were able to begin weapons separation testing with the JDAM and AMRAAM," said Col. Roderick L. Cregier, 412th Test Wing, F-35 program manager. "We proved we can carry them safely and that the shapes, which matched the exact mass properties of the real weapons, could separate from the aircraft safely. Now, with the integration testing, we've initially proved the aircraft can talk to the weapon and that the weapon can talk to the aircraft."

Prior to Oct. 26, mass models with no internal electronics were used during all F-35 weapons testing. The AIM-120 AMRAAM used during the integration test contained the same electronics as a full-up missile, but without the rocket motor.

"The program is doing very well in meeting its goals after it was rebaselined in 2010," said Cregier. "I'm very proud of the team, even though testing was incredibly complex and difficult, the hard work of the team enabled it to happen relatively smoothly without any serious glitches that would delay the program. We just pressed right on through with great success and we're ready for the next phase."

Successful integration testing, along with the safe separation releases in October, means that the F-35 Integrated Test Force can continue progressing towards the weapon delivery accuracy test phase and live fire testing scheduled to begin in early 2013.

"This was a very important milestone to get us over that hump, to move on to the next phase of the program, which is going to start very soon," said Cregier. "This success was critical, now what we're doing is putting the teeth into the F-35. It's important that the jet can meet all the corners of its envelope, but what we're really designing it to do is employ weapons.

Starting in February and continuing through the end of April, the team is anticipating releasing roughly two weapons per week, said Cregier.

"This is going to be just the beginning of what I would characterize as the most ambitious weapons integration program in the history of tactical aircraft," he said.

The F-35A is designed to carry a payload of up to 18,000 pounds using 10 weapon stations. The F-35A features four internal weapon stations located in two weapon bays to maximum stealth capability. The CTOL aircraft can also utilize an additional three weapon stations per wing if required.


　

Remarks by Secretary Panetta at the Center for a New American Security, Washington, D.C.

Remarks by Secretary Panetta at the Center for a New American Security, Washington, D.C.

European Space Agency United Kingdom (EN) Update

European Space Agency United Kingdom (EN) Update

U.S. ALARMED BY SITUATION IN EASTERN DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

UN Building In Vienna.  Credit:  Wikimedia Commons.

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE

Security Situation in Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo
Press Statement
Victoria Nuland
Department Spokesperson, Office of the Spokesperson
Washington, DC
November 20, 2012

The United States is gravely alarmed by the rapid deterioration of the security situation in eastern DRC. We condemn the renewed military campaign by the M23 rebel group, which is an affront to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the DRC and in violation of international law. We call for a ceasefire, and for the M23 to return Goma to DRC authorities and pull back to their July positions.

We call upon all states to use their influence on the M23 to bring about an immediate end to the hostilities. We urge Presidents Kabila, Kagame, and Museveni to engage in a direct and honest dialogue in pursuit of a political resolution to the immediate hostilities. We believe it is critical that any resolution to the crisis include holding the M23 leadership accountable for their human rights abuses and violations of international humanitarian law.

We underscore our support for the UN Security Council’s November 17 statement. We support the Council’s call for additional sanctions against the M23 leadership and its demand that any and all outside support and supplying of equipment to the M23 cease immediately.

We underscore the importance of a long-term solution to the instability in the eastern DRC. A durable solution will require security sector reform in the DRC and political dialogue with Rwanda and Uganda and the other relevant states in the region to address the root causes of the crisis.

TWO PLEAD GUILTY FOR ROLES IN $63 MILLION HEALTH CARE SCHEME

Miami Prison.  Credit:  U.S. Federal Bureau Of Prisons

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE
Tuesday, November 20, 2012

Two Plead Guilty in Miami for Roles in $63 Million Mental Health Care Fraud Scheme

Two Health Care Professionals Pleaded Guilty This Week for Roles in Multi-State Scheme

WASHINGTON –A registered nurse pleaded guilty today and a former program coordinator pleaded guilty yesterday in connection with a health care fraud scheme involving defunct health provider Health Care Solutions Network Inc. (HCSN), announced Assistant Attorney General Lanny A. Breuer of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Wifredo A. Ferrer of the Southern District of Florida; Michael B. Steinbach, Acting Special Agent-in-Charge of the FBI’s Miami Field Office; and Special Agent-in-Charge Christopher B. Dennis of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG), Office of Investigations Miami office.

John Thoen, 53, of Miami, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Cecilia M. Altonaga in the Southern District of Florida to one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud and one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering. Alexandra Haynes, 36, of Taylor, S.C., pleaded guilty yesterday before Judge Altonaga to one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud in the same case.

According to court documents, HCSN operated community mental health centers (CMHC) at three locations Miami-Dade County, Fla., and one location in Hendersonville, N.C. HCSN purported to provide partial hospitalization program (PHP) services to individuals suffering from mental illness. A PHP is a form of intensive treatment for severe mental illness.

According to an indictment unsealed on May 2, 2012, HCSN obtained Medicare beneficiaries to attend HCSN for purported PHP treatment that was unnecessary and, in many instances, not even provided. HCSN obtained those beneficiaries in Miami by paying kickbacks to owners and operators of assisted living facilities.

According to court documents, Thoen was a licensed registered nurse in both Florida and North Carolina. In Florida, Thoen participated in the admission to HCSN of patients who were ineligible for PHP services. Thoen participated in the routine fabrication of patient medical records that were utilized to support false and fraudulent billing to government sponsored health care benefit programs, including Medicare and Medicaid.

In North Carolina, Thoen, according to court documents, routinely submitted fraudulent PHP claims for Medicare patients who were not even present at the CMHC on days PHP services were purportedly rendered. Thoen also caused the submission of fraudulent Medicare claims on days the CMHC was closed due to snow.

Thoen also admitted to his role in a money laundering scheme, involving Psychiatric Consulting Network Inc. (PCN), a Florida corporation that was utilized by HCSN as a shell corporation to launder health care fraud proceeds. According to court documents, Thoen was president of PCN.

According to court documents, Haynes was employed in Miami as an intake specialist and routinely fabricated patient medical records. In North Carolina, Haynes was employed as a program coordinator and conducted group therapy sessions and fabricated corresponding group therapy notes even though she was not licensed to provide mental health services in the state.

According to court documents, from 2004 through 2011, HCSN billed Medicare and the Florida Medicaid program approximately $63 million for purported mental health services.

Nine defendants have been charged for their alleged roles in the HCSN health care fraud scheme. Six defendants have pleaded guilty, and three defendants are scheduled for trial on Jan. 14, 2013, before U.S. District Judge Altonaga in Miami. Defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty at trial.

The cases are being prosecuted by Special Trial Attorney William Parente and Trial Attorney Allan J. Medina of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section. This case was investigated by the FBI and HHS-OIG and was brought as part of the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, supervised by the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida.

Since its inception in March 2007, the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, now operating in nine cities across the country, has charged more than 1,480 defendants who have collectively billed the Medicare program for more than $4.8 billion. In addition, HHS’s Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with HHS-OIG, is taking steps to increase accountability and decrease the presence of fraudulent providers.