U.S. SECRETARY OF DEFENSE PANETTA MAKES COMMENTS ON SYRIA AND SEQUESTRATION

Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta poses for photos with the U.S. Naval Academy Midshipmen cheerleaders and band during a pep rally held in the halls of the Pentagon, Dec. 6, 2012. DOD photo by U.S. Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Chad J. McNeeley

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

Panetta Discusses Syria Situation, Sequestration
By Terri Moon Cronk
American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Dec. 6, 2012 - Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta today repeated the U.S. government's growing concern that Syrian forces loyal to President Bashar Assad may be preparing to use chemical weapons on their own people.

Without getting into specific intelligence, Panetta told reporters at a news conference at the Department of Veterans Affairs there is no question that "as the opposition advances, in particular in Damascus, that the [Assad] regime might very well consider the use of chemical weapons." He added that what the U.S. knows "raises series concerns that this is being considered."

Panetta's comments came three days after President Barack Obama warned the Assad regime that there would be consequences for such a move, and that Assad himself would be held accountable.

Today, Panetta expanded on that warning.

"The president has made very clear that the Assad regime ought not to make the mistake of thinking that somehow it can use chemical weapons on its own people and get away with that. The whole world is watching," the defense secretary said.

Panetta said he would not comment on the consequences if Assad were to use weapons of mass destruction.

"But I think it's fair enough to say that the use of those weapons would cross a red line for us," he added.

The warnings to the Assad regime come as reports suggest opposition forces are closing in on Damascus and that the nearly two-year-old civil war is increasingly threatening Assad's inner circle.

On another matter, Panetta was asked today about the impact of sequestration on defense programs, should it occur.

"There is no question that if sequestration happens, it will impact those who are coming home [from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan]," he said. "It's going to impact on what we're going to be able to provide them."

Panetta compared the automatic budget cuts triggered by sequestration to a "meat-axe approach."

If implemented, sequestration would "have a serious impact in terms of those [service members] coming home, the programs that serve them, the support system that we have not only for them, but for their families," he added.

"It's for that reason, obviously, that our continuing hope is that the leadership in this country comes together and finds an agreement that avoids this deficit cliff that we're hanging on," Panetta said.

Tsunami Information Statement

Tsunami Information Statement

FOUNDER AND PRESIDENT OF NASPSO CONVICTED FOR THEFT OF UNION TREASURY AND PENSION FUNDS

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE

WASHINGTON – The founder and president of the National Association of Special Police and Security Officers (NASPSO) – which represents private security guards assigned to protect federal buildings in the metropolitan Washington area – was convicted yesterday in Washington federal court, following a jury trial, of 18 counts related to his theft of union treasury and pension funds, announced Assistant Attorney General Lanny A. Breuer of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division.

Caleb Gray-Burriss, 62, of Washington, was convicted on six counts of mail fraud, seven counts of theft from a labor organization, one count each of obstruction of justice and criminal contempt, and three counts of union recordkeeping offenses. Joining in the announcement of the verdict were Marc I. Machiz, Director of the Philadelphia Regional Office of the Employee Benefits Security Administration of the Department of Labor; Michael S. Barcus, Special Agent in Charge of the Washington Regional Office of the Department of Labor, Office of the Inspector General, Office of Labor Racketeering and Fraud Investigations; and District Director Mark Wheeler, of the Department of Labor’s Washington District Office of the Office of Labor-Management Standards.

In June 2010, Mr. Gray-Burriss was charged with four counts of mail fraud in connection with his operation of a pension plan for members of NASPSO. A grand jury returned two superseding indictments in April 2011 and August 2012, which also charged offenses committed by Gray-Burriss while he was released on bail.

According to the evidence at trial, from approximately June 2004 through February 2011, Gray-Burriss wrote numerous checks to himself or to other third parties from the NASPSO pension plan checking account. The evidence also showed that Gray-Burriss spent more than $100,000 of the pension plan funds in this way, while falsely maintaining it was an operational fund that he was properly administering and that was providing benefits to the beneficiaries. The evidence further showed that Gray-Burriss committed criminal contempt of a court order addressing his prior misappropriation of pension and health plan funds after Gray-Burriss resumed his scheme in 2009 to defraud employers and NASPSO members of pension funds.

In addition, the evidence presented at trial showed that Gray-Burriss, while an officer and employee of NASPSO, stole over $150,000 in NASPSO funds consisting of cash withdrawals to himself, unauthorized salary increases and bonuses to himself and another person, fraudulently drawn checks to himself – purportedly for employment taxes on behalf of NASPSO – and unlawfully used NASPSO funds to pay his personal fines in a civil lawsuit.

The jury also found that Gray-Burriss committed obstruction of justice by destroying or concealing NASPSO financial records during a grand jury investigation; failing to file required annual reports on behalf of NASPSO, falsifying those reports, and failing to maintain properly the records of NASPSO.

At sentencing, which is currently scheduled for Feb. 28, 2013, Gray-Burris faces a maximum potential penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine on each of the mail fraud counts, five years in prison and a $10,000 fine on each of the theft from a labor organization and conspiracy counts; five years in prison and a $250,000 fine on the criminal contempt count; 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine on the obstruction count, and a year in prison and a $10,000 fine for the recordkeeping offenses.

The investigation was conducted by agents and investigators of the U.S. Department of Labor. Trial Attorney Vincent J. Falvo of the Criminal Division’s Organized Crime and Gang Section and Trial Attorney Tracee Plowell, of the Criminal Division’s Public Integrity Section prosecuted the case.

WEEKLY UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE CLAIMS FOR WEEK ENDING DECEMBER 1, 2012

SEASONALLY ADJUSTED DATA

In the week ending December 1, the advance figure for seasonally adjusted initial claims was 370,000, a decrease of 25,000 from the previous week's revised figure of 395,000. The 4-week moving average was 408,000, an increase of 2,250 from the previous week's revised average of 405,750.

The advance seasonally adjusted insured unemployment rate was 2.5 percent for the week ending November 24, 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 November 24 was 3,205,000, a decrease of 100,000 from the preceding week's revised level of 3,305,000. The 4-week moving average was 3,309,000, an increase of 7,750 from the preceding week's revised average of 3,301,250.
UNADJUSTED DATA
The advance number of actual initial claims under state programs, unadjusted, totaled 498,619 in the week ending December 1, an increase of 139,678 from the previous week. There were 528,793 initial claims in the comparable week in 2011.

The advance unadjusted insured unemployment rate was 2.6 percent during the week ending November 24, an increase of 0.4 percentage point from the prior week's unrevised rate. The advance unadjusted number for persons claiming UI benefits in state programs totaled 3,301,200, an increase of 465,529 from the preceding week. A year earlier, the rate was 2.9 percent and the volume was 3,696,154.

The total number of people claiming benefits in all programs for the week ending November 17 was 4,959,240, a decrease of 224,722 from the previous week. There were 6,575,150 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 17.

Initial claims for UI benefits filed by former Federal civilian employees totaled 1,627 in the week ending November 24, an increase of 2 from the prior week. There were 1,863 initial claims filed by newly discharged veterans, a decrease of 522 from the preceding week.

There were 18,845 former Federal civilian employees claiming UI benefits for the week ending November 17, an increase of 242 from the previous week. Newly discharged veterans claiming benefits totaled 36,889, a decrease of 2,436 from the prior week.

States reported 2,008,608 persons claiming EUC (Emergency Unemployment Compensation) benefits for the week ending November 17, a decrease of 110,446 from the prior week. There were 2,794,284 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 10 were in Alaska (5.7), New Jersey (3.9), Puerto Rico (3.6), Pennsylvania (3.3), Connecticut (3.1), Oregon (3.1), Nevada (2.9), Montana (2.8), and New York (2.8).

The largest increases in initial claims for the week ending November 24 were in Wisconsin (+5,876), Oregon (+2,328), Ohio (+2,252), Washington (+2,107), and Iowa (+1,262), while the largest decreases were in New Jersey (-23,966), California (-7,053), New York (-6,682), Texas (-6,425) and North Carolina (-2,609).

FIRST QUALIFIED FEMALE SUBMARINE OFFICERS RECEIVE DOLPHINS

121205-N-LP168-011 BANGOR, Wash. (Dec. 5, 2012) Lt. j.g. Jennifer Noonan, assigned to the Blue crew of the ballistic missile submarine USS Maine (SSBN 741), receives her submarine warfare officer device from former shipmate Lt. Jason Brethauer during a ceremony at Naval Base Kitsap-Bangor. Noonan is one of three Sailors to become the first female unrestricted line officers to qualify in submarines. (U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Ahron

FROM: U.S. NAVY

From Commander, Submarine Forces Public Affairs
NORFOLK (NNS) -- Three Sailors assigned to USS Maine (SSBN 741) and USS Wyoming (SSBN 742) became the first female unrestricted line officers to qualify in submarines Dec. 5.

Lt. j.g. Marquette Leveque, a native of Fort Collins, Colo., assigned to the Gold Crew of Wyoming, and Lt. j.g. Amber Cowan and Lt. j.g. Jennifer Noonan of Maine's Blue Crew received their submarine "dolphins" during separate ceremonies at Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay, Ga., and Naval Base Kitsap-Bangor, Wash.

In order to receive their dolphins, Leveque, Cowan and Noonan were required to qualify as Officer of the Deck and Engineering Officer of the Watch, perform damage control functions, and demonstrate satisfactory qualities of leadership.

Cowan, a native of Colorado Springs, Colo., and Noonan, who hails from Boston, joined two other Blue Crew officers - Lt. j.g. James Barclay and Lt. j.g. John Schaeffer - in receiving their dolphins. Cowan was pinned by her husband, Naval Flight Officer Lt. Adam Cowan. Noonan chose a former Maine shipmate and mentor, Lt. Jason Brethauer, to pin her dolphins. Schaeffer decided to have Lt. Joe Westfall, a current shipmate from the Blue Crew, conduct his pinning. The Commanding officer of Maine's Blue Crew, Cmdr. William Johnson, pinned Barclay.

"I am honored to participate in today's ceremony honoring these four fine officers who have proven themselves over the past year," said Johnson. "They are truly worthy to join in the great legacy of submariners that have gone before us as 'qualified in submarines.'"

In Kings Bay, Leveque, along with fellow Gold Crew officer Lt. j.g. Kyle E. McFadden, participated in a ceremony presided by Cmdr. Christopher Nash, commanding officer of Wyoming's Gold Crew. Leveque was pinned by her husband, Lt. j.g. Luke Leveque, a qualified submariner onboard the ballistic missile submarine USS Maryland (SSBN 738). McFadden was pinned at the ceremony by Nash.

"Today was a very special occasion. It was special because two talented young officers earned the right to lead the next generation of submarine sailors in the most capable Navy the world has ever known. It was also special because these young leaders fully represent the future of our nation's technical talent," said Nash.

Leveque, Cowan and Noonan are three of 24 women - 17 line officers and seven supply officers - assigned to Maine, Wyoming, USS Ohio (SSGN 726) and USS Georgia (SSGN 729). Maine and Ohio are homeported in Bangor, while Wyoming and Georgia are homeported in Kings Bay.

"I am honored to be joining the long tradition of the submarine force by earning my dolphins and excited for the journey to come. I could not have accomplished this without the help of the wardroom and crew of the USS Wyoming," said Leveque.

Leveque, Cowan and Noonan have each completed strategic deterrent patrols aboard their respective submarines.

"Qualifying is a huge accomplishment for any submariner, and it feels no different for me," said Noonan. "I am thrilled to finally be a member of this elite community. I'm particularly grateful to my crew, officers and enlisted, for supporting me and holding me to the same standards as those who have gone before me. I look forward to being able to fully contribute to the crew now that I'm a qualified submarine officer."

"Qualification in Submarines is more of a personal achievement," said Cowan. "It requires understanding of the many facets of submarine life and has you perform so many skills that when I take a step back and look at everything that I have done and what this qualification means I will do, it is pretty amazing. I see it as that point where I have demonstrated the knowledge and the instinct to perform safely and smartly in all areas of the ship and its missions. Ultimately, it is a monumental mark of the confidence my command and crew has in me. And earning that respect and acceptance is a feeling that I will hold with me for my entire life."

Prior to reporting to their boats beginning in November 2011, Leveque, Cowan, Noonan and the other women assigned to Ohio, Maine, Wyoming and Georgia graduated from the Submarine Officer Basic Course in Groton, Conn. In addition, the submarine line officers under instruction graduated from the Naval Nuclear Power School at Charleston, S.C., and underwent naval nuclear prototype training.

U.S. LABOR DEPARTMENT SUES FRUIT AND VEGITABLE GROWERS FOR NOT PAYING FEDERAL MINIMUM WAGE

Photo Credit:   Wikimedia Commons.

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF LABOR

US Labor Department sues Sabana Grande fruit and vegetable growers for not paying workers minimum wage

Suit seeks back wages, liquidated damages from Bananera Fabre, Finca La Platas

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico — The U.S. Department of Labor has filed a lawsuit against agricultural employers Jose V. Fabre Laboy, doing business as Bananera Fabre, and his son, Jose V. Fabre Santiago, doing business as Finca La Plata, for failing to pay their workers the minimum wage as required by the Fair Labor Standards Act. The defendants cultivate and package bananas, tomatoes, and other fruits and vegetables for wholesale at contiguous locations on Rte. 117 in Sabana Grande.

An investigation by the department's Wage and Hour Division found that the defendants willfully and repeatedly violated the law. The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour, but the defendants paid many employees only $6.25 or $6.50 per hour. The division estimates that a total of $191,402 is owed to 174 employees between the two employers.

"These agricultural employers willfully and repeatedly violated the law, and they continue to withhold payments of unpaid wages due to their employees," said Jose R. Vazquez, the director of the division's district office in Guaynabo, which conducted the investigation. "We will not tolerate these actions and, as demonstrated by the filing of this lawsuit, the Labor Department will use all enforcement tools available to recover workers' wages and hold accountable employers who demonstrate a clear disregard for the law."

The department's Regional Office of the Solicitor filed the suit in the U.S. District Court for the District of Puerto Rico in San Juan. The suit asks the court to order the defendants to pay the full amount of back wages due plus an equal amount in liquidated damages to the affected workers. The suit also seeks to permanently prohibit the defendants from future violations of the FLSA.

Fabre Laboy has been the subject of several Wage and Hour Division investigations in the past. As a result of the most recent prior inspection, Fabre Laboy paid $38,098 in back wages as well as $6,381 in civil money penalties.

The FLSA requires that covered, nonexempt employees be paid at least the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour as well as time and one-half their regular rates for every hour they work beyond 40 per week. The law also requires employers to maintain accurate records of employees' wages, hours and other conditions of employment, and prohibits employers from retaliating against employees who exercise their rights under the law.

INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION NEWS FOR DECEMBER 6, 2012

FROM:  NASA

NASA DROUGHT TRACKING SYSTEM VIDEO

FROM:  NASA

Plant Stress Indicates Drought

Farmers across America rely on early drought warning systems to manage their crops. Americans everywhere rely on those farmers to provide food. A new drought tracking system called ESI helps by monitoring the evaporation of water from land surfaces. FROM-NASA

 





 
 

U.S.-IRAQ DEFENSE COOPERATION MEMO OF UNDERSTANDING SIGNED

U.S. Army soldiers from Charlie Company, 67th Signal Battalion stationed at Fort Gordon, Ga., board a C-17 Globemaster III aircraft at Sather Air Base in Iraq on July 10, 2010. The aircraft is from the 817th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron out of Incirlik Air Base, Turkey, and deployed from Charleston Air Force Base, S.C. Charlie Company is redeploying to their home unit as part of the drawdown to 50,000 troops in Iraq by August 31, 2010. DoD photo by Senior Airman Perry Aston, U.S. Air Force. (Released)
　

FROM: U.S. DEFENSE DEPARTMENT, U.S.-IRAQ RELATIONS,

U.S., Iraq Sign Defense Cooperation Memo of Understanding

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Dec. 6, 2012 - American and Iraqi officials signed a memorandum of understanding today in Baghdad that will make it easier for the two countries to work together.

The memo was one result of the Defense and Security Joint Coordination Committee that met yesterday and today in the Iraqi capital.

Undersecretary of Defense for Policy James N. Miller, acting Iraqi Defense Minister Saadoun al-Dlimi and acting Undersecretary of State for International Security Rose Gottemoeller participated in the meeting.

The committee discussed efforts to strengthen security cooperation between the two nations, officials said. This includes enhancing Iraq's security capabilities and modernizing Iraqi forces. Officials looked at the U.S. foreign military sales program. Iraq is buying F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft and M-1 Abrams tanks from the United States, among other programs. These procurements include spare parts, training, maintenance help and other considerations.

The officials also discussed regional issues and the ongoing conflict in neighboring Syria, defense officials said.

The memorandum of understanding -- signed by Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta and Dlimi -- covers the range of U.S.-Iraqi defense cooperation and covers the next five years. This includes high-level military-to-military visits, professional military education cooperation, counterterrorism cooperation and the development of defense intelligence capabilities.

The two nations committed to joint exercises including exchanges of information dealing with humanitarian and peacekeeping operations, officials said.

 

U.S. ADM. LOCKLEAR III WANTS "COLLABORATION, NOT CONFRONTATION"

Navy Adm. Samuel J. Locklear III, commander of U.S. Pacific Command, briefs the media on Asia security issues at the Pentagon, Dec. 6, 2012. DOD photo by Glenn Fawcett

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

Pacific Command Seeks Collaboration, not Confrontation
By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Dec. 6, 2012 - The United States would like China to be a constructive influence on the world stage, and the U.S. Pacific Command is stressing cooperation and collaboration, not confrontation, in the region, Navy Adm. Samuel J. Locklear III said here today.

The admiral, the commander of U.S. Pacific Command, said the command is moving forward on the U.S. move to rebalance forces to the Pacific.

"The rebalance draws on the strengths of the entire U.S. government, including policy, diplomacy, trade and, of course, security," Locklear said during a Pentagon news conference.

The rebalance is not aimed at any one nation or region, the admiral said. The strategy underscores that the United States is and will remain a Pacific power.

Locklear stressed that rebalancing is not so much about equipment or troops -- although they play a part -- but about relationships. Rebalancing to the Pacific came from the defense strategic guidance released in January. Pacom's mission is to strengthen relationships in the region, adjust U.S. military posture and presence, and employ new concepts, capabilities and capacities.

This will "ensure that we continue to effectively and efficiently contribute to the stability and security of the Asia-Pacific as we protect U.S. national interest," the admiral said. "The keys to success will be innovative access agreements, greatly increased exercises, rotational presence increases and efficient force posture initiatives that will maximize the dollars that we are given to spend."

China is increasingly asserting itself in the region, but the admiral said he has good relations with Chinese leaders. China has undergone a power transfer and the Peoples' Liberation Army has new commanders.

There are territorial disputes between China and other nations in the South China Sea and the East China Sea. Locklear reiterated the U.S. position on these disputes. He said America does not take sides but does want to see issues resolved peacefully.

"We call on all the parties there, including the Chinese, to ensure that, as they approach these problems, that they do so in a way that avoids conflict, that avoids miscalculation, that uses the vehicles available today through diplomacy and through those legal forums that allow them to get to reasonable solutions on these without resorting to coercion or conflict," the admiral said.

In addition to asserting what it believes is its role in the region, China has also embarked on an effort to modernize its military. The latest indicator was the landing of a naval variant of the J-15 jet on Beijing's first aircraft carrier, the Liaoning.

"If I were China and I was in the economic position that China is in and I was in a position of where I have to look after my global security interests, I would consider building an aircraft carrier, and I might consider building several aircraft carriers," Locklear said.

It's not so much having such a military capability, but what China does with it that concerns the admiral.

Aircraft carriers have a role in maintaining the peace. "If the issue is that [the Chinese] are not part of that global security environment, then I think we have to be concerned about [Chinese aircraft carriers]," Locklear said.

India is another rising world power and Pacom is working closely with the government there to cement the military relationship between the world's two largest democracies.

"We very much support India taking a leadership in the security issues in and around the Indian Ocean," the admiral said. "We are looking for opportunities to participate and interoperate with them where we can."

U.S. SECRETARY OF STATE CLINTON SPEAKS AT THE OSCE MINISTERIAL COUNCIL FIRST PLENARY SESSION

Dublin Castle was the seat of British rule in Ireland for seven centuries until 1922; it is now used mainly for Irish and EU governmental purposes. The Record Tower dates to A.D. 1208. From: CIA World Factbook.

FROM: U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT

Intervention at the OSCE Ministerial Council First Plenary Session

Remarks
Hillary Rodham Clinton
Secretary of State
Royal Dublin Society
Dublin, Ireland
December 6, 2012

Thank you very much and thanks to Foreign Minister Gilmore and the Republic of Ireland for hosting us today. We applaud your work as chair in office of the OSCE, to reaffirm this organization's core principles and strengthen its capacities to promote peace and security, champion democracy, and defend universal human rights and dignity. And we join with all members in welcoming Mongolia as the newest participating state.

As we approach the 40th anniversary of the Helsinki Final Act, it is important to remember that those accords and this organization that sprang from them affirmed an inextricable link between the security of states and the security of citizens. They codified universal rights and freedoms that belong to all citizens, and those commitments empowered and encouraged dissidents to work for change. In the years that followed, the shipyard workers of Solidarity, reformers in Hungary, demonstrators in Prague all seized on the fundamental rights defined at Helsinki and they held their governments to account for not living up to the standards to which they had agreed. We are the inheritors and the guardians of that legacy.

This year alone, the OSCE sent observer missions to monitor 17 different elections, including in my own country. In May the OSCE's efforts to help dual national Kosovo Serbs vote in Serbia's elections helped ensure a largely free, fair, and peaceful process. When High Representative Ashton and I visited the Balkans in October, we heard about what a difference that made. The OSCE also supported a successful election and a peaceful transfer of power in Georgia. It is, as we have already heard, deeply engaged on Nagorno-Karabakh, Transnistria, and Georgia. And throughout the region, the OSCE continues to advance a comprehensive approach to security that makes a difference in people's lives.

But I see a growing concern for the future of this organization and the values it has always championed. More than 20 years after the end of the Cold War, the work of creating a Europe that is whole, free, and at peace remains unfinished. I just met with a group of the Civil Society Solidarity Platform leaders from a number of member states. They talked to me about the growing challenges and dangers that they are facing, about new restrictions on human rights from governments, new pressures on journalists, new assaults on NGOs. And I urge all of us to pay attention to their concerns.

For example, in Belarus, the Government continues to systematically repress human rights, detain political prisoners, and intimidate journalists. In Ukraine, the elections in October were a step backwards for democracy, and we remain deeply concerned about the selective prosecution of opposition leaders. In Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Kazakhstan, there are examples of the restrictions of the freedom of expression online and offline as well as the freedom of religion. In the Caucasus, we see constraints on judicial independence, attacks on journalists, and elections that are not always free and fair.

And we have seen in Russia restrictions on civil society including proposed legislation that would require many NGOs and journalists to register as foreign agents if they receive funding from abroad. There are unfortunately signs of democratic backsliding in Hungary and challenges to constitutional processes in Romania and the ugly specter of anti-Semitism, xenophobia, discrimination against immigrants, Roma, LGBT persons, and other vulnerable populations persists.

So it is worth reminding ourselves that every participating state, including the United States, has room for improvement. The work of building a democracy and protecting human rights is never done, and one of the strengths of the OSCE has been that it provides a forum for discussing this challenge and making progress together. But there is even trouble here. This organization operates by consensus, so it cannot function when even a single state blocks progress. Forty-seven states have cosponsored the draft declaration on fundamental freedoms in the digital age, yet its path forward is blocked. The same goes for measures on media freedom, freedom of assembly and association, and military transparency.

The OSCE must avoid institutional changes that would weaken it and undermine our fundamental commitments limiting the participation of NGOs in our discussions, offering amendments and vetoing proposals to respond quickly to conflicts and crises, trying to exert greater central control over the field offices and field workers to curb their efforts on human rights, suspending implementation of treaties and agreements so there is less military transparency in Europe than a decade ago. These are not the way to progress in the 21st century.

The United States remains committed to the goal of a Europe that is whole, free, and at peace and to the OSCE whose principles are sound. We welcome any and all efforts to strengthen this organization, but that means empowering the institutions we already have to function free from interference, not curtailing them. And it means implementing the commitments we have made to one another and to our citizens, not undermining them. So as we approach the 40th anniversary of the Helsinki Final Act, this is a time for the OSCE to once again take up the mantle of leadership, to push forward the frontiers of human rights and dignity, and to reaffirm the values and principles that have guided this organization ever since its founding. Thank you.

U.S. WAITS AND WATCHES FOR NORTH KOREAN ROCKET LAUNCH

Map:  North Korea.  Credit:  CIA World Factbook.

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
U.S. Monitors Possible North Korean Rocket Launch
By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Dec. 6, 2012 - U.S. Pacific Command has moved ships into place to monitor a possible North Korean rocket launch, Navy Adm. Samuel J. Locklear III said here today.

North Korean officials have threatened to launch a satellite-tipped rocket into space sometime this month. Locklear, Pacom's commander, said such a move would violate United Nations Security Council resolutions.

"We encourage the leadership in North Korea to consider what they are doing here and the implications on the overall security environment on the Korean Peninsula, as well as in Asia," Locklear said during a Pentagon news conference.

The move would be similar to what the nation would do to launch an intercontinental ballistic missile. North Korea has been pursuing nuclear technology in defiance of the international community and has claimed to have carried out several tests of nuclear devices. Launching the rocket could show that North Korea has a delivery system for a nuclear weapon.

"And this ... would be very destabilizing ... not only to the region but to the international security environment," Locklear said.

The possible rocket launch would counter what has been a series of positive steps North Korea has made.

"There have been ... a number of signs that might lead you to believe that the new regime leadership is going to take a more ... rational approach to how they deal with their own economy and how they deal with their own people, and how they deal internationally," Locklear said. "There's been a feeling that there might be some hope there."

Locklear's priority -- like that of all U.S. commanders -- is the defense of the United States. As such, he is watching North Korean preparations carefully and talking with friends and allies in the region.

The command has moved U.S. Navy ships in place to achieve optimal monitoring of the threatened launch. This is also important because Pacom has a homeland defense mission for Guam, the Marianas islands and other states in Oceana.

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN FOR DECEMBER 6, 2012

Photo:  Afghanistan Market.  Credit:  CIA World Factbook.

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

Combined Force Arrests Taliban Leader

From an International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Release
KABUL, Afghanistan, Dec. 6, 2012 - An Afghan and coalition security force arrested a Taliban leader who was responsible for acquiring and distributing weapons and explosives to insurgents during an operation in the Dahanah-ye Ghori district of Afghanistan's Baghlan province today, military officials reported.

The combined force also detained several other suspects and seized a number of improvised explosive device-making components, officials said.

In other Afghanistan operations today:

-- A combined force arrested a Taliban leader in the Nahr-e Saraj district of Helmand province. The leader directed the activities of a group of insurgents in Uruzgan province, and was involved in the planning and execution of direct-fire and improvised-explosive-device attacks against Afghan and coalition forces. The security force also detained two other suspects.

-- In the Maidan Shahr district of Wardak province, a combined force detained one suspect during a search for a district-level Taliban leader who oversees IED operations in Maidan Shahr.

And yesterday, a combined force killed the Taliban leader, Akhbar, and several other insurgents in the Dara-e Pech district of Kunar province. Akhbar had coordinated the movement of insurgents and was responsible for supplying money and equipment to insurgents for use in attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.

Joint Press Conference with Secretary Panetta and Secretary Shinseki at the Department of Veterans Affairs, Washington, D.C.

Joint Press Conference with Secretary Panetta and Secretary Shinseki at the Department of Veterans Affairs, Washington, D.C.

FINLAND'S INDEPENDENCE DAY

Map:  Finland.  Credit:  CIA World Factbook. 

FROM: U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT

Finland's Independence Day
Press Statement
Hillary Rodham Clinton
Secretary of State
Washington, DC
December 6, 2012
On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I am delighted to send best wishes to the people of Finland as you celebrate your Independence Day this December 6.

This past summer I had the opportunity to experience the warmth and hospitality of the Finnish people during my visit to Helsinki. We discussed our long history of partnership and common values. Together, we tackle some of the most pressing challenges, from supporting a stable and prosperous future for Afghanistan, to curbing the effects of climate change. We are also working together to build upon our already strong economic relationship. As we look to the future, we are confident that Finland and the United States will continue to be reliable partners in forming a safer and more peaceful world.

I wish all the people of Finland a happy Independence Day celebration and best wishes for a peaceful and prosperous year.

Finland Locator Map.  Credit:  CIA World Factbook.

ADDITONAL INFORMATION FROM CIA WORLD FACTBOOK

Finland was a province and then a grand duchy under Sweden from the 12th to the 19th centuries, and an autonomous grand duchy of Russia after 1809. It won its complete independence in 1917. During World War II, it was able to successfully defend its freedom and resist invasions by the Soviet Union - albeit with some loss of territory. In the subsequent half century, the Finns made a remarkable transformation from a farm/forest economy to a diversified modern industrial economy; per capita income is now among the highest in Western Europe. A member of the European Union since 1995, Finland was the only Nordic state to join the euro system at its initiation in January 1999. In the 21st century, the key features of Finland's modern welfare state are a high standard of education, equality promotion, and national social security system - currently challenged by an aging population and the fluctuations of an export-driven economy.

RECENT U.S. NAVY PHOTO

FROM: U.S. NAVY, U.S. MARINES
121203-N-AA791-043 WASHINGTON (Dec. 3, 2012) Marine GySgt. S. Micah Bachtold, assigned to the Navy flight demonstration team, the Blue Angels, guides a forklift as pallets of toys are loaded aboard Fat Alber, the team's C-130 Hercules transport aircraft. The Blue Angels crew is supporting the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots program by transporting pallets of toys from Washington to Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst in Wrightstown, N.J., bringing the joy of Christmas to numerous children who were affected by Superstorm Sandy. (U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Russ Tafuri/Released)

 

DVIDS - Video - Adm. Samuel Locklear: Dept. of Defense Briefing

DVIDS - Video - Adm. Samuel Locklear: Dept. of Defense Briefing

A MARINE CORPS GUITARIST

Marine Corps Cpl. Mark A. Boughton, a guitarist with the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing Band at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., enjoys making music and serving in the military. U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Glen Santy


FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE, MARINE GUITARIST, PERSONAL STORY OF A MARINE, 2ND MARINE AIRCRAFT WING BAND, MARINE BAND

Face of Defense: Marine Guitarist Enjoys Military Service

Marine Corps Cpl. Mark A. Boughton, a guitarist with the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing Band at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., enjoys making music and serving in the military. U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Glen Santy

FROM:  U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
By Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Glen Santy
2nd Marine Aircraft Wing
MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, N.C., Dec. 6, 2012 - An accomplished guitarist who also enjoys serving in the military, Marine Corps Cpl. Mark A. Boughton said he gets amped up playing with the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing Band here.

Practice makes perfect, as Boughton spends many hours each week playing his electric guitar.

Boughton said his mission in the Marine Corps enables him to mix his love of music with his love of physical fitness and serving his country.

"Growing up, I always wanted to serve, not knowing that I could play in the Marine Corps. There's a part of me that wants to go out and be a famous rock star, but for right now, this a good gig," he said.

Boughton added, "I get a steady paycheck, all the benefits of the military, and I get to play my guitar."

Since he joined the military, Boughton said he's strived to excel both musically and as a Marine.

Outside of work, Boughton said he usually spends no less than 30 hours-a-week playing his guitar.

He also has earned a black belt in the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program.

"When I put the guitar down, I'm still a Marine," he said. "I constantly play and keep pushing myself to achieve."

NEW EFFORTS ANNOUNCED TO PROTECT CONSUMERS FROM CONTAMINATED POULTRY PROUDUCTS

Photo:  Chickens.  Credit:  Wikimedia Commons.

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

USDA Announces New Prevention-based Efforts to Improve Safety of Poultry Products and Protect Consumers

WASHINGTON, December 5, 2012 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced new steps to protect consumers by improving the food safety plans required for companies that produce poultry products.

Companies producing raw ground chicken and turkey and similar products will be required to reassess their Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) plans. The HACCP reassessment, which establishments must conduct in the next 90 days, must account for several Salmonella outbreaks that were associated with those types of products.

"HACCP reassessments improve a company's ability to identify hazards and better prevent foodborne illness," said USDA Under Secretary for Food Safety Dr. Elisabeth Hagen. "Incorporating information obtained from Salmonella outbreaks will enhance food safety efforts, helping to avoid future outbreaks and ensure a safer food supply for consumers."

In today's notice, FSIS also announced that it will:
Expand the Salmonella verification sampling program to include other raw comminuted poultry products, in addition to ground product;
Increase the sample size for laboratory analysis from 25 grams to 325 grams to provide consistency as the Agency moves toward analyzing samples for Salmonella and Campylobacter; and,
Conduct sampling to determine the prevalence of Salmonella in not-ready-to-eat comminuted poultry products and use the results to develop new performance standards for those products.

The policy notice announced today will be posted on the FSIS website at http://www.fsis.usda.gov/regulations_&_policies/
federal_register_publications_&_related_documents/index.asp and comments can be submitted at www.regulations.gov shortly after December 5, 2012.

VIEWING THE EARTH AT NIGHT

FROM:  NASA
Earth at Night

This view of Earth at night is a cloud-free view from space as acquired by the Suomi National Polar-orbiting Partnership Satellite. A joint program by NASA and NOAA, Suomi NPP captured this nighttime image by the day-night band of the satellite's Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite VIIRS. It combines the Earth at night view created by NASA's Earth Observatory with data processed by NOAA's National Geophysical Data Center with the EO Blue Marble: Next Generation.

Credit-NASA Goddard-ASA's Earth Observatory-NOAA-DOD

Protecting against pertussis

Protecting against pertussis

President Obama Speaks at the 2012 Tribal Nations Conference Closing Session | The White House

President Obama Speaks at the 2012 Tribal Nations Conference Closing Session | The White House

F-35B BOMBS BIG TIME

121203-O-GR159-002 ATLANTIC OCEAN (Dec. 3, 2012) F-35B test aircraft BF-3, flown by Lt. Cmdr. Michael Burks, completes the first aerial weapons release of an inert 500-pound GBU-12 Paveway II laser-guided bomb by any variant of the F-35 Lightning II aircraft. BF-3 dropped the GBU-12 over the Atlantic Test Ranges from an internal weapons bay. The F-35B is the variant of the Lightning II designed for use by the U.S. Marine Corps, as well as F-35 international partners in the United Kingdom and Italy. The F-35B is capable of short takeoffs and vertical landings to enable air power projection from amphibious ships, ski-jump aircraft carriers and expeditionary airfields. The F-35B is undergoing flight test and evaluation at NAS Patuxent River, Md., prior to delivery to the fleet. (U.S. Navy photo courtesy of Lockheed Martin by Layne Laughter/Released)

FROM: U.S. AIR FORCE

F-35B Completes Second Airborne Weapons Separation: Lightning II Executes First Drop of a 500-Pound GBU-12

12/5/2012

By Victor Chen, F-35 Integrated Test Force Public Affairs
PATUXENT RIVER, Md. (NNS) -- The F-35 Integrated Test Force accomplished another significant test milestone Dec. 3 when an F-35B successfully released another weapon in flight.

BF-3, a short take-off and vertical landing (STOVL) variant of the F-35, released an inert 500-pound GBU-12 Paveway II Laser Guided Bomb over water in the Atlantic Test Ranges while traveling at 0.8 Mach, or 485 nautical mph, at an altitude of approximately 5,000 feet.

"Completion of this weapons separation test is a testament to the flexibility of the ITF, where every day we are verifying different portions of the F-35 flight envelope or validating multiple planned capabilities" said Navy Capt. Erik Etz, director of test for F-35 naval variants. "Today's release of the GBU-12 builds on our team's first-ever drop earlier this summer and was the result of extraordinary effort by our team of maintainers, engineers, pilots and others who consistently work long hours to deliver F-35 warfighting capability to the U.S. services and our international partners."

The release was the second for the F-35B, and the fourth overall for the program. To date, F-35 variants have successfully released the 500-pound GBU-12, a 1,000-pound GBU-32, a 1-ton GBU-31 and an AIM-120 Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missile.

"We're expanding the envelope for the fleet," said Lt. Cmdr. Michael Burks, test pilot for the mission. "The GBU-12 is a critical weapon in the F-35's arsenal and will be vital in our mission to support the troops on the ground."

An aerial weapons separation event tests the proper and safe release of the weapon from its carriage system and trajectory away from the aircraft. It is the culmination of a significant number of tests, including ground fit checks, ground pit drops, and aerial captive carriage and environment flights to ensure the system is working properly before expanding the test envelope in the air.

Aircraft and land-based test monitoring systems collected data from the successful separation, which is in review at the F-35 Integrated Test Force at Naval Air Station Patuxent River.

The F-35B is the variant of the Lightning II designed for use by the U.S. Marine Corps, as well as F-35 international partners in the United Kingdom and Italy. The F-35B is capable of short takeoffs and vertical landings to enable air power projection from amphibious ships, ski-jump aircraft carriers and expeditionary airfields. The F-35B is undergoing flight test and evaluation at NAS Patuxent River, Md., and Edwards Air Force Base, Calif., prior to delivery to the fleet.

CYBERMAN DISCUSSES DEFENSE DEPARTMENT'S MOBILE SECURITY

Photo:  Cyberspace Security:  Credit:  U.S. Navy

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

Cyber Pro Discusses Mobile Network Security Challenges
By Amaani Lyle
American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Dec. 5, 2012 - With more than 680,000 mobile devices in use across the Defense Department, they are quickly emerging as a critical component of military communications -- bringing a plethora of new security risks, a defense official told attendees at the Defense Logistics 2012 conference yesterday.

Dr. Robert Young, cybersecurity director in the DOD office of the chief information officer, outlined some of the devices in use and the ongoing importance of vulnerability counter-measures such as back-ups, the cloud, authentication and secure applications.

"We need to be thinking about how we can we do mobile computing with security," Young said. "Your mobile device is going to replace your laptop [and contain] unclassified and classified information ... so we have to start thinking of the [operational security] piece of this."

According to Young, threats and challenges faced by mobile device users include loss of device, data recovery, collection over the air, vulnerability applications, malware and tracking.

Devices and platform variations also create unique challenges in building a secure, impenetrable network -- something that's especially daunting due to limited lead time in the production cycle, he said.

"Sixty days from now, the devices being made in Taiwan, China, Singapore, wherever, will not be supported anymore," Young said. "They'll be the next model and the next model ... so we need to stop looking at the device and ... start looking at the data."

Young also noted that BlackBerry, while effective for encryption, is, as of yet, the only platform used for secure communications, which in and of itself creates vulnerabilities.

"We don't want to have just one operating system," Young said. "And every device is different ... solutions, logistics and acquisitions are not one-size-fits-all."

The ubiquity and affordability of cell phones in the hands of hackers and adversaries creates a considerable threat, Young explained. He cited an example of villagers in Afghanistan who can ride into town, send their data, charge their phones then shut down and leave without a trace.

"There are 48 million people in the world who have mobile phones who don't have electricity at home," Young said. "How are you going to find this individual [or] find the footprint?"

Even iPhones for sale in Afghanistan can pose risks, Young said, adding that the devices could actually trigger an improvised explosive device.

"I could make a designer bomb if I know the [mobile equipment identity number] of your iPhone or iPad," Young said. "I just look for the signal that'll ping out."

Equally dire are the consequences of a compromised database such as mobile device electronic serial numbers, he added.

"Once it pinged and I saw [the MEID], I would know where your soldier, sailor or Marine is deployed," Young said.

As smart phones become even smarter, users will soon see mobile devices do much more than transfer data. Young described the use of iPhones in medical settings, where the devices can now enhance triage efficacy by checking vital signs including pulse and body temperature.

"That's smart use of [technology] -- knowing how not to waste resources and who I'm going to treat," Young said.

Still, the DOD must remain vigilant in mobile device management to buffer hackers that can range in age, location or intent, but are typically obsessive-compulsive about penetrating a system, Young said. He shared a recent experiment about his efforts to identify and understand such activity.

"My tasking was to find a 13-year-old kid and give him an iPhone, [with him] using on-the-web devices and on-the-web [applications] to hack and crack into our [system]," Young said. "He did it."

With "for official use only," secret and top secret platforms cohabitating on mobile devices with the appropriate encryptions, physical and virtual security must remain a priority, Young asserted.

Currently no personal or "BYOD" devices are approved for use with for official use only data, but major pilot programs using iOS, Android and BlackBerry are in the works, Young said.

PONZI SCHEME DEFENDANT ORDERED TO RETURN $20.6 MILLION TO VICTIMS

FROM: U.S. COMMODITY FUTURES TRADING COMMISSION

December 5, 2012

Federal Court in Idaho Orders CFTC Defendant Trigon Group, Inc. to Return More than $20.6 million of Ill-Gotten Gains to Victims of its Fraud

Washington, DC - The U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) today announced that Judge Edward J. Lodge of the U.S. District Court for the District of Idaho entered a consent order of permanent injunction that requires defendant Trigon Group, Inc. (Trigon), an Idaho-based business, to disgorge more than $20.6 million of ill-gotten gains to the victims of its fraud. The consent order also imposes permanent trading and registration bans against Trigon and prohibits it from violating the anti-fraud provisions of the Commodity Exchange Act, as charged.

The consent order stems from a CFTC complaint filed on February 27, 2009, that charged the defendant Trigon as well as defendant Daren L. Palmer with solicitation fraud and misappropriation in operating a commodity pool Ponzi scheme (see CFTC Press Release 5623-09, February 27, 2009, under Related Links). Earlier, on October 4, 2010, Judge Lodge entered a summary judgment order requiring Palmer to disgorge more than $20.6 million and to pay a civil monetary penalty of more than $20.6 million. The order also permanently bars Palmer from engaging in any commodity-related activity, including trading, and from registering or seeking exemption from registration with the CFTC (see CFTC Press Release 5919-10, October 6, 2010, under Related Links).

The consent order finds that, from at least September 2000 to date of the complaint, defendants directly and indirectly solicited at least $40 million from at least 57 individuals or entities to invest in Trigon entities. Pool participants understood that their funds would be used for trading commodity futures on their behalf, among other things, S&P 500 index futures contracts. Defendants made repeated misrepresentations that the pool was profitable and growing. In fact, defendants misappropriated the vast majority of the funds invested by pool participants. The consent order also finds that the defendants violated registration requirements as charged.

The CFTC appreciates the assistance of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Idaho Department of Finance. The SEC filed a related action against Palmer and Trigon that also resulted in sanctions against them.

The CFTC Division of Enforcement staff members responsible for this case are Alison Wilson, John Dunfee, Mary Kaminski, A. Daniel Ullman, Paul G. Hayeck, and Joan Manley.

President Obama Speaks to the Business Roundtable | The White House

President Obama Speaks to the Business Roundtable | The White House

EXPORT-IMPORT BANK TAKES PART IN LOAN TO SUPPORT U.S. EXPORTS OF PETROCHEMICAL GOODS AND SERVICES TO INDIA



Photo: Varanasa On The West Bank Of The Ghanges. Credit: CIA World Factbook.

FROM: U.S. EXPORT-IMPORT BANK
Ex-Im Approves $2.1 Billion to Finance Export
of U.S. Petrochemical Goods and Services to India

Washington, D.C. – Continuing its efforts to support American jobs by boosting American exports, the board of the Export-Import Bank of the United States (Ex-Im Bank) has voted to extend a $1.06 billion direct loan and to guarantee a $1.06 billion JPMorgan Chase loan to Reliance Industries Ltd. (Reliance) of Mumbai, India, for the export of American goods and services destined for use in Reliance’s expansion projects at Jamnagar in the Indian state of Gujarat.

The transaction is the single largest Ex-Im Bank has ever authorized for Reliance, and it represents Reliance’s first attempt at funding through the capital markets with an Ex-Im Bank guaranteed bond issuance.

The credit will support approximately 12,300 U.S. jobs, according to bank estimates derived from Departments of Commerce and Labor data and methodology. Moreover, six percent of the financing is expected to support American small businesses.

"This transaction is a tremendous opportunity for U.S. exporters and U.S. jobs, as revealed by the impressive exporter and job counts," said Ex-Im Bank Chairman and President Fred P. Hochberg. "Ex-Im Bank’s financing offsets foreign export-credit-agency competition and provides American exporters with a level playing field. The result is the continued success of American technology and expertise."

"We are very pleased to support Reliance in this important expansion project," added Lillian Labbat, managing director, J.P. Morgan. "The unique conversion options, utilizing bond and direct loan financing, demonstrate Ex-Im’s focus on delivering competitive solutions while fostering U.S. exports and job growth."

Among the more than 65 exporters and suppliers involved in the transaction are Fluor Corporation, Lummus Technology, Univation Technologies LLC, Bechtel, and ConocoPhillips.

Located on the Gulf of Kutch, the Jamnagar complex oversees the largest single-location refinery operation in the world. Reliance intends to increase the complex’s petrochemical output by constructing a petcoke gasification unit that will top the world’s rosters in size and significantly enhance the efficiency of the company’s refinery business. Reliance also plans to erect a refinery off- gas cracker with matching downstream units that will better integrate polymer and polyester production.


"We are once again partnering with major U.S. suppliers for cutting edge technology, critical project management services and equipment from a wide section of American exporters for rolling out our next phase of growth," said Alok Agarwal, Reliance’s chief financial officer. "We value our long standing relationship with Ex-Im Bank and this landmark transaction further strengthens the partnership. This landmark transaction reaffirms the catalyst role played by Ex-Im Bank in facilitating trade between U.S. and India. We also sincerely appreciate the role played by JPMorgan Chase in this important transaction for us."

Reliance is India’s largest private sector company, and its operations range from oil and gas exploration and production to refining and petrochemicals. The company ranked 99th in revenues and 130th in profits in 2012, according to Fortune’s Global 500 list of ‘World's Largest Corporations’ and ‘World’s Top 100 companies.’

Fluor Corporation, one of the U.S. exporters participating in the transaction, is a FORTUNE 500 company that delivers engineering, procurement, construction, maintenance, and project management services to governments and clients in diverse industries around the world. The company is headquartered in Irving, Texas.

"We believe this positive development for the Reliance Industries project in India will help expedite the procurement process, lay a solid foundation for a long term partnership with a very valuable partner in India, and will promote U.S. jobs," said Otto Kjos, senior vice president, Energy & Chemicals, Fluor.

As of the end of FY 2012, Ex-Im Bank credit exposure in India totaled $6.5 billion.

GUARDSMEN ON THE U.S.-MEXICO BORDER

U.S.-MEXICO BORDER.  CREDIT:  WIKIMEDIA.

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

Guardsmen Continue U.S.-Mexico Border Security Duties
By Nick Simeone
American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Dec. 5, 2012 - As many as 300 National Guardsmen will remain deployed along the U.S.-Mexico border for another year as part of a border security partnership between the Departments of Defense and Homeland Security, according to a statement released by DHS today.

The deployment is part of a newly extended agreement to strengthen security and facilitate legitimate trade and travel, the statement said. National Guardsmen operate in support of some 18,500 U.S. Customs and Border Patrol agents along the southwest border, enhancing surveillance through the use of air assets and state-of-the-art detection and monitoring capabilities including aerial observation, photo imagery and communications support.

In the statement, DHS credited DOD support for the arrest of nearly 20,000 illegal immigrants and the seizure of more than 100,000 pounds of marijuana since March.

A spokesperson for U.S. Customs and Border Protection said more than 330,000 illegal aliens have been apprehended along the U.S.-Mexico border during the first nine months of this year, and more than two million pounds of marijuana and 6,000 pounds of cocaine have been seized.

In 2010, President Barack Obama authorized the temporary deployment of the National Guard along the southwest border to assist law enforcement with the interdiction of illegal aliens, drugs, weapons and money coming from Mexico.

TYPHOON BOPHA ANIMATION FROM NASA

FROM: NASA

3-D Animation of Typhoon Bopha
This 3-D animation of NASA's TRMM satellite data showed Typhoon Bopha tracking over the Philippines on Dec. 3 and moving into the Sulu Sea on Dec. 4, 2012. TRMM saw heavy rain (red) was falling at a rate of over 85 mm (~3.5 inches) per hour near the center, and powerful storms near the center were reaching heights above 16 km (~9.9 miles). Credit-SSAI-NASA, Hal Pierce

THE DEEP SPACE ATOMIC CLOCK

FROM: NASA

Deep Space Atomic Clock Ticks Toward Success
Dr. Todd Ely, principal investigator for NASA's Deep Space Atomic Clock at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, Calif., spotlights the paradigm-busting innovations now in development to revolutionize spaceflight navigation. The Deep Space Atomic Clock project is one of nine critical Technology Demonstration Missions now under way across the agency -- bridging the gap between laboratory development of valuable new technologies and full-scale testing in the space environment. (NASA/JPL)

U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT SENDS CONDOLENCES TO PHILIPPINES FOR DEVESTATION BY TYPHOON BOPHA

Map Credit:  CIA World Factbook.

FROM: U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT

Typhoon Bopha
Press Statement
Mark C. Toner
Deputy Spokesperson, Office of the Spokesperson
Washington, DC
December 5, 2012

The United States offers condolences for the destruction and loss of life in the southern Philippines and the widespread damage to populated areas in Palau caused by Typhoon Bopha. Our embassies in Manila and Koror have offered immediate disaster relief assistance, and we are working closely with authorities in both countries to offer additional assistance as needed. Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by this tragedy.

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN FOR DECEMBER 5, 2012

Photo: On Patrol In Afghanistan.   Credit:  U.S. Navy.

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

Combined Force Kills Insurgent Leader
From an International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Release

KABUL, Afghanistan, Dec. 5, 2012 - An Afghan and coalition security force killed insurgent leader Mohammed Yar Gul and two other insurgents during an operation in the Watahpur district of Afghanistan's Kunar province yesterday, military officials reported.

Mohammed Yar Gul coordinated the movement of insurgent fighters throughout Kunar province, officials said. He was directly involved in suicide attack operations in the region and planned and conducted improvised explosive device attacks against Afghan and coalition forces in the Watahpur district.

In other Afghanistan operations yesterday:

-- A combined force killed Nasrullah, a district-level Taliban leader, during an operation in the Mazar-e-Sharif district of Balkh province. Nasrullah, also known as Hijran, had directed and coordinated insurgent attacks against Afghan and coalition forces in the Chahar Bolak district. The security force also killed one other insurgent and seized IED-making material.

-- A combined force detained an Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan facilitator in the Kunduz district of Kunduz province. The facilitator oversaw the transfer of IED-making material to insurgents and directed the emplacement of IEDs against Afghan and coalition forces. The security force also detained one other suspect.

Press Briefing | The White House

Press Briefing | The White House

U.S. State Department Daily Press Briefing - December 5, 2012

Daily Press Briefing - December 5, 2012

ALL FEDERAL BENEFIT PAYMENTS WILL BE DIRECTLY DEPOSITED STARTING MARCH 1, 2013

FROM: FEDERAL DEPOSIT INSURANCE CORPORATION

Getting Ready to Go Direct Deposit for All Federal Benefit Payments
Beginning March 1, 2013, all federal benefits payments including Social Security income, will be made electronically. This move is expected to save taxpayers $1 billion over the next 10 years, while ensuring that all federal benefit recipients receive their money in the safest, most reliable way possible. Those who are currently receiving a paper check should arrange by March 1st to have their funds direct-deposited into an account of their choice. People who have not chosen an electronic payment option by that date will receive their money via the Direct Express card, a prepaid debit card that can be used to pay for purchases and access cash at ATMs. Financial educators can use Money Smart as a resource to help consumers select the best bank account for their needs, particularly for those who may choose to open a new account.

AFGHANISTAN: THE "RAPTOR"

Army Pfc. Brennon Van Luven, an infantryman with 2nd Platoon, Company B, 3rd Battalion, 187th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), poses for a photo after a mission in the Sabari district in Afghanistan, Nov. 5, 2012. Van Luven and his platoon took fire from insurgents while they were talking with villagers and gathering biometric data. U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Christopher Bonebrake

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

Face of Defense: Afghanistan-deployed Soldier Drives On

By Army Sgt. Christopher Bonebrake
115th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
KHOWST PROVINCE, Afghanistan, Dec. 4, 2012 - Army Pfc. Brennon Van Luven had never had a bullet go over his head quite like this.

Soldiers with 2nd Platoon, Company B, 3rd Battalion, 187th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), spent a morning gathering biometric data in the village of Dande Fariqan here and talking with the locals about insurgent activity in the area.

After moving across a road, the platoon came under fire from multiple weapons systems including a rocket-propelled grenade.

As bullets snapped overhead, Van Luven found cover and began to scan the village and tree lines for signs of the shooters.

Van Luven, a native of Erie, Pa., is no stranger to being in contact with the enemy. His mine resistant ambush protected vehicle hit an improvised explosive device a couple weeks ago, sending his platoon sergeant home with a shoulder injury.

An avid "Halo" player, he now knows what it is like to have real bullets shot directly at him, but this does not deter him from doing his job.

"I serve because I wanted the discipline that the Army provides," Van Luven said. "I wanted to make something of myself, have a steady job and be able to stand on my own two feet."

Besides discipline, the Army has provided Van Luven with another important opportunity: driving.

"Before going through the Joint Readiness Training Center when we deployed, I had never driven a vehicle before," Van Luven admitted. "The first truck I ever drove was an Army humvee."

He's had more time behind the wheel in Afghanistan than in the states and has driven every vehicle in the platoon's motor pool.

Van Luven enlisted out of high school. Growing up shooting guns and enjoying the outdoors, he figured joining the infantry would be a good idea.

"I enjoy what I do and I love being out here with my guys," Van Luven said. "We're all really close."

He said the hardest part of being in the infantry is pulling long shifts -- especially performing guard duty after coming back from a mission.

Van Luven is a man of few words, but he lets his actions speak for him.

"He's a really hard worker and never complains," said Army Sgt. Christopher Walker, Van Luven's squad leader. "He's very loyal to his squad and his platoon."

The 2nd Platoon gave Van Luven his two nicknames: "McLovin" and "Raptor." According to most, Van Luven resembles the character McLovin played by Christopher Mintz-Plasse in the comedy "Superbad." Raptor is in reference to the way he runs, closely resembling the dinosaur.

"He loves both his nicknames," Walker said. "He even tattooed 'raptor' on his arm. He's kind of like our squad mascot."

Van Luven doesn't plan on staying in the Army when he redeploys.

"I want to go back home and go to school with the goal of getting hired by the Pennsylvania State Police," he said. "My family is pretty close, so I want to work near home so I can be there for them if they need me."

Van Luven cites his fellow soldiers as his inspiration for continuing to serve his country.

"I love my country, but it sounds like such a cliché when I say it," he said. "I continue to serve because I want to make sure all my buddies make it home safely and I want to finish what I started here."