BAN ON WOMEN IN COMBAT TO BE LIFTED

FROM: U.S. DEFENSE DEPARTMENT
Official: Pentagon to Lift Rule Excluding Women From Combat
American Forces Press Service


WASHINGTON, Jan. 23, 2013 - Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta and Army Gen. Martin E. Dempsey, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, are expected to announce the lifting of the direct combat exclusion rule for women in the military, a senior defense official said today.

The policy change will begin a process in which the services will develop plans to implement the decision, which was made by Panetta upon the recommendation of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the official said.

The official provided no further details and did not indicate when the announcement might take place.

MARINE CORPS GEN. ALLEN CLEARED OF MISCONDUCT

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
Investigation Clears Allen of Misconduct
By Cheryl Pellerin
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Jan. 23, 2013 - A Defense Department inspector general investigation into allegations of professional misconduct has cleared Marine Corps Gen. John R. Allen, commander of the International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan, Pentagon Press Secretary George Little said yesterday.

In a statement, Little said Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta was pleased to learn the investigation did not substantiate the allegations and that the inspector general has closed the investigation.

On Oct. 10, President Barack Obama nominated Allen to serve as NATO's supreme allied commander for Europe and commander of U.S. European Command. Navy Adm. James G. Stavridis, now in that position, is scheduled to retire.

In November, while Panetta was traveling in the Asia-Pacific region, the FBI referred a matter involving Allen to the Defense Department.

Panetta directed that the matter be referred to the DOD IG for investigation. He informed the chairman and ranking members of the Senate Armed Services Committee and the House Armed Services Committee.

The secretary also asked the ranking members of the Senate Armed Services Committee to delay a confirmation hearing scheduled for Nov. 15 on Allen's pending NATO nomination until the matter was resolved.

On Dec. 3, the Senate confirmed Marine Corps Gen. Joseph F. Dunford Jr., assistant Marine Corps commandant, as the next commander of ISAF and U.S. forces in Afghanistan.

Panetta, Little said in his statement, "has complete confidence in the continued leadership of General Allen, who is serving with distinction in Afghanistan."

NORTHCOM LOOKS TO RELATIONSHIP WITH MEXICO

Photo:  U.S.-Mexico Border.  Credit:  Wikimedia Commons. 

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
Northcom Pursues Closer Engagement With Mexico
By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo., Jan. 22, 2013 - With a U.S. defense strategy focused heavily on the Asia-Pacific region and the Middle East, officials at U.S. Northern Command here are enthusiastically advancing engagement to the United States' immediate southern border.

Mexico, which has long focused its military internally, is increasingly receptive to building a closer bilateral relationship with the U.S. military, Army Maj. Gen. Francis G. Mahon, Northcom's director for strategy, plans and policy, told American Forces Press Service.

"During the past two to three years, as the Mexican army and Mexican navy have taken on a larger role beyond internal security issues, our relationship with them has really grown and expanded through security cooperation," Mahon said. "They have opened up to us and said, 'Let's start working closer and closer together.'"

That's good news for the United States, he said, because the United States and Mexico share a 2,000-mile border and are intertwined culturally as well as economically. What happens in Mexico matters to the United States -- in terms of trade, immigration and, of particular concern here at Northcom, U.S. national security, he said.

Closer military-to-military cooperation will enable the U.S. and Mexican militaries to share best practices as they collaborate in tackling common challenges, Mahon said. They will be able to deal more effectively with threats such as transnational organized crime, while increasing their ability to provide humanitarian assistance and disaster response throughout the region.

Mexico's constitution explicitly prohibits foreign forces from operating on Mexican soil. But as SEDENA and SEMAR, Mexico's army and navy, respectively, shed their internal focus, they are becoming increasingly open to combined training and subject matter expert exchanges, Mahon said.

The Merida Initiative opened the door to increased engagement in 2007, with the United States providing funding and equipment to help Mexican law enforcement fight drug cartels and related criminal elements.

Five years later, the United States expanded the mission to include other efforts that contribute to security. Today, the Merida framework includes disrupting organized crime, training state and local police, supporting judicial reforms, promoting legal cross-border commerce while stopping illicit shipments and building strong communities that discourage criminal activity.

The bottom line -- for the Merida Initiative and for all other theater security cooperation -- is about building partnership capacity, Mahon said.

"The end state for Mexico, from our perspective, is that we are their strategic partner of choice in the region, and they are a regional partner who can then assist other nations in the region or respond to other crises in the region, for example through humanitarian assistance or disaster relief," he said.

The Mexicans, for example, are modernizing their aviation platforms. Northcom worked with them, through the State Department, to help upgrade their RC-26 aircraft and acquire UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters for SEMAR, he said. The United States also is helping Mexico buy C-130J Hercules aircraft through the foreign military sales program, along with the logistics capabilities required to maintain these latest-generation cargo aircraft, Mahon said.

But Mexico's interest in bilateral cooperation extends beyond equipment.

As Mexican military leaders evaluate their current missions and plan for the future, they are looking to the U.S. military for ideas and techniques that would be useful to them. Members of Marine Forces North, Northcom's Marine Corps component, are conducting junior noncommissioned officer training for SEMAR at Camp Pendleton, Calif., a step toward helping Mexico to establish its own NCO academy, Mahon said.

Mahon hopes to establish a similar relationship between the U.S. and Mexican armies. To promote that effort, members of the 4th Infantry Division at Fort Carson, Colo., demonstrated various military techniques while hosting senior SEDENA leaders last year.

Last spring, Northcom sponsored a group of Mexican military doctors to observe their American counterparts medically evacuating wounded warriors from Afghanistan. The Mexican group traveled from Afghanistan to Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Md., and ultimately, to Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio. From this experience, the Mexicans may draw ideas on how to improve their field medicine capacity, Mahon said.

"I believe their objective, in the long run, is to change their medical process," he said. "Their hope is to institutionalize something better than what they have now, which is basically soldier first aid, without the benefits of combat lifesavers or intermediate evacuation care capability."

Meanwhile, as the Mexican government transforms its judicial system into an adversarial framework like that used in the United States, U.S. judge advocate general staff are working with Mexican lawyers to integrate this new construct into the Mexican military legal system.

"The scope and breadth of things we are doing with our Mexican partners is very wide. It's everything from techniques to planning skills to support for disaster operations," Mahon said.

The next big step -- one that Mahon said he hopes Northcom will be able to take with Mexico in 2013 -- will be the start of bilateral exercises.

Humanitarian assistance and disaster relief has been a good starting place, Mahon said, noting that Mexico is earthquake-prone and also provided relief after Haiti's 2010 earthquake.

Mexican military leaders participated in several tabletop exercises last year through the Center for Hemispheric Defense Studies at the National Defense University in Washington, D.C. The scenarios, which centered on earthquakes and pandemic outbreaks, incorporated not only the U.S. and Mexican militaries, but also their interagency partners, Mahon said.

Mexico also sent observers last spring to Northcom's Ardent Sentry, a major exercise that tests the command's processes for supporting civil authorities in the event of a natural disaster or pandemic. "We hope to integrate that into future exercises that can benefit not only both countries, but also others in the region," Mahon said.

This month, U.S. and Mexican military officials will chart new ground as they begin planning their first bilateral air defense exercise, expected to take place later this year, he said. As envisioned, the exercise's scenario will involve a rogue aircraft that flies from the United States into Mexico. U.S. interceptor aircraft scrambled by North American Aerospace Defense Command will shadow the aircraft until it enters Mexican airspace, then will transfer the mission to the Mexican air force.

The scenario, similar to the Amalgam Eagle exercise conducted last year with Russia, will help both militaries exercise the procedures they would need to follow during a real-life situation, Mahon said.

"From a command and control aspect, it will address how we coordinate between the U.S. and Mexican air forces as an aircraft that we have concerns about crosses the border," he said. "It also will help address their ability to generate plans, find the aircraft and intercept."

With two Mexican officers assigned to the Northcom headquarters to help coordinate these initiatives and increasing receptiveness from Mexico, Mahon said, he sees plenty of opportunity for more exchanges and combined training.

"It's all about getting comfortable with each other and hopefully, advancing in the relationship," he said. "It would be wonderful, someday, to take a Mexican company to the National Training Center to train with an American battalion or brigade.

"That sounds visionary, but we regularly conduct combined training with other allies and partners. There is no reason we can't get it going with our Mexican partners," he said. "I think our vision, working with Mexico, is that they become more of a regional strategic partner and more of an outward-looking military. I think they're moving in that direction."

U.S. STATEMENT ON CONVICTION AND DEATH SENTENCE OF ABUL KALAM AZAD BY BANGLADESH ICT

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Conviction and Death Sentence at Bangladesh International Crimes Tribunal
Press Statement
Victoria Nuland
Department Spokesperson, Office of the Spokesperson
Washington, DC
January 22, 2013
　

The United States notes the conviction and death sentence announced Monday by Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) following the trial in absentia of Abul Kalam Azad for crimes against humanity committed during Bangladesh’s 1971 Liberation War. The United States supports bringing to justice those who commit such crimes. However, we believe that any such trials must be free, fair, and transparent, and in accordance with domestic standards and international standards Bangladesh has agreed to uphold through its ratification of international agreements, including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.

As Bangladesh addresses the legacy of atrocities committed during the Liberation War and as we await further verdicts by the Bangladesh International Crimes Tribunal, the United States urges the Government of Bangladesh to adhere to the due process standards that are part of its treaty obligations, and to fully respect the rule of law.

PRESIDENT THANKS MEMBERS OF ARMED SERVICE AT INAUGUARAL BALL

President Barack Obama delivers remarks as senior enlisted members representing the separate services look on at the Commander in Chief's Ball in Washington, D.C., Jan. 21, 2013. DOD photo by U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Sun L. Vega

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
President Promises Continued Support at Inaugural Ball
By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Jan. 22, 2013 - President Barack Obama opened the first inaugural ball last night extending "extraordinary gratitude" to the men and women in uniform and promised to ensure they have everything they need as they defend Americans' freedoms every day.

Speaking to hundreds of service members, including wounded warriors and Medal of Honor recipients, Gold Star families and veterans gathered at the Commander in Chief's Ball, and via a televised webcast with troops deployed to Afghanistan, the president said it's impossible to say "thank you" enough to those who serve.

"Thank you for volunteering. Thank you for stepping up. Thank you for keeping us strong. Thank you for always making us proud," he told the gathering.

"I have no greater honor than being your commander in chief," he said, drawing enthusiastic applause.

Obama ticked off some of the accomplishments made possible during the past four years, and vowed to ensure the military has what it needs for continued success.

"It's because of you that with honor we were able to end the war in Iraq. Because of you that we delivered justice to Osama bin Laden. Because of you that it's even possible to give Afghans a chance to determine their own destiny," he said. "We are going forward, and we'll keep our military the finest fighting force the world has ever known."

The president offered special recognition to members of the 3rd Infantry Division and Regional Command South, who are deployed to Kandahar, Afghanistan. He spoke via teleconference with Army Sgt. 1st Class Orlando Jackson and Army Sgt. 1st Class David Wood from the 3rd Infantry Division's Falcon Brigade, Task Force Light Horse; and Air Force Master Sgt. Robert Skowronski and Air Force Master Sgt. James Godlewski of the 807th Expeditionary Air Support Operations Squadron.

"We know it's tough being away from your families. We know the incredible sacrifices and challenges that you make every day," Obama said. "But I can tell you that you've got a room full of patriots here.

"And although I've got to admit that they're a little spiffied up right now," he continued, drawing laughter and applause, "their heart and soul, their dedication, their sense of duty is at one with every single one of the folks who are in Kandahar right now."

Reflecting on his swearing-in on the steps of the U.S. Capitol earlier in the day, Obama said he biggest cheer he received was as he spoke about "the extraordinary men and women in uniform that preserve our freedom and keep our country strong."

He offered assurance that the nation will continue to stand by them and give them the tools and support they and their families require.

"We're going to make sure that you've got the equipment, the strategy [and] the mission that allows you to succeed and keep our country safe," he said. "Know that we are going to be looking after and thinking about your families every single day -- and that when you get back home, you're going to be greeted by a grateful nation."

Four service members were selected for honorary dances during the ball. Air Force Staff Sgt. Bria D. Nelson of the 579th Medical Operations Squadron, Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling in Washington, D.C., danced with the president.

Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Timothy D. Easterling, assigned to Marine Barracks, Washington, D.C., as a distance learning instructor, danced with First Lady Michelle Obama.

Army Staff Sgt. Keesha N. Dentino, assigned to the 947th Military Police Detachment, Fort Myer, Va., as a patrol explosives detection dog handler, danced with Vice President Joe Biden.

Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Patrick R. Figueroa, assigned to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Md., as a manpower transfer clerk, danced with Dr. Jill Biden.

The star-studded lineup of performers at the ball included Dan Moose, Alicia Keys, Brad Paisley, Chris Cornell, Jamie Foxx, Jennifer Hudson and Marc Anthony.

TRAFFIC STOP OR HIGHWAY ROBBERY?

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE
Tuesday, January 22, 2013
Second Fort Deposit, Ala., Officer Sentenced to 37 Months in Prison for Federal Civil Rights Violations in Connection with Thefts on Highway

Former Fort Deposit, Ala., police officer Carlos Tyson Bennett, 37, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Mark Fuller to 37 months in prison, two years of supervised release and ordered to pay $500 in restitution. Bennett was sentenced for stealing money from motorists during traffic stops, with another former Fort Deposit police officer, Jessie Alan Fuller, on Interstate 65 in 2009.

Bennett pleaded guilty on Aug. 29, 2012, to one count of conspiracy against rights and four counts of deprivation of rights under color of law. During his plea, Bennett admitted that he and Fuller conspired to pull over vehicles under the guise of legitimate law enforcement activity and to steal cash from drivers and passengers in violation of their Fourth Amendment rights. Bennett acknowledged that he and Fuller worked together, acting with each other’s knowledge and cooperation and typically sharing the stolen money. In May and June 2009, Bennett committed four specific thefts, taking between $100 and $200 per victim. Bennett further acknowledged that he and Fuller tried to cover up their conspiracy when authorities began to investigate.

Fuller previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy and one count of deprivation of rights under color of law. He was sentenced to 37 months in prison on Aug. 28, 2012.

"This defendant betrayed the public trust when he took advantage of his position of authority to steal from those he pledged to serve," said Thomas E. Perez, Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights Division. "The Department of Justice is committed to prosecuting those who abuse their authority and violate the Constitution."

"Police officers are here to protect public, not exploit the public," stated U.S. Attorney George L. Beck Jr. "When law enforcement officers take advantage of people they are supposed to be serving, they must be punished. This case shows that my office will continue to do everything under law to protect public from criminals, even when the criminal is a law enforcement officer."

This case was investigated by the Alabama Bureau of Investigation; the Butler County, Ala., Sheriff’s Office; and the Lowndes County, Ala., Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Gray Borden for the Middle District of Alabama and Trial Attorney Chiraag Bains from the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division.

U.S. DISAPPOINTED WITH SUDAN-SOUTH SUDAN PROGRESS ON AGREEMENTS

FROM: U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT
Implementation of Agreements Long Overdue
Press Statement
Victoria Nuland
Department Spokesperson, Office of the Spokesperson
Washington, DC
January 22, 2013

The United States remains disappointed that the Governments of Sudan and South Sudan have failed to make significant progress to implement the September 27 agreements despite a recommitment to implementation by Presidents Bashir and Kiir of Sudan and South Sudan.

Specifically, the Government of Sudan’s intent to postpone the restart of oil production until the implementation of security arrangements is complete runs counter to the fundamental principles of the cooperation accord and continues to undermine the economic and security situation in both states. Continued delay in resolving outstanding issues, particularly in accepting and implementing the African Union-endorsed proposal on the final status of the disputed region of Abyei, further undermines the peace process.

The Government of Sudan continues to suggest its fundamental security interests must be guaranteed in order to move forward on implementing the 27 September agreements and resolving the conflict in Southern Kordofan and Blue Nile ("Two Areas"). However, security will only come if Sudan cooperates with South Sudan and begins direct talks with the SPLM-N to address the Two Areas conflict. Lack of resolution on this issue prevents normalized relations between Sudan and South Sudan and compounds the current human rights and humanitarian emergency.

The African Union and United Nations must stand firm and demand that the parties urgently uphold their commitments to avert this threat to regional peace and stability.

PENTAGON COMMENDS FRANCE'S OPERATIONS IN MALI

Pentagon Press Secretary George Little

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
Pentagon Spokesman Commends France's Efforts in Mali
By Amaani Lyle
American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Jan. 22, 2013 - Pentagon Press Secretary George Little today praised French allies and said the United States will continue providing intelligence and airlift support against an al-Qaida-affiliated group in Mali.

"We commend the French for their actions in Mali to confront an extremist threat in that country," Little told reporters. "We stand by our French allies and will ... continue to work with [them] to determine what their future needs might be."

As of today, Little said, the U.S. Air Force has flown five C-17 sorties moving about 80 French troops and more than 124 tons of supplies and equipment into Mali.

"We've provided information in support of the French since their operations began in Mali, ... and we continue to consult with the French on further steps that we may take as U.S. government to support their efforts in Mali," he said.

Little also noted that Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta has for years been "very clear" in his stance on al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb, a Mali-based militant organization, and other branches of al-Qaida.

"We need to go after al-Qaida wherever they are around the world," he said, echoing Panetta's remarks.

Since operations began in the region, the United States has "moved quickly to provide intelligence and airlift as part of a deliberate effort" to consult with France and assess how the U.S. can best support among other countries, Little said.

"This is truly an international effort, French-led, but a number of countries are providing support in the effort, including the United States," he added.

RECENT PHOTOS FROM THE U.S. NAVY

FROM: U.S. NAVY
An F/A-18E Super Hornet, assigned to the Gunslingers€ of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 105, prepares to catch an arresting gear cable during a recovery on the flight deck aboard the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Lorenzo J. Burleson/Released)

An MH-60S Knighthawk helicopter, assigned to the Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 23 Wild Cards€ transports supplies during a vertical replenishment-at-sea with Military Sea Lift Command fleet replenishment oiler USNS Joshua Humpreys (T-AO 188) and amphibious assault ship USS Peleliu (LHA 5). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Daniel Viramontes/Released)

 

PENTAGON SAYS SEQUESTRATION PLANNING HURTS PENTAGON

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
Spokesman: Sequestration Planning Hinders Pentagon
By Amaani Lyle
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Jan. 22, 2013 - Preparations under way for the looming threat of major across-the-board Pentagon spending cuts are "a drag on the department," Pentagon Press Secretary George Little said today.

Congress recently passed legislation delaying the "sequestration" spending cuts until March 1, but $500 billion in defense spending over 10 years still is at stake if Congress fails to agree on an alternative.

""We're investing a great number of manhours, resources and intensive planning for sequestration, which we, of course, hope to avoid," Little told reporters, and the fiscal ripples at the Pentagon expand far beyond Washington.

"When you have [forward deployed] service members who are asking about appropriations, that's a signal to me that [it's] weighing on their minds," Little said. "When sequestration, ... continuing resolutions and appropriations become a discussion point in Kabul, ... Vicenza or on Okinawa, that is a sign [that] this debate in Washington is having a negative effect on troop morale."

Little said the threat of sequestration already has affected morale, time management, planning and even his ability to discuss other matters in his meetings with reporters.

"It's time to move beyond the 'fiscal cliff' and get a deal done," he said.

As sequestration draws closer, Little noted, his level of awareness has increased with regard to service members' worries about their families, their benefits and their ability to perform the mission.

"I think it is a justifiable concern on their part, and responsibility to address it rests with Congress," he said.

SPACECRAFT ON PARADE

FROM: NASA, NASA PHOTOS
Orion in the Inaugural Parade
The Orion space capsule along with NASA Astronauts Lee Morin, Alvin Drew, Kjell Lindgren, Serena Aunon, Kate Rubins, and Mike Massimino pass the Presidential viewing stand and President Barack Obama during the Inaugural Parade on Monday Jan. 21, 2013, in Washington, D.C.

Orion will carry future astronauts beyond Earth orbit to farther destinations than ever before.

Credit-NASA-Bill Ingalls

INTERNAL POLITICAL DIALOGUE ANNOUNCED BY BAHRAIN

Manama, the capital of Bahrain, seen from a distance. Its wealth is based on financial services, petroleum, ship repair, and tourism; one of its shopping malls, the Seef (Souk), has luxury apartments and five-star hotels. From: CIA World Factbook.

FROM: U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT
Bahrain Announces Dialogue
Press Statement
Victoria Nuland
Department Spokesperson, Office of the Spokesperson
Washington, DC
January 22, 2013

The United States welcomes His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa’s call to launch an inclusive, comprehensive political dialogue in Bahrain. We are encouraged by the positive responses thus far from some of Bahrain’s political groups. We call on all sides to participate fully and to engage constructively in an effort to produce a way ahead that responds to the legitimate aspirations of all Bahrainis.
　

BACKGROUND INFORMATION FROM CIA WORLD FACTBOOK

In 1783, the Sunni Al-Khalifa family captured Bahrain from the Persians. In order to secure these holdings, it entered into a series of treaties with the UK during the 19th century that made Bahrain a British protectorate. The archipelago attained its independence in 1971. Facing declining oil reserves, Bahrain has turned to petroleum processing and refining and has transformed itself into an international banking center. Bahrain's small size and central location among Persian Gulf countries require it to play a delicate balancing act in foreign affairs among its larger neighbors. In addition, the Sunni-led government has struggled to manage relations with its large Shia-majority population. During the mid-to-late 1990s, Shia activists mounted a low-intensity uprising to demand that the Sunni-led government stop systemic economic, social, and political discrimination against Shia Bahrainis. King HAMAD bin Isa Al-Khalifa, after succeeding his late father in 1999, pushed economic and political reforms in part to improve relations with the Shia community. After boycotting the country's first round of democratic elections under the newly-promulgated constitution in 2002, Shia political societies participated in 2006 and 2010 in legislative and municipal elections and Wifaq, the largest Shia political society, won the largest bloc of seats in the elected lower-house of the legislature both times. In early 2011, Bahrain's fractious opposition sought to ride a rising tide of popular Arab protests to petition for the redress of popular grievances. In mid-March 2011, with the backing of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) capitals, King HAMAD put an end to the mass public gatherings and increasingly disruptive civil disobedience by declaring a state of emergency. Manama also welcomed a contingent of mostly Saudi and Emirati forces as part of a GCC deployment intended to help Bahraini security forces maintain order. Since that time, intermittent efforts at political dialogue between the government and opposition have remained at a stalemate. The Bahrain Independent Commission of Inquiry (BICI), formed in June 2011 to investigate abuses during the unrest and state of emergency, released its final report in November 2011. The King fully endorsed the report, and since then Manama has begun to implement many of the BICI's recommendations, including improving policing procedures, reinstating fired workers, rebuilding some mosques, and establishing a compensation fund for those affected by the unrest and crackdown. Despite this progress, street protests have grown increasingly violent since the beginning of 2012.

U.S. Department Of State Daily Press Briefing - January 22, 2013

Daily Press Briefing - January 22, 2013

PHOTOS FROM THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge on the Virginia end of Assateague Island includes more than 14,000 acres of beach, dunes, marsh, and maritime forest. Within a workday’s access to millions of people, Chincoteague Refuge received 1.36 million visitors in 2010. Adjacent to Assateague National Seashore, it has a great view of Assateague Lighthouse. Visitors to this and other Virginia coastal refuges contributed an estimated $60 million to local economies in 2010.
FWS Photo

AMERICA’S GREAT OUTDOORS BEACHES GOLDEN GATE NRA Of the 85 marine and coastal units administered by the National Park Service, two national recreation areas have the highest visitation—Golden Gate National Recreation Area in California and the Gateway National Recreation Area in New York and New Jersey. The many beaches to enjoy and explore in Golden Gate include Stinson Beach, Muir Beach, Tennessee Valley Beach, Rodeo Beach, Baker Beach, and Ocean Beach. This NPS photo shows the famous Cliff House shot from Ocean Beach. In 2010, Golden Gate NRA had 14.3 million visits that contributed $264 million and 3,445 jobs to the local economy. Nationwide, coastal and marine units of the National Park System contributed $3.5 billion, not counting other Interior coastal units.NPS Photo.

Women and girls bingeing

Women and girls bingeing

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE PROVIDES AIRLIFT SUPPORT FOR VICTIMS OF ATTACK IN ALGERIA

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
DOD Provides Airlift Support to Algeria Attack Victims
By Amaani Lyle
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Jan. 22, 2013 – The United States has provided airlift support to the Algerian government in the wake of recent terrorist attacks at a natural gas plant, Pentagon Press Secretary George Little told reporters here today.

Little confirmed that U.S. C-130 and C-17 aircraft configured for medical evacuation support moved wounded Americans and others from Algeria to Naval Air Station Sigonella on the Italian island of Sicily and to Ramstein Air Base, Germany, respectively.

The evacuations occur as the United States maintains participation in international efforts to thwart burgeoning terrorist cells in Northern Africa, Little said.

"The sole blame for what happened at this facility in Algeria rests with the terrorists, … and the responsibility lies with them," he added.

Little noted the United States has seen "strong indications" that Al-Qaida in the Islamic Maghreb -- a Mali-based militant organization -- and other northern militant elements had a role in the attacks, but the groups are not solely an American issue.

"Countries in the region and beyond need to take AQIM very seriously," Little said. "This node has grown in threat over the years, and we need to do whatever we can to thwart them."

U.S.-NORWAY RELATIONS

Map:  Norway.  Credit:  CIA World Factbook.

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
The United States established diplomatic relations with Norway in 1905, following Norway's separation from its union with Sweden. The United States and Norway enjoy a long tradition of friendly relations based on democratic values and mutual respect. The bilateral Global Issues Dialogue is a forum through which the two countries coordinate and expand cooperation on issues of mutual interest in the promotion of human rights, civilian security, and democracy. The United States and Norway share a commitment to promoting universal human rights and economic development, respect for the United Nations, and peaceful resolution of disputes around the globe. The two work closely together as North Atlantic Treaty Organization allies. There is a strong shared interest in addressing the problems posed by climate change, particularly with respect to the Arctic and in building cooperation in the region through the Arctic Council. The United States and Norway benefit from cultural exchanges, both officially and privately.

U.S. Assistance to Norway
The United States provides no development assistance to Norway.

Bilateral Economic Relations
The United States is one of Norway's principal trading partners. The growth of Norway's petroleum sector has contributed significantly to its economic vitality. Many U.S. companies participate actively in the petroleum sector. U.S. exports to Norway include aircraft, machinery, optic and medical instruments, and inorganic chemicals. U.S. imports from Norway include mineral fuel and oil, machinery, nickel and nickel products, and Atlantic salmon. Reported U.S. direct investment in Norway is led by the mining and manufacturing sectors. Software and IT services, coal, oil and natural gas, and metals, account for the top three sectors in Norway's reported direct investment in the United States.

Norway's Membership in International Organizations
Norway and the United States belong to a number of the same international organizations, including the United Nations, Arctic Council, North Atlantic Treaty Organization, Euro-Atlantic Partnership Council, Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, International Monetary Fund, World Bank, and World Trade Organization. Norway also is an observer to the Organization of American States.




Norway Locator Map.  Credit:  CIA World Factbook. 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION FROM CIA WORLD FACTBOOK

Two centuries of Viking raids into Europe tapered off following the adoption of Christianity by King Olav TRYGGVASON in 994. Conversion of the Norwegian kingdom occurred over the next several decades. In 1397, Norway was absorbed into a union with Denmark that lasted more than four centuries. In 1814, Norwegians resisted the cession of their country to Sweden and adopted a new constitution. Sweden then invaded Norway but agreed to let Norway keep its constitution in return for accepting the union under a Swedish king. Rising nationalism throughout the 19th century led to a 1905 referendum granting Norway independence. Although Norway remained neutral in World War I, it suffered heavy losses to its shipping. Norway proclaimed its neutrality at the outset of World War II, but was nonetheless occupied for five years by Nazi Germany (1940-45). In 1949, neutrality was abandoned and Norway became a member of NATO. Discovery of oil and gas in adjacent waters in the late 1960s boosted Norway's economic fortunes. In referenda held in 1972 and 1994, Norway rejected joining the EU. Key domestic issues include immigration and integration of ethnic minorities, maintaining the country's extensive social safety net with an aging population, and preserving economic competitiveness.

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTANT

Photo:  Afghanistan.  Credit:  U.S. Army.

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

Combined Force Arrests Haqqani Network Facilitator
Compiled from International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Releases

WASHINGTON, Jan. 22, 2013 - A combined Afghan and coalition security force arrested a Haqqani network facilitator in the Pul-e Alam district of Afghanistan's Logar province today, military officials reported.

The facilitator acquired and delivered weapons to Haqqani fighters in the province and was directly involved in attacks against local police and Afghan government officials.

During the operation, the security force seized weapons, ammunition and $5,800 in Afghan currency.

In other Afghanistan operations today:

-- A combined security force in Helmand province's Lashkar Gah district arrested a Taliban leader who controlled improvised explosive device operations. Insurgents under his control recently began using magnetic IEDs to target Afghan army vehicles. He also was responsible for directing insurgent attacks against coalition forces.

-- In Kandahar province's Spin Boldak district, a combined force arrested a local Taliban leader who was directly responsible for IED attacks. The security force also detained a suspected insurgent.

In operations yesterday:

-- A combined force in Paktia province's Dzadran district detained a suspected insurgent while searching for a Haqqani network facilitator who provides weapons and IEDs to insurgents.

-- A combined force killed a Taliban leader and his subordinate in Kunduz province's Khanabad district. The pair worked together to coordinate and execute IED attacks. The security force also detained two suspected insurgents and seized firearms with associated gear and ammunition.

-- In Logar province's Pul-e Alam district, a combined force arrested a Haqqani network leader responsible for coordinating attacks targeting Afghan and coalition force, and overseeing the procurement and distribution of weapons to insurgents. He recently coordinated the acquisition of suicide vest materials in preparation for a future attack. The security force also detained one suspected insurgent.

In Jan. 20 operations:

-- A precision airstrike in Kunduz province's Khanabad district killed a Taliban attack facilitator involved in planning and executing IED attacks and facilitating the movement of weapons and explosives. The strike also killed a second insurgent.

-- A combined force in Paktia province's Zurmat district arrested a Taliban leader who acted as a liaison with senior Haqqani network leaders and oversaw the purchase and storage of rocket-propelled grenades and other weapons and ammunition. He also facilitated the movement of suicide bombers in the Afghan capital and was planning an attack at the time of his arrest. The security force also detained several suspected insurgents and seized grenades, weapons and ammunition.

-- In Helmand province's Nahr-e Saraj district, a combined force arrested a Taliban leader who planned and directed suicide attacks and coordinated the movement of materials used to build suicide vests. He also provided direct financial support to the Taliban.

-- A combined force in Paktia province's Sayyid Karam district arrested a senior Haqqani network leader who oversaw IED construction, storage, transportation and emplacement. He also oversaw the acquisition of weapons and ammunition. The security force also detained two suspected insurgents and seized firearms.

-- In Kandahar province's Maiwand district, a combined force arrested a Taliban leader who planned and conducted attacks against Afghan and coalition forces and facilitated the movement of IEDs, rockets, mortars and other weapons. The security force also detained two suspected insurgents.

-- A combined force in Logar province's Pul-e Alam district arrested a local Taliban leader who worked closely with senior Taliban leaders to coordinate insurgent attacks across several provinces. He also organized the transfer and delivery of weapons and ammunition to insurgents and was coordinating the movement of suicide bombers for a future attack.

In Jan. 19 operations:

-- Afghan and coalition forces in Kunar province's Ghaziabad district killed two insurgents during a search for a Taliban leader who organizes attacks against Afghan and coalition forces and enabled the movement of insurgents.

-- In Nangarhar province's Sherzad district, a combined force killed a local Taliban leader and arrested another. Both were involved in IED operations. The security force also detained two suspected insurgents and seized weapons and ammunition.

-- A combined force in Khost province's Terayzai district arrested a Haqqani network leader who directed attacks against Afghan and coalition forces. He also oversaw the construction and delivery of IEDs to insurgents and helped acquire IED components, ammunition and detonation materials. The security force also detained a suspected insurgent.

In Jan. 18 operations:

-- In Helmand province's Nahr-e Saraj district, a combined force arrested a local Taliban leader who planned IED attacks against Afghan and coalition forces. The security force also detained one suspected insurgent.

-- A combined force in Kandahar province's Arghandab district arrested a local Taliban leader who coordinated and executed IED attacks and oversaw the distribution of IEDs, weapons and ammunition to insurgents. The security force also detained a suspected insurgent.

Betelgeuse se prepara para una colisión

Betelgeuse se prepara para una colisión

U.S. JUSTICE DEPARTMENT ISSUES 2012 ACCOMPLISHMENTS REPORT

Credit:  Wikimedia Commons.

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE
Friday, January 18, 2013
Environment and Natural Resources Division Issues 2012 Accomplishments Report

Assistant Attorney General Ignacia S. Moreno announced today the publication of the Environment and Natural Resources Division’s (ENRD) Fiscal Year 2012 Accomplishments Report.

Outstanding Enforcement Results
Through its civil and criminal environmental enforcement actions, ENRD achieved dramatic reductions in emissions and discharges of harmful pollutants to America’s air, water and land. In 2012, the division secured more than $397 million in civil and stipulated penalties, cost recoveries, natural resource damages and other civil monetary relief, including almost $133 million recovered for the Superfund. The division obtained over $6.9 billion in corrective measures through court orders and settlements and concluded 47 criminal cases against 83 defendants, resulting in nearly 21 years in confinement and over $38 million in criminal fines, restitution, community service funds and special assessments. These outstanding results continue the division’s success in obtaining record-setting results over the past four years. During this time, the division has also advanced environmental justice, incorporating this important priority in a meaningful and enduring way into the work of the division.

"The extraordinary work reflected in this report is due to the dedication, expertise and professionalism of the division staff," said Assistant Attorney General Moreno. "I am extremely proud of our achievements over the past year. They have resulted in immeasurable benefits for human health and the environment for all of the American people, who should all enjoy the benefits of a fair and even-handed application of environmental and natural resources laws. Together with our colleagues at client agencies and state, local and tribal governments, the Department of Justice will continue to vigorously enforce the federal civil and criminal environmental and natural resources laws that protect our air, land and water from pollution and that preserve our natural resources for the use and enjoyment of generations to come."

Holding Those Responsible for the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill Accountable

ENRD’s top civil and criminal enforcement priority is to bring to justice those responsible for the April 20, 2010 Deepwater Horizon explosion, fire and oil spill. Under a consent decree lodged on Jan. 3, 2013, Transocean pleaded guilty to violating the Clean Water Act and agreed to pay $1.4 billion in civil and criminal fines and penalties, including a record-setting $1 billion to resolve Clean Water Act civil claims. On Feb. 17, 2012, the Department of Justice announced an agreement with MOEX, which will pay $70 million in civil penalties to resolve alleged violations of the Clean Water Act and will spend at least $20 million to facilitate land acquisition projects in several Gulf States that will preserve and protect in perpetuity habitat and resources important to water quality.

Landmark Decisions Reducing Greenhouse Gases

ENRD’s responsibilities include defending lawsuits brought against the federal government challenging agency actions and programs. In a landmark example of its defensive work, the division, with agency counsel, successfully defended rulemakings under the Clean Air Act that reduce the emission of greenhouse gases that contribute to global warming. In June 2012, in one of the most significant environmental regulatory decisions of the past decade, a unanimous panel of the D.C. Circuit in Coalition for Responsible Regulation v. EPA upheld EPA’s greenhouse gas-related regulatory actions against all challenges.

Successfully Defending the Country’s Energy Agenda

The Obama Administration’s energy policy includes the responsible development of additional fossil fuels and renewable energy sources. In 2012, the division successfully defended challenges to permits and rights-of-way put in place to promote the development of renewable energy projects on western public lands. ENRD is defending more than 20 cases involving solar, wind and transmission projects located in California, Oregon, Tennessee, Delaware, Massachusetts and Vermont, and has successfully defeated motions for injunctive relief in California, Tennessee and Delaware to allow responsible energy development to proceed consistent with the permitting requirements of the issuing agencies.

Promoting National Security and Military Preparedness

Increasingly, the division is responsible for defending agency actions that support the national security of the United States. For example, in fiscal year 2012, the division successfully defended against challenges to critical Department of Defense training programs that ensure military preparedness, various agency projects to secure the nation’s borders and waters, and U.S. development of all forms of domestic energy to reduce our dependence on foreign oil.

Historic Results Protecting Tribal Rights and Resources and Addressing Tribal Claims

In 2012, the division achieved historic results for Indian tribes and resolved decades-long and costly litigation over tribal claims regarding the government’s management of trust funds and trust resources. In the past year, the United States settled cases with 62 tribes, agreeing to pay about $1.25 billion in total to resolve the tribes’ claims. The division will continue, through its cases, to vigilantly protect tribal sovereignty, safeguard tribal lands and resources, and honor tribal treaty rights.

One of the Best Places to Work in the Federal Government

At the same time that the division has achieved outstanding results in its cases, in each of the last three years, the Partnership for the Public Service (PPS) has ranked ENRD as one of the "Best Places to Work in the Federal Government." ENRD’s overall ranking has been in the top five for each of the past three years, including two #1 rankings. The division has also continued to make great strides in promoting diversity and a better quality of life for all its employees.