U.S. NAVY PHOTOS OF MISSILE LAUNCHES DURING JOINT TASK FORCE ODYSSEY DAWN

FROM:  U.S. NAVY
110319-N-XO436-136 MEDITERRANEAN SEA (March. 19, 2011) The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Barry (DDG 52) launches a Tomahawk missile in support of Operation Odyssey Dawn on March 19, 2011. This was one of approximately 110 cruise missiles fired from U.S. and British ships and submarines that targeted about 20 radar and anti-aircraft sites along Libya's Mediterranean coast. Joint Task Force Odyssey Dawn is the U.S. Africa Command task force established to provide operational and tactical command and control of U.S. military forces supporting the international response to the unrest in Libya and enforcement of United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1973. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jonathan Sunderman/Released)

110329-N-XO436-010 MEDITERRANEAN SEA (March 29, 2011) The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Barry (DDG 52) launches a Tomahawk cruise missile to support Joint Task Force Odyssey Dawn. Odyssey Dawn is the U.S. Africa Command task force established to provide operational and tactical command and control of U.S. military forces supporting the international response to the unrest in Libya and enforcement of United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1973. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jonathan Sunderman/Released)

EL SALVADOR INDEPNDENCE DAY

FROM:  U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
El Salvador Independence Day

Press Statement

Hillary Rodham Clinton
Secretary of State
Washington, DC
September 13, 2012
On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I am delighted to send best wishes to the people of El Salvador as you celebrate your independence this September 15.

This is a time for Salvadorans across the globe to rejoice in your proud heritage and vibrant culture. With more than two and a half million Salvadorans living in the United States, the rich tapestry of Salvadoran culture is woven closely into American society. This year, on the 20th anniversary of the signing of the Chapultepec Accords, we can also reflect on the progress your nation has made in consolidating democracy and building a more secure and prosperous future.

The United States and El Salvador share a commitment to realizing your country's aspirations of inclusive economic growth, safe and resilient communities, and expanded opportunities, particularly for young people. The American people stand with you as partners and friends as you build a brighter future for generations of Salvadorans to come.
　

U.S.-EL SALVADOR RELATIONS
The United States established diplomatic relations with El Salvador in 1863 following its independence from Spain and the later dissolution of a federation of Central American states. Post-independence, the country saw a mix of revolutions, democracy, and a 1980-1992 civil war. The United States and El Salvador share a strong commitment to democracy, rule of law, and inclusive economic development. Ties are further enriched by 1.6 million Salvadorans who call the United States home.

El Salvador is a key partner in efforts to dampen the threats posed by transnational criminal organizations and gangs. The country has been a strong, durable partner on security and defense issues. However, endemic crime and impunity threaten El Salvador's progress by undermining the legitimacy of state institutions and impeding economic growth. U.S. policy toward El Salvador promotes the strengthening of El Salvador's democratic institutions, rule of law, judicial reform, national reconciliation and reconstruction, and economic opportunity and growth. Through the Partnership for Growth, the two countries are committed to working closely to boost economic prosperity and create a safer, more prosperous, and more democratic future for all their citizens.

U.S. Assistance to El Salvador

El Salvador is one of four countries worldwide selected to participate in the Partnership for Growth initiative. A joint U.S.-El Salvador multidisciplinary team identified the two most critical constraints to economic growth: crime and insecurity; and low productivity in tradables. The governments of El Salvador and the United States subsequently identified 20 goals in a 5-year Joint Country Action Plan to work in partnership with local organizations, the private sector, and other donors. As part of this effort, the majority of U.S. assistance for El Salvador will be aligned to support of the Joint Country Action Plan.

Bilateral Economic Relations

The United States and El Salvador are parties to the U.S.-Central America-Dominican Republic Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR), which aims to facilitate trade and investment and further regional integration by eliminating tariffs, opening markets, reducing barriers to services, and promoting transparency. CAFTA-DR contains a chapter on investment similar to a bilateral investment treaty with the United States. More than 300 U.S. companies have established either a permanent commercial presence in El Salvador or work through representative offices in the country. U.S. exports to El Salvador include agricultural products, oil, machinery, knit crocheted fabrics, and low-value and donated relief articles. U.S. imports from El Salvador include apparel, agricultural products, and gold. Remittances from Salvadorans working in the United States are an important source of income for many families in El Salvador.

El Salvador's Membership in International Organizations

El Salvador and the United States belong to a number of the same international organizations, including the United Nations, Organization of American States, International Monetary Fund, World Bank, Inter-American Development Bank, and World Trade Organization.

SECRETARY OF DEFENSE HILLARY CLINTON'S STATEMENT ON DEATHS IN LIBYA

Photo:  Libyan Desert..  Credit:  CIA
FROM:  U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Statement on the Deaths of Tyrone S. Woods and Glen A. Doherty in Benghazi, Libya
Press Statement
Hillary Rodham Clinton
Secretary of State
Washington, DC
September 13, 2012
The attack on our diplomatic post in Benghazi, Libya on Tuesday claimed the lives of four Americans. Yesterday, I spoke about two: Ambassador Chris Stevens and Information Management Officer Sean Smith. Today, we also recognize the two security personnel who died helping protect their colleagues. Tyrone S. Woods and Glen A. Doherty were both decorated military veterans who served our country with honor and distinction. Our thoughts, prayers, and deepest gratitude are with their families and friends. Our embassies could not carry on our critical work around the world without the service and sacrifice of brave people like Tyrone and Glen.

Tyrone’s friends and colleagues called him "Rone," and they relied on his courage and skill, honed over two decades as a Navy SEAL. In uniform, he served multiple tours in Iraq and Afghanistan. Since 2010, he protected American diplomatic personnel in dangerous posts from Central America to the Middle East. He had the hands of a healer as well as the arm of a warrior, earning distinction as a registered nurse and certified paramedic. All our hearts go out to Tyrone’s wife Dorothy and his three sons, Tyrone Jr., Hunter, and Kai, who was born just a few months ago.

We also grieve for Glen Doherty, called Bub, and his family: his father Bernard, his mother Barbara, his brother Gregory, and his sister Kathleen. Glen was also a former Navy SEAL and an experienced paramedic. And he put his life on the line many times, protecting Americans in Iraq, Afghanistan, and other hotspots. In the end, he died the way he lived – with selfless honor and unstinting valor.

We condemn the attack that took the lives of these heroes in the strongest terms, and we are taking additional steps to safeguard American embassies, consulates, and citizens around the world. This violence should shock the conscience of people of all faiths and traditions. We appreciate the statements of support that have poured in from across the region and beyond. People of conscience and goodwill everywhere must stand together in these difficult days against violence, hate, and division.

I am enormously proud of the men and women who risk their lives every day in the service of our country and our values. They help make the United States the greatest force for peace, progress, and human dignity that the world has ever known. We honor the memory of our fallen colleagues by continuing their work and carrying on the best traditions of a bold and generous nation.

West Wing Week: 09/14/12 or "Eleven" | The White House

West Wing Week: 09/14/12 or "Eleven" | The White House

The Affordable Care Act - Strengthening Medicare | The White House

The Affordable Care Act - Strengthening Medicare | The White House

Shinseki delivers remarks at Warrior Assembly Symposium

Shinseki delivers remarks at Warrior Assembly Symposium

Army scientists develop deployable renewable energy solutions

MARINES SENT TO LIBYA

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
Pentagon Deploys Security Team to Libya
By Claudette Roulo
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Sept. 13, 2012 - Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta has authorized deployment of a Marine Corps fleet anti-terrorism security team to Libya to protect U.S. citizens there and to secure the U.S. Embassy in Tripoli, Pentagon Press Secretary George Little said here today.

During a Pentagon news conference, Little said Panetta strongly condemns the recent attacks on U.S. diplomatic facilities in the Middle East.

"The secretary extends his deepest sympathies to the families of the victims and to the entire State Department family," Little said. "The department has been working with the White House and State Department to provide resources to support the security of U.S. personnel and facilities in Libya."

Little said the Defense Department supported the evacuation of American personnel and casualties out of Libya and is supporting the repatriation of the remains of the four State Department personnel, including Ambassador J. Christopher Stevens, who were killed in the attack late Tuesday on the U.S. Consulate in Benghazi.

Panetta and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Army Gen. Martin E. Dempsey also have worked over the past 48 hours with combatant commanders throughout the region to conduct reviews of their force postures, he said. They also are working "to ensure that we have the flexibility to respond to requests for assistance or orders as directed by the president of the United States," he added.

Little said the focus of the Defense Department is now on supporting whole-of-government efforts to provide security to American personnel in Libya and elsewhere, working closely with the State Department, "and then supporting any efforts that we may be called upon to assist in the effort to, as the president said, 'deliver justice.'"

"The FBI and Department of Justice have opened an investigation into this tragic event," Little said. "Obviously, we will cooperate fully if called upon to support their investigation.

"Rest assured that this department is going to work very closely with our interagency partners to help investigate [and], if we're called upon, to assist," he continued. "And we will play our part in getting to the root of what happened."

Die Europäische Space Elevator Challenge geht in die zweite Runde

Die Europäische Space Elevator Challenge geht in die zweite Runde

MARINES SENT TO YEMEN

Map Credit:  CIA World Factbook.
FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
DOD Sends Marine Team to U.S. Embassy in Yemen
By Cheryl Pellerin
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Sept. 14, 2012 - A Marine Corps fleet antiterrorism security team, called a "FAST team" is now on the ground in Yemen to help with security at the U.S. Embassy in Sanaa, Pentagon Press Secretary George Little said today.

This is the second FAST team, consisting of about 50 Marines, authorized by Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta to bolster security at U.S. diplomatic installations in the past two days.

The first team was sent to Libya after the Sept. 11 attack on the U.S. Consulate in Benghazi that killed four State Department employees, including U.S. Ambassador to Libya J. Christopher Stevens.

The FAST platoon was dispatched, Little told reporters here, "partly in response to events over the past two days at our embassy in Yemen, but it's also in part a precautionary measure."

Protests began earlier this week in Libya and at the U.S. Embassy in Cairo over what was reportedly an American-produced film posted on the Internet considered insulting to the Prophet Mohammed. Since then, there have been reports of protests in other countries in the Middle East, including at the U.S. embassy in Tunisia and the German Embassy in Sudan.

Travel alerts posted on the State Department website are advising Americans to exercise caution because of possible demonstrations elsewhere, including in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and Jakarta, Indonesia.

About ongoing protests in Cairo at the U.S. Embassy there, Little said "the situation hasn't to this point necessitated a change in security posture. Naturally, we stand ready to support our State Department colleagues if a request for additional military support comes through."

In Afghanistan, protests so far have been peaceful, he said.

"We're gratified based on what we know now," Little said, "that religious leaders have appealed for nonviolent protests ... so for at the moment we have not seen outbursts of violence against our diplomatic installations or military bases in Afghanistan."

In Libya, he added, "we are continuing to investigate what happened and DOD will do its part, working with our partners across the government, to determine what happened and, if asked, support the president's call to deliver justice."

He said the department is in communication with State Department colleagues to discuss military support to embassy and consulate security around the world, but that it is premature to reach final conclusions about the recent violence against U.S. diplomatic posts in Libya, Cairo and elsewhere or about who is responsible.

"I really am asking respectfully for a little bit of patience as we work through this," Little said. "It's important to get this answer absolutely correct, and that is the goal of this government -- to make sure that when a call is made that it's accurate and complete."

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY IMPOSED SANCTIONS AGAINST HIZBALLHA'S LEADERSHIP IN LEBANON

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of the Treasury today imposed sanctions against Hizballah's leadership in Lebanon, further exposing Hizballah’s active support to the regime of Syrian President Bashar Assad, as well as its role in terrorist activities.

Hasan Nasrallah, Hizballah's Secretary General, is being designated today pursuant to Executive Order (E.O.) 13582, for providing support to the Syrian government. Mustafa Badr Al-Din and Talal Hamiyah, two senior terrorist leaders of Hizballah, are being designated today pursuant to E.O. 13224, for providing support to Hizballah’s terrorist activities in the Middle East and around the world.

"By aiding Assad’s violent campaign against the Syrian people and working to support a regime that will inevitably fall, Hizballah’s ongoing activity undermines regional stability and poses a direct threat to Lebanon’s security," said Under Secretary for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence David S. Cohen. "Hizballah’s actions, overseen by Hasan Nasrallah and executed by Mustafa Badr Al-Din and Talal Hamiyah, clearly reveal its true nature as a terrorist and criminal organization."

Hizballah and its leader Hasan Nasrallah have sought to depict their organization as a social and political party, as well as a resistance movement. These efforts are belied by the facts: Hizballah consistently uses terrorism against civilian targets to achieve its goals, and this trend has only increased recently. The last year has witnessed Hizballah’s most aggressive terrorist plotting outside the Middle East since the 1990s. Moreover, in recent months Hizballah has also played an increasingly active role in providing support to the Government of Syria, further enabling the regime to carry out its bloody campaign against the Syrian people.

Under the Assad regime, Syria has been a longstanding supporter of Hizballah -- providing safe haven to Hizballah and routing weapons, in many cases from Iran, to Hizballah in Lebanon. Hizballah, under the direction of Nasrallah, is now returning the favor by providing training, advice, and extensive logistical support to the Government of Syria as the Assad regime continues to wreak havoc on the Syrian people through the use of terror and violence -- Hizballah’s area of expertise.

Today’s designations build upon a number of actions that the U.S. government has taken against Hizballah over the years for its support for terrorism and its role in supporting the violence being perpetrated by the Assad regime against the Syrian people. Hizballah was designated for its support to the Government of Syria pursuant to E.O. 13582 in August 2012. It was also named a Specially Designated Global Terrorist pursuant to E.O. 13224 in October 2001, and listed in the Annex to E.O. 12947 as a Specially Designated Terrorist (SDT) in January 1995. Hasan Nasrallah was designated pursuant to E.O. 12947 in January 1995.

Hasan Nasrallah


Since the beginning of the Syrian people's courageous campaign in early 2011 to secure their universal rights, Hizballah Secretary-General Hasan Nasrallah has overseen Hizballah’s efforts to help the Syrian regime’s violent crackdown on the Syrian civilian population by providing training, advice, and extensive logistical support to the Government of Syria. Hizballah has directly trained Syrian government personnel inside Syria and has facilitated the training of Syrian forces by Iran's terrorist arm, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps-Qods Force (IRGC-QF). Also under Nasrallah, Hizballah has played a substantial role in efforts to expel Syrian opposition forces from areas within Syria and coordinated its support to the Government of Syria with IRGC-QF and senior Syrian government officials. Indeed, under the direction of Nasrallah, Hizballah since mid-2012 has escalated its support to the Government of Syria.

Mustafa Badr Al-Din


Mustafa Badr Al-Din is a senior Hizballah official who is believed to have replaced his cousin, Imad Mughniyah, as Hizballah's top militant commander after Mughniyah's 2008 death. In June 2011, the prosecutor of the Special Tribunal for Lebanon charged Mustafa Badr Al-Din with the attack on February 14, 2005 that killed former Lebanese Prime Minister Rafiq Hariri and 21 others.

Talal Hamiyah


Talal Hamiyah is the head of Hizballah's External Security Organization (ESO), which maintains organized cells worldwide. The ESO is the Hizballah element responsible for the planning, coordination, and execution of terrorist attacks outside of Lebanon.

U.S. JUSTICE DEPARTMENT FILES DISCRIMINATION LAWSUIT AGAINST FARM IN TEXAS

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE

Tuesday, September 11, 2012

Justice Department Files Lawsuit Alleging Employment Discrimination by Texas Farm

The Justice Department filed a motion to intervene today in a lawsuit against Jerry Estopy, d/b/a Estopy Farms, a sorghum and soy farm in McAllen, Tex., which also provides equipment and equipment operators for harvests at other farms. The Justice Department seeks to intervene in a lawsuit filed by two U.S. citizens against the farm. The department alleges that the company discriminated against one of the U.S. citizens when it refused to hire him based on his citizenship status. The Immigration and Nationality Act’s (INA) anti-discrimination provision prohibits employers from discriminating against workers based on national origin or citizenship status in the hiring or firing process.

According to the department’s complaint, the injured party, a U.S. citizen with over twelve years experience operating cotton combines and tractors, applied for a position with Estopy Farms as a cotton picker operator around June of 2010. The U.S. citizen was not hired, and Estopy Farms hired a number of seasonal foreign workers instead. The department found reasonable cause to believe that the company did not hire the U.S. citizen because it preferred to hire foreign workers under the H-2A visa program. The H-2A visa program allows foreign nationals into the U.S. for temporary or seasonal agricultural work. Employers that seek to participate in the program file an application with the U.S. Department of Labor certifying that they have actively tried to recruit U.S. workers for the jobs and that the temporary workers’ employment will not adversely affect the wages and working conditions of similarly employed U.S. workers. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is charged with approving applications for the H-2A visas.

"The Justice Department will not tolerate discriminatory hiring practices," said Thomas E. Perez, Assistant Attorney General in charge of the Civil Rights Division. "While the department does not enforce the rules pertaining to the H-2A program, we will vigorously enforce the INA’s anti-discrimination provision, which protects U.S. workers against an employer’s illegal and discriminatory preferences."

Texas Rio Grande Legal Aid filed a lawsuit with the Office of the Chief Administrative Hearing Officer (OCAHO) within the Justice Department’s Executive Office for Immigration Review on behalf of the two U.S. citizens on Nov. 14, 2011. Because a complaint has already been filed, the department seeks to intervene in the existing lawsuit. The Justice Department is represented by trial attorney Liza Zamd in this matter.

MEXICO'S INDEPENDENCE DAY

FROM: U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT

Mexico's Independence Day
Press Statement
Hillary Rodham Clinton
Secretary of State

Washington, DC

September 13, 2012

On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I am delighted to send best wishes to the people of Mexico as you celebrate your independence this September 16.

Our two nations are linked by geography, but we also share deep-rooted economic, cultural, and social ties. The millions of Americans who trace their roots to Mexico share their customs, language, music, and cuisine, enriching American culture all across our country. Every year, increasing numbers of Mexicans and Americans travel between our two countries, creating friendships and ties that reinforce our close relationship.

Above all, Mexico and the United States share a mutual commitment to freedom and democracy. The tolling of the Liberty Bell in Philadelphia in honor of American Independence more than two centuries ago echoes the joyful pealing of Guanajuato’s church bells that accompanied Mexico’s valiant struggle for freedom. The people of the United States share in the spirit and cause of Father Miguel Hidalgo’s celebrated Grito de Dolores.¡Viva México!

RECENT U.S. NAVY PHOTOS

FROM:  U.S. NAVY
120912-N-YF306-100 U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY (Sept. 12 , 2012) Pallets from the Military Sealift Command fast combat support ship USNS Supply (T-AOE 6) come aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Winston S. Churchill (DDG 81) during a replenishment at sea. Winston S. Churchill is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and support missions as part of Operation Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Aaron Chase/Released)

120913-N-MU720-017 PACIFIC OCEAN (Sept. 13, 2012) Seaman Robert Barnes removes a chock and chain from an SH-60F Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to the Chargers of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (HS) 14 during flight operations aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Mustin (DDG 89). Mustin is part of the George Washington Carrier Strike Group based out of Yokosuka, Japan, and is supporting exercise Valiant Shield 2012. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Devon Dow/Released)

DOMINICAN NATIONAL PLEADS GUILTY TO TRAFFICKING IN IDENTITIES

FROM: U.S. JUSTICE DEPARTMENT
Tuesday, September 4, 2012
Foreign National Pleads Guilty to Leading Role in Trafficking the Identities of Puerto Rican U.S. Citizens
Co-Defendant Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Commit Alien Smuggling for Financial Gain

WASHINGTON – A Dominican national pleaded guilty today in connection with his leading role in trafficking the identities of Puerto Rican U.S. citizens and corresponding identity documents.

The guilty plea was announced by Assistant Attorney General Lanny A. Breuer of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Rosa E. Rodríguez-Vélez for the District of Puerto Rico; Director John Morton of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), which oversees Homeland Security Investigations (HSI); Chief Postal Inspector Guy J. Cottrell of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS); Scott P. Bultrowicz, Director of the U.S. State Department’s Diplomatic Security Service (DSS); and Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) Chief Richard Weber.

Rafael Joaquin Beltre-Beltre, 35, formerly of Caguas, Puerto Rico, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit identification fraud, one count of conspiracy to commit alien smuggling for financial gain and one count of international money laundering. He also agreed to forfeit $422,793 in illegal proceeds and deportation after serving his sentence. The plea took place in the District of Puerto Rico before U.S. Magistrate Judge Marcos E. Lopez.

Beltre-Beltre was charged in a superseding indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Puerto Rico on Mar. 22, 2012. To date, a total of 53 individuals have been charged for their roles in the identity trafficking scheme.

Court documents allege that individuals located in the Savarona area of Caguas, Puerto Rico (Savarona suppliers) obtained Puerto Rican identities and corresponding identity documents. Other conspirators located in various cities throughout the United States (identity brokers) allegedly solicited customers and sold Social Security cards and corresponding Puerto Rico birth certificates for prices ranging from $700 to $2,500 per set. The superseding indictment alleges that identity brokers ordered the identity documents from Savarona suppliers, on behalf of the customers, by making coded telephone calls. The conspirators are charged with using text messages, money transfer services and express, priority or regular U.S. mail to complete their illicit transactions.

Court documents allege that some identity brokers assumed a Puerto Rican identity themselves and used that identity in connection with the trafficking operation. Their customers allegedly generally obtained the identity documents to assume the identity of Puerto Rican U.S. citizens and to obtain additional identification documents, such as legitimate state driver’s licenses. Some customers allegedly obtained the documents to commit financial fraud and attempted to obtain a U.S. passport.

According to court documents, various identity brokers were operating in Rockford, Ill.; DeKalb, Ill.; Aurora, Ill.; Seymour, Ind.; Columbus, Ind.; Indianapolis; Hartford, Conn.; Clewiston, Fla.; Lilburn, Ga.; Norcross, Ga.; Salisbury, Md.; Columbus, Ohio; Fairfield, Ohio; Dorchester, Mass.; Lawrence, Mass.; Salem, Mass.; Worcester, Mass.; Grand Rapids, Mich.; Nebraska City, Neb.; Elizabeth, N.J.; Burlington, N.C.; Hickory, N.C.; Hazelton, Pa.; Philadelphia; Houston; Abingdon, Va.; Albertville, Ala.; and Providence, R.I.

Beltre-Beltre admitted that he operated as a Savarona supplier and was a leader and organizer in the conspiracy. At sentencing, Beltre-Beltre faces a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison for conspiracy to commit identification fraud, 10 years in prison for conspiracy to commit alien smuggling for financial gain and 20 years in prison for international money laundering. Beltre-Beltre is also subject to a maximum fine of $250,000 for each charge.

Another defendant involved in the scheme, Alma Yesenia Garcia-Ramirez, 28, a foreign national formerly of Crystal Lake, Ill., pleaded guilty today to one count of conspiracy to commit alien smuggling for financial gain and agreed to forfeit $35,900 in illegal proceeds as well as to deportation to Mexico after serving her sentence. According to court documents, Garcia-Ramirez assisted an Illinois-based identity broker and transferred money on behalf of the organization. Additionally, she used a Puerto Rican identity herself to commit financial fraud and traffic the identities. Garcia-Ramirez also admitted to obstructing justice in relation to the investigation by attempting to hide evidence from law enforcement investigators. Garcia-Ramirez’s plea took place in the District of Puerto Rico before U.S. Magistrate Judge Bruce J. McGiverin. At sentencing, Garcia-Ramirez faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and a maximum fine of $250,000.

Beltre-Beltre and Garcia-Ramirez are the 14th and 15th defendants to plead guilty in this case.

The charges are the result of Operation Island Express, an ongoing, nationally-coordinated investigation led by the ICE-HSI Chicago Office and USPIS, DSS and IRS-CI offices in Chicago, in coordination with the ICE-HSI San Juan Office. The Illinois Secretary of State Police; Elgin, Ill., Police Department; Seymour, Ind., Police Department; and Indiana State Police provided substantial assistance. The ICE-HSI Assistant Attaché office in the Dominican Republic, and International Organized Crime Intelligence and Operations Center (IOC-2) as well as various ICE, USPIS, DSS and IRS-CI offices around the country provided invaluable assistance.

The case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorneys James S. Yoon, Hope S. Olds, Sarah Chang, Christina Giffin and Courtney B. Schaefer of the Justice Department Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section, with the assistance of Trial Attorney Jeannette Gunderson of the Justice Department Criminal Division’s Asset Forfeiture and Money Laundering Section, and the support of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Puerto Rico. The U.S. Attorney’s Offices in the Northern District of Illinois, Southern District of Indiana, District of Connecticut, District of Massachusetts, District of Nebraska, Southern District of Ohio and Western District of Virginia provided substantial assistance.

GSA OFFICIAL TESTIFIES TO SENATE COMMITTEE THAT MILIONS OF DOLLARS ARE BEING SAVED

FROM: GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION

GSA Announces Reforms and Savings at Senate Hearing
Sept. 13, 2012

WASHINGTON — Today, U.S. General Services Administration Acting Administrator Dan Tangherlini appeared before the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs to discuss GSA’s ongoing reform efforts and recommendations resulting from his ongoing Top to Bottom review of the agency’s operations.

"In this time of shrinking budgets, GSA’s mission of delivering savings has never been more important," said GSA Acting Administrator Tangherlini. "It is our responsibility to make every taxpayer dollar count, and I am confident that the reforms that are underway at GSA will help us do exactly that. These reform efforts continue to support the Obama administration’s priority of giving the American people the most effective and efficient government possible."

Tangherlini, named Acting Administrator in April, immediately called for a Top to Bottom review of all agency operations, to increase accountability, efficiency, and cost savings. In the past five months, GSA has identified and eliminated wasteful spending, operational redundancies and improved agency operations to deliver better value for taxpayers and savings across the government. Tangherlini has also installed new senior leadership by naming Dr. Dorothy Robyn as the agency’s new commissioner for the Public Buildings Service.

In addition, in line with President Obama’s Campaign to Cut Waste, GSA is taking steps to reduce Federal Acquisition Service contracting and service fees for federal agencies. The agency is also moving to consolidate financial, personnel and technology operations.

Millions in New Savings by Cutting Contracting Fees:

GSA’s Top to Bottom review found that several fees assessed by the Federal Acquisition Service (FAS) on purchases made by other agencies could be reduced below their current levels without a negative impact on the operations of FAS. Therefore, Tangherlini has announced a new interagency group to review and develop recommendations on the overall fee structure for contracts and services provided by FAS, including fee reductions to help agencies reduce administrative costs.

Consolidation of Budget, Technology and Human Resources Organizations:

The Top to Bottom review also identified an opportunity to consolidate key agency functions such as budget, human resources, and technology which will improve performance and cost effectiveness. Tangherlini has already ordered the consolidation of all budget, finance and accounting personnel under the chief financial officer, increasing transparency, accountability, and oversight on GSA spending. This action will give Congress and taxpayers a better understanding of how and where agency funds are used. GSA will also better manage information technology investment, systems development and maintenance, and increase access to agency data by consolidating all IT personnel, budgets, and systems under the Chief Information Officer. In addition, GSA will consolidate hiring responsibilities and human capital management personnel and operations under the Chief People Officer which will increase visibility into hiring decisions and increase efficiencies by eliminating redundancy within the various parts of GSA.

Initial Reforms Save Millions:

In just five months, GSA has already made significant progress in streamlining operations and saving taxpayer dollars. After putting in place strong policies and controls on spending, travel and events, the agency is projected to save the American taxpayer more than $11 million by eliminating nearly 50 conferences and cutting travel. The agency has also implemented savings ideas gathered from GSA employees totaling $5.5 million.

In an effort to improve the agency’s performance award system to ensure awards are given for exemplary service that goes above and beyond expected levels of performance, Tangherlini took a hard look at bonuses at GSA, and has already reduced Senior Executive Service bonuses substantially. GSA will go further in the next months by reducing the budget for all performance awards across the agency. Additionally, Tangherlini has instituted a targeted hiring freeze across the agency.

GSA also froze federal travel reimbursement rates across the government for the first time in a decade. GSA announced that it will comprehensively review the methodology used to determine those rates and form a Federal Advisory Committee to provide a forum for expert industry advice. GSA anticipates that this will help federal agencies avoid an estimated $20 million in travel costs next year.

TWINS SERVE TOGETHER IN AFGHANISTAN

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
Marine Corps Sgt. David Haines, left, and his twin brother, Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Michael Haines, reunite at Camp Leatherneck, Afghanistan, Sept. 12, 2012. The brothers, from Moscow, Idaho, are on their first combat deployment, and it's the first time they have been together in five years, except for a few days during Christmas leave. U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. John Jackson

Face of Defense: Twins Serve Together in Afghanistan

By Marine Corps Sgt. John Jackson
Regional Command Southwest
CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan, Sept. 12, 2012 - Except for a few days of leave, twin brothers Marine Corps Sgt. David Haines and Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Michael Haines hadn't been together for five years until they were reunited here, where both are deployed.

They don't necessarily compete against one another, but the 24-year-old siblings often wrangle back and forth as if they are teenagers fighting for a video game controller.

Whether they are trash-talking about the other's military branch or arguing about dates of events, the brothers playfully interact like adolescents still living together on a daily basis.

Growing up, the Haines brothers had different interests. Michael ran track, worked and even spent the better part of a year living in Italy with his sister. David spent his free time practicing the piano, playing in a jazz band and taking drama classes at the local college. However, the brothers said, they have remained close.

The two graduated from Moscow Senior High School in Moscow, Idaho, in June 2006. After spending a few months out of school, David said, he knew he wanted something different.

"I needed a change of pace," he explained. "My brother-in-law was trying to talk me into the Navy, but the Navy didn't really interest me. The Marine recruiter was right next door and totally sold me."

During January 2007, David left Idaho to become a Marine, and his twin brother was thinking about doing the same.

"I always wanted to join," Michael said. "I had gotten married right out of high school. When we found out that my wife at the time was pregnant, I knew I needed to take care of my family, and I could finally do what I wanted."

For the past five years, Michael and David have shared two duty stations. However, they have not been stationed together at the same time. The brothers have both been assigned to units in Okinawa, Japan, and are both now assigned to units at Camp Pendleton, Calif.

David, the Afghan National Army development chief for 1st Marine Expeditionary Force, deployed in February. His brother, a corpsman, checked into 1st Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, in April and deployed to Afghanistan this summer. It's the first time the brothers have deployed to a combat zone, and the first time they have been together in five years, except for a few days during Christmas leave.

"It's pretty interesting," Michael said. "We always kept missing one another at our previous duty stations. It's pretty cool that we are here together, though."

Although being deployed in the same area is nice for the brothers, David said, he has found himself on the edge of his seat the past few months.

"I was really looking forward to [Michael] getting here, but to be honest, it has made me a bit anxious," he said. "Being a part of the [Marine expeditionary force] and knowing about the kinetics in the area and seeing casualty reports, I was always making sure it wasn't my brother or his unit that was getting hit. It makes it a bit different tracking those things, especially having your twin brother out there."

Michael is wrapping up his 90-day deployment and will be headed back to Camp Pendleton in the coming days. Until he redeploys, the brothers said, they look forward to spending some time together.

The brothers said they enjoy being a part of the armed forces. Both are thinking about seeking commissions. With 15 or more years remaining in the military, they added, it may mean many long waits before uniting again. But they said they'll take whatever opportunity they have to talk to one another, even if it is on the other side of the world in a combat zone.

RECENT U.S. NAVY PHOTOS: SINKING THE CORONADO, COBRA HELICOPTER TAKEOFF

FROM:  U.S. NAVY
Aviation boatswain's mates direct the takeoff of an AH-1W Cobra helicopter during flight operations aboard the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) . The Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group, along with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (31st MEU), is participating in a certification exercise. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Michael Russell (Released) 120913-N-KB563-307

The forward deployed Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Cowpens (CG 63) launches a Harpoon missile from the aft missile deck. Cowpens is participating in a live-fire exercise as part of Valiant Shield 2012. The live-fire event sank the ex-USS Coronado (AGF-11). U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Paul Kelly (Released) 120912-N-TX154-175

STATE DEPARTMENT DAILY BRIEFING FOR SEPTEMBER 13, 2012

http://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNFYzDlKeLL_IMEm7XBQrYQa1f17Zg

FORMER CIO OF STANFORD FINANCIAL GROUP GETS PRISON TERM FOR OBSTRUCTION OF JUSTICE

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE
Thursday, September 13, 2012

Former Chief Investment Officer of Stanford Financial Group Sentenced to Three Years in Prison for Obstruction of Justice

WASHINGTON – Laura Pendergest-Holt, 39, the former chief investment officer of Houston-based Stanford Financial Group, was sentenced today to 36 months in prison for her role in obstructing a U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) investigation into Stanford International Bank (SIB), the Antiguan offshore bank owned by convicted financier Robert Allen Stanford.

Today’s sentence was announced by Assistant Attorney General Lanny A. Breuer of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Kenneth Magidson of the Southern District of Texas; FBI Assistant Director Ronald T. Hosko of the Criminal Investigative Division; Assistant Secretary of Labor for the Employee Benefits Security Administration Phyllis C. Borzi; Chief Postal Inspector Guy J. Cottrell from the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS); and Chief Richard Weber, Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI).

The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge David Hittner in the Southern District of Texas. In addition to her prison term, Holt was sentenced to three years of supervised release. Judge Hittner noted that Holt did not have the ability to pay a fine.

In January 2009, the SEC sought testimony and documents related to SIB’s entire investment portfolio. Although she was incapable of testifying about the vast majority of that portfolio, Holt nevertheless agreed to testify before the SEC. In her guilty plea, Holt acknowledged that her eventual appearance and sworn testimony before the SEC was a stall tactic designed to frustrate the SEC’s efforts to obtain important information about SIB’s investment portfolio. Holt admitted she took this action intentionally and corruptly, knowing that her testimony would impede the SEC’s investigation and help SIB continue operating.

Holt was remanded into custody today.