Obama Pledges All Resources Oklahoma Needs
White House photo by Chuck Kennedy
The American people will stand with their fellow citizens in Oklahoma, President Barack Obama said today from the White House. The president issued a disaster declaration to expedite resources to support the immediate response. “The people of Moore [Okla.] should know that their country will remain on the ground, there for them, beside them as long as it takes,” Obama said.
National Guard Responds To Tornado Disaster
U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Kendall James
Nearly 250 members of the Oklahoma National Guard are assisting today with victim search and security in Moore, Okla., where a monster tornado left dozens dead, National Guard Bureau officials said in a release. The twister hit May 20, 2013, about 3:15 p.m. CDT.
Hagel Hosts Russia's Security Council Secretary at Pentagon
DOD photo by U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Aaron Hostutler
U.S. Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel spoke with Russia's Security Council Secretary Nikolai Patrushev before a meeting at the Pentagon, May 21, 2013. The two leaders discussed defense matters of mutual interest.
Secretary Welcomes Australian Defense Minister
DOD photo by Erin A. Kirk-Cuomo
U.S. Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel discussed the rotation of U.S. forces to Australia, space and cyberspace cooperation and investment in defense capabilities during a meeting with Australian Defense Minister Stephen Smith at the Pentagon, May 21, 2013. Pentagon Press Secretary George Little said Hagel also thanked Smith for Australia’s commitment in Afghanistan.
Hagel Initiatives Combat Sexual Assaults in Military
DOD photo by Erin A. Kirk-Cuomo
Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel has launched new initiatives to eradicate sexual assault in the military. The multidisciplinary approach addresses sexual assault prevention from the command to the recruiting levels, and will increase reporting and improve victim care. Hagel also appointed an independent panel to make recommendations on legal reforms to hold sexual offenders accountable.
DOD Highlights Safety for Military Riders
DOD photo
The Defense Department marks the start of prime motorcycle riding weather by designating each May as Motorcycle Safety Month. This special report highlights DOD and service-related efforts to enhance the safety and overall riding experience for troops and veterans through training, mentorship and education.
Guardsmen Conduct Sling Load Operations in Uruzgan
U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Jessi Ann McCormick
U.S. Army Sgt. Zach Smola kept watch from a CH-47 Chinook helicopter on the mountains in the Chorah district of Uruzgan province, Afghanistan, May 12, 2013. Smola, a rear door gunner, is assigned to Company B, 2nd Battalion, 104th Aviation Regiment, Connecticut and Pennsylvania Army National Guard.
