Over the last couple of years, we have seen an increase in fentanyl hitting the streets, with the cartel bringing the drug across the border to Arizona and California while running the supply upwards to Montana.
Our military is working on cracking down on the situation by increasing the California National Guard deployment and preparing for deployment to stop the trafficking of drugs in the states.
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In The Spotlight
California Guard Doubles Troops for Drug Interdiction Mission

California Counterdrug Task Force members obtaining hoist training certification look on while fellow trainees complete hoist training on September 23, 2020, at Moffett Federal Airfield. (Master Sgt. Holly Bayly/Air National Guard)
The California National Guard is significantly increasing its deployment of troops to combat the spread of illegal drugs, including at ports of entry along the southern border. As announced in a recent press release, the state's Counterdrug Task Force is expanding from 155 troops to nearly 400 service members.
This initiative aims to disrupt the operations of transnational drug trafficking organizations and to seize significant quantities of narcotics, particularly fentanyl, which has had devastating effects on communities across the country.
Last year, the California National Guard supported operations that led to the seizure of over 62,000 pounds of fentanyl. The governor's office also reported that in the first four months of this year, the Guard's efforts contributed to the seizure of 5.8 million fentanyl-laced pills.
Governor Gavin Newsom has been vocal about the need for more resources to support U.S. forces working along the southern border. He has called on the Speaker of the House to provide additional support.
In the News
US Army Issues Warning Against Online Espionage Traps

The U.S. Army is cautioning its soldiers about the potential dangers of online job offers and financial opportunities, warning that these could be fronts for espionage activities. The Army's Criminal Investigation Division (CID) has issued a public service announcement highlighting the risks of online sharing of personal information, especially in response to unsolicited job offers or financial schemes.
The CID emphasizes that such offers may appear legitimate but could be part of a larger scheme to extract sensitive information from military personnel. The warning comes in the wake of a recent incident where a soldier was targeted by a fake job offer, leading to the exposure of sensitive information. The CID advises soldiers to be vigilant about the information they share online and report suspicious activities.
The Army's warning underscores the growing concern over cyber threats and the need for increased vigilance among military personnel. The CID's advisory serves as a reminder that even seemingly innocuous online interactions can have serious consequences, particularly in the context of national security.
In Other News
US Patriot missiles fend off attacks during NATO drill in Romania
Marines move some recruiting centers to urban hubs in massive realignment
Pentagon exhibit showcases cutting-edge manufacturing technologies
Navy rescues merchant crew in the Red Sea
Growth & Development
V-22 Osprey Flights to Stay Limited until Mid-2025

HX-21 Completes V-22 Osprey Sea Trials Aboard the HMS Prince of Wales
The U.S. military's fleet of V-22 Ospreys will remain under flight restrictions until mid-2025, as announced by Vice Admiral Carl Chebi, the head of Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR), during a recent House oversight hearing. The decision comes in the wake of a series of fatal mishaps involving the tiltrotor aircraft, which have resulted in the deaths of 20 service members in the past two years.
The V-22 Osprey, a versatile aircraft used by the Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force Special Operations Command, was grounded in December following a fatal crash off the coast of Japan. Although the aircraft was cleared to resume partial operations in March, it is still limited to flights within a 30-minute of suitable airfields.
In his testimony, Vice Admiral Chebi emphasized the need to address safety concerns before the V-22 could return to unrestricted flight operations. The ongoing investigation aims to identify the root causes of the mishaps and implement necessary improvements. The military is also working to resolve issues related to the aircraft's clutch system, which has been identified as contributing to some accidents.
This Day in Military History
Battle of Bunker Hill Begins

On June 17, 1775, the Battle of Bunker Hill took place in Charlestown, Massachusetts, marking a pivotal moment in the early stages of the American Revolutionary War. Despite being a British victory, it was costly, with significant casualties on both sides.
The battle began when the British, led by General William Howe, launched an attack on Breed's Hill, where American troops had built a defensive position. The Americans, under the command of Colonel William Prescott, initially repelled the British assault but were eventually forced to retreat due to a lack of ammunition.
The battle is remembered for the bravery of the American troops and the high number of British casualties, which served as a morale boost for the colonial forces.
If we desire peace, one of the most powerful institutions of our rising prosperity, it must be known that we are at all times ready for war.
The summers are known for an increase in trafficking, whether drugs or people. Our military is starting to take charge and slow down the situation. Continue to shift, adjust, and increase the capabilities of our armed forces. To start the crackdown this summer while driving it out in 2025. God Bless.
Semper Fi,
