Category: MIL-OSI

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Justice Department Charges 11 Illegal Aliens Among 15 in $1.4M Benefit Fraud Crackdown in Massachusetts

Source: United States Department of Justice Criminal Division

The Justice Department announced today fifteen individuals, 11 illegal aliens and four U.S. citizens, have been charged and arrested for benefit fraud in Massachusetts. The defendants are charged with more than $1.4 million in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefit fraud, MassHealth benefit fraud and disability and unemployment benefit fraud, just to name a few.

“These cases highlight a broader, deeply troubling pattern: the exploitation of America’s safety-net by illegal aliens,” said Assistant Attorney General Colin M. McDonald for the National Fraud Enforcement Division. “Fraud by illegal aliens carries real and substantial costs to American taxpayers and places enormous strain on our public benefits systems. The Fraud Division remains laser-focused on rooting out fraud — whether committed by illegal aliens or anyone else — and recovering money wrongfully taken from the American people.”

“These criminal illegal aliens conspired to defraud Massachusetts taxpayers of more than $1.4 million in public benefits, depriving American citizens of benefits that they needed,” said DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin. “After these 12 criminal illegal aliens face justice, they will be swiftly removed from our country so they can never defraud American taxpayers again. Under President Trump, DHS is putting the American people first again.”

The following individuals have been charged over the past week. Several defendants’ names are currently unknown at this time, as they have been living under stolen identities:

  • Heriberto Rodriguez of Framingham, Mass., is charged with passport fraud, SNAP fraud, and aggravated identity theft in connection with $546,463 in total benefit fraud loss ($175,182 in MassHealth fraud; $146,944 in Social Security fraud; $185,194 in HUD fraud; and $39,000 in SNAP fraud);
  • Mirian Chalas, 33, a U.S. citizen living in Salem N.H., is charged with making false statements in connection with $266,000 in MassHealth fraud; $25,000 in Social Security Disability fraud; and $12,000 in SNAP fraud;
  • Santo Escolastico Cuello, 56, a Dominican national unlawfully living in Worcester, Mass., is charged with aggravated identity theft and making false statements relating to a health care program in connection with $162,180 in MassHealth fraud;
  • John Doe, age unknown, suspected to be in the United States illegally, is charged with false representation of a Social Security number, aggravated identity theft and making false statements relating to a health care program in connection with MassHealth fraud totaling $75,000 and aggravated identity theft;
  • John Doe, age unknown, suspected to be in the United States illegally living in Quincy, Mass., is charged with illegal acquisition or use of SNAP benefits, theft of government funds and aggravated identity theft in connection with SNAP benefit fraud totaling $11,000;
  • Mario Baez Romero, 45, a Dominican national unlawfully living in Somerville, Mass., is charged with aggravated identity theft and passport fraud in connection with $26,942 in SNAP fraud and $48,785 in MassHealth Baez Romero was allegedly encountered during an interdiction of a recreational vessel near Key Biscayne in Miami, Fla. in May 2026;
  • Richard Odelis Vallegas Nunez, 35, a Dominican national unlawfully living in Allston, Mass., is charged with aggravated identity theft and unlawful production of an identification document in connection with $48,865 in MassHealth fraud;
  • Miguel Diaz Matos, 54, a Dominican national living in Lynn, Mass., is charged with illegal acquisition or use of SNAP benefits, theft of government funds and aggravated identity theft in connection with $13,431 in SNAP fraud and $50,494 in MassHealth fraud;
  • John Doe, age unknown, suspected to be in the United States illegally, is charged with making false statements related to a health care program in connection with $32,717 in MassHealth fraud;
  • John Doe, age unknown, suspected to be in the United States illegally, living in Lynn, Mass., is charged with aggravated identity theft and making false statements relating to a health care program in connection with $38,776 in MassHealth fraud;
  • Mitul Patel, 40, an Indian national unlawfully living in Worcester, Mass., is charged with conspiracy to commit visa fraud, in which co-conspirators staged a false armed robbery of a convenience store to allow “victims” such as Patel, to seek U Visas as victims of violent crimes;
  • Santo Tejada Sanchez, 48, a Dominican national unlawfully living in Haverhill, Mass., is charged with aggravated identity theft, theft of government funds and SNAP benefit fraud totaling $4,054;
  • Jennifer Ferran, 48, a U.S. Citizen living in Haverhill, Mass., is charged with theft of government property, Social Security fraud and furnishing false information to Social Security in connection with over $29,000 in Social Security fraud;
  • Owen Landry, a/k/a “Oski,” 24, a U.S. citizen living in Haverhill, Mass., is charged with theft of government property, Social Security fraud and furnishing false information to Social Security in connection with over $29,000 in Social Security fraud; and
  • Yahaira Diaz Gomez, 45, a Dominican national living in Mattapan, Mass., is charged with making false statements relating to a health care program in connection with $48,694 MassHealth fraud.

“Today’s announcement is just the beginning of what will be a sustained and ongoing effort to arrest and charged individuals for benefit fraud in Massachusetts. The defendants charged today, stole from a number of programs, including SNAP and MassHealth – which are designed to assist U.S. citizens in need of food and health care. They allegedly stole tens of thousands of dollars each in benefits for which they are not entitled,” said U.S. Attorney Leah B. Foley. “There isn’t any place else in the world where you can go and be handed free food, free housing, free healthcare and free monthly checks, while being in the country illegally. However, it appears that you can come to Massachusetts and steal as many benefits as you want without fear and without any accountability. This is all ending on my watch. Beginning today, we will be announcing benefit fraud charges on a rolling basis.”

“Stealing someone’s identity to rip off unemployment benefits isn’t just breaking the law — it’s stealing from every American who plays by the rules,” said Anthony P. D’Esposito, Inspector General, U.S. Department of Labor. “We will continue working with the U.S. Attorney’s Office, HSI’s Document and Benefit Fraud Task Force, and our federal and state partners to hunt down these criminals and ensure they pay the price for stealing from hardworking Americans.”

“During this short surge operation, we have uncovered over $1 million of fraud — but we’re just getting started. In response to rampant fraud in Massachusetts, and with the support of our task force partners and the U.S. Attorney for the District of Massachusetts, we’re redoubling our efforts to root out fraud and bring these criminals to justice,” said Jeffrey Grimming, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England. “HSI is making real progress identifying government benefits fraudsters, dismantling identity document dealers, and arresting those who steal from taxpayer-funded programs.”

“Medicaid enrollment fraud undermines the integrity of our health care system and inflicts real harm on the victims whose personal information is exploited and whose medical records are compromised,” said Roberto Coviello, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General.  “Every fraudulent dollar paid out through these schemes is a dollar taken from those who are truly entitled to these benefits —and we will not allow that theft to go unanswered.”

The charge of SNAP fraud of over $5,000 provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. The charge of SNAP fraud of over $100 provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. The charge of passport fraud provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. The charge of unlawful production of an identification document provides for a sentence of up to 15 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. The charge of conspiracy to commit visa fraud provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. The charge of theft of government funds provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. The charge of Social Security fraud provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss, whichever is greater. The charge of making false statements to federal officials provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison, up to three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. The charge of making false statements relating to a health care program provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. The charge of furnishing false information to Social Security provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss, whichever is greater. The charge of aggravated identity theft provides for a mandatory two-year sentence to run consecutively to any other sentence imposed, one year of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

On March 26, 2026, United States Attorney Leah B. Foley announced the creation of the Benefit & Voter Fraud Team, a district-wide initiative established in response to the rampant fraud being uncovered across Massachusetts. The Team is led by two senior federal prosecutors serving as Fraud Coordinators, whose mission it is to aggressively investigate and prosecute misuse of taxpayer-funded benefits in Massachusetts.

Members of the public are encouraged to report suspected benefit fraud in Massachusetts by calling 1-855-SCAM-MA-1 (855-722-6621).

On April 7, 2026, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division. The Fraud Division is investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.

United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Assistant Attorney General Colin M. McDonald for the National Fraud Enforcement Division; Anthony P. D’Esposito, Inspector General, U.S. Department of Labor; Jeffrey Grimming, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England; Charmeka Parker, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of Inspector General, Office of Investigations – Northeast Region; and Roberto Coviello, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General made the announcement today.

The details contained in the charging document are allegations. The defendants are presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in the court of law. 

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Homeland Security Task Force Investigation Leads to Indictment Against Digital-Age Drug Dealer

Source: United States Department of Justice Criminal Division

DENVER – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado announces that Aleksei L. Sharp of Arvada, 35, was indicted on charges related to trafficking in cocaine, ketamine, and 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (commonly referred to as “MDMA” or “ecstasy”) and subsequent efforts to launder the resulting proceeds via cryptocurrency transactions. 

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D.C. Felon Sentenced for Illegal Possession of Firearm Near U.S. Capitol

Source: United States Department of Justice Criminal Division

Timothy Clark, 31, a previously convicted felon residing in the District of Columbia, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court to 14 months in prison in connection with the illegal possession of a loaded handgun found in his vehicle when police stopped him near the U.S. Capitol, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro. 

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Defense News: Mother, son join Pennsylvania National Guard together

Source: United States Army

GETTYSBURG, Pa. – For the better part of the past 9 years, it was just the three of them. A mother and her two sons navigating life side by side.

Through challenges, loss, and perseverance, they built a bond through resilience. Years later, that bond would lead them to answer a call much bigger than themselves.

At 42 years old, Katherine Zito enlisted in the Pennsylvania Army National Guard as a Signals Intelligence Analyst. Standing alongside her was her 20-year-old son, Matthew Zito, who enlisted as a UH-60 Black Hawk Helicopter Repairer.

What began as a joke eventually became a life-changing decision.

Matthew had come across a social media post about the military raising the enlistment age limit and sent it to his mom, half-jokingly. Katherine laughed it off, at first. When the age-waiver policy changed, she suddenly found herself asking whether this was something she should seriously consider.

After her husband lost his battle with cancer eight-and-a-half-years ago, Katherine became a widow and devoted herself to raising her family. She was a dedicated wrestling mom, traveling with her sons’ teams and supporting them every step of the way. After years of putting others first, she found herself asking a simple question: What if this opportunity was for me, too?

“I can’t encourage my kids to take advantage of opportunities like this if I’m not willing to look into them myself.” Katherine said. “The benefits apply no matter your age. This allows me to finish college, serve my community, and opens doors to a new career path if I choose to pursue one. It’s never too late to step into something greater than yourself. I’ve spent years taking care of everyone else. This was my choice to do something for myself.”

Her decision is also deeply connected to her son’s decision to join. She knew if he could do it, so could she.

“I didn’t have a choice in the struggles we went through,” Katherine said. “But I did have a choice to do this. It’s never too late. “Whether you’re 20 or 42, service isn’t defined by age. It’s defined by the decision to show up, commit, and be part of something bigger than yourself. We also want to make my husband and Matthew’s dad proud.”

Matthew’s path to service was inspired by many of the same values. As he prepared for college at Drexel University in Philadelphia, he saw the Guard as an opportunity to gain valuable skills, help pay for his education, and open future career paths. The military offered a way to invest in his future while serving something bigger than himself.

“The military is going to open up so many career opportunities for me. I will get to learn and be paid to learn a skill that I cannot learn anywhere else. I am excited to see what career opportunities this opens for me, and to also be alongside this journey with my mom.” Matthew said.

With his mother by his side, Matthew learned long before enlistment what resilience truly looks like. He watched her overcome adversity, sacrifice for her family, and continue moving forward despite every obstacle life placed in her path.

Matthew is scheduled to leave for Basic Combat Training this July, and his mom is scheduled to leave in January 2027. This allows both of them to be available to support each other and to be there for their family and on their graduation day.

Related Links

The Official Website of the National Guard | NationalGuard.mil

State Partnership Program | NationalGuard.mil

The National Guard on Facebook | Facebook.com/TheNationalGuard

The National Guard on Flickr | Flickr.com/TheNationalGuard

The National Guard on Instagram | Instagram.com/us.nationalguard

The National Guard on X | X.com/USNationalGuard

The National Guard on YouTube | YouTube.com/TheNationalGuard

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Defense News: U.S., British, French soldiers participate in commemorative Bir Hakeim 10K mud race in Estonia

Source: United States Army

TAPA, Estonia – Soldiers from the U.S., Great Britain and France participated in a commemorative Bir Hakeim 10K mud race at Tapa Army Base, Estonia, June 10, 2026. The event honored the legacy of the Free French defenders at the Battle of Bir Hakeim, a key engagement in the North African campaign of World War II that showcased the determination of Free French forces against a larger enemy force.

The race served as an opportunity for service members from allied nations to honor shared military history while strengthening bonds across the NATO alliance. Participants were required to overcome a series of physical challenges, including waist-deep mud and high obstacles. The race tested their endurance, determination and resilience to honor the defenders at Bir Hakeim.

“I’d say the race was about remembering the physical hardships French service members went through,” said U.S. Army Pfc. Gage Leavitt, a race participant and military police officer assigned to the 603rd Military Police Company. “Back then, they dealt with a lot worse conditions than just mud and going over obstacles. Running the race helped put into perspective the hard work and sacrifices made by those who served before us.”

1 / 8 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S., British and French soldiers begin a Day of Bir Hakeim 10K mud race at Tapa Army Base, Estonia, June 10, 2026. Hosted by the French Foreign Legion, the obstacle-filled mud race commemorated the Battle of Bir Hakeim, where Free French forces, including Foreign Legion units, conducted a heroic defense against Axis forces in 1942, demonstrating resilience and contributing to the legacy of the Free French movement during World War II. V Corps is the U.S. Army’s only forward-deployed corps, serving as the senior tactical headquarters for Army forces in Eastern Europe to deter conflict and provide combat-ready forces alongside our NATO Allies. V Corps is operationalizing and expanding the Eastern Flank Deterrence Initiative with Allies, rapidly integrating emerging technologies into training and tactical plans. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Katherine Zimpfer, 196th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment) (Photo Credit: Sgt. Katherine Zimpfer) VIEW ORIGINAL
2 / 8 Show Caption + Hide Caption – A soldier from the British armed forces carries a sandbag as part of an obstacle during the Day of Bir Hakeim 10K mud race at Tapa Army Base, Estonia, June 10, 2026. The event honored the legacy of the Battle of Bir Hakeim, where Free French and French Foreign Legion forces mounted a determined defense for 16 days against Axis troops in 1942, and challenged participants with a series of obstacles designed to test endurance and teamwork. V Corps is the U.S. Army’s only forward-deployed corps, serving as the senior tactical headquarters for Army forces in Eastern Europe to deter conflict and provide combat-ready forces alongside our NATO Allies. V Corps is operationalizing and expanding the Eastern Flank Deterrence Initiative with Allies, rapidly integrating emerging technologies into training and tactical plans. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Olivia Lauer, 196th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment) (Photo Credit: Staff Sgt. Olivia Lauer) VIEW ORIGINAL
3 / 8 Show Caption + Hide Caption – A British Army soldier is assisted over an obstacle by U.S. and British soldiers during the Day of Bir Hakeim 10K mud race at Tapa Army Base, Estonia, June 10, 2026. The event honored the legacy of the Free French defenders at Bir Hakeim, whose stand against Axis forces helped delay enemy operations during the North African campaign of World War II. Participation in multinational events promotes camaraderie and reinforces the strong partnerships that support NATO’s collective defense mission. V Corps is the U.S. Army’s only forward-deployed corps, serving as the senior tactical headquarters for Army forces in Eastern Europe to deter conflict and provide combat-ready forces alongside our NATO Allies. V Corps is operationalizing and expanding the Eastern Flank Deterrence Initiative with Allies, rapidly integrating emerging technologies into training and tactical plans. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Katherine Zimpfer, 196th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment) (Photo Credit: Sgt. Katherine Zimpfer) VIEW ORIGINAL
4 / 8 Show Caption + Hide Caption – Personnel from the French and British armed forces help each other climb over an obstacle during the Day of Bir Hakeim 10K mud race at Tapa Army Base, Estonia, June 10, 2026. Hosted by the French Foreign Legion, the annual event commemorates the Battle of Bir Hakeim, a key engagement in the North African campaign of World War II that showcased the determination of Free French forces against a larger enemy force. Events such as this foster cooperation among NATO allies training and serving together in Eastern Europe. V Corps is the U.S. Army’s only forward-deployed corps, serving as the senior tactical headquarters for Army forces in Eastern Europe to deter conflict and provide combat-ready forces alongside our NATO Allies. V Corps is operationalizing and expanding the Eastern Flank Deterrence Initiative with Allies, rapidly integrating emerging technologies into training and tactical plans. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Katherine Zimpfer, 196th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment) (Photo Credit: Sgt. Katherine Zimpfer) VIEW ORIGINAL
5 / 8 Show Caption + Hide Caption – Personnel from the French and British armed forces help each other climb over an obstacle during the Day of Bir Hakeim 10K mud race at Tapa Army Base, Estonia, June 10, 2026. Hosted by the French Foreign Legion, the obstacle-filled race commemorated the Battle of Bir Hakeim, where Free French forces conducted a determined defense against Axis forces in 1942, demonstrating resilience and courage under difficult conditions. V Corps is the U.S. Army’s only forward-deployed corps, serving as the senior tactical headquarters for Army forces in Eastern Europe to deter conflict and provide combat-ready forces alongside our NATO Allies. V Corps is operationalizing and expanding the Eastern Flank Deterrence Initiative with Allies, rapidly integrating emerging technologies into training and tactical plans. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Katherine Zimpfer, 196th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment) (Photo Credit: Sgt. Katherine Zimpfer) VIEW ORIGINAL
6 / 8 Show Caption + Hide Caption – A British soldier speaks with a French monitor before the sandbag carry portion of a Day of Bir Hakeim 10K mud race at Tapa Army Base, Estonia, June 10, 2026. The event, hosted by the French Foreign Legion, celebrates the resilience and fighting spirit displayed by Free French forces during the Battle of Bir Hakeim in 1942. Today, allied service members continue that tradition of cooperation through training and events that strengthen interoperability among NATO forces. V Corps is the U.S. Army’s only forward-deployed corps, serving as the senior tactical headquarters for Army forces in Eastern Europe to deter conflict and provide combat-ready forces alongside our NATO Allies. V Corps is operationalizing and expanding the Eastern Flank Deterrence Initiative with Allies, rapidly integrating emerging technologies into training and tactical plans. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Katherine Zimpfer, 196th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment) (Photo Credit: Sgt. Katherine Zimpfer) VIEW ORIGINAL
7 / 8 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S. and British soldiers work together to cross an obstacle during the Day of Bir Hakeim 10K mud race at Tapa Army Base, Estonia, June 10, 2026. The event brought together service members from multiple NATO nations in a test of endurance, teamwork and physical fitness while honoring the legacy of the Free French forces who fought at the Battle of Bir Hakeim during World War II. Multinational events strengthen relationships among allied forces and contribute to interoperability across the NATO alliance. V Corps is the U.S. Army’s only forward-deployed corps, serving as the senior tactical headquarters for Army forces in Eastern Europe to deter conflict and provide combat-ready forces alongside our NATO Allies. V Corps is operationalizing and expanding the Eastern Flank Deterrence Initiative with Allies, rapidly integrating emerging technologies into training and tactical plans. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Katherine Zimpfer, 196th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment) (Photo Credit: Sgt. Katherine Zimpfer) VIEW ORIGINAL
8 / 8 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S. Army Spc. James Wyman, a combat medic assigned to the 603rd Military Police Company, pushes through a mud obstacle during a Day of Bir Hakeim 10K mud race at Tapa Army Base, Estonia, June 10, 2026. The race honored the historic Battle of Bir Hakeim and provided an opportunity for allied service members to build teamwork, resilience and interoperability in an informal multinational setting. V Corps is the U.S. Army’s only forward-deployed corps, serving as the senior tactical headquarters for Army forces in Eastern Europe to deter conflict and provide combat-ready forces alongside our NATO Allies. V Corps is operationalizing and expanding the Eastern Flank Deterrence Initiative with Allies, rapidly integrating emerging technologies into training and tactical plans. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Katherine Zimpfer, 196th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment) (Photo Credit: Sgt. Katherine Zimpfer) VIEW ORIGINAL

Hosted by the French Foreign Legion, the event brought together soldiers from multiple NATO nations to challenge themselves side-by-side while commemorating the battle’s historical significance. Throughout the course, participants relied on teamwork to navigate difficult obstacles, often helping and encouraging one another while running.

For Leavitt, the event highlighted the importance of cooperation among allied forces and reflected the relationships that support NATO’s collective defense mission.

“We’re all soldiers, and if hard times come, it’s the people to our left and right that we’re going to rely on,” Leavitt said. “Events like this help build those relationships and remind us that we have to support each other and work together.”

1 / 6 Show Caption + Hide Caption – A soldier from the French armed forces helps other participants climb up an obstacle during the Day of Bir Hakeim 10K mud race at Tapa Army Base, Estonia, June 10, 2026. This event emphasized multinational teamwork, with participants navigating obstacles that required lifting, pulling and supporting one another across national lines, reflecting the cooperation and shared determination that defined the spirit of the Battle of Bir Hakeim. V Corps is the U.S. Army’s only forward-deployed corps, serving as the senior tactical headquarters for Army forces in Eastern Europe to deter conflict and provide combat-ready forces alongside our NATO Allies. V Corps is operationalizing and expanding the Eastern Flank Deterrence Initiative with Allies, rapidly integrating emerging technologies into training and tactical plans. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Olivia Lauer, 196th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment) (Photo Credit: Staff Sgt. Olivia Lauer) VIEW ORIGINAL
2 / 6 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S. Army Soldiers who are deployed in support of Operation Atlantic Resolve pose for a photograph after completing a Day of Bir Hakeim 10K mud race at Tapa Army Base, Estonia, June 10, 2026. The physically demanding event challenged participants to overcome a series of obstacles and tested their endurance, resilience and determination. Through shared adversity and teamwork, the race fostered camaraderie among service members while honoring the legacy of the Battle of Bir Hakeim and strengthening bonds among allied forces stationed in Eastern Europe. V Corps is the U.S. Army’s only forward-deployed corps, serving as the senior tactical headquarters for Army forces in Eastern Europe to deter conflict and provide combat-ready forces alongside our NATO Allies. V Corps is operationalizing and expanding the Eastern Flank Deterrence Initiative with Allies, rapidly integrating emerging technologies into training and tactical plans. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Katherine Zimpfer, 196th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment) (Photo Credit: Sgt. Katherine Zimpfer) VIEW ORIGINAL
3 / 6 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S. Army Pfc. Gage Leavitt, a military police officer assigned to the 603rd Military Police Company, poses for a photograph during a Day of Bir Hakeim 10K mud race at Tapa Army Base, Estonia, June 10, 2026. The event honored the legacy of the Battle of Bir Hakeim, where Free French and French Foreign Legion forces mounted a determined defense for 16 days against Axis troops in 1942, and challenged participants with a series of obstacles designed to test endurance and teamwork. V Corps is the U.S. Army’s only forward-deployed corps, serving as the senior tactical headquarters for Army forces in Eastern Europe to deter conflict and provide combat-ready forces alongside our NATO Allies. V Corps is operationalizing and expanding the Eastern Flank Deterrence Initiative with Allies, rapidly integrating emerging technologies into training and tactical plans. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Katherine Zimpfer, 196th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment) (Photo Credit: Sgt. Katherine Zimpfer) VIEW ORIGINAL
4 / 6 Show Caption + Hide Caption – A French soldier poses for a photo while carrying a sandbag during a Day of Bir Hakeim 10K mud race at Tapa Army Base, Estonia, June 10, 2026. The event commemorates the Battle of Bir Hakeim, where Free French forces mounted a determined defense against Axis troops during World War II. The race brought together service members from NATO nations to build camaraderie and celebrate a shared military heritage. V Corps is the U.S. Army’s only forward-deployed corps, serving as the senior tactical headquarters for Army forces in Eastern Europe to deter conflict and provide combat-ready forces alongside our NATO Allies. V Corps is operationalizing and expanding the Eastern Flank Deterrence Initiative with Allies, rapidly integrating emerging technologies into training and tactical plans. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Katherine Zimpfer, 196th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment) (Photo Credit: Sgt. Katherine Zimpfer) VIEW ORIGINAL
5 / 6 Show Caption + Hide Caption – Soldiers from the French armed forces help other participants climb up an obstacle during the Day of Bir Hakeim 10K mud race at Tapa Army Base, Estonia, June 10, 2026. The event honored the legacy of the Battle of Bir Hakeim, where Free French and French Foreign Legion forces mounted a determined defense for 16 days against Axis troops in 1942, and challenged participants with a series of obstacles designed to test endurance and teamwork. V Corps is the U.S. Army’s only forward-deployed corps, serving as the senior tactical headquarters for Army forces in Eastern Europe to deter conflict and provide combat-ready forces alongside our NATO Allies. V Corps is operationalizing and expanding the Eastern Flank Deterrence Initiative with Allies, rapidly integrating emerging technologies into training and tactical plans. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Olivia Lauer, 196th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment) (Photo Credit: Staff Sgt. Olivia Lauer) VIEW ORIGINAL
6 / 6 Show Caption + Hide Caption – A soldier from the French armed forces poses for a photo during the Day of Bir Hakeim 10K mud race at Tapa Army Base, Estonia, June 10, 2026. The event honored the legacy of the Battle of Bir Hakeim, where Free French and French Foreign Legion forces mounted a determined defense for 16 days against Axis troops in 1942, and challenged participants with a series of obstacles designed to test endurance and teamwork. V Corps is the U.S. Army’s only forward-deployed corps, serving as the senior tactical headquarters for Army forces in Eastern Europe to deter conflict and provide combat-ready forces alongside our NATO Allies. V Corps is operationalizing and expanding the Eastern Flank Deterrence Initiative with Allies, rapidly integrating emerging technologies into training and tactical plans. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Olivia Lauer, 196th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment) (Photo Credit: Staff Sgt. Olivia Lauer) VIEW ORIGINAL

V Corps is the U.S. Army’s only forward-deployed corps, serving as the senior tactical headquarters for Army forces in Eastern Europe to deter conflict and provide combat-ready forces alongside our NATO Allies. V Corps is operationalizing and expanding the Eastern Flank Deterrence Initiative with Allies, rapidly integrating emerging technologies into training and tactical plans.

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Defense News: Oklahoma Guardsman harnesses AI to save thousands of work hours

Source: United States Army

OKLAHOMA CITY — A groundbreaking new artificial intelligence tool developed by an Oklahoma Army National Guard Soldier is set to transform the way the state processes military awards, potentially saving administrative staff more than 61,000 hours of paperwork and allowing them to focus more on supporting Soldiers and mission readiness.

Staff Sgt. Herbert Hailey, an information technology specialist assigned to the Oklahoma Army National Guard Recruiting and Retention Battalion, developed the tool after being asked by his battalion’s personnel officer to streamline the process of identifying Guardsmen eligible for time-in-service awards.

The traditional awards process requires administrative personnel to manually review each Soldier’s NGB-23A retirement points record, evaluate service history and calculate years of qualifying service.

Drawing on skills gained during a specialized Oklahoma Army National Guard-hosted artificial intelligence and data training course delivered by Skillquest, Hailey used advanced prompting within the Army Vantage platform to develop an AI-powered widget that automates much of that work.

At launch, the widget processes data to determine eligibility for the Oklahoma Good Conduct Medal, with plans to expand its capabilities to include the Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal and Oklahoma Long Service Ribbon.

“Our priority is taking care of Soldiers,” said Sgt. Lorelei Hubbard, an administrative noncommissioned officer in the OKARNG Recruiting and Retention Battalion. “But manual record scrubs for awards like the Oklahoma Good Conduct Medal can take hours per Soldier. This widget represents a massive leap forward in our administrative capabilities. Ultimately, it ensures our Soldiers receive the accurate, hard-earned recognition they deserve.”

Hailey said his development of the awards widget is not just about streamlining processes.

“It’s about creating better quality of life for our staff members while positively impacting our service population’s readiness. It’s all linked, it’s an ecosystem and I’m just the guy trying to retire the ‘struggle bus’ one prompt at a time,” Hailey said.

The tool reads the digital contents of a Soldier’s NGB-23A, identifies qualifying years of service and determines eligibility for awards.

The administrative savings are already significant. Within the OKARNG’s Recruiting and Retention Battalion alone, submitting all RRB-assigned Soldiers for a single award would normally require approximately 483 hours of administrative labor.

When scaled across the Oklahoma National Guard, the tool is projected to save more than 20,400 hours per award cycle. Once expanded to process additional time-in-service awards, projected savings could exceed 61,000 hours across the force.

By eliminating thousands of hours of manual administrative work, the innovation allows personnel professionals to spend less time processing paperwork and more time supporting Soldiers, units and mission readiness.

“Staff Sgt. Hailey’s initiative demonstrates the kind of innovation that keeps the Oklahoma National Guard moving forward,” said Maj. Gen. Thomas H. Mancino, adjutant general for Oklahoma. “By identifying a challenge and developing a practical solution, he’s helping save valuable time across the force. Guardsmen at every level are finding new ways to solve problems, improve efficiency and allow our Soldiers and Airmen to focus on what matters most: remaining ready to support our state and federal missions.”

Related Links

The Official Website of the National Guard | NationalGuard.mil

State Partnership Program | NationalGuard.mil

The National Guard on Facebook | Facebook.com/TheNationalGuard

The National Guard on Flickr | Flickr.com/TheNationalGuard

The National Guard on Instagram | Instagram.com/us.nationalguard

The National Guard on X | X.com/USNationalGuard

The National Guard on YouTube | YouTube.com/TheNationalGuard

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Defense News: New York Army Guard's 27th Brigade gets new commander during West Point ceremony

Source: United States Army

WEST POINT, New York -New York Army National Guard Col. Matthew Kilgore, a Cornwall resident, assumed command of the 27th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, which is headquartered in Syracuse, during a Sunday June 14 ceremony at his alma mater, the United States Military Academy at West Point, New York.

Kilgore, previously served as the chief of staff for the 53rd Troop Command headquartered at the Camp Smith Training Site in Cortlandt Manor, New York. He received his commission at the United States Military Academy at West Point in 2002.

Major General Ray Shields, the adjutant general of New York, presided over the ceremony.

“We know you are the right leader for the 27th Infantry Brigade Combat Team as you are preparing for upcoming overseas deployments,” Shields said. “Keep focusing on your people and building combat capable units.”

In his new role, Kilgore oversees over 4,000 Soldiers across New York, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island. The 27th Infantry Brigade Combat Team is headquartered in Syracuse, New York at the Syracuse Armory, both 1st Battalion, 182nd Infantry Regiment and 2nd Squadron, 101st Cavalry Regiment have units in Massachusetts, with 2nd Squadron also having assets in Rhode Island.

“I am truly honored and humbled to stand in front of you today as your next commander,” said Kilgore.

“First and foremost, my amazing family that’s here. My lovely wife Dawn, thank you so much for [your] patience, your support and taking care of our family so I can continue to do these crazy Army jobs,” Kilgore said.

“To my children, Ryan and Josie, thank you for your sacrifices, and thank you for just being the amazing young adults that you are,” he added.

Kilgore thanked New York Army National Guard leaders for the opportunity and their confidence in him. “I appreciate the guidance and mentorship you have shown and will take all of that into this critical position”, he said.

The former commander, Col. Bradley Frank, expressed his gratitude to senior leaders for placing trust in him to serve as brigade commander. He said, “I didn’t’ truly know what brigade command would bring, but I certainly did not expect it to bring me back to nearly the exact spot I commissioned 24 short years ago.”

Frank, also a West Point graduate, thanked Soldiers throughout the entire 27th IBCT formation, his wife Krista, and sons, Henry, Jacob, and Isaac for their unwavering support throughout his journey in the Army.

“Matt, you are taking the guidon of a formation that is trained, cohesive, and fully committed to excellence,” Frank told Kilgore. “Best of luck, you have an outstanding team standing with you,” he added.

“It has been the greatest honor of my career to command this brigade.”

Kilgore’s deployments include mobilizations to Iraq and Afghanistan as well as serving in support of civil authorities both in a state and federal capacity.

In 2008, he transitioned to the New York Army National Guard and was selected for the Active Guard and Reserve program in 2009. He’s led Infantry formations from platoon to the battalion level in the New York National Guard, and now he will lead at the brigade level as commander of the 27th IBCT.

During the 6 years he served on active duty, he fulfilled assignments as Rifle Platoon Leader, Anti-tank Platoon Leader and Company Executive Officer in 3rd Battalion, 187th Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division and Information Warfare Officer and COIC Battle Captain with the G3, 1st Calvary Division.

As a guardsmen, he served as an executive officer for the 1st Battalion, 69th Infantry Regiment, and as the commander of A Company of the New York Army National Guard’s Recruiting and Retention Battalion.

He’s commanded the 2nd Battalion, 108th Infantry Regiment, and served as the operations officer for the 53rd Troop Command. He’s also served as operations officer for the New York Army National Guard and for the New York National Guard’s Joint Force Headquarters.

Kilgore’s military education includes the Command and General Staff Officer’s Course, Advanced Operations Course, Defense Strategy Course, Air Assault School, Command and General Staff College, the U.S. Army War College, and the Reserve Component National Security Course.

His awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal, the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, the Army Achievement Medal, the Iraq Campaign Medal, the Afghanistan Campaign Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service and Expeditionary Medals, the Armed Forces Service Medal, the NATO Medal, the Armed Forces Reserve Medal, the Combat Infantryman Badge, the Basic Parachutist Badge, and the Air Assault Badge.

Kilgore holds a Bachelor of Science from the United States Military Academy and a Master of Strategic Studies from the U.S. Army War College.