Defense News in Brief: Vice president, SecAF congratulate class of 2026

Source: United States Spaceforce

Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of the Air Force Troy Meink addressed more than 900 graduating cadets during the U.S. Air Force Academy’s Class of 2026 commencement ceremony. The event recognized the new officers’ readiness to lead and adapt in a rapidly changing global security environment.

Defense News in Brief: Engineering the impossible: Dyess Airmen set the foundation for historic Caribbean missions

Source: United States Spaceforce

While home-station personnel at Dyess Air Force Base battled severe winter snowstorms to keep their airfield open, Airmen deployed 2,300 miles away were breaking ground in the tropical heat of the Caribbean. Despite the extreme contrast in climates, these teams operated with a singular focus: projecting combat airpower in support of Operation SOUTHERN SPEAR.

Defense News in Brief: 920th Rescue Wing assists in rescue of 11 survivors off Florida coast

Source: United States Spaceforce

Reserve Airmen assigned to the 920th Rescue Wing assisted in the rescue of 11 survivors from a downed civilian aircraft approximately 80 miles east of Melbourne, Florida, May 12. An emergency locator transmitter signal from a twin-engine turboprop aircraft alerted Coast Guard Southeast District watchstanders to a potential distress situation at approximately 11 a.m. Tuesday.

Defense News in Brief: 137th SOW hosts tactical communicators in AFSOC course

Source: United States Spaceforce

The multi-week course brings together XCOMM special operators across active duty, guard and reserve wings to develop the skills and knowledge needed to set-up and operate communication systems in any environment. The training includes use of austere-like conditions and specialized AFSOC communications equipment to build their familiarity and proficiency as tactical communicators. 

Defense News in Brief: 137th SOW prepares for upcoming fitness changes

Source: United States Spaceforce

The 137th SOW is getting ahead of the curve in support of the Culture of Fitness initiative by implementing and encouraging increased physical training. Airmen are participating in unit exercises, such as the workout of the day and the Diamond Fitness Challenge to remain a force that is organized, trained and equipped for mission support.