Monday’s Missive: Hagel orders US military to aid Philippines

U.S. Military to aid typhoon-devastated Philippines

            Defense Secretary, Chuck Hagel, has directed US Pacific Command to go to the Philippines and help with relief efforts from the recent typhoon that has left over 1,000 dead. The support was requested by the Philippines government and was originally intended for search and rescue. The typhoon happened on Nov. 8.

Report: Petraeus called for downgrading Swenson’s MOH

            According to a report by the Pentagon, retired Gen. David Petraeus recommended against awarding William Swenson the Medal of Honor. Petraeus wanted it downgraded to a Distinguished Service Cross. The paperwork before had disappeard which caused the inquiry.

Texas and 5 other states resist processing benefits for gay couples

Six states are not complying with Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel’s order that military gay spouses receive the same marriage benefits as heterosexual couples. Along with Texas, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, Oklahoma and West Virginia are not recognizing gay couples and their benefits in the military.

Monday’s Missive: Protecting Military Pay as Government Shutdown Nears

House votes to protect military pay as shutdown looks more likely

            The House of Representatives passed a military pay bill September 29 that would ensure service members will continue to be paid if the government shuts down. The bill passed 420-0 after hours of debate. There has been no indication that President Obama would sign the bill or the Senate would pass it.

After shooting rampage, Navy seeks new policy in reviews of security

            The secretary of the Navy has suggested that more complete security reviews need to be done in the future following the Washington Navy Yard shooting on Sept. 16. This suggestion includes investigating police reports that did or did not have charges or convictions.

U.S., South Korea debate military control 60 years after war’s end

Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel flew to Seoul, South Korea on Sunday to discuss an extension for United States military control in South Korea. Rising threats from North Korea led to the decision. The deadline is 2015, but no decisions are expected during Hagel’s trip.