Veteran Arrested in Cold Case Murder After DNA Link
An army veteran, Stephan Smerk, was arrested and pleaded guilty to a 1994 Virginia murder after DNA testing linked him to the crime scene, leading to his 70-year sentence.
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Officials Oppose Federal Troops Deployment to Portland and Memphis
Portland City Councilor and Army veteran Mitch Green has called on current and former military members to oppose the planned deployment of the National Guard to Portland, citing concerns over civil rights and unlawful orders, and encouraging service members to disobey if necessary. Green, a progressive and member of the Democratic Socialists of America, urges military personnel to uphold their oath to defend the Constitution and to speak out against federal actions he views as authoritarian.
Challenges in the Montana Shooting Suspect Manhunt
Authorities are struggling to capture Michael Paul Brown, a suspect in a Montana mass shooting, due to the challenging terrain, extensive wilderness, and Brown's resourcefulness, including fleeing in a stolen vehicle and possibly hiding in remote areas. Despite a large-scale, multi-agency effort and a $10,000 reward, the manhunt continues as Brown remains at large.
Army Veteran and US Citizen Detained in California Immigration Raid Amid Violence and Fears
George Retes, a 25-year-old US citizen and Army veteran, was detained for three days during an immigration raid at a California marijuana farm, missing his daughter's third birthday and suffering injuries, while his family struggled to find his whereabouts. The incident highlights concerns over immigration enforcement practices and the treatment of legal residents and citizens during such operations.
Search Continues for Father Accused of Killing His Three Daughters in Washington
Authorities are searching for Travis Caleb Decker, a former Army soldier, suspected of killing his three young daughters in Washington state, prompting a large-scale investigation involving multiple agencies and the National Guard, amid concerns over his mental health and safety.
Army Veteran Injured in Grizzly Bear Encounter at Grand Teton
Army veteran Shayne Patrick Burke was seriously injured by a mother grizzly bear protecting her cub at Grand Teton National Park. Despite his severe injuries, Burke, who was hiking and photographing wildlife, managed to survive by using bear spray. He expressed his respect for wildlife and requested that the bear not be killed. Park officials confirmed the bear will not be captured or killed.
Supreme Court Grants Army Veteran Extended GI Bill Benefits
The U.S. Supreme Court ruled in favor of Army combat veteran James Rudisill, stating that he was entitled to education benefits under both the Montgomery GI Bill and the Post-9/11 GI Bill, allowing him to use up to 48 months of benefits. Rudisill, who served in Afghanistan and Iraq, sued the Department of Veterans Affairs after being told he only had 11 months of eligibility under the Post-9/11 GI Bill. The decision could impact roughly 1.7 million veterans, and the VA is reviewing the ruling.
"Pregnant Army Veteran's Message After Cardiac Arrest"
Army veteran Mary Wiley went into cardiac arrest while 10 weeks pregnant, leading to a high-risk pregnancy and the need for an Automated Implanted Cardioverter Defibrillator. Despite the challenges, she learned valuable lessons about identity, control, and self-care, and now works in national security for the federal government. She advocates for heart health awareness, emphasizing the importance of self-care and learning Hands-Only CPR, especially for new moms.
"Ex-British Soldier Charged with 1972 Belfast Murder During Troubles"
A former soldier, referred to as Soldier F, is to be charged with the murder of Patrick McVeigh and the attempted murder of six others in Belfast during the Troubles in 1972. Three other former soldiers will also face prosecution for attempted murder. The cases are not affected by the Legacy Act, which will offer amnesties in Troubles cases from later in 2024. The shootings involved an undercover Army unit called the Military Reaction Force, and the move to prosecute has sparked mixed reactions from politicians and veterans.
"Montana Woman's Heartbreaking Journey with Frontotemporal Dementia"
Justin Payzant, a U.S. Army veteran from Montana, was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia (FTD) at the age of 29. FTD is a rare form of dementia that primarily affects individuals under 60 years old. Justin's symptoms included personality changes and speech difficulties. FTD is often misdiagnosed as depression or anxiety, making it challenging to identify. There is currently no cure for FTD, and the average life expectancy is between eight and 13 years. Justin passed away at the age of 33, leaving behind his wife and son. His wife, Krista, is now raising awareness about FTD and advocating for more research and funding for trials.
Arrested Army Veteran Accused of Threatening to Kill Military Personnel
Former Army veteran Christian Beyer has been charged with posting a YouTube video in which he threatened to kill military personnel he believed had wronged him at Fort Irwin. Beyer, who was court martialed in 2021 for assault, was arrested at his father's home in Sonoma County. The military was concerned about his knowledge of accessing Fort Irwin through alternate means. Beyer also allegedly got into a fight with elderly individuals, brandishing a knife before fleeing the scene. The FBI and Joint Terrorism Task Force are involved in the case, and Beyer faces charges of interstate threats, potentially leading to a five-year federal prison sentence.