Latest news with #MeritoriousServiceMedal
Yahoo
23-05-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Memorial Day observation program returns to Langston
Langston will once again honor the sacrifice of those who gave their lives in service to the country with a Memorial Day observation, 11 a.m. Monday at Wm Conrad Veterans Memorial Gardens, 313 East Turner Street in Langston. According to a news release, 'veterans, their families and friends, and the public are respectfully invited to assemble to observe Memorial Day. 'We will again provide an opportunity for citizens of this area to join the many U.S. Citizens across the nation as we reflect on the countless individuals who served in our military and lost their lives during wars or other military actions since the founding of our nation. Again, this year, we will come together with the families and communities of those who were lost and those who returned,' the release states. The keynote address will be delivered by Dr. Clifford Stanley, a reverend and retired US Marine Corps major general. 'Having completed a 33-year distinguished career with the Marine Corps, our speaker rose to the position of Undersecretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness; serving as the senior policy advisor to the Secretary of Defense on recruitment, career development, pay and benefits for 1.4 million active duty military personnel, 1.3 million Guard and Reserve personnel, 680,000 DoD civilians, and was responsible for overseeing the overall state of military readiness,' the release reads. 'His last position was as the Deputy Commanding General, Marine Corps Combat Development Command and Commanding General, Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia. Additionally, he served as the Marine Corps Principal Representative to the Joint Requirements Board which supported the Chairperson of the Joint Chiefs of Staff in fulfilling his responsibilities, as well as in various other positions.' Stanley is a graduate of South Carolina State University with a master's degree from Johns Hopkins University and a Master of Divinity degree from the United Lutheran Seminary. 'His formal military education includes, in part, Amphibious Warfare School, the Naval War College, Honor Graduate of Marine Corps Command and Staff College and National War College,' the release said. 'Dr. Stanley earned his Doctorate Degree from the University of Pennsylvania and holds Honorary Doctor of Laws degrees from South Carolina State University and Spalding University. Additionally, he holds a Doctor of Science, Honoris Causa, from The Medical University of South Carolina and Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from Stillman College. 'Our speaker's military honors include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, the Legion of Merit Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal (2 awards), the Navy Commendation Medal, and the Navy Achievement Medal. His civilian awards include receiving the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People's (N.A.A.C.P.) Meritorious Service Award, the N.A.A.C.P. Roy Wilkins Award, and the American Legion Award for Inspirational Leadership. He is a Life Member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.' Stanley is an adviser and assessor with the Worldwide Association of Business Coaches and is an associate minister in Philadelphia. 'The master of ceremony is a fantastic, returning Memorial Day Speaker, Mr. Marlon T. James. A native of Oklahoma City, he attended Langston while simultaneously serving in the Oklahoma National Guard and was a cadet in the Army ROTC Broncho Battalion at the University of Central Oklahoma! He graduated with a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) from Langston University in 1995, and days later, he received an active-duty commission as a Second Lieutenant in the United States Army,' the release reads. 'Marlon has been stationed all around the world and throughout his 23 years in the Armed Forces, he has held positions of increased responsibility in leadership, management, operations, and human resources. Marlon was fortunate to command two companies, including one in combat, where he was awarded the Bronze Star due to his actions in combat.' James works at Tinker Air Force base in civil service as an acquisition program manager. He is on the Langston University Foundation Board of Directors. 'The Wm Conrad Veterans Memorial Gardens is pleased to complete the display of flags for each military branch in the Gardens' stately Flag Pavilion. The U.S. Space Force was established on Dec. 20, 2019, creating the first new branch of the armed services since 1947,' the release reads. 'The establishment of the USSF resulted from widespread recognition that space is a national security imperative. With the cooperation of the OSU ROTC Program, U.S. Space Force Cadet Alexander Turner Camacho, will officially raise the U.S. SPACE FORCE FLAG with remarks by WCVMG Trustee Dr. Kermit McMurray and the Space Force Hymn played by U.S. Air National Guard Bugler Vicki Friedemann. 'Stillwater resident, Mr. James Horn, an outstanding Marine and a resolute supporter of the WCVMG will introduce his fellow Marine, Dr. Stanley. It was through his diligent efforts that we are privileged to have this distinguished speaker for our Memorial Day Program.' Music will be provided by vocalists Isaac B Coleman, Jr. and Nalha Casby. 'This year's program will again welcome an Honor Guard from Tinker Air Force Base; Rev. Everett Mack, Sr., New Hope Baptist Church; and the Mistress of Ceremony from our 2024 Veterans Day Program, our own Langston 'Darling' – Ms. LaVonne Lee (Dallas) who will do a tribute to Ms. Rita Graham who penned the signature Memorial Day Poem for the Gardens,' the release said. 'The WCVMG will host a 'Morning Coffee and Pastry Reception' at 10 a.m. to give attendees the opportunity to meet our speaker and other program participants. The program will start promptly at 11 a.m. All guests are invited to fellowship with our Veterans following the program at a Community Picnic with Lunch sponsored by the Gardens and the Town of Langston City.' The observance can also be viewed live on the Wm Conrad Veterans Memorial Gardens Facebook page. 'Army Veteran and Langston native Stewart A. Williams is the founder/developer of the Wm Conrad Veterans Memorial Gardens. He and his wife Maeoma have worked tirelessly to find ways for others to honor our U.S. Veterans. From the official groundbreaking ceremony that was held 10 years ago on July 4, 2015, to the Grand Opening Ceremony held on October 1, 2022, Veterans and the public have been invited to the Gardens to 'Honor all who served,' the release reads. 'To make a Capital Campaign Pledge and/or to request to purchase a Military ID Tag for yourself or your favorite Veteran(s), please email: wmconradveteransmemorialgarden@ or send by US mail to PO Box 27 Langston, OK 73050. Cash donations can be made to Cash App: $wmcveteransmg. All donations are tax deductible.'
Associated Press
20-05-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Shane Osborn Appointed Chief Operating Officer of Ocean Thermal Energy Corporation
PHILADELPHIA, PA / ACCESS Newswire / May 20, 2025 / Ocean Thermal Energy Corporation (OTE Corp), a leading renewable energy company specializing in Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) and Seawater Air Conditioning (SWAC), is pleased to announce the appointment of Shane Osborn as its new Chief Operating Officer (COO). Shane Osborn brings an exceptional track record of leadership and operational excellence, having previously served as Program Manager for Federal and Commercial Partnerships at OTE Corp. His extensive experience encompasses high-level roles in the military, government, finance, and renewable energy sectors. A decorated U.S. Navy veteran, Osborn earned international acclaim for his courageous leadership when he successfully landed a severely damaged U.S. Navy EP-3 aircraft after a mid-air collision in 2001 and led his crew through 12 days of imprisonment by the Chinese government, earning the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Meritorious Service Medal for his heroism. Following his military career, Osborn served as Nebraska State Treasurer, managing over 27 billion dollars in pension assets and earning recognition for transparency initiatives. Additionally, he founded and led RWH Energy, a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) recognized as an approved Energy Service Company (ESCO) by the U.S. Department of Energy. In his new role as COO, Osborn will oversee all operational aspects of OTE Corp, driving efficiency, innovation, and strategic growth initiatives. He will play a critical role in scaling OTE's infrastructure projects, strengthening partnerships, and ensuring operational excellence across all company activities, including pivotal contracts with the U.S. Army, U.S. Navy, U.S. Department of Defense, and commercial partners. Jeremy P. Feakins, Chairman and CEO of OTE Corp, stated, 'We are thrilled to announce Shane Osborn's appointment as Chief Operating Officer. Shane's extraordinary leadership skills, organizational expertise, and unwavering commitment to excellence have already significantly advanced our mission. His elevation to COO ensures our continued operational success and positions us for substantial future growth."Osborn's leadership and operational capabilities will enhance OTE Corp's ability to deliver innovative, sustainable solutions that promote energy independence and resiliency, particularly for remote and mission-critical military installations and global communities facing energy and freshwater challenges. About Ocean Thermal Energy Corporation (OTE Corp) OTE Corp is a U.S.-based energy company specializing in Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) and Seawater Air Conditioning (SWAC) systems. OTEC harnesses ocean temperature differentials to produce sustainable, continuous, 24/7 power, vital for U.S. military bases and coastal communities in tropical regions. SWAC systems utilize deep seawater to provide efficient cooling solutions, significantly reducing energy consumption. Safe Harbor Statement Except for historical information contained herein, this release contains forward-looking statements made under the 'safe harbor' provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Actual results may differ materially due to risks and uncertainties detailed in OTE's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Contact Jeremy P. Feakins Chairman and Chief Executive Officer [email protected] +1 917 679 2005 SOURCE: Ocean Thermal Energy Corp. press release
Yahoo
15-05-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Decorated Army veteran inspiring next generation after over 2 decades of service
The Brief One U.S. Army veteran with over two decades of experience is inspiring the next generation. Retired Colonel Philip Hoyle played a crucial role in operations like Desert Shield and Desert Storm, earning numerous accolades. Colonel Hoyle initially planned to serve for four years but ended up dedicating 22 years to the military. TAMPA - A retired colonel is inspiring his own son to serve in the military after serving in the U.S. Army for 22 years. Philip Hoyle played a crucial role in operations like Desert Shield and Desert Storm, earning numerous accolades. Hoyle's life has always been centered around service to his country. "My dad: retired Army, myself: retired Army Colonel," said Hoyle. "I have one son who's on active duty now in Germany." He joined the Army after graduating from Georgia Southern University. What they're saying "The biggest thing for me and probably for my dad as well, was the call to serve others, to serve your country," said Hoyle. "You know, it's God, family, country." Colonel Hoyle initially planned to serve for four years but ended up dedicating 22 years to the military. "It was a lot of fun," said Hoyle. "We just did a lot of exciting things. We had a lot of good training. There were some hard times as well, but for the most part, it was an enjoyable experience for me." He served during Desert Shield, Desert Storm, and the liberation of Kuwait. "We were called in to go free Kuwait. That was the liberation of Kuwait, Desert Shield, Desert Storm. So very active in that. That was my real combat tour in the 1990s," Hoyle explained. He received the Bronze Star for his service in Desert Shield and Desert Storm, along with the Meritorious Service Medal and the Defense Meritorious Service Medal. He is also one of the few Army soldiers to have a Naval Unit Commendation Award. "We were the only Army unit with the Marines, so that Marine unit was awarded the Naval Unit Commendation, and because we were part of that unit, we also were awarded that Naval Unit Commendation," Hoyle added. The award did cause some confusion. "So every time I'd have that on my dress uniform, the old sergeants and sergeants majors would come up to me and say, 'Hey sir, you're missing something on that," said Hoyle. "And I'm like, 'No, no. That's the Navy.'" READ: Bay Area veteran helps fellow vets get what they need while highlighting their stories Big picture view Although he enjoyed his time in the military, there was one thing he wished he could change. "My only regret was being away from family at the time, but for the most part, I was very blessed. Every unit I ended up in turned out to be a very high-performing unit. We were always very successful," Hoyle said. He hopes more young people will embrace serving in the military. "We still need people to raise their right hand and swear an oath to the Constitution of the United States and defend our country against all enemies," Hoyle said. It's a commitment he says he will always uphold. CLICK HERE:>>>Follow FOX 13 on YouTube The Source Information for this story was gathered by FOX 13's Bryan Gray. STAY CONNECTED WITH FOX 13 TAMPA: Download the FOX Local app for your smart TV Download FOX Local mobile app: Apple | Android Download the FOX 13 News app for breaking news alerts, latest headlines Download the SkyTower Radar app Sign up for FOX 13's daily newsletter
Yahoo
03-04-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Navy fires commander of Colorado-based Information Operations Command
Navy Cmdr. Christopher Johnson was relieved on Thursday as commanding officer of Navy Information Operations Command (NIOC) Colorado, the service has announced. Officially, Johnson was fired 'due to a loss of confidence in his ability to command,' a Navy news release says. No specific information about why he was relieved has been publicly released. 'The Navy maintains the highest standards for commanding officers and holds them accountable when those standards are not met,' the news release says. All of the military branches use the euphemism 'loss of confidence' to avoid providing the exact reasons why commanding officers and senior enlisted leaders. The vague phrase covers all sorts of reasons, including problems at work and personal issues. Johnson, who assumed command at NIOC Colorado in May 2023, has been temporarily reassigned to U.S. Fleet Cyber Command. He was commissioned through Officer Candidate School and later completed two deployments in support of U.S. military operations in Afghanistan, according to his Navy biography. His military awards include the Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, and various campaign, unit and service awards. Those 'Hegseth bodyguards' are actually there for the Air Force's 'Doomsday' plane Army wants junior officers to fix quality-of-life issues that drive soldiers out '100% OPSEC' apparently means texting military plans to a reporter Ranger School's new fitness test is tougher than ever, but nixes sit-ups This photo of Air Force special ops pool training is chaos. There's a reason for that.
Yahoo
03-04-2025
- Yahoo
Sara Donahue sworn in as an officer with the Norwich Police Department: How is NPD staffing?
Sara Donahue was sworn in as the newest police officer with the Norwich Police Department Wednesday. Donahue said she has always wanted to pursue a career in law enforcement. 'I have always wanted to be in a job where I knew I'd learn something new every single day,' Donahue said. She hopes to climb the ranks in the Norwich Police Department and join as many specialized teams as possible. One team in particular she plans on joining is the crisis intervention team. She is also considering joining the department's K-9 division one day. Following Donahue's appointment, the Norwich Police Department now has 16 female police officers. Norwich Police Chief Patrick Daley said his department is 11 officers shy of being fully staffed after Donahue was appointed. Donahue will begin the 386th training session at the Connecticut Municipal Police Academy on April 3. She is expected to graduate from the police academy in October of this year. Upon completion of the police academy, Donahue will begin an extensive field orientation training program. After she completes the field training, Donahue will be assigned to a shift within the Norwich Police Department's patrol division. Donahue was born and raised in Cumberland, Rhode Island. She attended Cumberland High School where she participated in track and field before graduating in 2012. After high school, Donahue joined the 115th Military Police Academy in East Greenwich, Rhode Island, where she ultimately rose to her current rank of staff sergeant. Donahue was deployed to Afghanistan in 2020 for 11 months under Operation Resolute Support. While there, she supervised a platoon of 35 troops. Upon returning to the U.S., Donahue received a Meritorious Service Medal for bringing all her troops home. Donahue holds a bachelor's degree in justice studies from Rhode Island College and was previously employed as a security officer for the Women & Infants Hospital in Providence, Rhode Island. She currently lives in Lisbon. This article originally appeared on The Bulletin: Sara Donahue sworn in as officer with Norwich Police
