Latest news with #UnitedStatesNavy
Sky News AU
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Sky News AU
‘Meghan doesn't play the community game': Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's Montecito neighbours speak out
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry's Montecito neighbours have taken aim at the Sussexes for doing little for the 'community' despite using the town for their money-making ventures. Markle, 43, and Harry, 40, live in a sprawling Montecito property that boasts both ocean and mountain views, which has formed a backdrop for many of their projects since leaving the royal family. Most recently, Markle rented a second Montecito home to film Netflix cooking series With Love, Meghan. Despite living in the exclusive coastal enclave for almost five years, Montecito local Richard Mineards claimed Markle 'doesn't play the community game'. 'She cultivates a very controlled image. She pays attention to every appearance, every word, every gesture,' he told Ici Paris. 'And here in Montecito, we appreciate simple people, even famous ones. 'Oprah Winfrey, for example, shows up at charity events. Meghan doesn't play the community game.' The Sussexes originally snapped up their 16-bedroom estate in the idyllic community for about AUD $21 million in June 2020 but appear to have made few connections in the area. Although Montecito is also home to a few A-list stars, namely Oprah Winfrey, the community is located more than a two-hour drive from the bright lights of Hollywood. While Mr Mineards claimed Meghan showed little interest in the community, the Duke of Sussex is noticeably more willing to engage with locals. '(Harry) is always charming, approachable, with that very recognisable Windsor accent,' he said. 'He smiles, shakes hands, willingly exchanges a few words. 'We've seen him at the beach, in an organic coffee shop, or cycling in the hills.' The update comes almost two years after an elderly veteran living in Harry and Meghan's street claimed he was flatly turned away at the gate to the Sussexes' compound. United States Navy veteran Frank McGinity claimed his attempts to introduce himself to the couple and gift them a film about the local area failed after he was "turned away". 'Harry and Meghan live on old McCormick property and I went up to their gate with the films on a CD, but they weren't interested,' he told the local newspaper Montecito Journal in July 2023. "The gate guy turned me away and wouldn't take the film, just saying 'they're not interested'. I was trying to be neighbourly."
Newsweek
3 days ago
- General
- Newsweek
Photos Show US Aircraft Carrier Preparing for Patrol on Pacific Front Line
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. The United States nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS George Washington—homeported in Japan—continues its preparations for an upcoming patrol in the western Pacific Ocean. Lieutenant Commander Mark Langford, the George Washington's public affairs officer, told Newsweek that the aircraft carrier was "focused on ensuring that the U.S. military remains the world's most combat-credible fighting force capable of maintaining peace through strength." Why It Matters The George Washington is one of the American naval vessels forward-deployed in Japan—a major treaty ally of the U.S. in Northeast Asia. It returned to its home port at Yokosuka naval base near Tokyo in November following 2,117 days of maintenance in Virginia. The 100,000-ton warship left Yokosuka naval base earlier this week, while its naval aviators were conducting field carrier landing practice on a Japanese island in the Pacific Ocean, simulating landings on the George Washington's flight deck to obtain landing qualifications. A Japanese media representative capturing a United States Navy F-35C fighter jet as it conducted a "touch and go" during field carrier landing practice at Iwo To in Japan on May 25. A Japanese media representative capturing a United States Navy F-35C fighter jet as it conducted a "touch and go" during field carrier landing practice at Iwo To in Japan on May 25. Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Dyxan K. Williams/U.S. Navy While the George Washington and its aviation unit prepared for patrol, the Chinese navy—the world's largest by hull count, with more than 370 vessels—deployed the aircraft carriers CNS Liaoning and CNS Shandong to the Philippine Sea and the South China Sea, respectively. What To Know The George Washington conducted consolidated cargo and fueling-at-sea operations with the chartered tanker Badlands Trader on Wednesday at an undisclosed location in waters south of Yokosuka, according to photos released by the U.S. Navy's Military Sealift Command. Check out these images. @MSCSealift chartered ship Motor Tanker Badlands Trader (T-AOT 5582) conducted consolidated cargo operations (CONSOL) with @GW_CVN73 May 28 at sea south of Yokosuka, Japan. 🚢⛽💪 — U.S. Navy's Military Sealift Command (@MSCSealift) May 29, 2025 The aircraft carrier was underway conducting routine operations in the U.S. Seventh Fleet's area of operations in support of "a free and open Indo-Pacific," Langford said. Both the western Pacific Ocean and the Indian Ocean are the Seventh Fleet's operating area. Official photos also show that the Carrier Air Wing 5—attached to the George Washington—conducted field carrier landing practice at Iwo To, a Japanese island 750 miles south of Tokyo. The training began on May 19 and is scheduled to end on Saturday. Participating carrier-based fixed-wing aircraft included the F-35C and F/A-18E/F fighter jets, the EA-18G electronic warfare aircraft, and the E-2D airborne command and control aircraft. Pilots performed repetitive "touch and go" landings during the training on the small island. "[This is the training] that is required for Air Wing 5 air crews to get ready to go to sea," said Captain William Fallon, the assistant chief of staff for Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Japan/Navy Region Japan, adding that the island provided a realistic practice environment. The George Washington's carrier air wing is also known as the "air wing of the future," said Langford, referring to the inclusion of the fifth-generation F-35C fighter aircraft, which features "advanced stealth technology" and provides "unmatched lethality and survivability." What People Are Saying The U.S. Naval Forces Japan/Navy Region Japan said on Friday: "[Field carrier landing practice] is a required flight training for pilot qualification and proficiency that precedes aircraft carrier landing operations, ensuring warfighting readiness in support of regional security and stability in the U.S. Indo-Pacific region." The U.S. Navy said of the USS George Washington's return to Japan: "George Washington is Seventh Fleet's premiere forward-deployed aircraft carrier, a long-standing symbol of the United States' commitment to maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific region, and operates alongside allies and partners across the U.S. Navy's largest numbered fleet." What Happens Next It was not immediately clear when the George Washington would begin its first patrol after returning to Japan seven months ago. It also remains to be seen whether it will conduct joint operations with its sister ship, the USS Nimitz, which is in the South China Sea.
Japan Forward
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Japan Forward
A Festival of Japan and America's Special Relationship
For all intents and purposes, it seems that May is the start of the summer festival season. Things start to heat up, in more ways than one! In Tokyo, Kanda Matsuri and Sanja Matsuri take place on the second and third weekends, but my favorite place to be on the third weekend of May is the Black Ships Festival in Shimoda. This celebrates the arrival of Commodore Matthew Perry and his fleet of black ships, some of which were powered by steam, in 1854. At the time, I am convinced the event was not quite so wildly celebrated, but it resulted in the first treaty between an isolated Japan and a Western nation. It triggered the opening of the country at the end of the Edo period. This historical event is celebrated annually in the Black Ships Matsuri or "Kurofune Matsuri" and this year, 2025, was the 86th festival. It is a very well-loved festival bringing people from far and wide to what is normally a sleepy fishing town at the end of the Izu Peninsula. "Edo citizens" at the festival. (©Sheila Cliffe) The celebrations last for three days and on Friday a United States Navy ship arrives from Yokosuka and moors in the bay for the duration of the festival. Fireworks celebrate the arrival of the ship. Most years are marked by sunshine and intense heat, but this year, unfortunately, the Saturday celebration parade was washed out. However, a bit of inclement weather could not dampen the spirit of the event. Although ome performances were canceled, our annual kimono fashion show was able to take place. Fashion show participants. (©Sheila Cliffe) Usually, the fashion show is on a large stage in the grounds of Ryosenji temple. This temple is of great significance as it is the location for the signing of the treaty between Japan and America. The grounds are planted with American jasmine and the sweet perfume of these purple and white flowers is what hits you first upon arrival. Because of the rain, we were permitted to perform the show inside the main temple. Band playing in Ryosenji Temple. (©Sheila Cliffe) Every seat was full and people in raincoats with umbrellas were sheltering under the eaves to catch a glimpse of the show. A fashion show is a chance to dress in something a little more gorgeous than usual. I wore a black summer furisode which is over a hundred years old but paired it with modern accessories for a stylish look. The dark sunglasses and hat lent it a couture feeling even though it was a kimono. Parents and children also participated, demonstrating that kimono is for everyone. The wide variety of styles showcased was an opportunity to be inspired and especially see that there can be variety and color in men's kimono too. Parade in progress at the festival. (©Sheila Cliffe) Fashion show over, I visited the Museum of Black Ships at Ryosenji and learned a little bit about the history. It is hard to imagine that this small cove, in a location that takes longer to get to than Kyoto, was once a gateway to the West and had some of Japan's first encounters with new technologies, goods, and lifestyles. The main route to the temple is down the straight route now called Perry Road, which goes directly to the seafront. It has buildings from the Meiji and Taisho eras on it, and the small river next to the street is lined with willow trees. Perry Road (left) and the author's outfit for the fashion show . (©Sheila Cliffe) Now there are fashionable bars, restaurants, and coffee shops there. It is a great place for picturesque photoshoots with a little red bridge and all the romance of the historical buildings and willows waving by the water. One can imagine what a stir must have been caused by groups of American sailors arriving and walking up this street to the temple. After that, we hit the streets to enjoy some of the street food sellers and the entertainment around the town that cater to the visitors. The main streets are shut off to vehicles and chairs and tables enable one to partake in the pleasure of eating and drinking outside if the weather cooperates. On this day, it really didn't, so we retired to our hotel early. In the evening there were concerts with the US Navy marching band and others in the local culture center. Okinawan band at the festival. (©Sheila Cliffe) The main events of the festival on Sunday are a re-enactment of the treaty signing, and the parade around the town by various groups who have their skills or styles showcased. There are several bands including the one from Yokosuka, and various school bands. Minyo folk music and Okinawan drums can also be heard. The elementary school students ride on their unicycles and everyone enjoys dressing up. It was almost like going back to the future with Star Wars characters (who certainly did not arrive on black ships), Jack Sparrow (who might have), rubbing shoulders with samurai, geisha, sea captains, and various miscellaneous Edo shopkeepers and a few ruffians, too. Star Wars cosplayers (©Sheila Cliffe) The kimono group brings up the rear and we wave to the locals lining the streets. Every year, I am deeply moved by how happy the crowd is. The children wave Japanese and American flags, and parents, grandparents, and whole family groups gather at the edge of the road to clap, wave, and enjoy the parade going by. Sheila Cliffe with some "ruffians" at the Black Ship Festival. (©Sheila Cliffe) The street food sellers must have been a lot happier on Sunday While not sunny, the rain held off and people were enjoying their street food and drink. We even got up and danced to a local acoustic band playing the Beatles and Jackson Browne. There was magic, monkeys, storytelling, hip-hop, balloons and popcorn. Everyone from 2 to 102 could enjoy something out on the streets of Shimoda. I chose to walk along the bay past all the yachts and small fishing boats to the start of Perry Road. There is a memorial here to Commodore Perry and next to it, a candle is lighted to celebrate the friendship between Japan and America. Monument of Matthew C Perry. (©Sheila Cliffe) Carnations were laid in front of the Perry memorial and looking at the candle it seemed very poignant to me. In this time of political uncertainty and unrest, I thought that the Black Ships Matsuri is extremely significant, demonstrating the best of Japan–US friendship, literally on a street level. Author: Sheila Cliffe Read other columns on kimono by the author .
Yahoo
4 days ago
- General
- Yahoo
‘Last wish come true': Bringing the zoo to a veteran in Massillon
MASSILLON, Ohio (WJW) — For 22 years, Jim Nash served in the United States Navy as a corpsman and senior chief, including during the Gulf War. 'He loves his time in the service he loves talking about the service anything everything he wants to be remembered for his time in the navy,' said his daughter Cindy Nash. Aboard the USS Guam, he participated in Operation Eastern Exit, the evacuation of more than 280 people from the United States Embassy in Mogadishu, Somalia, in 1981. Ohio hiking trail voted one of the country's best Now a resident of Sprenger Assisted Living in Massillon, where he is enrolled in hospice care, the 71-year-old veteran was honored Wednesday with an emotional and surprise pinning ceremony conducted by Wellspring Hospice. The ceremony brought tears to his eyes. But it was not his only surprise. 'I think he loves animals and so he told us his last wish was to go to the zoo,' said Erica Myers, Sprenger's marketing director. Unable to go to the zoo, however, the assisted living home worked to bring the zoo to him. 'He's battled MS for over 30 years he was still in the service when he got that and he just never gave up,' said Cindy. Barkheimer Barns & Nickajack Farms brought animals — including a baby monkey, baby tortoise, baby goat, baby prairie dog, a rooster and an armadillo — to the nursing home as a surprise. 'He's immobile, he's bed bound, but he still has a smile on his face every single day,' said Cindy. 'The last big thing that we were able to do together, we took him to the Akron Zoo and so he's been wanting to go back to the zoo,' she told Fox 8. Akron Zoo sets attendance record 'It's very special, we are just entirely thankful that we have the opportunity to do so,' said Sarah Barkheimer of Barkheimer farms. 'I feel very honored and blessed to give back to someone who served 20 years in some small way to make his last wish come true,' said Myers. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
25-05-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Submarine living: Close quarters & good food
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — Submarines are a nuclear weapon used in the United States Navy, with sailors aboard, loading torpedoes. This job is hard to fathom, with usually 150 sailors in tight quarters for months at a time. News 2's Shelby Mac got to tour the USS Pasadena, which is now shoreside in Norfolk, Virginia. She got to tour a C-9 room, meaning there are nine beds, but sometimes sailors on submarines don't get the luxury of their own bed. An inside look at the USS Pasadena's torpedo tube 'So, a lot of these guys are hot racking, so we don't have enough racks to support the whole crew on board so you've got to share racks so it'll be two or three people per rack so they know when their off going time is, somebody is sleeping in their bed,' said Culinary Specialist Submarine First Class CSS1-SS Noah Kvochick. The all-male sailors on the USS Pasadena have gotten close from sharing such tight spaces. 'I always have like a think small mentality, so like, I'm a bigger guy, so the sub's very small, so you kind of got to in the corners, get in the side, let people pass,' he said. One of the perks of being on the submarine? They are known for superior chow, or food, onboard. 'It's a lot of from-scratch cooking, so you don't have the room, the space to hold the food like premade items, so everything is from scratch. Making bread from scratch, cookies from scratch, desserts from scratch, and that's the way I love to cook.' To see more from Shelby's naval journey, check out the News 2 special report . Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
