On the Radar: Government Shutdown, Military Pay & Pentagon Press Rules

Trackey, this week in military life, here's what's on the radar. Day 17 of the government shutdown and no end in sight as Republicans and Democrats remain deadlocked. This week, service members were paid thanks to an 11th hour workaround. President Trump directed the Department of Defense to tap about $8 billion in leftover research and development funds from last fiscal year to cover mid-month military pay. But if the shutdown continues, end-of-month pay for troops could be at risk. Meantime, during this period of uncertainty, food pantries near military bases are seeing a surge in demand. Non-profits supporting military families are working overtime to meet the need. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has scrapped plans to privatize military moves. Instead, he's directing improvements to the current program, which will remain in place for at least three years. Dozens of Pentagon reporters turned in their press badges this week rather than agree to new rules restricting their reporting. The Defense Department says the rules are common sense, but journalists say they limit access and threaten independent coverage of the military. And over on Veteran Life, a little levity. Humor on the high seas. Navy and Coast Guard memes that will crack you up. Make sure to check them out. That's your briefing. Be sure to follow my base guide and Veteran Life so you never miss what's on the radar.