On the Radar: Government Shutdown, SNAP Benefits & Halloween Candy History

Tracking this week in military life, here's what's on the radar. The government shutdown drags on. We're just days away from this being the longest lapse in federal funding in U.S. history. Military members will be paid on November 1st, thanks to $5.3 billion redirected from other federal accounts. But lawmakers remain deadlocked with no long-term solution in sight. Meanwhile, federal food assistance is about to run out, which means empty refrigerators and pantries for the military community. SNAP benefits are set to expire tomorrow, November 1st. More than a million veterans and 22,000 active-duty military households rely on this aid. A federal trial kicks off Wednesday to decide whether President Donald Trump has the authority to deploy the National Guard to Portland, Oregon. The case could set key limits on presidential power and state versus federal control over domestic deployments. If you're drowning in extra Halloween candy after this weekend, donate it to Soldiers Angels Treats for Troops. Your candy will be sent to service members across the country and overseas, spreading a little bit of sweetness. Find donation locations near you at soldiersangels.org. Speaking of, did you know your Halloween candy has a military past? During World War II, Hershey made the infamous D-Ration bars for soldiers, while Mars created M&Ms just for the Army, the chocolate that melts in your mouth, not in your hand. These wartime treats didn't just boost morale, they helped turn Hershey and Mars into the candy giants we know today. From the battlefield to your Halloween stash, chocolate history is sweeter than you think. Check out the chocolatey details on veteranlife.com. That's your briefing. Be sure to follow my base guide and Veteran Life so you never miss what's on the radar.