Tag

Military Service

All articles tagged with #military service

German Students Stage Mass Strikes to Oppose Potential Return of Conscription
politics18 days ago

German Students Stage Mass Strikes to Oppose Potential Return of Conscription

Students across Germany are striking in protest against the potential reintroduction of compulsory military service. Organizers claim the government is serious about reinstating conscription, citing new mandatory medical exams for 18-year-old men. Chancellor Friedrich Merz aims to expand the Bundeswehr to 260,000 troops by the early 2030s to meet NATO targets, following the end of mandatory service in 2011. While a voluntary service law took effect in January, critics argue that mandatory health screenings for uninterested youth signal a shift toward compulsory service. Over 100 demonstrations are planned in cities including Berlin, Hamburg, and Frankfurt, with protesters demanding that conscription be removed from the legislative agenda.

Rick Springfield Reveals a Mortar Fatality He Says Haunts Him From Vietnam Tour
entertainment1 month ago

Rick Springfield Reveals a Mortar Fatality He Says Haunts Him From Vietnam Tour

During a 1968 Vietnam tour to entertain U.S. troops, Rick Springfield says his band was attacked and, in a split-second moment, he fired mortars that killed a man. He learned the next day that someone had been hit, a memory he says haunts him and that he didn’t fully understand what he was doing at the time. He describes the experience as “like the movies,” reflecting on being a young musician who spent about four months there with little financial reward and the heavy burden of that life-altering event.

EU extends Ukrainian protections, bars military-age men from temporary status at Kyiv's request
europe3 months ago

EU extends Ukrainian protections, bars military-age men from temporary status at Kyiv's request

EU renews temporary protection for about 4.4 million Ukrainians until March 2028 but will bar entry for military-age men under Kyiv's request; the measure is non-retroactive, asylum remains available under the general system, and it awaits formal adoption amid human-rights concerns raised by the Council of Europe.

War-talk without a military record as Mullin heads for DHS confirmation
politics6 months ago

War-talk without a military record as Mullin heads for DHS confirmation

Sen. Markwayne Mullin, Trump’s nominee to run the Department of Homeland Security, has never worn a U.S. military uniform but has spoken in interviews as if he did, prompting scrutiny of his background. Axios and others have reported privately hinting at dangerous private security work in the Middle East, while Mullin told a Senate hearing he never traveled abroad except on vacations or mission work. The scrutiny comes as his nomination proceeds amid earlier Jan. 6 comments and cryptic references to overseas assignments.

Two Brothers Jailed in Ukraine for Refusing Military Service
world9 months ago

Two Brothers Jailed in Ukraine for Refusing Military Service

In Ukraine, two Jehovah's Witness brothers, Mykhailo Liubchenko and Roman Kvik, were imprisoned in late 2025 for refusing military service, bringing the total to 11. Another brother, Andrii Khomenko, was also sentenced to three years, despite legal dissent highlighting the unnecessity of prosecuting conscientious objectors. Many others face potential prosecution and abuse, with the community praying for their strength and loyalty to their faith.

Tribute to Gary 'Squeak' E. Egan
obituaries9 months ago

Tribute to Gary 'Squeak' E. Egan

Gary 'Squeak' E. Egan, a beloved Clintonville resident and community figure, passed away at age 77. He served in the U.S. Air Force, worked locally, and was known for his friendly nature, love of sports, and social life. He is survived by his children, grandchildren, and extended family. No formal services are planned, and his family thanks the staff at Greentree Health & Rehabilitation.

Germany's Economy: Experts Urge Policy Shift
world11 months ago

Germany's Economy: Experts Urge Policy Shift

Germany is making significant policy adjustments, including a new military service model after coalition disputes, exemption from EU migration solidarity rules, detection of wild polio in wastewater, and addressing rising child poverty. Economic experts warn of sluggish growth and suggest tax reforms, while the government is urged to invest in infrastructure. Additionally, law enforcement successfully combats scams, and the Bundeswehr celebrates 70 years amid calls for better reputation and modernization.