Friday 10 May 2024 12:00AM
CVB’s Red Friday Update – 10 May 2024
Welcome to this week’s Red Friday update from CVB. As we gather here, we express our deepest gratitude to the brave men and women of the U.S. military who are currently deployed around the globe, defending our freedoms and securing peace.
Steadfast Vigilance in the Red Sea
In our commitment to keeping you informed, we highlight the dedicated efforts of the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower and USS Gravely, which are back on patrol in the Red Sea. After a resupply in Greece, these vessels are a bulwark against threats to international shipping, ensuring that the vital waterways remain open and safe.
International Challenges and Soldier Detainment
We also turn our attention to a sobering development involving Staff Sgt. Gordon Black, who has been detained in Russia under charges of criminal misconduct. This incident is a stark reminder of the complex geopolitical environments in which our military personnel operate. We stand in solidarity with Sgt. Black and his family during this challenging time.
U.S.-Philippines Military Cooperation
From the seas to the shores, we celebrate the successful completion of the Balikatan exercises in the Philippines, where U.S. and Filipino forces demonstrated formidable readiness in defending territorial integrity. These exercises underscore the strength of international military alliances and the continuous effort to maintain regional stability.
In Closing
On this Red Friday, we salute the courage, commitment, and sacrifices of our troops stationed far from home. Whether securing seas, navigating international tensions, or fortifying alliances, their unwavering spirit remains our nation’s backbone. Stay with CVB for more insights and updates, as we honor those who serve with valor and dedication.
US Military News This Week.
CVB’s Red Friday: U.S. Soldier Detained in Russia Amid Criminal Charges
On May 6, 2024, unsettling news emerged from Vladivostok, Russia, where U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Gordon Black, 34, was arrested on charges of criminal misconduct. The arrest occurred last Thursday, and Black remains in Russian custody, escalating concerns about the safety of American citizens in foreign detentions.
Staff Sgt. Black, previously stationed in South Korea, was in the process of transferring to Fort Cavazos, Texas. However, defense officials, who requested anonymity, disclosed that instead of relocating, Black traveled to Russia to visit a long-time girlfriend—a Russian national he met in South Korea. It appears that following a domestic dispute last fall, which may have involved the Korean authorities, the woman moved back to Russia. Black is now facing charges related to allegations of theft from the woman.
The situation raises serious questions about personal decisions intersecting with international laws. Black reportedly did not inform his military unit of his travel plans to Russia, nor did he obtain the necessary permissions, a lapse that has led to significant diplomatic and legal complications.
The Russian Federation has communicated the detention to the U.S. Department of State as required by the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations. In response, the Army has informed Black’s family and assured that consular support is being provided to assist him during this ordeal.
This incident has drawn the attention of Rep. Michael McCaul, R-Texas, chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, who expressed his deep concern over the situation on social media. He reiterated warnings from the State Department about the risks of traveling to Russia, emphasizing the precarious nature of U.S.-Russian relations and the history of Americans being detained under questionable circumstances.
This case adds to a troubling list of Americans detained in Russia under controversial circumstances, including The Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich and Marine veteran Paul Whelan. It also follows closely on the heels of another high-profile detention incident involving Army Pvt. Travis King, who was detained by North Korea last year and later charged with desertion upon his return to the U.S.
As tensions continue between the United States and Russia, the international community watches closely, hoping for a resolution that respects the rights and safety of detained individuals. The U.S. government continues to navigate these delicate situations, advocating for the fair treatment and release of its citizens detained abroad.
CVB’s Red Friday Blog: Strengthening Alliances Through Precision: The Balikatan Counter-Landing Exercise at La Paz Sand Dunes
6 May 2024
On the coast of Laoag City in the Philippines, a critical display of military collaboration unfolded today at the La Paz Sand Dunes. The Balikatan counter-landing exercise, a joint live-fire operation involving the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the U.S. military, showcased a robust defense of the Philippine coastline and territorial integrity.
This strategic exercise simulated a scenario where combined forces of Marines and Soldiers from both nations executed precision strikes against both floating and mock-enemy targets along the shore. Utilizing an array of weaponry, from the advanced FGM-148 Javelin missiles and M3A1 Multi-Role Anti-Armor Anti-Personnel Weapon Systems (MAAWS) to small arms and machine guns, the forces demonstrated their readiness to protect the nation’s interests within its territorial waters and exclusive economic zone.
U.S. Marine Lt. Gen. Michael Cederholm, commanding general of I Marine Expeditionary Force, commended the performance and interoperability of the troops: “I continue to be impressed by the skill, dedication, and interoperability of the U.S. and AFP – all of which was on full display during today’s training,” he stated. “Balikatan is designed to prepare us both to defend Philippine sovereignty. If anyone has any question about whether we’re ready, we answered that today. We’re ready. And we always will be.”
The exercise also included artillery support from both the Philippine Marine Corps and the Philippine Army, enhancing the dynamic capabilities of the forces. Maj. Gen. Marvin Licudine, the Philippine exercise director, emphasized the exercise’s importance in fostering stronger ties and operational readiness between the two allied nations. “The successful execution of this exercise underscores the strengthened cooperation between the Philippines and the United States in defending our shores. With every iteration, we continuously leverage the valuable insights and expertise gained to ensure regional security and stability,” he remarked.
Participating units included the Philippine Army’s 502nd Brigade, the Philippine Marine Corps’ 4th Marine Brigade, the U.S. Army’s 3-7 Field Artillery, and the U.S. Marine Corps’ 3rd Littoral Combat Team.
As tensions persist in various parts of the globe, the Balikatan exercises serve as a potent reminder of the effectiveness of international military cooperation in maintaining peace and security in strategically significant regions. This annual exercise not only reinforces the preparedness of the forces but also strengthens the military bond between the Philippines and the United States, ensuring that both nations are equipped to jointly tackle challenges that may threaten regional peace and sovereignty.
CVB’s Red Friday: U.S. Navy Continues Vital Security Mission in the Red Sea
As of May 7, 2024, the U.S. Navy’s presence in the Red Sea remains robust and decisive, with the return of two major warships, the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower and the USS Gravely, to the forefront of maritime security operations. Both ships recently docked in Souda Bay, Greece, for resupply and maintenance, ensuring they are prepared for continued operations against Houthi forces.
The USS Dwight D. Eisenhower, an aircraft carrier, along with the USS Gravely, an Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer, are integral components of the Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group. This fleet has been actively defending shipping lanes in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, crucial areas frequently disrupted by Houthi missile and drone attacks.
Rear Admiral Marc Miguez, commander of the strike group, commended his sailors for their relentless effort in what he describes as “the most challenging, dynamic combat environment the Navy has seen in decades.” The recent respite in Greece served as a much-needed break for the crews, following six months of continuous deployment since mid-October.
The strategic significance of their mission is underscored by substantial expenditures, with nearly $1 billion spent on missiles to counteract the Houthi threat, according to Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro. Additionally, U.S. forces have conducted proactive strikes in Yemen to diminish the capabilities of the Iran-backed rebels.
Despite these efforts, the conflict shows no signs of abating. The U.S. Director of National Intelligence, Avril Haines, recently informed lawmakers that the Houthis, bolstered by domestic arms production and Iranian support, continue to pose a significant threat. Haines expressed uncertainty about the impact of a potential ceasefire between Israel and Hamas on Houthi activities, despite their claims of linkage to the broader regional conflict.
The Navy’s mission in the Red Sea is critical not only for regional stability but also for the safety of international maritime routes. As stated by Pentagon Press Secretary Air Force Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder, the U.S. and its allies remain committed to degrading Houthi capabilities as long as threats to international shipping and safety persist.
For the sailors aboard the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower and USS Gravely, their duty continues to be as demanding as it is vital. Their resilience and dedication are key to maintaining security in one of the world’s most volatile maritime corridors.
