Good morning,

I am writing this in advance, as by the time you read this I will be in hospital holding my baby girl who is due to be born today…wish me luck!

In todays newsletter, is the Terminator coming true? A POW, and the man who could have shot Hitler. Lets get into it 👇

On this day in 1971:

Jonathan Robert Cavaiani’s actions on this day 52 years ago earned the highest decoration bestowed by the United States military, the Medal of Honor.

His remarkable acts of valor unfolded during the tumultuous years of the Vietnam War.

In 1969, he embarked on a new chapter of his life by joining the esteemed ranks of the US Army. By 1970, Cavaiani found himself deployed to Vietnam as a member of the Special Forces, serving with great distinction.

Fast forward to June 4, 1971, when Staff Sergeant Cavaiani, a vital member of Task Force 1 Advisory Element, USARV Training Advisory Group (formerly known as Command and Control North, MACV-SOG), was stationed in the Republic of Vietnam. It was on this fateful day that his platoon came under a ferocious enemy assault on Hill 950.

Displaying exceptional leadership, Cavaiani skilfully organized the defense of his unit. As the situation escalated and evacuation by helicopter became imperative, he chose to remain on the ground voluntarily, taking charge of directing the aircraft. Thanks to his guidance, most of the platoon was successfully airlifted to safety.

Despite his selfless actions, Cavaiani, along with a small group, remained behind. The following morning (June 5th), during another intense enemy offensive, he made the courageous decision to order his comrades to escape while he valiantly stayed behind, providing suppressive fire to cover their retreat. Tragically, he was captured by the enemy and endured two gruelling years as a prisoner of war.

Jon R. Cavaiani, who had endured the hardships of captivity, finally tasted freedom during the momentous Operation Homecoming in March 1973. Recognizing his extraordinary courage and sacrifice, President Gerald Ford bestowed upon him the esteemed Medal of Honor during a solemn ceremony held on December 12, 1974.

The valor and unwavering determination displayed by Staff Sergeant Jon R. Cavaiani throughout these harrowing events, serve as an enduring testament to his unyielding spirit and resolute commitment to his fellow soldiers.

Photo of the week

During the intense fighting, 597 North Vietnamese were reported killed and U.S. casualties were 56 killed and 420 wounded.

Due to the bitter fighting and the high loss of life, the battle for Ap Bia Mountain was dubbed “Hamburger Hill” by the U.S. media.

📰 In the news this week

News stories I’ve found interesting this week.

• US Military denies an AI drone simulation went rogue. Is this the start of AI taking over the world…?

• Gen. Mark Milley Awarded France's Highest Medal of Honor. French President Emmanuel Macron awarded France's highest medal of honor to the U.S. Joint Chiefs chairman, Gen. Mark Milley, on Friday for his role in coordinating support for Ukraine and for his more than 40-year military career spent in defense of democracy.

• Griffin Shock Sends 'Clear Message' on NATO Strength Amid War in Ukraine How long will it take for the U.S. Army's V Corps to deploy a brigade to Eastern Europe and begin conducting operations alongside NATO allies? Less than a week.

🤔 F-16 fighter jets flying themselves?

Is this the future? Self flying fighter jets! In a joint project between DARPA and the US Air Force, a special aircraft called the X-62 Vista (based on the F-16) became the first tactical aircraft to be piloted by artificial intelligence. 

📦 Gift ideas from Amazon.

The Reaper: Autobiography of One of the Deadliest Special Ops Snipers.

The Reaper is the astonishing memoir of Special Operations Direct Action Sniper Nicholas Irving, the 3rd Ranger Battalion's deadliest sniper with 33 confirmed kills, though his remarkable career total, including probables, is unknown.

It’s an incredible read and is available on Amazon.

🎥 From our YouTube Channel

This video is about Henry Tandey who was the most decorated British soldier of WW1 and who could have shot Hitler.

📷 Readers Photos

From my dad’s stuff. He was company clerk, 1st Cav, 61st Artillery, battery C. Not sure if this is his unit or not.

Thanks Stephen Burn.

We visited the D Day Cemetery & I’ll never forget it.

The French take the sand from Omaha Beach & scrub them into the letters of all 9,386 soldiers who died to maintain the names on the crosses.

Thanks Dixie.

If you have a picture you’d like featured please send them into [email protected]

😮 Did you know?

Did you know that the US military operates advanced missile defense systems, such as the Ground-Based Midcourse Defense (GMD) system, to protect against ballistic missile threats?

In our ever-evolving world, the United States military stands at the forefront of technological advancements to ensure the safety and security of our nation and its allies. Today, we shine a spotlight on a vital component of the US missile defense arsenal - the Ground-Based Midcourse Defense (GMD) system.

The GMD system is a state-of-the-art missile defense system designed to counter the threat posed by ballistic missiles. Operating under the auspices of the US Missile Defense Agency, this robust and sophisticated system plays a crucial role in protecting our nation against potential missile attacks.

As the landscape of missile technology evolves, the US military remains vigilant in its efforts to stay at the forefront of missile defense capabilities.

The Ground-Based Midcourse Defense system stands as a shining example of our nation's dedication to maintaining a strong and resilient defense posture in the face of emerging threats.

Meme of the Week

Sponsor this newsletter

If your business or company is interested in reaching an audience of veterans, serving military personnel, or supporters of our brave men and women who keep us safe, you may want to advertise with us.

That’s a wrap, but anything you see that maybe of interest fire them over to me at: [email protected].

See you next week.

Rob 🫡