The Air Force is now trying to retain qualified troops when their skills are in demand elsewhere by increasing the number of career sectors eligible for significant retention and reenlistment bonuses this year. The Air Force retention bonus aims to help the agency remain effective by ensuring that skilled service members continue to serve the country.

Last year, the U.S. Air Force listed 89 professional fields, up from 73 in the previous one, according to a letter issued by the Department of the Air Force. A representative for the Air Force, Ann Stefanek, said the extended list became effective on December 16th. These 

 vary from maintaining military drones to working on nuclear weapons and signal intelligence.

The Expansion of Air Force Retention Bonus

Stefanek said in an interview that after determining which skilled jobs were in greater demand outside of the military, the eligible fields were expanded. Stefanek added that the Department of the Air Force did it to make sure they could retain their talent because they are in high demand in the private sector.

Data entry, tech assistance, cybersecurity, and over a dozen other professions are related to cyber networks and operations. While some are geared for special operations duties like combat control and pararescue, others are concentrated on aircraft maintenance. Language-based occupations are also given preference. For additional compensation, there are a number of industries catering to Chinese, Korean, Russian, and Persian speakers.

The memo states that airmen have until February 15, 2025, to sign a new contract in a qualified field in order to get the retention incentive. However, several fields that were previously eligible for retention bonuses are not on the new list, in contrast to the previously expanded list.

Some of the Eligible Jobs for the 2025 Special Retention Bonus

Some of the new Air Force retention bonuses are targeted at the agency’s special operations positions, who have had a harder time recruiting and raising awareness of their mission than the Army's Green Berets, Navy SEALs, or Marine Raiders.

Here are some of the following positions qualified for the bonus:

Multi-Domain Operations Aviator (Mission Coordinator/Payload Operator)

1A1X8A - Executive Mission Assistant (Flight Attendant)

All Domain Command and Control Operations

Battle Management Operations (Weapons Director)

Security Forces (Military Working Dog Handler)

The Air Force's budget request last year called for $1.1 billion to be allocated to retention and troop bonuses. Airmen must match the qualified job's 

 (AFSC) in order to be eligible for the retention bonus. A specific AFSC must have attained the skill level indicated in order to be eligible for the bonus.

The Department of the Air Force upped the bonus threshold earlier last year in an effort to keep its present competent personnel. This allows eligible airmen to earn up to $180,000 more per their specific career zone. According to the Air Force directive, a career maximum is set at $360,000.

Like other military departments, the Air Force has had difficulty hiring new personnel in recent years. In 2023, it fell short of its goal to recruit sufficient members to serve in the agency. Different bonuses for joining and remaining in the military have been increased and expanded by a number of military branches.

The Struggle of the Air Force When it Comes to Recruitment

As the Air Force has had difficulty recruiting for such difficult professions, a think tank study found that the great majority of Americans knew very little or nothing about the Air Force's special warfare jobs. Evidence from certain publications indicates that many people are not familiar with such Air Force jobs, although other service branches, like the Navy SEALs, enjoy broad public and cultural awareness of their special operators.

Retired Chief Master Sgt. Eric Benken said that the role itself is partly to blame for that lack of public recognition. Special operators in the Air Force frequently call themselves the "quiet professionals," and Benken said he's not shocked that those positions haven't received as much attention.

Although some trainees may find calm professionalism appealing once they enter the workforce, it makes hiring for the positions challenging. However, even individuals who learn about the career opening struggle to meet the requirements for the job.

 of the Air Force should increase its efforts to hire new special operators from within the Air Force. The agency should open more offices in locations with higher concentrations of veterans to discover new recruits. With the expansion of the Air Force retention bonus, the agency could only hope that it would help with the recruitment problem that they are facing.

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You can trace back modern efforts of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives back to Executive Order 10925, passed by President John F. Kennedy in 1961 and then again expanded upon due to Executive Order 11246, when President Lyndon Johnson issued it in 1965. At their core, DEI initiatives are simply aiming to make sure people aren’t discriminated against but for some, this can be a complex approach hindering operations. President Donald Trump has been busy in his first week, in part, getting rid of DEI initiatives for the federal government and military.

DEI initiatives look different for everywhere but are simply programs put in by organizations to help eliminate discrimination through promoting diversity, equal opportunities, and inclusion.

This includes training programs that provide education and information on how to implement such policies, improving hiring practices towards marginalized communities, and making workplaces fair for everyone.

Whether or not DEI initiatives work continues to be a subject of heated debate:

Some believe that DEI programs are good at what they do, by providing otherwise marginalized groups with equal opportunities.

Furthermore, proponents point to the way that diversity strengthens talent pools.

However, opponents of DEI often argue that they are programs that don’t work while themselves marginalizing other groups by design.

Additionally, opponents focus on the amount of funding DEI initiatives take away from the core goals of organizations.

The use of DEI efforts in the military aims to help those who are minorities, including women, people of color, and those within the LGBTQ+ community, have equality in all aspects of their service.

These initiatives increased during the Biden administration, which is due to policy changes and an increase in investment.

 would implement a new form of military education thanks to higher investments and requests of funds, which showcased “implicit bias” while also putting into place a system of agencies dedicated to DEI:

Implementing DEI initiatives have become commonplace throughout the leadership curricula of military branches and academies, including ROTC, using critical race theory (CRT), systemic racism, white privilege, and internal bias as subjects.

President Trump Eliminates DEI Initiatives for the Federal Government

Executive Order 13985, “Advancing Racial Equity and Support for Underserved Communities Through the Federal Government” was issued by President Biden to further implement DEI initiatives for the federal government and despite such efforts being decades old, Trump’s administration isn’t a fan.

President Donald Trump wasted no time on his first day as President a second time to issue “Ending Radical and Wasteful Government DEI Programs and Preferencing” which would effectively disintegrate these programs from the federal government.

Part of the EO states that, "The previous administration has embedded deeply unpopular, inflationary, illegal, and radical practices within every agency and office of the Federal Government.

By doing so, more than 50 directives under Biden were dismantled, aiming to improve racial equality, climate policies, protection for troops serving within the LGBTQ+ community, and more.

As the week continued, federal employees involved with DEI were 

Military bases were told that they would be able to restore their original names after many were changed due to their connection with the Confederacy.

It should be noted that such changes could be much more than simply changing a few names back to their original form. The military has seen widespread changes to the names of buildings, roads, etc., as a part of these efforts, which could all be reversed.

Going back on the DEI initiative from the Naming Commission, could cost millions of dollars to do so.

Many continue to look to the end of DEI initiatives as problematic for marginalized military personnel but for supporters of Trump, the move will help put funding back into national defense rather than educational programs.

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Identification comes into play for a number of reasons and security is at the forefront of them. A new National Guard inauguration patch was used on January 20, 2025, as a way to differentiate Guardsmen from other military and law enforcement working the event. Although things were much different with Trump’s latest inauguration, security measures from previous ceremonies and evolving standards have produced a unique patch for those involved.

What's the Purpose of the National Guard Inauguration Patch?

There were plenty of organizations on display for support and as security for Donald Trump’s ceremony. The National Guard inauguration patch helped distinguish Guardsmen from the rest.

Under any circumstance, identification is important, especially when security is at hand. The new patch adds a unique look but also provides the Guard with an easy way to make them stand out.

The new patches were brought in so that all of the Guardsmen who were a part of Trump’s inauguration would be easily recognizable. As stated as a caption for a post on the 

DC National Guard’s official Instagram page

“National Guard leaders have authorized the use of a special shoulder patch with the Guard motto ‘Always Ready, Always There,’ to ensure that people coming to the #inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump on Monday will know who is who.”

It’s a little unsure why there could be some confusion in identifying the National Guard during an inauguration or similar event.

Nevertheless, there were instances involving previous racial justice protests as well as the January 6th insurrection where it became reportedly difficult to identify which organization was which once multiple came together in one area.

During the 2025 inauguration, National Guardsmen stood out with a unique, bright patch that was underneath the American flag patch on their uniform’s arm.

Instead of the Guard’s camo look, you’ll notice a design similar to the American flag featuring our nation’s colors, red, white, and blue, with a Minuteman from the American Revolution standing in front of our nation’s Capitol.

On the top of the circle in white lettering against a blue background is the text “60th Presidential Inauguration” with “Always Ready, Always There!” below.

The two phrases are separated by five white stars on each side, with a white border surrounding the entire patch.

The National Guard Inauguration Patch Helped Fix Past Problems

In 2021, things were a bit different. There were around 25,000 Guardsmen at the inauguration, because of the insurrection that had occurred only weeks prior.

In 2025, fewer than 8,000 troops made their way as Trump became President once more.

Troops from 40 states were activated with some deputized to act as special police during the ceremony.

It’s worth noting that the National Guard has used other techniques in the past to help itself stand out from law enforcement and other military branches, including identifying themselves explicitly on the back of their black identification vests.

Even during the 2021 presidential inauguration, a special 

 was provided to Guardsmen who were a part of the ceremony.

Now that the event has run its course, the new National Guard inauguration patch has served its purpose but remains an interesting part of its history moving forward. It will be interesting to see if similar patches are adopted for similar causes in the future.

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The TRICARE Childbirth and Breastfeeding Support Demonstration has expanded its support for expectant moms stationed abroad. This additional program will expand the range of services and help provide the best care to expecting mothers by adding coverage for licensed labor doulas.

The expanded TRICARE Doula coverage includes postpartum care services from licensed lactation consultants and counselors, so it doesn't end with deliveries. There might be 

 in 2025 that are a bit scary, but this is one that mothers should look forward to. With this expansion, expecting mothers will have the right tools they want for a safe breastfeeding experience.

TRICARE Doula Coverage is Now Available Overseas and in the U.S. Territories

On January 1, the TRICARE Childbirth and Breastfeeding Support demonstration was extended to those in American territories and abroad. Also, TRICARE officials have modified certain standards, such as the visitation and doula requirements in the United States. 

TRICARE Prime, TRICARE Prime Remote, or TRICARE Select users in the United States and abroad can get childbirth and breastfeeding support services through this demonstration program.

Labor doulas are non-medical, trained individuals who help the laboring woman physically and emotionally and educate them before, during, and shortly after labor. The demonstration project requires moms to be at least 20 weeks pregnant, want to give birth outside of a military hospital or clinic, and see a TRICARE-authorized practitioner in order to be eligible for doula services.

TRICARE's Childbirth Support Demonstration

According to authorities of the Defense Health Agency, over 14,000 individuals have taken part in the program since the demonstration started in the United States in January 2022. The five-year demonstration was approved by Congress and will continue until 2026.

TRICARE representatives will then decide if the coverage will be permanent. The program compares the health outcomes of mothers and children who receive these support services from lactation counselors, consultants, and/or doulas to those who do not.

What to Expect on the Expanded TRICARE Doula Coverage

TRICARE now covers up to six hours of visits by a licensed labor doula under the new regulations, and these visits can be divided into 15-minute blocks. The untimed visit during birth is not included. In the past, TRICARE's coverage was based on visits rather than hours, and it included up to six visits from a certified labor doula in addition to the visit during childbirth.

According to Karen Ruedisueli, director of health affairs in government relations for the 

, the doula adjustments appear to offer more flexibility in doula sessions and maybe higher compensation for certain doulas. The patient and the doula will be able to determine how best to use their visit allowance if the visits are divided up.

Before receiving any services, those interested in the demonstration and those who live abroad must register by getting in touch with their TRICARE overseas contractor. If the contractor is able to locate a TRICARE-authorized provider, International SOS will notify pregnant women within 14 days. TRICARE is unable to ensure that every eligible beneficiary will have access to a physician.

Referrals are not required for expectant moms in the United States. However, if a TRICARE Prime member sees a non-network provider, their primary care manager must refer them. If not, point-of-service fees could be incurred without the referral. To find out if they qualify, people in the United States should contact their local TRICARE contractor.

Certification Requirements and Session Flexibility

The new regulations also prohibit trained labor doulas in the United States from asking the beneficiary to pay for covered services after the deductible has been satisfied and require them to sign a participation agreement in order to participate in the demonstration.

The providers cannot ask the beneficiary to submit their own claims. The 

 is now on the list of organizations that require labor doulas to hold a current certification from an authorized certifying body.

According to the guidelines, moms must be at least 27 weeks pregnant in order to be eligible for TRICARE's breastfeeding assistance benefit and the demonstration's breastfeeding support services. TRICARE's current breastfeeding support benefit may be available to those who are not eligible for breastfeeding help under the demonstration.

Six sessions of breastfeeding support are still included in the demonstration. These sessions are already covered by TRICARE. Lactation consultants or counselors can provide this assistance to mothers in group or individual sessions.

The demonstration also permits services and sessions from experts who are not TRICARE-certified medical doctors but are qualified to offer lactation counseling or consultation. Lactation consultants are educated to offer breastfeeding counseling to promote the normal lactation of nursing parents.

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Every four years, our nation comes together on January 20th—sometimes the 21st—to usher in the next President of the United States. For the first time in its history, the U.S. Space Force (USSF) is a part of the ceremony as more than 40 Guardians will be there to represent the youngest branch of the U.S. Armed Forces.

U.S. Space Force Is Part of the Presidential Inauguration for the First Time

Welcoming the new President is a high honor for any military branch and several Guardians are taking on the task in 2025. The U.S. Space Force Honor Guard will be a part of the 60th Presidential Inauguration ceremony and parade.

A total of 45 Guardians from throughout the U.S. trained at 

 for the occasion. This is the first time the branch will be a part of the ceremony in its short history.

Founded less than two years ago, 43 members are a part of the Space Force Honor Guard from varying careers and backgrounds will be in Washington D.C., along with the Air Force Band, U.S. Air Force Academy, Air National Guard, Air Force Reserves, as well as active-duty Airmen.

Taking part in the parade and inauguration is important for visibility and creating a culture for Guardians.

The USSF operates as a division within the Department of the Air Force and has the shortest history of any other branch within the U.S. military.

This is a great stage to be seen by the nation and beyond on what is sure to be a highly publicized event.

"This is a great opportunity for Guardians to get out on their marks and represent their service in front of a global audience. This is actually the first time in the Space Force’s five-year history that they have been able to fully represent their service in a presidential inauguration," said U.S. Air Force 

Maj. McLellan is the U.S. Air Force Honor Guard Commander responsible for training the U.S. Space Force Honor Guard.

Guardians have been busy lately, recently participating in the 

, held to honor former President Jimmy Carter.

However, the U.S. Space Force Honor Guard has been preparing for bigger moments, including a 12-day training period where Guardians dove into mastering service within the branch’s honor guard.

This includes tackling precision movements, military drill procedures, and ceremonial protocol for a professional, clean, and disciplined showing while upholding the highest standards of the American Armed Forces.

Since coming into existence five years ago, the USSF has been working to honor its past within the USAF while also establishing its own, unique culture.

Leadership continues to change and edit things so that Guardians have not only a distinct mission but a specific presence among the U.S. military branches and individual experiences to offer those who volunteer.

Taking part in the 2025 presidential inauguration is a big step forward for the branch, further incorporating the USSF with traditions typical of the U.S. military as a whole.

More and more Guardians are paving their own way in establishing what their place is for the defense of our nation and its interests.

Participation by the U.S. Space Force in the presidential inauguration is a positive step forward, bringing new traditions to the forefront of Guardians everywhere.

As stated by Senior Master Sgt. Matthew Massoth, the senior enlisted leader of the U.S. Space Force Honor, “These members truly embody the Guardian Spirit and exemplify the Space Force’s core values. By stepping up as volunteers, they represent every Guardian who has raised their right hand to serve their nation. This opportunity puts them on a global stage to honor their service and our branch’s crucial role in defense.”

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Just outside of Joint Base Anacostia–Bolling a regional jet flying for American Airlines regional jet collided with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter. The event is still unfolding but no survivors are expected. Wreckage is still being investigated, which may be a complicated situation, considering aircraft crashed into the Potomac River near the Reagan National Airport.

American Airlines Flight Crashed With a U.S. Army Black Hawk Helicopter

An American Airlines regional jet collided with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter near Washington, D.C.’s 

Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport

, crashing into the Potomac River with no expected survivors.

According to the Joint Task Force-National Capitol Region media chief, the helicopter involved in the collision was on a training flight, and belonged to the Army’s Bravo Company, 12th Aviation Battalion out of Fort Belvoir in Virginia. According to officials, the Reuters helicopter flights have been paused for the Army unit involved in the collision.

The jet carried 64 passengers, while three were aboard the helicopter. The fuselage was found in three sections, partially submerged. Recovery crews have retrieved 28 bodies so far.

So far, it appears the crash could have been avoidable as both aircraft were in standard flight patterns during clear conditions.

Debris is being found in multiple states, including Virginia, Maryland, and Washington D.C., leading to park and shoreline closures while recovery efforts are ongoing and officials work to determine what caused the crash.

Officials are looking into the height of the flight paths but the Black Hawk helicopter, which would need to be higher than 200 feet, seems to have been flying at around 350 feet.

Communications are also being investigated at this time, though clear conditions and an experienced military crew on board point to best practices likely being in place. The Soldiers were wearing night vision goggles at the time.

Fourteen figure skaters from U.S. Figure Skating’s national development camp were on the plane, heading from Wichita, Kansas.

This includes six from the Skating Club of Boston—athletes Jinna Han and Spencer Lane with their mothers, and coaches Vadim Naumov and Evgenia Shishkova, according to club CEO Doug Zeghibe.

Flight Paths Were Normal Before the Crash

Prior to the crash, flight paths for both the helicopter and the plane were normal, according to the Secretary of Transportation. In a statement he said, “This was not unusual with a military aircraft flying the river and an aircraft landing at DCA.”

Additionally, Duffy explained that investigators from the National Transportation Safety Board and the Federal Aviation Administration would analyze the debris.

The Black Hawk helicopter crash was the first major commercial air crash that has occurred in almost 16 years. The last crash occurred in February of 2009. This was when a Continental Airlines flight out of New Jersey crashed into a home as it was approaching an airport in Buffalo, NY. That plane was a Bombardier Q400, and 49 people died in that tragedy.

The last major American Airlines crash occurred in November of 2001, near John F. Kennedy International Airport. The flight crashed shortly after take-off, and killed 265 people.

According to military spokesman Ron McLendon II, the Army is joining an investigation into the crash that is being led by the National Transportation Security Board.

The Army has described the involved helicopter, UH-60 Black Hawk, as a “utility tactical transport helicopter.” According to the Army, the helicopter has improved military mobility because of its increased capacity to carry troops and cargo.

DUring the time of collision, the helicopter was on an “annual proficiency training flight,” explained Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth. According to Hegseth, the crew was “fairly experienced” and was conducting a night evaluation. Night goggles were also on board.

American Airlines, U.S. Army Black Hawk Helicopter Crash, an Avoidable Tragedy

The mid-air collision between American Airlines Flight 5342 and an Army Blackhawk helicopter seems to have been avoidable, according to early findings.

President Donald Trump and U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy both agreed the accident should have been prevented.

Communication seems to have been in working order at the time of the crash, however, at the time of this writing, Duffy is only providing limited details.

National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB)

 along with the Army and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) will lead the investigation.

So far, the American Airlines plane's black boxes haven't been recovered.

The cause of the American Airlines, U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter crash will likely take time to conclude, but for now, our thoughts and prayers are with the families of those affected by this unfortunate tragedy

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