Free Republic

The White House has nominated Army Lt. Gen. Michael Erik Kurilla to lead the U.S. Central Command. The nomination was first reported by The Wall Street Journal and confirmed by The Hill. The Senate received a nomination for Kurilla on Wednesday ... If confirmed, Kurilla would replace Gen. Kenneth McKenzie, who has helmed Central Command since March 2019. The Pentagon said there is nothing to announce at this time. Kurilla, a native of Elk River, Minn., currently serves as the commander of the 18th Airborne Corps in Fort Bragg, N.C., a role he has held . ...

Fort Bragg is canceling its July 4th celebration because of budget cuts and worker furloughs. The event - a tradition for more than 30 years - usually attracts 50,000 people and includes what many people believe to be among the best fireworks shows in the region. "Our reduced operating budget for the remainder of this year forces many very tough decisions," said Lt. Gen. Daniel B. Allyn, commanding general of 18th Airborne Corps and Fort Bragg ... Fort Bragg announced other cuts and reductions today

Dear Lord, There's a young man far from home, called to serve his nation in time of war; sent to defend our freedom on some distant foreign shore. We pray You keep him safe, we pray You keep him strong, we pray You send him safely home ... for he's been away so long. There's a young woman far from home, serving her nation with pride. Her step is strong, her step is sure, there is courage in every stride. We pray You keep her safe, we pray You keep her strong, we pray You send her safely home...