What does it take to make it in the news? A few factors are usually necessary in order for a story to be picked up and published. A certain level of shock or human interest must be involved; something that draws the attention of a large-scale audience. The best news is important news—anything that has the potential to change lives, situations, or even the way the world works. In the United States military, there are situations that frequently change and develop; shock and inspire. For this reason, high-profile news sources frequently report on the goings on of the military. Take a look at the top three military stories of the last six months!

First Female Combatant Commander May Be Appointed

On March 18, 2016, it was announced that President Obama plans to nominate the first female combatant commander in the U.S. military. This announcement was made by Defense Secretary Ash Carter who said that Air Force General Lori Robinson will be nominated for the post. The Senate will then need to confirm the nomination in order for General Robinson to be appointed. Robinson is the commander of the U.S. Northern Command of the Air Force and has been referred to by Carter as “exceptionally strong.” Her appointment would be historic, especially in this time when the role of women in military combat is an especially hot-button topic.

New Medal Awarded by Military for Fighting ISIS

This new development on the War on Terror was announced on March 30th of this year. All American troops will be eligible to receive a medal for their service if they were deployed to fight against ISIS. The Pentagon has stated that, at this time, more than 11,000 members of the military are already eligible to receive this medal. This medal comes as a response to the acknowledgement by both Joint Chiefs Chairman General Joseph Dunford and Defense Secretary Ash Carter that the War on Terror becomes increasingly dangerous each passing day and the members of our military that are involved in this war deserve a higher recognition. The medal will be the first of its kind.

Army Captain Obtains Permission to Keep His Beard and Turban  

On December 14, 2015, the story of Capt. Simratpal Singh of the U.S. Army was relayed. Capt. Singh is a member of the Sikh faith. An essential tenet of this faith is for men to have beards, wear turbans, and keep their hair long. Captain Singh has been serving in the U.S. military for almost a decade and has followed the requirements of being clean-shaven with short hair, but now he says that he regrets this decision and wants to continue serving in the Army while following the requirements of his faith. He wrote a letter in October 2015, seeking religious exemption to the rules against long hair and beards and was granted an appearance waiver in December of 2015 that extended until January 8, 2016. This waiver gave him temporary permission to grow his hair and beard and to start wearing a turban under his helmet. On April 5, 2016, it was reported that Capt. Singh has now been granted permanent permission to maintain his beard, long hair, and turban after he filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Defense in February. His exemption is the first that has been granted to an active-duty soldier that has sought such an exemption.

Military News: Stay Updated!

Things change every single day. Advancements are made, new ideas are created, and progression is seen all over the world. The military is no exception to this rule. To keep up with our nation's heroes, visit our blog for more military news!