The Mississippi Air National Guard’s 172nd Airlift Wing has named one of its C-17s “The Spirit of the Purple Heart,” recognizing the US military’s oldest decoration. The airlifter, which, in 2006, flew the one-millionth hour mission for the C-17 fleet, now has a Purple Heart medal painted on its nose. (Report by TSgt. Mike Smith.)
Air Force Gen. Alexus G. Grynkewich assumed command of U.S. European Command on July 1, taking over the key assignment as the U.S. and its allies contend with a resurgent Russia and a grinding war in Ukraine.