The 45th Space Wing at Patrick AFB, Fla., aided NASA on the launch of the space shuttle Discovery Tuesday by providing weather forecasts, helping to organize and train DOD contingency response forces, and tracking the shuttle’s trajectory using radar and other equipment via its Eastern Range, reports Ken Warren. The 45th SW boss, Brig. Gen. Susan Helms, said the Eastern Range is “a national treasure.”
The U.S. began extensive air and artillery strikes against Islamic State group targets in Syria on Dec. 19 in retaliation for the killing of three Americans on Dec. 13 by a gunman affiliated with ISIS, U.S. officials said.

