SSgt. Israel del Toro Jr., a Tactical Air Control Party operator in Afghanistan when he was severely wounded, received a Purple Heart from Gen. Michael Moseley, Air Force Chief of Staff, during a ceremony at Brooke Army Medical Center, Ft. Sam Houston, Tex. There were some 200 people attending the June 23 ceremony. Del Toro was on a patrol mission in December 2005 with the Army’s 2nd Battalion, 503rd Infantry Brigade, when an improvised explosive device exploded near him, burning him severely. Moseley praised del Toro for his accomplishments during his recovery, adding, “You represent everything good about the Air Force.”
Congress Wants More Insight into Golden Dome Budget
Jan. 21, 2026
Lawmakers told Pentagon leaders they want more details about how the Defense Department plans to spend the $23 billion Congress provide to support Golden Dome in last year’s reconciliation deal.
