Author: Eve Sampson

  • Marine Corps to add 6,500 billets in force expansion

    Marine Corps to add 6,500 billets in force expansion

    More Marines are coming to infantry battalions, drone units and air defenses under a sweeping plan to grow the force by more than 6,500 billets over the next five years.

    The additional Marines will be spread across 64 initiatives, including reinforcing the Pacific fleet, creating a drone school and establishing new occupational specialties, the service announced Tuesday in a statement. The Corps is aiming for a 4% end-strength increase by 2031 and an additional 1% increase by 2032.

    The announcement shows the Corps is looking to simultaneously bolster infantry units and digital tactics.

    “By aligning trained Marines with modernized capabilities, the Marine Corps ensures prior and future investments in robotics, precision fires, counter-UAS, artificial intelligence, and autonomous systems produce warfighting advantages,” the statement said.

    The new slots come after the Corps has spent years experimenting, modernizing and honing its ability to fight in island-studded regions like the Pacific. Last week, the service released Ground Combat Element 2040, a strategy outlining how its ground forces will change over the next 15 years. The service also plans to increase crew-served weapons personnel, add more 60mm and 81mm mortars and create a supplementary heavy machine gun platoon.

    According to the Tuesday statement, the initiatives and additions will give the Marine Corps four wartime advantages: stronger power projection, especially in the Pacific; integrated autonomous and robotic systems; expanded training pipelines; and more specialized Marines in the force.

    A significant part of the growth will enlarge the Corps’ infantry formations, adding personnel to 19 infantry battalions and two littoral combat teams staffed with Marines to create heavy guns platoons and expand precision fires, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities.

    The Marine Corps is also building out the manpower and organizations needed for a drone-filled battlefield. Each Marine expeditionary force will gain a robotics and autonomous systems company and the service will establish its second Small Unmanned Aircraft System Schoolhouse at School of Infantry-West to train more Marines in the Corps’ small unmanned aircraft system specialty. In another initiative, installations are slated to get their own counter-drone personnel and capabilities to protect from non-friendly UAS.

    Other changes create new occupational specialties. The Marine Corps is establishing the 0315 Scout specialty, which will fill a 26-person scout platoon armed with advanced sensors and optics. In a separate release, Lt. Gen. Jay M. Bargeron, Deputy Commandant for Plans, Policies, and Operations, called the job’s creation “a critical step in the modernization of our infantry battalions.”

    It also creates a career path for digital operations — making the 0673 identifier a primary military occupational specialty.

    This post was originally published on this site.

  • Trump to nominate Hung Cao as Navy secretary

    Trump to nominate Hung Cao as Navy secretary

    President Donald Trump announced Tuesday on social media that he was nominating Acting Navy Secretary Hung Cao to assume the position full time.

    The former Virginia Senate candidate and special operations veteran took over the temporary role in April 2026 after the previous acting Navy secretary, John Phelan, was fired.

    “I am pleased to nominate a true warrior, Hung Cao, to become the next secretary of the Navy,” Trump said in a Truth Social post. “We need patriots like Hung leading our Navy and Marine Corps, and I can think of no one better than him to make sure our great Navy and Marine Corps remain the fiercest and best force the world has ever seen.”

    Cao, who previously served as under secretary of the Navy, outlined his vision as acting Navy secretary in April as one focused on alpha males and alpha females, as well as on delivering a high- and low-mix of ships to fulfill the promise of the Golden Fleet.

    Speaking at the Modern Day Marine exposition in Washington, D.C., Cao said he was focused on working within the confines of the Navy budget to improve ships, aircraft and equipment, while keeping an eye on maintenance.

    He spoke about the importance of delivering the sixth-generation aircraft F/A-XX, the new Navy Medium Landing Ship and more amphibious transport docks.

    The acting Navy secretary has also stressed the need to control the narrative and provide information about the service that instills trust within the American people. Cao established the Department of the Navy Communication Strategy in a June administrative message in an attempt to deliver on this promise.

    After moving to America as a Vietnamese refugee in 1975, Cao went on to graduate from the U.S. Naval Academy and serve in the military for 25 years, deploying with special operations forces to Iraq, Afghanistan and Somalia. He also earned a master’s degree in physics from the Naval Postgraduate School.

    He attempted to unseat Sen. Tim Kaine, D-Va., in the 2024 Senate race, but lost after launching a campaign that criticized diversity and inclusion efforts in the military.

    Cao acknowledged the Navy secretary nomination soon after it was announced.

    “Thank you, Mr. President,” Cao said in a social media post. “It’s an honor of a lifetime to lead the great warriors of the Navy and Marine Corps team. I’m grateful for your leadership and support as we continue to get after shipbuilding and ensure the defense of the homeland.”

    Before taking the full-time role, the Senate must vote whether to confirm Cao’s nomination.

    This post was originally published on this site.

  • Roasted Sweet Potatoes

    Roasted Sweet Potatoes

    These Roasted Sweet Potatoes have browned, caramelized edges and soft, creamy centers, with no parboiling or cornstarch needed! I preheat the sheet pan in a HOT 450°F oven, dry the potatoes thoroughly so they roast instead of steaming and staying pale, and cut them into evenly sized large cubes. Then they just need one flip before they’re done! You only need 3 basic ingredients for this back-pocket side dish, so it’s perfect when I want dinner to stay simple. The whole batch costs under $3, takes about 40 minutes from start to finish, and gives me a versatile base for dinners, power bowls, or meal prep.

    Delicious Roast Sweet Potatoes Made Easy

    To get these roasted sweet potatoes perfectly browned and caramelized, I preheat a metal sheet pan so it’s already hot when the oiled cubes go in. That immediate heat gives the first side a head start on browning before the centers begin to soften. Thoroughly drying the cubes and leaving visible room between the pieces are just as important. If they’re wet or crowded, they’ll steam or “stew” instead of roast (still delicious, just not the goal!). These potatoes are a sensory treat that can be as simple as my 3-ingredient version here, or you can jazz them up with allllll the seasonings and sauces.

    It’s also a well-known fact that sprinkling sugar on something makes a toddler more likely to try it, but why would you do that to yourself?! Kids + sugar = regret. 😉 I’m mostly kidding, but sweet potatoes are one of my 4-year-old daughter’s favorite foods because they’re naturally sweet, beautifully orange, and smell so good coming out of the oven. What she doesn’t know is that they also contain fiber, vitamin C, potassium, and beta-carotene! These roasted sweet potatoes cook through much faster than whole baked sweet potatoes, which makes them an easy option after a long day and a flexible base for meal prep.

    Recipe Success Tips

    1. Keep the skins on for lightly crisp edges. Sweet potatoes roast differently from regular russets. When I make oven roasted potatoes, a quick parboil roughs up the russet surfaces so they become craggy and crisp. However, the sweet potatoes don’t need parboiling in this recipe. They bring their own natural sugars, which caramelize as they roast and create deeply browned edges around tender centers. I keep the skins on for a little natural crispness, and the preheated pan helps develop plenty of color!
    2. Cut the potatoes into a large, even dice. Aim for cubes about ½ to 1 inch, using my step photo below as your guide. A large dice gives each piece plenty of surface area to roast nicely. Keep the pieces as close in size as possible so they become tender at the same time.
    3. Use the middle oven rack. This recipe was tested in the center of the oven for the most consistent browning and tenderness.
    4. Want to make sweet potato fries? If you are looking to roast sweet potatoes to achieve more of a sweet potato fry goal, I personally recommend elevating the potatoes off the preheated sheet pan with a roasting rack. This lets air reach all sides and crisp the larger surface area more effectively. Slice the potatoes into fries, and roast until browned and a knife/fork slides easily through the thickest piece (about 40-45 minutes).

    A women sprinkling salt over a sheet pan of diced sweet potatoes in a kitchen.
    Jess Rice prepping her roasted sweet potatoes in our Nashville test kitchen.

    What to Serve with Roasted Sweet Potatoes

    These roasted sweet potatoes can replace rice, pasta, or regular potatoes in just about any meal. For an easy dinner, serve them with pan-seared chicken breasts and my sautéed green beans. Start the potatoes first, then cook the chicken and green beans on the stovetop as they roast. Need dinner even faster? Use sliced rotisserie chicken instead!

    For a lighter vegetarian option, I love pairing them with our easy kale salad. The tart apple and tangy Dijon vinaigrette balance the sweet potatoes, and the walnuts add crunch. Add budget-friendly chickpeas or white beans for a heartier plate. This also meal preps well; just store the potatoes separately so you can reheat them without warming the salad, if desired.

    More Easy Pairing Ideas

    • Build a power bowl: Pair the sweet potatoes with quinoa, steamed broccoli, and air fryer salmon for a healthy yet affordable meal (as I’ve shown in the photo below).
    • Turn them into tacos: Tuck the potatoes into tortillas with black beans, crunchy cabbage, and your favorite salsa.
    • Add a simple main dish: Pork chops, meatloaf, or a veggie burger all work well with their sweet and savory flavor (though I can’t think of a protein that wouldn’t work here!)
    • Finish with a sauce: Try aioli for creaminess, chili crisp for heat and crunch, hot honey for sweet heat, maple syrup for sweetness without spice, or ketchup for a familiar, kid-friendly option!

    Want to change the flavor to suit your meal? Check out my seasoning ideas below for five easy ways to switch things up!

    Front view of a bowl of quinoa with a salmon filet, roasted sweet potatoes, and broccoli.

    Overhead view roasted sweet potatoes with a metal spatula scooping some up.

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    Roasted Sweet Potatoes

    These easy Roasted Sweet Potatoes turn tender, naturally sweet, and deliciously caramelized in the oven. You only need 3 ingredients and about 40 minutes!
    Course Side Dish
    Cuisine American
    Total Cost $2.63 recipe / $0.66 serving
    Prep Time 15 minutes
    Cook Time 25 minutes
    Total Time 40 minutes
    Servings 4 servings (½ cup per person)
    Calories 257kcal
    Author Jess Rice

    Equipment

    • Metal Sheet Pan

    Ingredients

    • 2 lbs sweet potatoes $2.24
    • 2 Tbsp olive oil $0.38*
    • ½ tsp salt $0.01

    Instructions

    • Gather ingredients and preheat oven to 450℉ with your metal sheet pan preheating in the middle position of the oven.**
    • Wash sweet potatoes well and thoroughly dry them. Dice into large cubes, about ½ inch to 1-inch on each side.
    • Toss potatoes in a large mixing bowl with olive oil and salt.
    • Carefully remove preheated sheet pan from the oven and pour the sweet potatoes onto it, giving each potato cube room so they don’t steam instead of roast. Bake for 15 minutes.
    • Flip sweet potatoes after 15 minutes and roast for 10 additional minutes.
    • Remove from oven and enjoy.

    See how we calculate recipe costs here.

    Notes

    *Olive oil adds a little flavor, encourages browning, and helps the salt stick to the sweet potatoes. You can also substitute another neutral cooking oil, such as avocado, canola, or vegetable oil.

    **I always roast these sweet potatoes on a metal sheet pan placed on the middle oven rack. The potatoes shown in these photos were roasted on parchment paper, which made cleanup easy and still allowed them to brown beautifully. However, bare metal will give you a deeper sear, while foil is another convenient lining option.

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1serving | Calories: 257kcal | Carbohydrates: 46g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 7g | Sodium: 416mg | Fiber: 7g

    how to make Roasted Sweet Potatoes Step-by-Step Photos

    The ingredients to make roasted potatoes with ingredient labels.

    Gather all of your ingredients. You’ll need 2 lbs. sweet potatoes, which worked out at 4 whole sweet potatoes for me. Position an oven rack in the middle, place a metal sheet pan on the rack, and preheat the oven to 450°F.

    Diced sweet potatoes on a cutting board.

    Prep the sweet potatoes: Scrub 2 lbs. sweet potatoes well (the skins stay on), then dry them thoroughly so they roast instead of steam. Trim the tapered ends so the thin pieces don’t burn. Cut the potatoes into ½- to 1-inch evenly sized cubes. I do this by slicing the potatoes crosswise into ½- to 1-inch rounds, laying each round flat, slicing it into strips, then cutting the strips into cubes.

    Diced sweet potatoes in a bowl with oil and salt.

    Coat with oil and salt: Place the cubed sweet potatoes in a large mixing bowl. Add 2 Tbsp olive oil and ½ tsp salt, then toss until every piece looks lightly glossy and seasoned. If you’re using any additional seasoning, add it to the bowl now and adjust the salt as needed.

    Diced sweet potatoes on a sheet pan.

    Spread out and begin roasting: Carefully remove the hot sheet pan from the oven using oven mitts. Pour the sweet potatoes onto the pan, then arrange them in a single layer with a flat cut side against the pan and visible room between the cubes. Don’t pile them on top of each other so they roast properly. Return the pan to the middle oven rack and roast without stirring for 15 minutes.

    Sweet potato cubes on a baking sheet being tossed with a spatula.

    Flip the potatoes: After 15 minutes, flip the sweet potatoes with a thin spatula, and roast for another 10 minutes.

    Roasted sweet potatoes on a baking sheet.

    Check for doneness and serve: The finished sweet potatoes should have deeply browned edges, lightly crisp skins, and soft middles. A knife or fork should slide easily through the thickest cube, and the potatoes should smell sweet and toasty. If the largest pieces are still firm, roast for another 2-5 minutes, then serve warm. Enjoy!

    Front macro view of roasted sweet potato cubes on a sheet pan.

    More Seasoning Ideas!

    I purposely keep these roasted sweet potatoes simple with olive oil and salt so they’re budget-friendly, approachable, and easy to pair with anything. But you can season them with whatever you like! Keep the olive oil even when using a different seasoning because it helps the potatoes brown and gives the spices something to stick to.

    Note: Add your chosen seasoning to the bowl with the oil and salt, then toss until evenly coated. These amounts are starting points for the full 2 lb. batch. If your chosen seasoning blend already contains salt, reduce the added salt as needed!

    • Garlic: Add 1 tsp garlic powder for a simple savory flavor.
    • Taco: Add 1 Tbsp taco seasoning for smoky chili, cumin, and paprika flavors. It’s perfect for tacos and bowl meals! (This is the seasoning shown in the photo below).
    • Curry: Add 2 tsp curry powder for a warm and earthy flavor. Pair these with chickpeas, lentils, or a creamy yogurt sauce.
    • Cajun: Add 1 Tbsp Cajun seasoning for smoky flavor and moderate heat. This option would be delicious with the chicken and sautéed green beans dinner I suggested earlier!
    • Herby: Add 2 tsp poultry seasoning for some paprika, rosemary, thyme, basil, and oregano flavor. Despite its name, it’s simply a blend of herbs and spices, and it makes a cozy side for roast dinners or holiday meals.
    A bowl of taco seasoning next to a spoon of the same seasoning, with roasted sweet potatoes in the background.

    Meal Prep it!

    I think these skin-on roasted sweet potatoes are really handy for prepping lunches ahead of time. I’ll divide the batch into four ½-cup portions and pack each one with a protein or beans and a green vegetable or salad. If any part of the meal is meant to stay cold, use divided containers to keep the potatoes in their own compartment for easy reheating. Enjoy them cold or reheat them using one of the methods below!

    Storage & Reheating

    Let leftovers cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container so trapped steam doesn’t create condensation and make the sweet potatoes soggy. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

    Reheating

    Reheat the potatoes until steaming hot throughout. The microwave is the quickest option, but the oven and air fryer do a better job of restoring the freshly roasted flavor. Cover loosely and microwave for 45-60 seconds, then continue in 15-second intervals as needed. Or reheat them in the oven or air fryer at 350°F until heated through (the air fryer will be quicker!)

    Freezing

    These roasted sweet potatoes can be frozen for up to 3 months, but they’ll be softer and can release a little moisture after freezing. Freeze the cooled cubes in a single layer on a lined sheet pan until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and remove as much air as possible. For the best texture, reheat them from frozen in the oven or air fryer.

    Love Roasted Sweet Potatoes? Try These Recipes Next:

    • Our Chili Roasted Sweet Potatoes use mild chili powder for an easy Southwest-inspired side that fits right in with tacos, enchiladas, or burrito bowls.
    • Planning a holiday dinner? I’d add Maple Sweet Potatoes with Pecans to the table for their caramelized maple flavor and buttery crunch.
    • Sweet, smoky, and lightly spicy, these Smoky Roasted Sweet Potatoes combine brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic, and optional cayenne.
    • I make these Cumin Lime Sweet Potatoes when I want something brighter on my plate. Earthy cumin and fresh lime keep them savory and zesty.

    More Easy Sweet Potato Recipes

    The post Roasted Sweet Potatoes appeared first on Budget Bytes.

    This post was originally published on this site.

  • Navy looks to fast-track Camp Pendleton barracks project

    Navy looks to fast-track Camp Pendleton barracks project

    Ten new barracks buildings are coming to Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, according to a U.S. Navy notice.

    The Navy put out a fast-track solicitation for new on-base housing facilities for unmarried military personnel. The project includes four Bachelor Enlisted Quarters, or BEQs, with 401 rooms each, three with 361 rooms apiece and three more with 261 rooms each.

    “The initiative will replace 10 outdated barracks buildings … nearly 656,000 square feet in total … with modern, high-quality facilities engineered to meet revised spatial standards and living configurations for today’s Marines,” according to a Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command news release.

    On July 1, NAVFAC published a Special Notice announcing new barracks for Camp Pendleton, as well as Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina; Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California; Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, South Carolina; Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina; and Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia; as well as childcare centers at several Navy bases.

    NAVFAC released a solicitation for the actual construction Saturday, with a deadline of Oct. 1. The Navy wants barracks that are built using “advanced manufacturing and IC [industrialized construction] methodologies (such as volumetric modular, hybrid, and/or Kit of Parts) to deliver high-performing, durable barracks,” the solicitation said.

    Buildings will use modular construction to reduce maintenance costs.

    “Barracks are especially well-suited for industrialized construction because their repeated room layouts and common building systems support faster, more standardized delivery at-scale,” the NAVFAC release noted.

    The project will use the Progressive Design Build concept in which the government, contractors and off-site manufacturers collaborate early in the design phase. The goal is to cut construction time by at least 30%, and construction and design costs by at least 20%.

    “Selected vendors will be invited to submit full proposals covering design, manufacturing, logistics, and construction pricing and schedules for replacement barracks at Camp Pendleton,” the solicitation said.

    The contract will be an Other Transaction Authority arrangement, which allows agencies to speed up projects by bypassing many regulations and processes governing federal acquisitions.

    Originally a 1950s mechanism to energize research and technology projects during the Cold War, OTAs were recently extended to include military construction and repair efforts.

    “Our Marines cannot wait for traditional acquisition and construction timelines,” NAVFAC Commander Rear Adm. Jeffrey Kilian said in a statement. “Using this new OTA authority, NAVFAC can move faster, bring in the best of industry, and deliver barracks that match the standards our Marines deserve.”

    The Camp Pendleton construction is part of Barracks 2030, a nearly $11 billion initiative to replace aging and decrepit Marine living quarters by 2037. Marine Corps leaders describe the program as a top priority.

    This post was originally published on this site.

  • Crockpot Creamy Chicken Pasta

    Crockpot Creamy Chicken Pasta

    Crockpot creamy chicken pasta is the kind of dinner I need on a busy weeknight! Tender chicken cooks all day in a creamy marinara sauce! Then stir in perfectly cooked pasta and melty cheese for the easiest comfort food dinner.

    Your Crockpot Just Won Dinner

    • So Easy: Add everything to the crockpot and let it do the work. Dinner practically makes itself!
    • Creamy and Cheesy: Marinara and Alfredo come together to make the creamiest, dreamiest sauce the whole family will love!
    • Family Favorite: Tender chicken, pasta, and lots of cheese make this one of those dinners everyone is happy to see on the table.

    Crockpot Creamy Chicken Pasta Ingredients

    Overhead shot of labeled crockpot creamy chicken pasta ingredients.
    • Pasta: Cavatappi is my kids’ favorite, but penne, rotini, or any short pasta will work. Protein pasta is an easy way to sneak in a little extra protein.
    • Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite jarred sauce or make my homemade marinara.
    • Alfredo Sauce: Jarred Alfredo keeps this recipe super easy, but my homemade Alfredo sauce takes it to the next level.
    • Adjust the Sauce: If the pasta gets too thick, stir in a splash of milk or extra Alfredo sauce.
    • For a Little Kick of Heat! Add some red pepper flakes.

    Crockpot Creamy Chicken Pasta Recipe

    This slow cooker creamy chicken pasta is so easy! Let the chicken cook in the crockpot, shred it, then stir in the cooked pasta and cheese. For another easy dinner, try my crockpot Tuscan chicken!

    1. Add Chicken: Spray the crockpot with nonstick cooking spray. Place chicken breasts on the bottom.
    2. Cook: On top of the chicken, add the salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, Parmesan, marinara, and Alfredo. Cover and cook on LOW for 5-6 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours. Or until the chicken reaches 165°F and shreds easily. Once cooked, remove the chicken, shred it, then return it to the crockpot.
    3. Cook the Pasta: Just before serving, boil the pasta to al dente according to package directions. Drain pasta and gently stir it in.
    4. Add Cheese: Top with the mozzarella, then cover for 5 minutes, or until the cheese melts. Garnish crockpot creamy chicken pasta with fresh parsley.
    Chicken breasts added to the bottom of the crockpot.
    Sauces and seasonings added to the chicken in the crockpot.
    Cooked pasta added to the shredded chicken and pasta sauces in the crockpot.
    Cheese added to the top of the ingredients in the crockpot.

    Alyssa’s Pro Tip

    Pasta: Cook just to al dente. Then, stir it in right before serving so it stays firm and doesn’t get mushy in the crockpot.

    Kitchen Tools Used for This Recipe

    • Crockpot: A 6-quart crockpot gives the chicken and sauce plenty of room to cook evenly.
    • Large Pot: Use it to cook the pasta until al dente.
    • Wooden Spoon: Use to gently stir the pasta, chicken, sauce, and cheese together.

    Instant Pot Instructions

    1. Add ingredients: Add the chicken and sauce ingredients to the Instant Pot.
    2. Cook: Seal the lid and cook on HIGH PRESSURE for 25 minutes.
    3. Release pressure: Release the pressure, then shred the chicken.
    4. Finish: Stir in the cooked pasta and cheese according to the recipe directions.

    Print

    Crockpot Creamy Chicken Pasta

    Creamy crockpot chicken pasta is an easy, cheesy dinner made with tender chicken, marinara, Alfredo sauce, pasta, and mozzarella.
    Course Dinner
    Cuisine American
    Keyword creamy chicken marinara pasta, crockpot chicken and pasta, crockpot creamy chicken pasta recipe
    Prep Time 5 minutes
    Cook Time 4 hours
    Total Time 4 hours 5 minutes
    Servings 6 Servings
    Calories 270kcal
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    • 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
    • ½ teaspoon salt
    • ½ teaspoon black pepper
    • 1 teaspoon onion powder
    • 1 teaspoon garlic powder or 2 teaspoon minced garlic
    • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
    • ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
    • 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce
    • 1 (15-ounce) jar alfredo sauce
    • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
    • 1 (16-ounce) cavatappi pasta cooked

    Instructions

    • Spray the inside of the crockpot with non-stick cooking spray. Add 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning, ½ cup grated parmesan cheese, 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce, and 1 (15-ounce) jar alfredo sauce to the crockpot.
    • Cook on LOW for 5–6 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit and shred easily.
    • Right before serving, cook 1 (16-ounce) cavatappi pasta al dente according to package directions. Drain the pasta and set aside.
    • Remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it on a cutting board. Add the shredded chicken back to the crockpot.
    • Add the cooked pasta and 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix gently to combine. Cover and heat for 5 minutes, until the cheese melts. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired!

    Notes

    Leftover Instructions

    • Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-5 days.
    • Reheat: Microwave individual portions for about 1 minute, or until warmed through. Add a splash of milk if the sauce needs loosening.
    • Freezer: For the best texture, freeze the chicken and sauce without the pasta. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, reheat, then stir in freshly cooked pasta.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 270kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Protein: 39g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 0.02g | Cholesterol: 119mg | Sodium: 635mg | Potassium: 612mg | Fiber: 0.5g | Sugar: 0.3g | Vitamin A: 259IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 191mg | Iron: 1mg
    Close up shot of a scoop of crockpot creamy chicken pasta.

    What To Serve With Crockpot Chicken Pasta

    This post was originally published on this site.

  • Veterans: Get the VA Benefits You Earned at VetClaims

    Veterans: Get the VA Benefits You Earned at VetClaims

    This post was originally published on this site.

    VetClaims.ai was founded by Purple Heart veteran Lukas Simianer after fighting through his own VA claim. Like millions of veterans, he encountered a system that was confusing, slow, and stacked against the people it was meant to serve.

    He also saw an industry built around exploiting that confusion.

    VetClaims.ai exists to help veterans get the benefits they earned—without handing over a cut to consultants who never served. No percentages. No pressure. No games. Just claims done right.

    Their mission is to help veterans get the benefits they have earned by making the VA claims process clear, fast, and fair—while driving predatory claim-shark practices into extinction.

    They focus on what actually moves claims forward: submitting the right medical evidence, preparing the right documents, and using language the VA understands.

    Their goal is to help claims land with clarity the first time—without unnecessary delays or denials.

    “Whether you’re filing your first claim, fighting a denial, racing an appeal deadline, or trying to increase your rating, one thing stays true: you’ve got your reasons, the VA has your benefits, and we’ve got you covered”.

    FIND OUT MORE ABOUT VETCLAIMS.AI IN THIS  MONTH’S U.S. VETERANS MAGAZINE!

    Read more articles for the veteran community here.

    The post Veterans: Get the VA Benefits You Earned at VetClaims appeared first on U.S. Veterans Magazine.

  • How a middling Chinese guided-missile frigate unnerves Japan, Taiwan and the US

    How a middling Chinese guided-missile frigate unnerves Japan, Taiwan and the US

    NEW TAIPEI CITY, Taiwan — China’s navy has introduced a new guided-missile frigate designed for coastal as well as open-sea attacks after 20 years in the making, according to Chinese state media.

    Not quite a technological breakthrough, military analysts say.

    But the 054A frigate has advantages that are expected to raise the People’s Liberation Army Navy clout along and beyond the Chinese southeast coasts and in turn fluster nearby Taiwan and Japan – each with concerns about Beijing’s maritime activities – while putting the United States on higher alert, analysts say.

    The frigate comparable to the U.S. Navy’s Constellation-class ships can operate in blue waters, meaning open seas far from its own coasts — an asset that its predecessors lacked, said David Silbey, a military historian and associate teaching professor with the Cornell Brooks School of Public Policy.

    Can China’s latest air-to-air missile take on its US equivalent? Definitely maybe, experts say.

    China’s 054A could do anti-submarine warfare as well due to its helicopter launch features, Silbey added. Helicopters increase a warship’s submarine detection range. The frigates could be produced fast in high numbers, he added.

    State media outlets reported that the frigate did a training mission on Aug. 22. Part of a PLA Eastern Theater Command flotilla, it joined other vessels for combat-related training, command coordination tests and emergency responses, state broadcaster CCTV News said.

    The 054A frigates will grab attention offshore because they add to an already expanding naval fleet, experts believe.

    “Taiwan is concerned about its increased anti-submarine, escort and fleet air defense capabilities around the Taiwan Strait,” said Huang Chung-ting, associate research fellow with the Institute for National Defense and Security Research in Taipei.

    “Japan will pay attention to its activities in the East China Sea, the Miyako Strait and around the first-island chain,” Huang said, referring to Japan itself as well as other land masses between China and the open Pacific Ocean.

    He said Washington would worry about whether the Chinese navy is forming a “large enough modern escort fleet” able to maintain long-term deployment in the open sea.

    The frigate could become a “multiplier for bigger units in a vast array of tasks”, said Enrico Cau, an associate researcher at the Taiwan Strategy Research Association think tank.

    China sees self-ruled Taiwan as part of its territory and has stepped up military drills nearby since 2022 — as Washington continues to help arm Taiwan in case of any conflict. Japan, a U.S. treaty ally, contests with China a chain of uninhabited islets and Beijing resents Tokyo’s stance on Taiwan.

    Chinese media reports call the 054A, also known as the Jiangkai II, a second Ningde branded ship type after the 056 guided-missile corvette that entered service in 2016. It has little if any unique technology, analysts believe. It even comes with “limited” missile capacity, rendering it “not a particularly powerful ship,” Silbey said.

    But it matters because it would bolster the navy’s overall potential, the experts said.

    “I think the multirole designation allows it to cover an important gap between smaller ships designed for a limited set of littoral, coastal and short-range missions and bigger ships designed for different tasks in long range missions,” Cau said.

    This post was originally published on this site.

  • Top Navy officer says sailors should expect ‘longer deployments’ despite 7-month goal

    Top Navy officer says sailors should expect ‘longer deployments’ despite 7-month goal

    This post was originally published on this site.

    The Navy’s top officer said sailors and their families should prepare for longer deployments until the service has a larger force and fleet.

    Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Daryl Caudle fielded questions from sailors during a livestreamed Q&A session at Fort Meade, Maryland, on Monday, which covered deployments to quality-of-life issues for shoreside personnel and Pentagon-directed policies like stricter grooming standards.

    “In the short term, until I can grow the Navy we need,” Daryl said, “I hate to admit it, but longer deployments are going to be probably part of that.”

    Caudle also said one of the “biggest hardships” that the service is looking to address is the “uncertainty” that extended deployments have on sailors and families.

    “When sailors know how long they’re going to be away from family, they go plan their lives to that, and they can get all those events that would necessarily be in their life — from attending weddings to childbirth to family events to vacations — they know how to go build that into the schedule,” Caudle said. 

    “But when I just basically extend in these small chunks a little bit time after time, that brings a lot of uncertainty to families,” Caudle added. “I’m working with that along with the other Joint Chiefs to try to get that more defined. I think that’ll improve going forward.” 

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    Navy officials did not provide additional context for Caudle’s remarks, which come after recent news reports on quality-of-life issues and mental health concerns among sailors aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln. The ship left San Diego, California in November and had its deployment extended to support U.S. operations against Iran. The ship is scheduled to stop in Thailand on Wednesday and stay for a few days until the ship heads home to San Diego.

    Currently, the Lincoln has been deployed for nine months. Though the Navy has not officially confirmed the date it is expected to reach its home port, the San Diego Union-Tribune reported its return date as late September or early October. If that timeline holds true, then the carrier and its crew would have been away for nearly 10 months. 

    “It’s my earnest attempt to really try to keep those [deployments] at seven months,” Caudle said, adding that the goal is to have a Navy “that can sustain a seven-month deployment and still give our combatant commanders the amount of naval force they need to accomplish their missions, solve their key operational problems, and make sure they have all the naval force necessary to do what they need to do.”

    Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy John Perryman told reporters last week that families of sailors aboard the USS Theodore Roosevelt, which is heading to U.S. Central Command in the coming weeks, are being told to plan for at least eight months away.

    ‘We just don’t have enough aircraft carriers’

    In order to meet that seven-month goal, Caudle referred to efforts to improve shipbuilding, which has been a longstanding national security issue for the sea-based service, which can’t build enough ships fast enough to replace aging and retiring vessels. As the fleet has shrunk, analysts have found that the Navy has been doing “more with less.” The Navy’s 2025 shipbuilding plan called for increasing the current fleet of 295 ships to 390 in the next two-and-a-half decades.

    Steven Wills, a former Navy officer and expert for the Center for Maritime Strategy, said the seven-month goal comes from the 2014 Optimized Fleet Response Plan, which includes deploying more aircraft carriers. But the trade-off, Wills explained, is that extended deployments delay a ship’s repair and sustainment.

    USS Abraham Lincoln
    The USS Abraham Lincoln on June 28, 2026. Navy photo.

    “The carrier repair plan is going to be upset for a decade or more now based on the extensions of both Ford and Abraham Lincoln,” Wills said. “Really, it’s a question of numbers. We just don’t have enough aircraft carriers to do this.”

    A USNI News analysis of Navy deployments found that the service’s carriers have averaged 8.5-month deployments since the U.S. response to the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas attack on southern Israel and Houthi attacks on commercial ships in the region.

    The Lincoln broke records when it sailed uninterrupted for more than 250 days. At the town hall, Caudle acknowledged that the lack of port calls impacted the crews’ quality of life and drew comparisons to the USS Gerald R. Ford, which broke records of its own, this time for the longest deployment since the Vietnam War, and faced its own issues due to its extended tour. The USS Ford deployed for 11 months and sailed for 326 days across three different Navy fleet regions, but made stops in Croatia and Crete.

    Wills said the stress falls on Navy aircraft carriers because they’re used as a “powerful geopolitical chess piece” and a way of “projecting U.S. power.”

    “It’s visible. It has actual striking power. You can refuel it and rearm it relatively quickly,” he said. “A surface warship or a submarine has to go into port and have its missile tubes reloaded. You can reload an aircraft carrier at sea while it’s still dropping bombs and doing things.”

    The post Top Navy officer says sailors should expect ‘longer deployments’ despite 7-month goal appeared first on Task & Purpose.

  • Top Career Paths for Veterans

    Top Career Paths for Veterans

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    For many transitioning service members, moving from military to civilian life can feel unfamiliar. What is often overlooked, however, is how closely many civilian careers align with the skills veterans already bring to the table. Leadership, adaptability, technical expertise and the ability to perform under pressure are not just transferable—they are in high demand.

    The real challenge is not whether veterans are qualified, but where to apply their strengths. Four sectors in particular—STEM, energy, construction and finance—stand out for those seeking meaningful, stable and growth-oriented careers.

    STEM Careers

    Careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics allow veterans to build on the technical training gained during service while entering fields that shape the future. Many military roles involve advanced systems, cybersecurity, logistics technology and engineering support, making the transition into STEM both natural and attainable.

    Cybersecurity remains one of the strongest entry points. Veterans with experience in intelligence, communications or information systems are well-positioned to protect digital infrastructure across the government and private sectors. Engineering roles—from mechanical to aerospace—also benefit from hands-on problem-solving and precision developed through military training.

    For those interested in technology but lacking formal credentials, certifications in IT support, cloud computing or data analytics can help bridge the gap. STEM careers reward continuous learning, an environment where many veterans already excel.

    Energy Careers

    The energy sector offers a powerful combination of purpose and technical application. From traditional oil and gas operations to rapidly expanding renewable energy fields, the industry provides a wide range of opportunities.

    Veterans with mechanical, electrical or operational backgrounds are well-suited for roles in energy production and infrastructure. Positions such as field technicians, plant operators and systems engineers depend on safety awareness, teamwork and reliability—core strengths developed in service.

    Renewable energy is also creating new entry points. Solar and wind companies are actively seeking individuals who can manage complex systems and operate in structured environments. For veterans, this sector offers long-term stability and the opportunity to contribute to a growing focus on sustainability.

    Construction Careers

    Construction is one of the most direct and accessible career paths for veterans, offering immediate opportunities to apply leadership, technical skills and project management experience. From commercial development to infrastructure projects, the industry depends on coordination, precision and accountability.

    Veterans are well-suited for roles such as project managers, site supervisors, skilled trades professionals and safety coordinators. Many of these positions value hands-on experience and leadership over traditional credentials, making entry more attainable.

    The structured, team-based environment of construction mirrors many aspects of military service. With ongoing demand for infrastructure development and skilled labor, the field provides both stability and long-term career growth.

    Finance Careers

    Finance may seem like a departure from military life, but it is an area where many veterans succeed. The structured and analytical nature of financial work aligns closely with the decision-making and planning required in service.

    Roles in financial analysis, operations, compliance and risk management are particularly strong fits. These positions demand attention to detail, accountability and the ability to evaluate complex scenarios—skills veterans bring in abundance.

    Veteran-focused hiring programs within financial institutions have also expanded access to the industry. Many organizations offer training, mentorship and certification support, helping veterans transition into roles such as financial advisers, project managers and operations specialists.

    For those pursuing entrepreneurship, financial knowledge can also serve as a strong foundation for building and sustaining a business.

    Right Fit

    Transitioning from military service is not about starting over—it is about applying a strong foundation in a new environment. Whether entering STEM, energy, construction or finance, veterans bring experience and professionalism that set them apart.

    Success often comes down to translating military skills into civilian terms, pursuing relevant certifications and leveraging veteran networks for support. With the right approach, the path forward is not defined by uncertainty, but by opportunity.

    Read more articles for the Veteran Community here.

    The post Top Career Paths for Veterans appeared first on U.S. Veterans Magazine.

  • Top Universities for Veterans & Military Students

    Top Universities for Veterans & Military Students

    This post was originally published on this site.

    Across the United States, a growing number of universities are redefining how they support those who have served. While the Post-9/11 GI Bill has expanded access to higher education, leading institutions are building comprehensive systems that address the academic, professional and personal transitions veterans face when entering civilian life. From resource centers to career pipelines and peer networks, these universities are raising the standard.

    National Model

    At Syracuse University, that commitment is evident in both the infrastructure and the approach. The university is home to the Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF), a nationally recognized organization focused on research, policy and programming for veterans. Its National Veterans Resource Center serves as a centralized hub for academic advising, career training and community support.

    The university’s model reflects a broader mission: connecting veterans to long-term career pathways. Syracuse has been consistently recognized as a top institution for veterans.

    Scaling Support

    At Arizona State University, scale and accessibility define its veteran support efforts. The Pat Tillman Veterans Center provides services ranging from benefits assistance to personalized success coaching. Named after former NFL player and Army Ranger Pat Tillman, the center reflects a mission grounded in service and leadership.

    Arizona State enrolls one of the largest veteran student populations in the country. Its approach balances efficiency with individualized support, earning consistent recognition in national rankings.

    Academic Transition

    At the University of Texas at Austin, veteran support is closely tied to academic integration. The university offers specialized advising, financial aid coordination and transition services designed to help veterans navigate both coursework and campus life.

    These programs focus on bridging military experience with academic expectations, helping ensure student veterans are positioned for success. The university is regularly included in Best Colleges for Veterans rankings by U.S. News & World Report.

    Campus Community

    At the Pennsylvania State University, the community plays a central role. Veteran lounges, peer mentoring and student organizations help foster connection and engagement.

    Penn State also offers robust online learning options, making education more accessible to active-duty service members and veterans who balance other responsibilities. Its continued presence in national rankings reflects a sustained focus on both access and student experience.

    Career Access

    On the West Coast, the University of Southern California has built one of the largest veteran populations among private universities. USC participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program, helping cover tuition costs that exceed GI Bill limits, and provides career counseling and alumni networking.

    Strong industry connections offer pathways into post-graduation employment, reinforcing the role of higher education in a broader career transition.

    Future Focus

    While each institution approaches veteran support differently, several common elements stand out. Dedicated resource centers provide a central point of access. Career services translate military experience into civilian credentials. Financial aid offices help maximize federal benefits. Peer networks create a sense of belonging that supports long-term success.

    Research from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs highlights the importance of these systems, noting that veterans often face challenges related to mental health, identity and career adjustment.

    As more veterans pursue higher education, these universities offer a blueprint for meaningful support. The focus is shifting from access alone to long-term outcomes, ensuring that student veterans are equipped to graduate, build careers and continue their service in new ways.

    Read more articles for the Veteran Community here.

    The post Top Universities for Veterans & Military Students appeared first on U.S. Veterans Magazine.