J.D. Simkins
Executive Editor
J.D. Simkins is the executive editor of Military Times and Defense News, and a Marine Corps veteran of the Iraq War.
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US confirms first combat use of LUCAS one-way attack drone in Iran strikes
The Low-cost Unmanned Combat Attack System, or LUCAS drone, is a one-way attack drone reverse-engineered after the Iranian Shahed-136.
Frenchman hospitalized after inserting WWI munition up his rear
The shell, unexploded at the time of removal, resulted in the evacuation of the hospital, with an EOD squad called to clear the area.
US forces kill terror leader linked to ambush on Americans in Syria
The strike in Syria is the latest U.S. response in the wake of a Dec. 13 ambush there that killed two U.S. soldiers and one U.S. interpreter.
US forces kill, capture ’nearly 25 ISIS’ fighters in Syria operations
Over a nine-day period, U.S. and allied forces conducted 11 operations that killed at least seven ISIS fighters and destroyed four weapons caches.
New charges for Guard shooting suspect enable death penalty talks
Lakanwal remains charged with first-degree murder, assault with intent to kill and illegal possession of a firearm in the Nov. 26 shooting.
Ode to James Ransone’s memorable portrayal of a junior enlisted Marine
In just seven episodes, James Ransone churned out one of the most relatable on-screen depictions of life as a junior enlisted Marine.
Iowa National Guard IDs soldiers killed in ambush in Syria
Both soldiers were deployed with the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, which is currently conducting ongoing counter-terrorism operations in the region.
Airman joins rare company in earning coveted Navy chief rank
Air Force Master Sgt. Atif Siddiqui officially gained access to the Goat Locker upon completion of the Navy's six-week rite of passage.
