Defense
Why the Obama Administration Changed Its Hostage Policy
Deputy National Security Advisor Ben Rhodes offers a candid explanation.
Nextgov
After Hack, Officials Pull Plug on Pentagon and OPM Background Check Systems
A vulnerability in an OPM tool that links to the Pentagon system was discovered during a probe.
Defense
USAID, Watchdog Clash on Success of $335 Million Afghan Power Plant
SIGAR questions agency’s consultation with Kabul on underused power source.
Defense
Charts: Who Are the Americans Accused of Joining ISIL?
Despite research, there is no one "profile" that they all fit.
Management
Agencies Break Records Meeting Small Business Contracting Goals
SBA chief credits Pentagon’s new focus, president’s involvement.
Management
Federal Employee Advocates Want Special IT Task Force to Handle OPM Hack
More than two dozen groups call on president to provide more information and protection to employees and retirees in wake of massive data breach.
Defense
OPM Breach May Have Exposed Feds’ Sex Lives, Info About Security Clearance References
After a week of congressional hearings, we still don’t know the full extent of the massive cyberattacks.
Defense
Obama Says U.S. 'Will Stand By' Families of American Hostages
The president announced Wednesday that the government will no longer threaten prosecution for families who try to pay ransom to hostage-takers.
Nextgov
Park Service Employees Get New Mapping Tools
The National Park Service plans to release a simple digital mapping tool so its employees can update information on everything from trails to parking lots, according to the bureau's website.
Defense
How an NPR Librarian Outdid VA Researchers in Finding Mustard Gas Victims
Agency fell short in efforts to trace World War II veterans exposed to mustard gas during experiments.
Defense
Senate Confirms Neffenger to Rescue TSA
Coast Guard veteran welcomed by Homeland Security secretary.
Defense
Study: America Needs New Small Nuclear Bombs
CSIS’ Clark Murdock argues that only such weapons can deter rogue states from seeking nukes of their own
Management
To Advance the Mission, More Feds Should Consider Doing Less
Managers often mistake complexity for sophistication, and the result is bad for everyone, a former military acquisition executive argues.
Nextgov
Want to Implement Emerging Tech Successfully? Start Small
The best bet to get the best bang for your tech bucks is by piloting smaller projects, DOD strategists say.
Defense
Drone Pilot Psychologist Says They Need a Vacation From War
The men and women fighting America’s drone war can’t go home, no matter where they are.
Pay & Benefits
Most in the Military Get No Retirement-Savings Help. That Could Be Changing.
Under the current system, personnel who serve 20-plus years get a pension. But what about everyone else?
Defense
Why John McCain Thinks the Days of Fighter Pilots Are Over
The Senate Armed Services Committee chairman sees a drone-heavy future, but only if the military-industrial complex can be nimble enough to achieve it.
Defense
When the Defense Bill Collides With 'Extraneous' Politics
The Pentagon authorization measure always has to sail through controversy before passage. But this year's fight over budgeting is especially tough.
Oversight
Top Defense Officials Told Congress Parts of the Pentagon's ISIS Strategy
Secretary of Defense Ashton Carter and Joint Chiefs chair Martin Dempsey testified before the House Armed Services Committee on Wednesday.
Defense