A U.S. Marine formerly stationed at Camp Pendleton is now in federal custody, charged with stealing weapons of war — including a shoulder-fired missile system — with the intent to resell them in Arizona, according to court documents.

Cpl. Andrew Paul Amarillas is accused of using his position as an ammunition technical specialist at the School of Infantry West at the San Diego base to access and steal military property, including at least one Javelin missile system, military-grade ammunition and other weapons-related material, between February 2022 and November 2025.

US Base Breach Sparks Probe, Marine Corporal Accused of Stealing Javelin Missile Systems

<p>A former US&nbsp;Marine pilot, currently fighting&nbsp;extradition from Australia on charges filed by the US&nbsp;for allegedly training Chinese military pilots in aircraft carrier landings, collaborated unknowingly with a Chinese hacker, according to his lawyer.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Recently, Duggan's lawyer shed light on his client's unwitting association with a convicted Chinese defence hacker, adding a layer of complexity to the case.</p>

<p>Duggan, a naturalised Australian citizen, expressed concerns about requests for sensitive information from Western intelligence agencies, fearing for his family's safety. He denied&nbsp;any wrongdoing regarding US&nbsp;arms control laws but has been detained in an Australian maximum-security prison since his arrest in 2022 upon returning from a six-year stint in Beijing.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-and-china-ratchet-up-ai-arms-race-amid-growing-strategic-concerns-720970">Also read |&nbsp;US and China ratchet up AI arms race amid growing strategic concerns</a></p>

<h2><strong>Links to convicted Chinese hacker Su Bin</strong></h2>

<p>In a legal filing supporting Reuters' investigative findings, Duggan's lawyer, Bernard Collaery, revealed correspondence between Duggan and Su Bin, a convicted Chinese defence hacker. Su Bin, arrested in Canada in 2014, admitted to stealing US&nbsp;military aircraft designs through hacking. Duggan's lawyer maintains that his client's interaction with Su Bin was unrelated to the charges against him.</p>

<p>Evidence presented in extradition documents indicated&nbsp;that Su Bin facilitated Duggan's travel from Australia to Beijing in 2012.</p>

<p>Duggan, known to Su Bin as an employment broker for the Chinese state aviation company AVIC, sought assistance in sourcing aircraft parts for his business in Australia. Despite this association, Duggan's lawyer asserted&nbsp;that his client was unaware of Su Bin's potential improper connections.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Israel war: US' strongest public criticism of Israel, Blinken defends arms pause</strong></p>

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<p>Duggan's legal team contests the extradition, arguing that there is no evidence linking the Chinese pilots he trained to the military.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A former US Marine pilot, currently fighting extradition from Australia on charges filed by the US for allegedly training Chinese military pilots in aircraft carrier landings, collaborated unknowingly with a Chinese hacker, according to his lawyer.

A former US Marine pilot, currently fighting extradition from Australia on charges filed by the US for allegedly training Chinese military pilots in aircraft carrier landings, collaborated unknowingly with a Chinese hacker, according to his lawyer. Recently, Duggan's lawyer shed light on his client's unwitting association with a convicted Chinese defence hacker, adding a layer of complexity to the case. Duggan, a naturalised Australian citizen, expressed concerns about requests for sensitive information from Western intelligence agencies, fearing for his family's safety. He denied any wrongdoing regarding US arms control laws but has been detained in an Australian maximum-security prison since his arrest in 2022 upon returning from a six-year stint in Beijing. Also read | US and China ratchet up AI arms race amid growing strategic concerns Links to convicted Chinese hacker Su Bin In a legal filing supporting Reuters' investigative findings, Duggan's lawyer, Bernard Collaery, revealed correspondence between Duggan and Su Bin, a convicted Chinese defence hacker. Su Bin, arrested in Canada in 2014, admitted to stealing US military aircraft designs through hacking. Duggan's lawyer maintains that his client's interaction with Su Bin was unrelated to the charges against him. Evidence presented in extradition documents indicated that Su Bin facilitated Duggan's travel from Australia to Beijing in 2012. Duggan, known to Su Bin as an employment broker for the Chinese state aviation company AVIC, sought assistance in sourcing aircraft parts for his business in Australia. Despite this association, Duggan's lawyer asserted that his client was unaware of Su Bin's potential improper connections. Also watch | Israel war: US' strongest public criticism of Israel, Blinken defends arms pause Duggan's legal team contests the extradition, arguing that there is no evidence linking the Chinese pilots he trained to the military. (With inputs from agencies)

Ex-US Marine pilot arrested in Australia worked with Chinese hacker unknowingly, lawyer says

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<p>A jawbone found in a boy's rock collection about two decades ago in Arizona belongs to a US Marine who died in 1951, according to experts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In 2023, the Yavapai County Sheriff's Office passed the piece of bone to the Ramapo College Investigative Genetic Genealogy Center in New Jersey. The boy's parents found the bone in his rock collection and handed it to the Sheriff in 2002.</p>

<p>While traditional DNA testing yielded no results, the case remained inactive until the genealogy centre received the bone.</p>

<p>This week, Ramapo College released a press release confirming that the jawbone belonged to Captain Everett Leland Yager, who died in a training accident in California more than 70 years ago. After the accident, the authorities collected Yager's remains from the site and turned them over to his family, who buried them in his hometown in Missouri.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While it's unclear how the jawbone ended in Arizona, experts predict that a bird might have picked it.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ&nbsp;</strong>|&nbsp;<a href="www.wionews.com/world/sydney-church-stabbing-16-year-old-charged-for-allegedly-committing-a-terrorist-act-713054">Sydney church stabbing: 16-year-old charged for allegedly ‘committing a terrorist act’</a></p>

<p>Cairenn Binder, the assistant director of the Ramapo College IGG Center, said the students worked with experienced researchers at their summer boot camp. "This case was a lesson in expecting the unexpected, and a testament to the power of IGG education at Ramapo College of New Jersey," she said.</p>

<p>A human identification centre in Texas sent a sample to a forensics lab in Salt Lake City, Utah. After this, the researchers developed a genetic profile using genome sequencing and bioinformatics in May.</p>

<p>Within two days of taking over the case in July, IGG Center intern Ethan Schwartz along with the other boot camp students found a potential candidate. They turned over the case to the Yavapai County Sheriff's Office.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last month, Yager's daughter gave a DNA sample, which had a parent/child match with the genetic profile. The Sheriff's Office returned the remains to Yager's family.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A jawbone found in a boy's rock collection about two decades ago in Arizona belongs to a US Marine who died in 1951, according to experts. In 2023, the Yavapai County Sheriff's Office passed the piece of bone to the Ramapo College Investigative Genetic Genealogy Center in New Jersey.

A jawbone found in a boy's rock collection about two decades ago in Arizona belongs to a US Marine who died in 1951, according to experts. In 2023, the Yavapai County Sheriff's Office passed the piece of bone to the Ramapo College Investigative Genetic Genealogy Center in New Jersey. The boy's parents found the bone in his rock collection and handed it to the Sheriff in 2002. While traditional DNA testing yielded no results, the case remained inactive until the genealogy centre received the bone. This week, Ramapo College released a press release confirming that the jawbone belonged to Captain Everett Leland Yager, who died in a training accident in California more than 70 years ago. After the accident, the authorities collected Yager's remains from the site and turned them over to his family, who buried them in his hometown in Missouri. While it's unclear how the jawbone ended in Arizona, experts predict that a bird might have picked it. ALSO READ | Sydney church stabbing: 16-year-old charged for allegedly ‘committing a terrorist act’ Cairenn Binder, the assistant director of the Ramapo College IGG Center, said the students worked with experienced researchers at their summer boot camp. "This case was a lesson in expecting the unexpected, and a testament to the power of IGG education at Ramapo College of New Jersey," she said. A human identification centre in Texas sent a sample to a forensics lab in Salt Lake City, Utah. After this, the researchers developed a genetic profile using genome sequencing and bioinformatics in May. Within two days of taking over the case in July, IGG Center intern Ethan Schwartz along with the other boot camp students found a potential candidate. They turned over the case to the Yavapai County Sheriff's Office. Last month, Yager's daughter gave a DNA sample, which had a parent/child match with the genetic profile. The Sheriff's Office returned the remains to Yager's family. (With inputs from agencies)

Jawbone belonging to US marine, who died in 1951, found in Arizona boy’s rock collection

<p>A United States military helicopter with five US Marines on board that went missing late on Tuesday (February 6) has been found, said the US officials, but the&nbsp;fate of the personnel is still unclear.</p>

<p>The Marine Corps said that the helicopter failed to arrive in California as scheduled. It was travelling from Creech Air Force Base in Nevada to Marine Corps Air Station Miramar in southern California. The Marine Corps said in its statement that "the aircraft was reported overdue" indicating that it had&nbsp;gone missing.</p>

<p>The 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing coordinated search and rescue efforts with the San Diego County Sheriff's Department and the Civil Air Patrol.</p>

<p>The exact fate of the US military personnel on board&nbsp;is still unknown and a search effort has been launched. There have been a number of accidents involving US military aircraft in the past year. In November, a V-22 Osprey tilt-rotor aircraft crashed off the coast of Japan. Eight airmen were left dead in the accident. Another Osprey aircraft crashed in August in Australia killing three Marines.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Houthis launch multiple anti-ship ballistic missile attacks in Red Sea &amp; Gulf of Aden</strong></p>

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<p>In a separate incident, three military personnel were killed in a collision of two helicopters that were returning from Alaska. The accident took place in April last year.</p>

<p>Reports in US media said that the San Diego County Sheriff's Department was informed of the situation at 1 am (local time). The helicopter was due to land in San Diego.</p>

<p>The helicopter has gone missing in the Pine Valley area. It is about 44 miles from San Diego.</p>

<p>The Sheriff's Department has launched a search and rescue mission along with the Marine and Civil Air Patrol teams which specialise in mountain searches</p>

<p>“The weather is so bad out there with snow and low cloud coverage that we could not get helicopters out there,” said Lt &nbsp;Matthew Carpenter, a spokesman for the Sheriff's Department.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-gaza-war-blinken-reviewing-hamas-over-the-top-response-to-proposed-gaza-deal-687674">Israel-Gaza war: Biden terms Hamas' response to proposed truce deal ‘a little over the top’</a></strong></p>

<p>The missing helicopter is a CH-53E Super Stallion. It is used to carry heavy cargo and personnel.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A United States military helicopter with five US Marines on board that went missing late on Tuesday (February 6) has been found, said the US officials, but the fate of the personnel is still unclear.

A United States military helicopter with five US Marines on board that went missing late on Tuesday (February 6) has been found, said the US officials, but the fate of the personnel is still unclear. The Marine Corps said that the helicopter failed to arrive in California as scheduled. It was travelling from Creech Air Force Base in Nevada to Marine Corps Air Station Miramar in southern California. The Marine Corps said in its statement that "the aircraft was reported overdue" indicating that it had gone missing. The 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing coordinated search and rescue efforts with the San Diego County Sheriff's Department and the Civil Air Patrol. The exact fate of the US military personnel on board is still unknown and a search effort has been launched. There have been a number of accidents involving US military aircraft in the past year. In November, a V-22 Osprey tilt-rotor aircraft crashed off the coast of Japan. Eight airmen were left dead in the accident. Another Osprey aircraft crashed in August in Australia killing three Marines. Watch | Houthis launch multiple anti-ship ballistic missile attacks in Red Sea & Gulf of Aden × In a separate incident, three military personnel were killed in a collision of two helicopters that were returning from Alaska. The accident took place in April last year. Reports in US media said that the San Diego County Sheriff's Department was informed of the situation at 1 am (local time). The helicopter was due to land in San Diego. The helicopter has gone missing in the Pine Valley area. It is about 44 miles from San Diego. The Sheriff's Department has launched a search and rescue mission along with the Marine and Civil Air Patrol teams which specialise in mountain searches “The weather is so bad out there with snow and low cloud coverage that we could not get helicopters out there,” said Lt Matthew Carpenter, a spokesman for the Sheriff's Department. Also Read | Israel-Gaza war: Biden terms Hamas' response to proposed truce deal ‘a little over the top’ The missing helicopter is a CH-53E Super Stallion. It is used to carry heavy cargo and personnel. (With inputs from agencies)

Missing US military chopper found, fate of five Marines on board unknown

<p>Former US marine veteran Paul Whelan, imprisoned in Russia, appeared in a rare video broadcasted by Russian state media. The video showed him in the prison where he is currently serving a 16-year sentence on espionage charges.</p>

<p>The US government has dismissed the charges.</p>

<p>Russia Today television network aired the video on Monday and also shared it on X, formerly known as Twitter.</p>

<p>In the video, Whelan can be seen in black prison attire at a penal colony situated in Russia's Mordovia region, about 566 km east of Moscow.</p>

<p>Whelan was accused of espionage by Russia in 2018 and subsequently convicted in 2020.</p>

<p>The video footage showed the former US marine operating a sewing machine when an English-speaking reporter requests an interview. Politely, Whelan declined, stating, "Sir, you understand when I say that I can't do an interview, which means that I can't answer any questions."</p>

<p>In different segments of the video, Whelan could be seen engaging in conversations with fellow inmates within the prison yard and having a meal in the cafeteria.</p>

<p>Following the video's release, Whelan's brother, David Whelan, expressed his appreciation for the chance to see his brother's appearance after such a prolonged period.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Paul Whelan is a US citizen serving time in a high security prison since 2020 who was convicted of spying on Moscow for Washington and yet the White House has shown little interest in fighting for his release<br />
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<p>According to David Whelan, a prior interview request from the same network in May had led to retaliatory actions by prison staff due to his brother's non-participation.</p>

<p>Efforts to secure Paul Whelan's release have persisted, including recent communication between Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Whelan.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich appeals extension of pretrial detention in Russia</strong></p>

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<p>Furthermore, American citizen and Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich has faced espionage charges and faces a potential&nbsp;sentence for up to 20 years in a Russian prison.</p>

<p>The Biden administration has asserted its commitment to secure the release of both Whelan and Gershkovich.</p>

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Former US marine veteran Paul Whelan, imprisoned in Russia, appeared in a rare video broadcasted by Russian state media. The video showed him in the prison where he is currently serving a 16-year sentence on espionage charges.

Former US marine veteran Paul Whelan, imprisoned in Russia, appeared in a rare video broadcasted by Russian state media. The video showed him in the prison where he is currently serving a 16-year sentence on espionage charges. The US government has dismissed the charges. Russia Today television network aired the video on Monday and also shared it on X, formerly known as Twitter. In the video, Whelan can be seen in black prison attire at a penal colony situated in Russia's Mordovia region, about 566 km east of Moscow. Whelan was accused of espionage by Russia in 2018 and subsequently convicted in 2020. The video footage showed the former US marine operating a sewing machine when an English-speaking reporter requests an interview. Politely, Whelan declined, stating, "Sir, you understand when I say that I can't do an interview, which means that I can't answer any questions." In different segments of the video, Whelan could be seen engaging in conversations with fellow inmates within the prison yard and having a meal in the cafeteria. Following the video's release, Whelan's brother, David Whelan, expressed his appreciation for the chance to see his brother's appearance after such a prolonged period. Paul Whelan is a US citizen serving time in a high security prison since 2020 who was convicted of spying on Moscow for Washington and yet the White House has shown little interest in fighting for his release Follow us on Rumble: https://t.co/Nuc9nUzlmx pic.twitter.com/5kjfUhTOhV — RT (@RT_com) August 28, 2023 × According to David Whelan, a prior interview request from the same network in May had led to retaliatory actions by prison staff due to his brother's non-participation. Efforts to secure Paul Whelan's release have persisted, including recent communication between Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Whelan. Also watch | Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich appeals extension of pretrial detention in Russia × Furthermore, American citizen and Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich has faced espionage charges and faces a potential sentence for up to 20 years in a Russian prison. The Biden administration has asserted its commitment to secure the release of both Whelan and Gershkovich. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Watch: Rare footage of former US marine Paul Whelan inside Russian prison

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<p>A former US Marine, who was once jailed in Russia, has been injured fighting for Ukraine, the US State Department said on Tuesday (July 25). The former Marine,&nbsp;Trevor Reed was released by Russia in a prison swap in April 2022 and was sent to Germany for treatment when he was injured fighting for Ukraine, State Department spokesperson Vedant Patel said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Patel added that Reed was transported to Germany with the help of a private, non-governmental organisation and was receiving medical care. The nature of the injuries is not yet known. Speaking to the news agency Associated Press, two US officials said that the former Marine was taken to Landstuhl Regional Medical Center, a level II trauma care centre located near Ramstein Air Base.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'Reed travelled to Ukraine to fight on his own'</strong></h2>

<p>On Tuesday, State Department spokesperson Patel also said that Trevor Reed was not engaged in any activities on behalf of the US government and had travelled to Ukraine to fight on his own.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“As I indicated, we have been incredibly clear warning American citizens, American nationals, not to travel to Ukraine, let alone participate in fighting,” Patel said. “As you know, we are not in a place to provide assistance to evacuate private US citizens from Ukraine, including those Americans who may decide to travel to Ukraine to participate in fighting,” he added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>The 2019 arrest</strong></h2>

<p>Reed, a Texas University graduate, was arrested in 2019 for assault on law enforcement officers after getting drunk and was sentenced to nine years in prison. However, in April 2022, Russia released him after the US negotiated an exchange for Konstantin Yaroshenko, a Russian pilot and alleged drug smuggler who was sentenced to 20 years in prison by an American court.</p>

<p>While in custody, the former Marine said that he was coughing up blood and had also staged a hunger strike to protest the conditions under which he was held.</p>

<p>On Tuesday, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said he did not expect Reed's case to have an impact on US efforts to bring home two Americans held in Russia - journalist Evan Gershkovich and former US Marine Paul Whelan.</p>

<p>"My expectation is that even as we are dealing with all sorts of other challenges in our relationship with Russia, we will and we are determined to continue to work to bring both Evan and Paul home," Blinken said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A former US Marine, who was once jailed in Russia, has been injured fighting for Ukraine, the US State Department said on Tuesday (July 25). The former Marine, Trevor Reed was released by Russia in a prison swap in April 2022 and was sent to Germany for treatment when he was injured fighting for Ukraine, State Department spokesperson Vedant Patel said.

A former US Marine, who was once jailed in Russia, has been injured fighting for Ukraine, the US State Department said on Tuesday (July 25). The former Marine, Trevor Reed was released by Russia in a prison swap in April 2022 and was sent to Germany for treatment when he was injured fighting for Ukraine, State Department spokesperson Vedant Patel said. Patel added that Reed was transported to Germany with the help of a private, non-governmental organisation and was receiving medical care. The nature of the injuries is not yet known. Speaking to the news agency Associated Press, two US officials said that the former Marine was taken to Landstuhl Regional Medical Center, a level II trauma care centre located near Ramstein Air Base. 'Reed travelled to Ukraine to fight on his own' On Tuesday, State Department spokesperson Patel also said that Trevor Reed was not engaged in any activities on behalf of the US government and had travelled to Ukraine to fight on his own. “As I indicated, we have been incredibly clear warning American citizens, American nationals, not to travel to Ukraine, let alone participate in fighting,” Patel said. “As you know, we are not in a place to provide assistance to evacuate private US citizens from Ukraine, including those Americans who may decide to travel to Ukraine to participate in fighting,” he added. The 2019 arrest Reed, a Texas University graduate, was arrested in 2019 for assault on law enforcement officers after getting drunk and was sentenced to nine years in prison. However, in April 2022, Russia released him after the US negotiated an exchange for Konstantin Yaroshenko, a Russian pilot and alleged drug smuggler who was sentenced to 20 years in prison by an American court. While in custody, the former Marine said that he was coughing up blood and had also staged a hunger strike to protest the conditions under which he was held. On Tuesday, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said he did not expect Reed's case to have an impact on US efforts to bring home two Americans held in Russia - journalist Evan Gershkovich and former US Marine Paul Whelan. "My expectation is that even as we are dealing with all sorts of other challenges in our relationship with Russia, we will and we are determined to continue to work to bring both Evan and Paul home," Blinken said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Former US Marine, who was released from Russian prison, injured fighting for Ukraine

<p>US Marine Veteran Daniel Penny on Wednesday pleaded not guilty in the deadly chokehold of a man who was allegedly behaving aggressively in a subway car. The 24-year-old marine has been charged with second-degree manslaughter and criminally negligent homicide with regard to the May 1 incident, which resulted in the death of a homeless man named Jordan Neely.</p>

<p>Penny was indicted by a grand jury on June 14. He is currently out on a $100,000 bail and will next appear in court on October 25.</p>

<h2><strong>Conflicting accounts by police and Penny’s lawyers</strong></h2>

<p>Conflicting accounts have emerged over Neely’s behaviour on the New York subway car. According to Penny’s lawyers, Penny put Neely in a fatal chokehold only after he felt severely threatened. According to Penny, the victim shouted, “I’m gonna’ kill you” and said he was “ready to die” or go to jail for life. “He was yelling in their faces saying these threats,” Penny said in a video released by his attorneys. “I just couldn’t sit still.”</p>

<p>However, as per police sources quoted by ABC News, Penny was not specifically threatened by Neely and the latter “had not become violent and had not been threatening anyone in particular.”</p>

<p>Defence attorneys representing the US marine expressed optimism outside the court regarding the possibility of their client being acquitted. Defence attorney Thomas Keniff stated, “We are a long way off from trial, but all the evidence we’ve seen is that our client acted under the law.”</p>

<h2><strong>Neely’s family strongly criticises Penny</strong></h2>

<p>On the other hand, Neely's family and supporters strongly criticised Penny and expressed their hope for justice. Attorney Dante Mills, who represents the Neely family, highlighted that Daniel Penny lacked the courage to face Jordan's father directly.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-us-marine-daniel-penny-whose-chokehold-killed-jordan-neely-indicted-by-grand-jury-604641"><strong>Read more:&nbsp;Former US Marine Daniel Penny whose chokehold killed Jordan Neely indicted by grand jury</strong></a></p>

<p>Despite the indictment, Penny's attorney, Steven Raiser, maintained confidence in his client's actions. Raiser acknowledged the grand jury's decision to proceed with the case but emphasised that the standard of proof in a grand jury is relatively low and no wrongdoing has been established. Raiser expressed confidence that once a trial jury is presented with the evidence, they will deem Penny's actions on the train fully justified.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;US Marine veteran surrenders to police over fatal choking of NY homeless man</strong></p>

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<p>Attorneys representing Neely's family lauded the grand jury's choice to indict Penny.</p>

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US Marine Veteran Daniel Penny on Wednesday pleaded not guilty in the deadly chokehold of a man who was allegedly behaving aggressively in a subway car. The 24-year-old marine has been charged with second-degree manslaughter and criminally negligent homicide with regard to the May 1 incident, which resulted in the death of a homeless man named Jordan Neely.

US Marine Veteran Daniel Penny on Wednesday pleaded not guilty in the deadly chokehold of a man who was allegedly behaving aggressively in a subway car. The 24-year-old marine has been charged with second-degree manslaughter and criminally negligent homicide with regard to the May 1 incident, which resulted in the death of a homeless man named Jordan Neely. Penny was indicted by a grand jury on June 14. He is currently out on a $100,000 bail and will next appear in court on October 25. Conflicting accounts by police and Penny’s lawyers Conflicting accounts have emerged over Neely’s behaviour on the New York subway car. According to Penny’s lawyers, Penny put Neely in a fatal chokehold only after he felt severely threatened. According to Penny, the victim shouted, “I’m gonna’ kill you” and said he was “ready to die” or go to jail for life. “He was yelling in their faces saying these threats,” Penny said in a video released by his attorneys. “I just couldn’t sit still.” However, as per police sources quoted by ABC News, Penny was not specifically threatened by Neely and the latter “had not become violent and had not been threatening anyone in particular.” Defence attorneys representing the US marine expressed optimism outside the court regarding the possibility of their client being acquitted. Defence attorney Thomas Keniff stated, “We are a long way off from trial, but all the evidence we’ve seen is that our client acted under the law.” Neely’s family strongly criticises Penny On the other hand, Neely's family and supporters strongly criticised Penny and expressed their hope for justice. Attorney Dante Mills, who represents the Neely family, highlighted that Daniel Penny lacked the courage to face Jordan's father directly. Read more: Former US Marine Daniel Penny whose chokehold killed Jordan Neely indicted by grand jury Despite the indictment, Penny's attorney, Steven Raiser, maintained confidence in his client's actions. Raiser acknowledged the grand jury's decision to proceed with the case but emphasised that the standard of proof in a grand jury is relatively low and no wrongdoing has been established. Raiser expressed confidence that once a trial jury is presented with the evidence, they will deem Penny's actions on the train fully justified. Watch: US Marine veteran surrenders to police over fatal choking of NY homeless man × Attorneys representing Neely's family lauded the grand jury's choice to indict Penny. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

US ex-Marine Daniel Penny pleads not guilty in fatal chokehold of homeless man on subway

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<p>Former US Marine Corps veteran Daniel Penny who reportedly killed Jordan Neely, a homeless man,&nbsp;has been indicted by a New York court grand jury. The charge or charges levelled against Penny by the grand jury, however, will not be revealed until he appears in court.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the indictment, New York Mayor Eric Adams applauded Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg for taking the case forward to this point. Despite intense public backlash, Bragg's office filed manslaughter charges against Penny.</p>

<p>“I appreciate DA Bragg conducting a thorough investigation into the death of Jordan Neely. Like I said when the DA first brought charges, I have the utmost faith in the judicial process, and now that the grand jury has indicted Daniel Penny, a trial and justice can move forward," said Adams.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Ready to face trial jury: Penny's attorneys&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, Penny's lawyers Steven Raiser and Thomas Kenniff said they respected the jury's decision but their client was innocent.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“While we respect the decision of the grand jury to move this case forward to trial, it should be noted that the standard of proof in a grand jury is very low and there has been no finding of wrongdoing," said Steven Raiser.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We’re confident that when a trial jury is tasked with weighing the evidence, they will find Daniel Penny’s actions on that train were fully justified."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-marine-veteran-surrenders-to-police-over-fatal-choking-of-ny-homeless-man-591985"><b>Watch |&nbsp;US Marine veteran surrenders to police over fatal choking of NY homeless man</b></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Jordan Neely’s death&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>A video that went viral at the time, showed Penny putting 30-year-old Jordan Neely in a chokehold and pinning him to the floor of an F train in Manhattan. The death of Neely, also known as a Michael Jackson impersonator who often performed in the coaches, sparked outrage and protests across the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the video of the incident surfaced and Penny surrendered, he was charged with one count of second-degree manslaughter. However, Penny continues to claim that he only wanted to subdue Neely who was being a nuisance while riding the subway car. Penny claimed Neely shouted ï'm gonna kill you" and that he was "ready to die" or go to jail for life.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/daniel-penny-former-marine-who-put-homeless-man-in-chokehold-defends-action-589656">Daniel Penny: Former Marine who put homeless man in chokehold defends action</a></strong></p>

<p>According to the medical examiner, Neely died from compression of the neck. Furthermore, a freelance journalist who witnessed the incident said Neely&nbsp;had been screaming and begging for money but had not physically attacked anyone.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Former US Marine Corps veteran Daniel Penny who reportedly killed Jordan Neely, a homeless man, has been indicted by a New York court grand jury. The charge or charges levelled against Penny by the grand jury, however, will not be revealed until he appears in court.

Former US Marine Corps veteran Daniel Penny who reportedly killed Jordan Neely, a homeless man, has been indicted by a New York court grand jury. The charge or charges levelled against Penny by the grand jury, however, will not be revealed until he appears in court. After the indictment, New York Mayor Eric Adams applauded Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg for taking the case forward to this point. Despite intense public backlash, Bragg's office filed manslaughter charges against Penny. “I appreciate DA Bragg conducting a thorough investigation into the death of Jordan Neely. Like I said when the DA first brought charges, I have the utmost faith in the judicial process, and now that the grand jury has indicted Daniel Penny, a trial and justice can move forward," said Adams. Ready to face trial jury: Penny's attorneys Meanwhile, Penny's lawyers Steven Raiser and Thomas Kenniff said they respected the jury's decision but their client was innocent. “While we respect the decision of the grand jury to move this case forward to trial, it should be noted that the standard of proof in a grand jury is very low and there has been no finding of wrongdoing," said Steven Raiser. "We’re confident that when a trial jury is tasked with weighing the evidence, they will find Daniel Penny’s actions on that train were fully justified." Watch | US Marine veteran surrenders to police over fatal choking of NY homeless man × Jordan Neely’s death A video that went viral at the time, showed Penny putting 30-year-old Jordan Neely in a chokehold and pinning him to the floor of an F train in Manhattan. The death of Neely, also known as a Michael Jackson impersonator who often performed in the coaches, sparked outrage and protests across the country. After the video of the incident surfaced and Penny surrendered, he was charged with one count of second-degree manslaughter. However, Penny continues to claim that he only wanted to subdue Neely who was being a nuisance while riding the subway car. Penny claimed Neely shouted ï'm gonna kill you" and that he was "ready to die" or go to jail for life. Also read | Daniel Penny: Former Marine who put homeless man in chokehold defends action According to the medical examiner, Neely died from compression of the neck. Furthermore, a freelance journalist who witnessed the incident said Neely had been screaming and begging for money but had not physically attacked anyone. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Former US Marine Daniel Penny whose chokehold killed Jordan Neely indicted by grand jury

A US federal court ruled that the Marines Corps can't resist entry to Sikhs with a beard and a turban. The order comes as a relief to three Sikh recruits who can now join the elite fighting force for basic training.

US court allows Sikh recruits with beard, turban in marine corps

<p>A Sikh officer in United States Marine Corps got permission to wear a turban when on duty. However, there are caveats to this permission and now he may sue&nbsp;the Marine Corps for their removal if his appeal is not upheld.</p>

<p>First Lieutenant Sukhbir Toor is the first person ever to have been granted permission to wear a turban by US Marines, a branch of US military which is absolutely strict about its dress code. Marines have been known to incorporate changes very late compared to other branches of US military.&nbsp;</p>

<p>First Lt. Toor got a permission to wear turban in daily dress at normal duty. But he cannot do so in conflict zone or while serving in a ceremonial unit. An he is not happy with it. He has made an appeal to Marine Corps Commandant.</p>

<p><img alt="Toor" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3c3ebce7-93f1-4b13-8d3a-86390b0440d4" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/toor%202.JPG" /></p>

<p>“We’ve come a long way, but there is still more to go,” he was quoted as saying by The New York Times.</p>

<p>“The Marine Corps needs to show it really means what it has been saying about strength in diversity — that it doesn’t matter what you look like, it just matters that you can do your job.”</p>

<p>Toor joined US Marines after college in 2017. Initially, he shaved his beard and wore standard headgear of the Marines. But as he progressed and became a captain, he decided that it was time he found a way to honour both, his country and his religion.</p>

<p><img alt="Toor" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2b513bb6-d3f8-4d95-aca5-2f4417a1420d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/toor%201.JPG" /></p>

<p><em>(First Lt Sukhbir Toor, image: The New York Times)</em></p>

<p>He formally asked for permission to wear a turban and to keep a beard. He was granted permission but with so many restrictions that it amounted to a denial.</p>

<p>Toor appealed the decision. The Marine Corps retreated somewhat and allowed him to wear turban while on ordinary duty. However,&nbsp;a turban was prohibited while his possible service in a ceremonial unit.</p>

<p>Toor is going a step ahead and pressing for more permissions as he feels restrictions on turban may deter Sikhs and Muslims from joining US Marine Corps.</p>


A Sikh officer in United States Marine Corps got permission to wear a turban when on duty. However, there are caveats to this permission and now he may sue the Marine Corps for their removal if his appeal is not upheld.

A Sikh officer in United States Marine Corps got permission to wear a turban when on duty. However, there are caveats to this permission and now he may sue the Marine Corps for their removal if his appeal is not upheld. First Lieutenant Sukhbir Toor is the first person ever to have been granted permission to wear a turban by US Marines, a branch of US military which is absolutely strict about its dress code. Marines have been known to incorporate changes very late compared to other branches of US military. First Lt. Toor got a permission to wear turban in daily dress at normal duty. But he cannot do so in conflict zone or while serving in a ceremonial unit. An he is not happy with it. He has made an appeal to Marine Corps Commandant. “We’ve come a long way, but there is still more to go,” he was quoted as saying by The New York Times. “The Marine Corps needs to show it really means what it has been saying about strength in diversity — that it doesn’t matter what you look like, it just matters that you can do your job.” Toor joined US Marines after college in 2017. Initially, he shaved his beard and wore standard headgear of the Marines. But as he progressed and became a captain, he decided that it was time he found a way to honour both, his country and his religion. (First Lt Sukhbir Toor, image: The New York Times) He formally asked for permission to wear a turban and to keep a beard. He was granted permission but with so many restrictions that it amounted to a denial. Toor appealed the decision. The Marine Corps retreated somewhat and allowed him to wear turban while on ordinary duty. However, a turban was prohibited while his possible service in a ceremonial unit. Toor is going a step ahead and pressing for more permissions as he feels restrictions on turban may deter Sikhs and Muslims from joining US Marine Corps.

Sikh officer in US Marines was allowed turban, but he may sue

<p>'He would've been the best dad,' said the young widow of a US Marine, who died in the devastating&nbsp;ISIS-K suicide blast in Afghanistan's capital city Kabul on Thursday (August 26), in a&nbsp;heartwrenching note.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 20-year-old US Marine Rylee McCollum was one of the 13&nbsp;troops killed in&nbsp;horrific suicide bombing outside&nbsp;the Kabul airport, which also claimed the lives of over 170 Afghans.&nbsp;</p>

<p>His wife Jiennah Crayton, who is expecting their first child next month, paid an emotional tribute to her husband.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-lawmakers-write-to-joe-biden-demanding-answers-over-afghanistan-china-terrorism-nuclear-weapon-and-more-409006">US lawmakers write to Joe Biden demanding answers over Afghanistan, China, terrorism, nuclear weapon and more</a></strong></p>

<p><img alt="Rylee McCollum " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5a20db32-0b77-4b3e-9e17-0f42b2cfa445" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Rylee%20McCollum_0.jpg" /></p>

<p><em>(Image Source: Facebook/Jiennah Crayton)</em></p>

<p>"i lost my best friend. and nothing will ever make that hurt less. he would’ve been the best dad," Jiennah Crayton posted on the Facebook accout.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She added, "i wish he could see how much of an impact he made on this world. i’m so proud to call him my husband."</p>

<p>"but i just wanted to say thank you for all the love and support i’ve received today. times like this it’s all i can ask for. much love to the other families affected by this. they are all heroes forever," Jiennah further wrote.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="Jiennah Crayton" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a1812b95-52db-4c8a-ad6e-b7479d3ff520" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Kabul.PNG" /></p>

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<p>Jiennah Crayton's mother told The Sun: "I hadn't known (my daughter) to be so happy until she married (McCollum) and found out she was pregnant. It was like she was complete."</p>

<p>Rylee was looking forward to return home in October to his newborn child. The US is evacuating as many people from Afghanistan as possible before an August 31 deadline after announcing troops withdrawal from the region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When the suicide bomb blasts rocked Kabul, McCollum was manning a checkpoint at Hamid Karzai International Airport.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It was McCollum's first-ever military deployment.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-guard-kabul-airport-as-nato-troops-leave-afghanistan-409149">Taliban guard Kabul airport as NATO troops leave Afghanistan</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:</strong></p>

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<p>Rylee's father, Jim, told The New York Times that McCollum was "the most patriotic kid you could find". He added that his son "loved America, loved the military. Tough as nails with a heart of gold".</p>

<p>The Daily Mail has reported that Rylee and Jiennah met in San Diego while McCollum was in training and married in February of this year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Pentagon has released the names of the 13 American service members killed in the blasts. They include 11 Marines, one Navy sailor who was assigned to a Marine Corps unit, and an Army Special Forces soldier.&nbsp;</p>


'He would've been the best dad,' said the young widow of a US Marine, who died in the devastating ISIS-K suicide blast in Afghanistan's capital city Kabul on Thursday (August 26), in a heartwrenching note.

'He would've been the best dad,' said the young widow of a US Marine, who died in the devastating ISIS-K suicide blast in Afghanistan's capital city Kabul on Thursday (August 26), in a heartwrenching note. The 20-year-old US Marine Rylee McCollum was one of the 13 troops killed in horrific suicide bombing outside the Kabul airport, which also claimed the lives of over 170 Afghans. His wife Jiennah Crayton, who is expecting their first child next month, paid an emotional tribute to her husband. ALSO READ | US lawmakers write to Joe Biden demanding answers over Afghanistan, China, terrorism, nuclear weapon and more (Image Source: Facebook/Jiennah Crayton) "i lost my best friend. and nothing will ever make that hurt less. he would’ve been the best dad," Jiennah Crayton posted on the Facebook accout. She added, "i wish he could see how much of an impact he made on this world. i’m so proud to call him my husband." "but i just wanted to say thank you for all the love and support i’ve received today. times like this it’s all i can ask for. much love to the other families affected by this. they are all heroes forever," Jiennah further wrote. × Jiennah Crayton's mother told The Sun: "I hadn't known (my daughter) to be so happy until she married (McCollum) and found out she was pregnant. It was like she was complete." Rylee was looking forward to return home in October to his newborn child. The US is evacuating as many people from Afghanistan as possible before an August 31 deadline after announcing troops withdrawal from the region. When the suicide bomb blasts rocked Kabul, McCollum was manning a checkpoint at Hamid Karzai International Airport. It was McCollum's first-ever military deployment. ALSO READ | Taliban guard Kabul airport as NATO troops leave Afghanistan Watch: × Rylee's father, Jim, told The New York Times that McCollum was "the most patriotic kid you could find". He added that his son "loved America, loved the military. Tough as nails with a heart of gold". The Daily Mail has reported that Rylee and Jiennah met in San Diego while McCollum was in training and married in February of this year. The Pentagon has released the names of the 13 American service members killed in the blasts. They include 11 Marines, one Navy sailor who was assigned to a Marine Corps unit, and an Army Special Forces soldier.

'Best dad': Pregnant wife of US Marine killed in Kabul pays emotional tribute

<p>An ex-US Marine has been charged with murdering his wife in Australia. The charge says that he killed her by pouring Gasoline on her and setting her on fire.</p>

<p>Brian Earl Johnston (34) has been charged with murder and breaking restraining order. He allegedly killed his wife in the backyard of her Gold Coast house. News reports say that the murder took place in front of their children aged 2 and 9.</p>

<p>Authorities have said that after setting his wife on fire, he set fire to himself but jumped in a pool to douse the flames.</p>

<p>Surprisingly, he turned down the opportunity to apply for bail. His lawyer said that he took this decision due "concerns" about his own "safety". This is being interpreted as him wanting to avoid wrath of the community for his heinous crime. He has preferred staying in jail.&nbsp;</p>

<p>News reports have mentioned witnesses who rushed to help Johnston's wife of 10 years having been traumatised by the visuals of her burning in the backyard of the house.</p>

<p>Police found Johnston in semi-conscious state and recovered a can of gasoline, three knives and a duffel bag with rope and duct tape from the crime scene.</p>


An ex-US Marine has been charged with murdering his wife in Australia. The charge says that he killed her by pouring Gasoline on her and setting her on fire. Brian Earl Johnston (34) has been charged with murder and breaking restraining order.

An ex-US Marine has been charged with murdering his wife in Australia. The charge says that he killed her by pouring Gasoline on her and setting her on fire. Brian Earl Johnston (34) has been charged with murder and breaking restraining order. He allegedly killed his wife in the backyard of her Gold Coast house. News reports say that the murder took place in front of their children aged 2 and 9. Authorities have said that after setting his wife on fire, he set fire to himself but jumped in a pool to douse the flames. Surprisingly, he turned down the opportunity to apply for bail. His lawyer said that he took this decision due "concerns" about his own "safety". This is being interpreted as him wanting to avoid wrath of the community for his heinous crime. He has preferred staying in jail. News reports have mentioned witnesses who rushed to help Johnston's wife of 10 years having been traumatised by the visuals of her burning in the backyard of the house. Police found Johnston in semi-conscious state and recovered a can of gasoline, three knives and a duffel bag with rope and duct tape from the crime scene.

Ex-US Marine kills wife by pouring gasoline on her

<p>Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has granted an absolute pardon to a US marine convicted of killing a transgender woman, officials said Monday, drawing condemnation from rights groups.</p>

<p>Lance Corporal Joseph Scott Pemberton has been in prison since the October 2014 killing of Jennifer Laude, whom he met at a bar while on a break from military exercises in the northern city of Olongapo.</p>

<p>A local court ruled last week that Pemberton qualified for early release due to good behaviour, but was still being held due to an appeal.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-philippines-president-duterte-is-playing-into-the-hands-of-xis-china-304890">How Philippines President Duterte is playing into the hands of Xi's China</a></strong></p>

<p>Duterte's pardon clears all legal obstacles to his release, despite him serving just half his 10-year sentence.</p>

<p>Duterte's spokesman Harry Roque, a lawyer who represented the Laude family during the trial, confirmed Duterte's decision.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-duterte-orders-customs-chief-to-shoot-and-kill-drug-smugglers-324638">Philippine's Duterte orders customs chief to 'shoot and kill' drug smugglers</a></strong></p>

<p>"The president has erased the remaining punishment against Pemberton... He can now go home because of the pardon," Roque told reporters.</p>

<p>The Laude family lawyer condemned the decision, calling it a "mockery" of the country's justice system.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This is another injustice -- not only to Jennifer Laude and family but a grave injustice to the Filipino people," Virginia Suarez said in a statement.</p>

<p>"This is a travesty of Philippine sovereignty and democracy."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The pardon has renewed anti-American sentiment in the Southeast Asian nation, where groups have long called for removal of US military presence.</p>

<p>Edre Olalia, of the National Union of Peoples' Lawyers, called the pardon "a brazen and shameless sell-out" of country's sovereignty.</p>

<p>The pardon came despite Duterte shifting away from the US to seek closer relations with China since assuming power in 2016.</p>

<p>He will address the nation on Monday night after meeting his Cabinet and he is expected to speak on the issue, Roque said.&nbsp;</p>


Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has granted an absolute pardon to a US marine convicted of killing a transgender woman, officials said Monday, drawing condemnation from rights groups.

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has granted an absolute pardon to a US marine convicted of killing a transgender woman, officials said Monday, drawing condemnation from rights groups. Lance Corporal Joseph Scott Pemberton has been in prison since the October 2014 killing of Jennifer Laude, whom he met at a bar while on a break from military exercises in the northern city of Olongapo. A local court ruled last week that Pemberton qualified for early release due to good behaviour, but was still being held due to an appeal. Also read: How Philippines President Duterte is playing into the hands of Xi's China Duterte's pardon clears all legal obstacles to his release, despite him serving just half his 10-year sentence. Duterte's spokesman Harry Roque, a lawyer who represented the Laude family during the trial, confirmed Duterte's decision. Also read: Philippine's Duterte orders customs chief to 'shoot and kill' drug smugglers "The president has erased the remaining punishment against Pemberton... He can now go home because of the pardon," Roque told reporters. The Laude family lawyer condemned the decision, calling it a "mockery" of the country's justice system. "This is another injustice -- not only to Jennifer Laude and family but a grave injustice to the Filipino people," Virginia Suarez said in a statement. "This is a travesty of Philippine sovereignty and democracy." The pardon has renewed anti-American sentiment in the Southeast Asian nation, where groups have long called for removal of US military presence. Edre Olalia, of the National Union of Peoples' Lawyers, called the pardon "a brazen and shameless sell-out" of country's sovereignty. The pardon came despite Duterte shifting away from the US to seek closer relations with China since assuming power in 2016. He will address the nation on Monday night after meeting his Cabinet and he is expected to speak on the issue, Roque said.

Philippines president pardons US marine in transgender killing

<p>Eight military personnel remained missing at sea Friday nearly a full day after a US Marine amphibious assault vehicle sank in deep water off the California coast during training exercises.</p>

<p>Officials at Camp Pendleton in southern California said that one of eight Marines rescued in the mishap off the shore of San Clemente Island was declared dead after being taken to hospital and two more remained in intensive care.</p>

<p>The fate of seven other Marines and one sailor was unknown nearly 24 hours after the accident as rescue operations involving multiple aircraft and boats continued, said Lieutenant General Joseph Osterman.</p>

<p>The accident took place during routine training by the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit in the area of San Clemente Island, in the Pacific Ocean about 65 miles (105 kilometers) west of San Diego.</p>

<p>The vessel, which was more than 1,000 meters off the island's northwest coast, reported taking on water at around 5:45 pm Thursday (0045 GMT Friday).</p>

<p>There were 16 aboard the vehicle, which are armored and meant to carry troops from a ship to shore.</p>

<p>At the time, they were returning to their ship from the island, which is used exclusively by the military for training and as a ship-to-shore firing range.</p>

<p>"When the AAV began to take on water they signalled to the rest of the unit" that they were in trouble, said Osterman.</p>

<p>Two other AAVs and a safety boat accompanying them came to their aid, rescuing eight.</p>

<p>It was not known how many others, who carried heavy gear but had life preservers, got off the 26 tonne vehicle or may have been stuck inside.</p>

<p>It sank in several hundred feet of water, Osterman said, too deep for regular divers to reach it.</p>

<p>"The assumption is it went all the way to the bottom," he said.</p>

<p>"Deeply saddened by, and closely monitoring, this tragic incident," Defense Secretary Mark Esper said in a tweeted statement.</p>

<p>"Please keep our Marines, Sailors, and their families in your prayers as the search continues."</p>


Eight military personnel remained missing at sea Friday nearly a full day after a US Marine amphibious assault vehicle sank in deep water off the California coast during training exercises.

Eight military personnel remained missing at sea Friday nearly a full day after a US Marine amphibious assault vehicle sank in deep water off the California coast during training exercises. Officials at Camp Pendleton in southern California said that one of eight Marines rescued in the mishap off the shore of San Clemente Island was declared dead after being taken to hospital and two more remained in intensive care. The fate of seven other Marines and one sailor was unknown nearly 24 hours after the accident as rescue operations involving multiple aircraft and boats continued, said Lieutenant General Joseph Osterman. The accident took place during routine training by the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit in the area of San Clemente Island, in the Pacific Ocean about 65 miles (105 kilometers) west of San Diego. The vessel, which was more than 1,000 meters off the island's northwest coast, reported taking on water at around 5:45 pm Thursday (0045 GMT Friday). There were 16 aboard the vehicle, which are armored and meant to carry troops from a ship to shore. At the time, they were returning to their ship from the island, which is used exclusively by the military for training and as a ship-to-shore firing range. "When the AAV began to take on water they signalled to the rest of the unit" that they were in trouble, said Osterman. Two other AAVs and a safety boat accompanying them came to their aid, rescuing eight. It was not known how many others, who carried heavy gear but had life preservers, got off the 26 tonne vehicle or may have been stuck inside. It sank in several hundred feet of water, Osterman said, too deep for regular divers to reach it. "The assumption is it went all the way to the bottom," he said. "Deeply saddened by, and closely monitoring, this tragic incident," Defense Secretary Mark Esper said in a tweeted statement. "Please keep our Marines, Sailors, and their families in your prayers as the search continues."

Eight still missing after US Marine amphibious vehicle sinks

The U.S. Navy and Royal Saudi Naval Forces held a training exercise called 'Nautical Defender' on Wednesday (February 26) at the King Abdulaziz Naval base. The military exercise is designed to build combined war fighting capabilities.

Joint military exercises between Saudi and US Marines

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/moscow-says-fbi-arrested-russian-a-day-after-it-detained-ex-us-marine-188459">The Kremlin on Wednesday rejected</a> a British suggestion it might use a former<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/russia-says-it-is-not-willing-to-exchange-detained-ex-us-marine-report-188431"> US Marine detained in Russia </a>on espionage charges as a pawn in a diplomatic game and said it reserved the right to conduct counter-intelligence activities.</p>

<p>Paul Whelan, a former US Marine who also holds a British passport, was detained by Russia's Federal Security Service on December 28. His family has said he is innocent and that he was in Moscow to attend a wedding.</p>

<p>Commenting on the case earlier this month, British foreign minister Jeremy Hunt said individuals should not be used as pawns of diplomatic leverage.</p>

<p>Asked about Hunt's remark, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters:</p>

<p>"In Russia, we never use people as pawns in diplomatic games. In Russia, we conduct counter-intelligence activity against those suspected of espionage. That is done regularly."</p>


The Kremlin on Wednesday rejected a British suggestion it might use a former US Marine detained in Russia on espionage charges as a pawn in a diplomatic game and said it reserved the right to conduct counter-intelligence activities.

The Kremlin on Wednesday rejected a British suggestion it might use a former US Marine detained in Russia on espionage charges as a pawn in a diplomatic game and said it reserved the right to conduct counter-intelligence activities. Paul Whelan, a former US Marine who also holds a British passport, was detained by Russia's Federal Security Service on December 28. His family has said he is innocent and that he was in Moscow to attend a wedding. Commenting on the case earlier this month, British foreign minister Jeremy Hunt said individuals should not be used as pawns of diplomatic leverage. Asked about Hunt's remark, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters: "In Russia, we never use people as pawns in diplomatic games. In Russia, we conduct counter-intelligence activity against those suspected of espionage. That is done regularly."

Kremlin says it will not use detained ex-US marine Paul Whelan as pawn

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