Warnock Makes History with Senate Victory New Arctic Angle

FACES NATION COLLEGE FOOTBALL Neil Young sells Protesters swarm Alabama’s Smith rights to 50% of to Capitol, halt vote is first WR to win his song catalog tally for Biden Heisman since 1991 Page 18 Page 10 Page 24

Lawyer says SEAL to admit role in Green Beret’s death in Mali ›› Page 3

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Volume 79 Edition 187 ©SS 2021 THURSDAY,JANUARY 7, 2021 50¢/Free to Deployed Areas Warnock makes history with Senate victory Associated Press publican incumbent Kelly Loef- his personal ex- cotton picked her youngest son to Perdue and Democrat Jon Ossoff, ATLANTA — Democrat Ra- fler. perience with be a United States senator,” he at press time. phael Warnock won one of Geor- It was a stinging rebuke of out- the American said. “Tonight, we proved with Ossoff held a small lead as of gia’s two Senate runoffs Wednes- going President Donald Trump, dream. His hope, hard work and the people by Wednesday morning, though it day, becoming the first Black sen- who made one of his final trips in mother, he said, our side, anything is possible.” was too early to call the race. Un- ator in his state’s history and put- office to Georgia to rally his loyal used to pick His victory marks a “reversal of der Georgia law, a trailing candi- ting the Senate majority within base behind the state’s Republi- “somebody the old southern strategy that date may request a recount when the party’s reach. can candidates. else’s cotton” as sought to divide people,” War- the margin of an election is less Warnock A pastor who spent the past 15 In an emotional address early a teenager. nock told ABC’s “Good Morning than or equal to 0.5 percentage years leading the Atlanta church Wednesday, Warnock vowed to “The other day, because this is America.” points. where Martin Luther King Jr. work for all Georgians whether America, the 82-year-old hands It was too early to call the other preached, Warnock defeated Re- they voted for him or not, citing that used to pick somebody else’s race, between Republican David SEE VICTORY ON PAGE 10

New Arctic angle

MICHAEL B. ZINGARO/U.S. Navy The crew of the Seawolf-class fast-attack submarine USS Connecticut enjoys ice liberty after surfacing in the Arctic Circle during Ice Exercise (ICEX) 2020 in March. Navy releases strategy calling for more activity in the region amid competition from Russia, China

BY CAITLIN M. KENNEY the region opens up to more eco- tic nation, and China, which Kenneth Braithwaite told report- “Blue Arctic.” Russia and China, Stars and Stripes nomic and military competition claims to be a near Arctic nation, ers ahead of the document’s re- both nations mentioned in the WASHINGTON — The U.S. Na- from Russia and China. we in the United States must lease. 2018 National Defense Strategy as vy released its strategy Tuesday “In the face of increasing ag- maintain a favorable balance of With more navigable waters “great-power” competitors with on how the service plans to be- gressive activity in the high north power in this region for ourselves due to melting sea ice, the Navy’s come more active in the Arctic as from both Russia, which is an Arc- and for our allies,” Navy Secretary strategy refers to the region as a SEE ARCTIC ON PAGE 6 PAGE 2 • STARS AND STRIPES • Thursday, January 7, 2021 BUSINESS/WEATHER Amazon buys 11 jets to ship orders faster EXCHANGE RATES Military rates So. Korea (Won) 1,086.96 Associated Press fleet allows us to better manage ing packages in vans stamped Switzerland (Franc) .8794 Euro costs (Jan. 7) $1.20 Thailand (Baht) 29.92 NEW YORK — Amazon said our operations,” said Sarah with the Amazon logo. Dollar buys (Jan. 7) 0.7903 Turkey (New Lira) 7.3067 British pound (Jan. 7) $1.33 Tuesday that it bought 11 jets from Rhoads, vice president of Amazon Amazon said the 11 planes, all of Japanese yen (Jan. 7) 100.00 (Military exchange rates are those available Delta and WestJet airlines to Global Air, in a blog post. which are Boeing 767-300s, will South Korean won (Jan. 7) 1,060.00 to customers at military banking facilities in the Commercial rates country of issuance for Japan, South Korea, Ger­ boost its growing delivery net- Seattle-based Amazon has been be converted to hold cargo instead many, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. Bahrain (Dinar) .3770 For nonlocal currency exchange rates (i.e., pur­ work and get orders to shoppers working to deliver most of its of passengers. The four jets that it Britain (Pound) 1.3579 chasing British pounds in Germany), check with Canada (Dollar) 1.2686 your local military banking facility. Commercial faster. packages itself and rely less on is buying from WestJet will join China (Yuan) 6.4613 rates are interbank rates provided for reference Denmark (Krone) 6.0439 The company said it’s the first UPS, the U.S. Postal Service and Amazon’s fleet this year, and the Egypt (Pound) 15.6795 when buying currency. All figures are foreign time it has purchased planes for other carriers. Besides its fleet of seven from Delta will be ready by Euro .8124 currencies to one dollar, except for the British Hong Kong (Dollar) 7.7532 pound, which is represented in dollars­to­ its delivery network. Over the planes, Amazon has also built sev- next year. The purchases will Hungary (Forint) 291.38 pound, and the euro, which is dollars­to­euro.) Israel (Shekel) 3.1840 past couple of years, Amazon has eral package-sorting hubs at air- bring its total fleet to 85 planes by Japan (Yen) 103.19 INTEREST RATES been leasing planes to build its ports, opened warehouses closer 2022. Kuwait (Dinar) .3034 Norway (Krone) 8.4256 Prime rate 3.25 fleet. to where shoppers live and Amazon.com Inc. declined to Philippines (Peso) 48.09 Interest Rates Discount rate 0.25 Poland (Zloty) 3.67 Federal funds market rate 0.09 “Having a mix of both leased launched a program that lets con- say how much it is paying for the Saudi Arab (Riyal) 3.7513 3­month bill 0.09 and owned aircraft in our growing tractors start businesses deliver- planes. Singapore (Dollar) 1.3182 30­year bond 1.70 WEATHER OUTLOOK THURSDAY IN THE MIDDLE EAST THURSDAY IN EUROPE FRIDAY IN THE PACIFIC

Misawa 22/19

Kabul Seoul 37/26 10/-4 Baghdad 62/43 Tokyo Drawsko Osan Kandahar Mildenhall/ 11/-2 37/26 41/21 Pomorskie Busan Lakenheath 32/29 33/30 21/10 Iwakuni Kuwait City 29/26 Bahrain Brussels Zagan Sasebo 63/50 68/65 Ramstein 32/29 33/29 Guam 37/34 32/27 82/79 Riyadh Lajes, 66/51 Doha Azores Stuttgart Pápa 57/54 32/23 71/55 Aviano/ 38/33 Vicenza 37/29

Naples 50/44 Okinawa Morón 55/52 45/42 Sigonella Rota 60/41 The weather is provided by the Djibouti 49/46 Souda Bay American Forces Network Weather Center, 81/68 59/54 2nd Weather Squadron at Offutt Air Force Base, Neb. TODAY IN STRIPES American Roundup ...... 11 Classifieds ...... 13 Comics ...... 16 Crossword ...... 16 Faces ...... 18 Opinion ...... 14 Sports ...... 20-24 Thursday, January 7, 2021 • STARS AND STRIPES • PAGE 3 MILITARY SEAL to plead guilty in Green Beret’s death BY COREY DICKSTEIN The Navy in November 2018 Group, while they were sharing a along with two Malian security Melgar only one day prior to the Stars and Stripes charged DeDolph, Matthews, house in Bamako during deploy- guards — filmed the incident with Green Beret’s death. The Navy SEAL accused of Maxwell, and another Marine ments in support of counterter- his phone, Maxwell and Mat- “Words cannot express how choking an Army Green Beret to Raider, Gunnery Sgt. Mario Mad- rorism operations in the West thews testified. deeply I regret those events and death while they were deployed to era-Rodriguez, with a series of African nation. DeDolph — who Maxwell also testified the plan how remorseful I am,” Matthews Mali in 2017 will plead guilty later crimes including felony murder, Maxwell described as employing was to culminate in a “sexual mo- testified. “The Navy expected me this month to his role in the kill- involuntary manslaughter, con- a sense of “dark humor” — lestation” of Melgar captured on to be a leader. I am tormented by ing, his lawyer said Tuesday. spiracy, obstruction of justice, hatched a hazing plan over drinks video. But that never occurred. my complacency at a time when Chief Petty Officer Tony De- hazing and burglary for their meant to embarrass Melgar for a Instead, Melgar went into my teammates required my guid- Dolph, a member of the elite roles in Melgar’s death. perceived slight shock after DeDolph placed him ance and the situation required SEAL Team 6, reached an agree- Stackhouse said he would not against another into a chokehold for a second bold, corrective action.” ment with the Navy to plead reveal the charges to which De- special operator. time. The group performed CPR Madera-Rodriguez is expected guilty to several charges in the Dolph will plead guilty. The Daily Maxwell, who and, eventually, an emergency to go to trial on the original charg- June 4, 2017, death of Staff Sgt. Beast, citing unnamed officials fa- described him- tracheotomy before rushing Mel- es in February. Logan Melgar and “accept re- miliar with the agreement, re- self as Melgar’s gar to a local clinic where he was Those who served with Melgar, sponsibility” for his actions, his ported the SEAL is expected to friend, testified pronounced dead, Maxwell testi- who was 34 when he died, de- civilian attorney Phillip Stack- plead guilty to involuntary man- DeDolph came fied. scribed him as a fast-rising leader house wrote in an email. DeDolph slaughter, obstruction of justice up with a “ridic- Maxwell, who was sentenced to within Army Special Forces who Melgar is expected to enter his guilty plea and hazing. ulous, over-the- four years in prison after pleading had proven himself in combat in Jan. 14 during a hearing at Naval The attorney said DeDolph top idea” to remediate Melgar guilty to reduced charges, told Afghanistan. Melgar joined the Station Norfolk in Virginia. agreed as part of the plea deal not and was egged on as the group of Melgar’s widow, Michelle, from Army in 2012 and arrived about He will become the third of four to profit from “publication or dis- mostly American special oper- the witness stand that he did not one year later at 3rd Special defendants in the case to plead semination of information,” such ators laughed at DeDolph’s plans. live up to his own expectations for Forces Group at Fort Bragg, N.C., guilty for his role in what others as a book deal while he is impris- “It seemed to me at first that it himself in allowing the others to where he was serving as an engi- involved in Melgar’s killing have oned, should he be sentenced to was like a joke, but as the night proceed with the hazing plan neering sergeant. described in court as a booze- confinement. Stackhouse also progressed the reality of what we against his friend. “He was very mature for a fueled hazing incident gone said DeDolph had no plans to were going to do steeped in,” “Logan would have stopped young Special Forces soldier. He wrong. Like the other two special write a book or profit from his Maxwell testified. “Everyone them from doing that to me. I was very professional and [quick- operators who pleaded guilty in time as a SEAL. thought it was funny. know that for a fact,” Maxwell ly] took over leadership respon- 2019 — former Navy SEAL Chief DeDolph first enlisted in the “No one stepped in. No one was said during his sentencing trial. sibilities, ousting other engineer- Petty Officer Adam C. Matthews Navy in 2003 and had been as- saying, ‘Stop. No. This isn’t “… I betrayed a friend of mine, a ing sergeants,” Chief Warrant Of- and former Marine Raider Staff signed to SEAL Team 6 since right’,” he added. fellow American. I betrayed his ficer 2 Kevin Strupkus, who com- Sgt. Kevin Maxwell Jr. — Stack- 2008, according to Navy records. The special operators in the future.” manded Melgar in Afghanistan, house maintained DeDolph never In previous court testimony, early morning hours busted Matthews received a one-year testified in 2019. “I would say the intended to injure Melgar. others involved in the case fin- through Melgar’s bedroom door prison sentence for his guilty plea type of meticulousness, profes- “The fact that [Staff Sgt.] Mel- gered DeDolph as the primary in- with a sledgehammer, secured to reduced charges. Like De- sionalism, candor and excitement gar’s death was not intentional stigator of a hazing plan launched his arms and legs with duct tape Dolph, Matthews was a member Logan brought were extremely may not lessen the righteous feel- during a night of binge drinking at while DeDolph, a former profes- of SEAL Team 6, officially the Na- rare, even among elite operators. ings of grief by family and bars in Mali’s capital Bamako. sional mixed martial arts fighter, val Special Warfare Development Third Group lost a phenomenal friends, but perhaps the resolu- Maxwell in June 2019 testified placed him in temporary uncon- Group. He testified during his operator.” tion of this case will further help DeDolph and another SEAL regu- sciousness with a chokehold. A sentencing trial in May 2019 that them find closure and peace,” larly bullied Melgar, a member of British expatriate who tagged he was visiting Mali to observe [email protected] Stackhouse said Tuesday. the Army’s 3rd Special Forces along with the Americans — operations there and had met Twitter: @CDicksteinDC Japan moving on its pledge to strengthen Senkaku defense

BY MATTHEW M. BURKE plan to strengthen maritime secu- in such a critical situation,” For- AND AYA ICHIHASHI rity so that our maritime officers eign Affairs Minister Toshimitsu Stars and Stripes can fulfill their duties with ade- Motegi said at the Tokyo meeting. Japan’s Cabinet pledged re- quate equipment like a new patrol “We will continue to take calm but cently to add new ships and air- ship,” Prime Minister Yoshihide firm action against other coun- craft to the nation’s coast guard Suga said at a Dec. 21 meeting at tries when they invade our territo- this year in response to an in- his Tokyo office. “We will keep ries.” creasing Chinese naval presence adding the supplemental budget Suga, Motegi, Defense Minister in the East China Sea. as necessary to strength our mar- Nobuo Kishi and coast guard Chinese vessels in 2020 made a itime security.” commissioner Takahiro Okushi- record 333 trips to the area Yamato Bank is an underwater ma at that meeting discussed pro- Japan Coast Guard around the Senkaku Islands that mountain range in the center of gress on a 2016 plan to bolster the Japan plans to build a larger patrol vessel designed for helicopter Japan claims as its contiguous the Sea of Japan, between Japan’s coast guard, according to the min- landings, like the one seen here, in fiscal year 2021. waters, besting the previous Honshu island and the Korean utes posted on the coast guard year’s record of 282, according to Peninsula. website. Japan has also commissioned Obama and Donald Trump both the Japan Coast Guard website. In 2020 the Japan Coast Guard Kishi promised greater cooper- new military bases on Miyako Is- have said they fall under the U.S.- Taiwan and China also claim the added four new boats and a hel- ation with the coast guard. Japan land, which is part of Okinawa Japan security alliance. uninhabited chain, which China icopter, and this year plans an ad- in the past few years has launched prefecture, and in two spots on Japan planned to launch a new knows as Diaoyu Dao. ditional large patrol craft with a its own version of the Marine Kagoshima prefecture’s Amami unit of “highly trained,” subma- The Chinese stayed in those wa- helicopter pad, another helicopter Corps, under the Japan Ground Oshima island. chine-gun toting cops in Okinawa ters a record 111 consecutive days and a jet aircraft, according to the Self-Defense Force banner, float- Japan controls the uninhabited in fiscal 2020, which runs until while periodically harassing Ja- coast guard website. ed the idea of sending the Japan Senkakus, 230 nautical miles west April, tasked with defending the panese fishing boats, according to It plans another seven large pa- Maritime Self-Defense Force to of Okinawa, and purchased three southern island chain, NHK re- the Japan Coast Guard. trol ships through fiscal 2023, Ja- patrol the area, and begun devel- of its islands from a private owner ported in September 2019. “The situation at the Senkaku pan public broadcaster NHK re- opment on underwater drones in September 2012. Islands and Yamato Bank has ported Saturday. and supersonic glide bombs to The U.S. has declined to take a [email protected] Twitter: @MatthewMBurke1 been pretty serious and we will “We feel more assurance by monitor and defend the southern position on the islands’ sovereign- [email protected] make sure to execute the 2016 strengthening maritime security island chain. ty; however, Presidents Barack Twitter: @AyaIchihashi PAGE 4 • STARS AND STRIPES • Thursday, January 7, 2021 MILITARY Pentagon hopes to avoid political fray Trump’s final efforts to overturn election are creating discomfort for the military

BY PAUL SONNE, dent may do. It is that scenario MISSY RYAN that scares the hell out of people in AND ELLEN NAKASHIMA terms of the future of our democ- The Washington Post racy.” WASHINGTON — Pentagon Current and former top officials leaders are bracing for any renew- said they believe the Pentagon ed presidential attempts to em- brass has considered the possibil- ploy the military for political ends, ity that Trump will issue a legally as President Donald Trump takes questionable order as part of his increasingly aggressive steps to gambit to overturn the election re- overturn his electoral defeat, and sults and prevent President-elect unarmed National Guardsmen Joe Biden from entering the White prepared for pro-Trump protests House. in Washington on the day Con- A senior U.S. official said Tues- gress is set to certify the election day that the Pentagon senior lead- results. ership — civilian and military — Top Pentagon officials, in an- will not obey an unlawful order ANDREW HARNIK / AP swering a request by District of from the president to use the mil- President Donald Trump and Ivanka Trump, right, board Marine One on Monday for a short trip to Columbia Mayor Muriel Bowser, itary to his own political ends. Andrews Air Force Base, Md., and then on to Dalton, Ga. for a rally. Pentagon leaders are bracing for a Democrat, to deploy National These leaders likely would re- presidential attempts to employ the military in efforts to overturn the election. Guardsmen in the nation’s capital sign before following an unlawful in advance of Wednesday’s pro- order, the senior official said, add- approved military aid to Ukraine hood of the White House calling in reason to declare a state of emer- tests, emphasized that the Guard ing, however, “I think it’s unfair to and the diversion of military funds active-duty forces, and senior offi- gency, as Trump did on the south- wouldn’t carry firearms, use ar- assume that the president would to construct the border wall, have cials have repeatedly affirmed the ern border to divert Pentagon mored vehicles or helicopters, or issue an unlawful order.” later been deemed illegal. military’s duty to remain loyal to funding to his border wall project. receive backup from units in other But Trump’s effort to overturn Peter Feaver, a scholar of civil- the Constitution rather than to any And Trump retains the power to states — a far more muted pres- the election results has been so military relations and a colleague individual and decline any illegal relieve senior officials at will. ence than in June after the Min- norm-shattering that senior Pen- of Dunlap’s at Duke, said current orders. They have also studied rel- “Things like the Insurrection neapolis police killing of George tagon officials are being forced to Pentagon leaders were better pre- evant laws and assembled the ca- Act and the general authorities of Floyd. consider the possibility of receiv- pared to handle any attempts to pability to track civil unrest across the president as commander in The careful posture reflects the ing orders that previously would pull them into the transition be- the country to better prepare them chief — there is room here for a Pentagon’s wariness in the final have been unthinkable from a sit- cause of the events of June 2020, for possible White House re- president to abuse his responsib- days of a presidency during which ting U.S. president. when Trump sought to use expan- quests. ility in this area,” Panetta said. “I Trump has tested the norms of a “In a real way, generals are paid sive military force to put down The senior U.S. official said the think all of us can argue that the politically impartial military. It al- to worry about everything. So widespread protests over police military leadership had learned military has absolutely no role in so comes after all 10 living former while I really don’t expect the mil- violence against Black citizens. from what happened last June. determining elections, or for that U.S. defense secretaries publish- itary to be asked to do anything Then-Defense Secretary Mark “Everyone has got a lot of scar tis- matter in doing what law enforce- ed a joint open letter warning that truly questionable, it’s always best Esper and Gen. Mark Milley, sue and a lot of PTSD from the do- ment is responsible for doing in the military shouldn’t play a role to expect the unexpected and pre- chairman of the Joint Chiefs of mestic unrest of the summer” and this country.” in determining the election out- pare accordingly. My bet is that Staff, argued behind the scenes does not want a repeat, the official Pentagon leaders have also come or interrupt a peaceful tran- they have their lawyers at the against invoking the Insurrection said. sought to keep a mostly low profile sition. ready,” said Charlie Dunlap, a re- Act to allow Trump to employ ac- On Wednesday, the official said, on political issues. When Esper, Concerns that Trump may re- tired Air Force major general and tive-duty troops in the nation’s the Pentagon hopes to make clear who was fired by Trump in No- ach for the military to retain pow- executive director of the Center capital. But they came under in- that the Guard is only serving as vember, traveled overseas in the er as he enters the final chapter of on Law, Ethics and National Secu- tense criticism over public state- “traffic control” without guns, months before the election, he re- resistance to the election’s result rity at Duke University. ments and appearances that military vehicles or helicopters to mained tightly focused in public have grown sharper in recent Since taking office, Trump has seemed to support Trump’s aid the local police in Washington comments on security matters, days, partly after his former na- repeatedly flouted norms govern- heavy-handed response to civil- and steer clear of flashpoint areas. even as his diplomatic counter- tional security adviser, retired Ar- ing presidential interactions with ians in the streets, which included “We’ve learned our lessons and part, Secretary of State Mike Pom- my Lt. Gen. Michael Flynn, float- the military, signing his ban on the use of tear gas and rubber pel- will be absolutely nowhere near peo, appeared at the Republican ed a declaration of martial law and travel from majority-Muslim na- lets to disperse protesters near the the Capitol Building,” the senior National Convention and freely a “rerun” of the election overseen tions at the Pentagon, diverting White House before Trump posed U.S. official said, adding: “We made political remarks. by the military in a mid-Decem- Pentagon funds to pay for his bor- for photos with a Bible in front of don’t want to send the wrong After Flynn suggested declar- ber Oval Office meeting — a sug- der wall, treating troop events like St. John’s Church. message. This is allowing the po- ing martial law and using the mil- gestion Flynn also has made publi- campaign rallies and intervening In the subsequent months, offi- lice to be able to do their jobs.” itary to “rerun” the election, Army cly in the media. Trump, mean- in military justice matters. Some cials have tightened procedures Still, U.S. law grants broad pow- Secretary Ryan McCarthy and while, pressured Georgia’s secre- of his orders to the Pentagon, such for employing the National Guard ers to the commander in chief, Gen. James McConville, the Army tary of state to “find” 11,780 votes as the holdup of congressionally in an effort to reduce the likeli- particularly if the president finds chief of staff, issued a stark re- he needs to win the state. sponse: “There is no role for the “It’s the fear that you are not U.S. military in determining the dealing with someone who recog- “I think all of us can argue that the military has outcome of an American elec- nizes any responsibility to the tion.” Constitution. His only responsibil- absolutely no role in determining elections, or for that Feaver said he believed that se- ity, from this president’s point of nior officials, including Milley and view, is to himself,” former de- matter in doing what law enforcement is responsible acting defense secretary Chris- fense secretary Leon Panetta said topher Miller, were right to re- in an interview, when asked about for doing in this country.” main mostly silent on political-re- the rationale for the letter. “When Leon Panetta lated matters, if only because you operate on that basis, there’s speaking out might provoke an un- no holds barred as to what a presi- former defense secretary wanted action from Trump. Thursday, January 7, 2021 • STARS AND STRIPES • PAGE 5 MILITARY Pentagon gets diversity watchdog in bill

BY TONY CAPACCIO have a key role in responding to for instance, review the extent to in law enforcement that prompt- happen to me.” Bloomberg News white supremacist and criminal which the military services are ed Pentagon leaders to speak out The move also comes as Presi- WASHINGTON — Defense leg- gang activity by military person- examining social media posts of more forcefully on diversity is- dent-elect Joe Biden said he in- islation passed in spite of Presi- nel, according to the legislation recruits or personnel needing se- sues. tends to nominate retired Gen. dent Donald Trump’s veto will passed on Jan. 1 over Trump’s ve- curity clearances to see if they’ve Then-Defense Secretary Mark Lloyd Austin to be the nation’s bring a heightened focus on diver- to. disclosed support for extremist Esper called the killing of George first Black defense secretary. sity issues and efforts to combat The deputy inspector general organizations. Floyd, an unarmed Black man, at Austin was previously the first white supremacy and extremist “will keep the heat on the military Military leaders have been sup- the hands of Minneapolis police African American to lead U.S. behavior within the U.S. military. to make sure that racial inequality portive of moves to curb behavior “a horrible crime” and said that Central Command, which over- Along with billions of dollars does not fade from the priority and eliminate symbols that are of- the officers responsible should sees operations in the Middle for new weapons systems and a list, that these provisions are im- fensive to service members of col- “be held accountable for his mur- East. pay raise for troops, a new deputy plemented successfully, and that or, who now make up more than der.” One key oversight tool the new inspector general’s position was Congress will receive an inde- 40% of the active-duty force. In The military’s response includ- watchdog will be responsible for created by the bipartisan defense pendent source of findings and vetoing the annual policy bill, ed an anguished Facebook post by is an annual report with an assess- authorization bill to carry out au- recommendations,” said Rep. Trump took issue with a provision then-Chief Master Sgt. Kaleth ment of the effectiveness of “pol- dits, investigations and evalua- Jackie Speier, the California to rename military installations Wright, the Air Force’s top enlist- icies, programs, systems and tions of military personnel poli- Democrat who heads the House that honor Confederate generals. ed airman, who expressed his processes in preventing and re- cies, programs and systems to en- Armed Services Committee’s mil- That provision and the less-no- fear that “what happens all too of- sponding to supremacist, extre- sure they address diversity prior- itary personnel panel. ticed move to create a diversity ten in this country to Black men mist and criminal gang activity of ities. Once the position is filled, the watchdog followed national pro- who are subjected to police bru- a member of the Armed Forces,” The new watchdog will also deputy inspector general could, tests in 2020 over systemic racism tality that ends in death … could according to the legislation. NCO honored for bravery in Camp Taji attack

BY CHAD GARLAND tal were wounded during the bar- Stars and Stripes rage. Airmen were afraid to sleep Senior Master Sgt. Rick John- in the housing units for days after- son had deployed twice before to ward and spent their nights in the combat zones, but he never expe- passenger terminal instead, John- rienced the panic and confusion son said. he saw in Iraq last March during a “This is an event we train for but fatal rocket attack on Camp Taji. we are never really prepared for. “All around me, people were … No one is,” he said. “It was dev- screaming,” he said in a recent Air astating.” Force statement. “No one knew The U.S. quickly struck back what to do. You go through all this with a series of airstrikes on mili- training, but when it actually hap- tia targets, but on March 14, 30 pens, you’re frozen in fear.” more militia rockets hit Taji in a But he chose to act, earning an daylight strike, wounding several Air Force Commendation Medal more troops. for his heroism that night and a In the months that followed, the Bronze Star Medal for merito- Pentagon deployed defensive sys- rious achievement for his efforts tems to the region and accelerated throughout the 8 ½-month deploy- plans to consolidate forces in Iraq, ment. pulling troops from Taji and over His bravery in the wake of the half a dozen other bases as it “extremely treacherous attack” wound down its part in the anti-Is- showed his ability to give “assert- lamic State fight. ive and directive leadership when During his 8 ½-month deploy- it matters most,” said Chief Mas- ment, Johnson directed airfield ter Sgt. Israel Nunez, superintend- operations that supported nearly ent of the 69th Aerial Port Squad- 10,000 missions, moving over ron at Joint Base Andrews, Md. 53,000 passengers and 19,000 tons Johnson was lying in bed on of cargo. He enabled 12 airstrikes March 11, 2020, when the first of that destroyed 210 targets. over two-dozen 107mm rockets CIERRA PRESENTADO/U.S. Air Force “I didn’t do it for the medals,” he began raining down on the base north of Baghdad. The attack was Col. Ann Brown, 459th Mission Support Group commander, pins the Bronze Star on Senior Master Sgt. said. Knowing he did his job and one of several attacks on that base Rick Johnson during an Oct. 3 ceremony at Joint Base Andrews, Md. Johnson also was awarded an Air built relationships with his com- Force Commendation Medal for his heroic efforts during the March 11 rocket attack on Camp Taji, Iraq. and others last year that the U.S. mander and airmen “was all the has blamed on Iran-backed Shiite fulfillment I needed.” militants. went back to his room, grabbed his la., Army Spc. Juan Miguel Men- said in an Air Force video of the His housing unit was hit, and as gear and began clearing rooms in dez Covarrubias, 27, of Hanford, ceremony. [email protected] he sprinted from his room to the an area still littered with unex- Calif., and British combat medic More than a dozen troops in to- Twitter: @chadgarland nearest bunker, three more rock- ploded rounds, entering a unit that Lance Cpl. Brodie Gillon, 26. ets fell. threatened to collapse to help two Five others were critically “I knew for a fact that there was wounded airmen before more wounded, Misawa Air Base, Ja- no way I was going to survive if I rockets arrived. pan, commander Col. Jesse Frie- stayed in my room,” he said. “This After clearing debris to reach del said in November after pre- was the most terrified I had ever them, he performed lifesaving senting a Purple Heart Medal to been in my life.” procedures until medics could ar- Senior Airman Daniel Alexander Once inside the bunker, howev- rive. “Everyone was scared, but for a traumatic brain injury re- er, he decided he couldn’t cower we don’t leave each other behind,” ceived when a rocket blew up 20 inside. he said. “I did all I could do.” feet from him during the attack. “There were people trapped in The attack claimed the lives of Each rocket “has 18 pounds of the rooms,” he said. “I knew I three coalition troops – Oklahoma explosives on it, creates a 38-foot needed to do something.” Air National Guard Staff Sgt. Mar- radius blast and throws shrapnel When the blasts paused, he shal D. Roberts, 28, of Owasso, Ok- until something stops it,” Friedel PAGE 6 • STARS AND STRIPES • Thursday, January 7, 2021 MILITARY Marine silent drill platoon member killed at home

BY CHAD GARLAND Stars and Stripes request for infor- Stars and Stripes mation. A 20-year-old Marine who was Col. Teague Pastel, command- shot and killed while on leave in his ing officer of the Marine barracks, Idaho hometown last week was a described Mosqueda as “a highly member of the service’s high pro- driven Marine with a team-first file silent drill platoon. mentality.” Lance Cpl. Davis Mosqueda was “We are tremendously sad- with a group of friends at an apart- dened by this terrible loss,” Pastel ment in Boise on Dec. 30 when De- said. “Our thoughts and prayers von Arnold, the suspect in the fatal are with Davis’ family and friends, shooting, showed up just after 1 and our priority will be taking care a.m., the Boise police said in a of them during this tragic time.” statement. He was a “son, brother, cousin, Mosqueda left the apartment to nephew, grandson, great-grand- check on a friend when he was shot son and adoring boyfriend” who near the parking lot, the police liked to spend time hunting, fish- said. ing and exploring with his family, The young Marine was taken to said a GoFundMe page establish- a hospital with multiple gunshot ed for Mosqueda’s family. “He is wounds, Ada County coroner Dotti loved and loved us well.” Owens said in a statement last GoFundMe He joined the Marines because Thursday, but efforts to save him Lance Cpl. Davis Mosqueda was shot and killed while on leave in his Idaho hometown last week. he believed in a bigger purpose, failed and he was pronounced his mother said. dead in the emergency depart- Barracks Washington, D.C., since KTVB. He was scheduled to re- firearm in the commission of a fe- “He was put on this Earth to help ment. February of the following year, turn to Washington on Jan. 4, the lony, Ada County court records people and he’s gone too soon,” she “I didn’t believe it,” Mosqueda’s where he was a member of the U.S. station said. show. A preliminary hearing is set said. “He always walked around mother, Monica Mouw, told KTVB Marine Corps Silent Drill Platoon, Arnold, 21, stayed on the scene for Jan. 8. like he had this big tough shell, but television news. “I was positive the Corps said in a statement. after the shooting and was arrest- Investigators have not said what he had the biggest heart [of] any- they had made a mistake and that it He had arrived home on Dec. 23 ed and booked into county jail after his motive was or whether he and one in his circle.” was someone else.” and spent the days leading up to his a police investigation, officials Mosqueda knew each other,

Mosqueda enlisted in July 2018 death playing video games with said. He has been charged with KTVB reported. The Boise police [email protected] and had been stationed at Marine his brothers, his mother told first-degree murder and use of a did not immediately respond to a Twitter: @chadgarland Arctic: Navy looking to further utilize region for trade, resources

FROM PAGE 1 to the document, which was re- 30% of the world’s undiscovered we’ve operated up there, we have es or countries instead of reopen- the United States, have increased ferred to by officials as a “blue- national gas reserves, 13% of glob- not had the kind of presence that ing and rebuilding bases. their military and economic pres- print.” al conventional oil reserves and the current situation requires,” he Sen. Dan Sullivan, R-Alaska, an ence in the Arctic in recent years The strategy was signed by [$1 trillion] in rare earth miner- said. advocate for increased military due to the opening of arctic wa- Braithwaite, Adm. Michael Gil- als,” the document states. The Navy document also states presence in the Arctic, praised the ters, the Navy said. day, the chief of naval operations, Russia has been reopening old the U.S. has a limited window of strategy in a statement Tuesday, “Without sustained American and Gen. David Berger, the com- military bases and moving forces opportunity to reassert itself in the saying the country needs to better naval presence and partnerships mandant of the Marine Corps, and there, and it operates a large ice- region through increased pres- protect its sovereignty and home- in the Arctic region, peace and it lays out the economic and mil- breaker fleet. China is increasing ence and partnerships. land in the north. prosperity will be increasingly itary necessity of a greater Navy its shipbuilding and port infras- “Left uncontested, incremental “Although I believe the depart- challenged by Russia and China, presence in the Arctic in the next tructure in the region. The docu- gains from increased aggression ment’s new blueprint lacks some whose interests and values differ two decades. ment also states that the U.S. Navy and malign activities could result of the urgency needed to drive the dramatically from ours,” accord- About 90% of trade travels expects to see more Chinese naval in a fait accompli, with long-term development of critical capabili- ing to the 25-page document. across the oceans, and that is ex- deployments in the Arctic, both on strategic benefits for our compet- ties that are required to effectively The U.S. is an Arctic nation and pected to double within 15 years, the surface and underwater. itors,” the document states. compete with our rivals in the Arc- has maintained a presence there according to the Navy document. In his previous position as U.S. In the next 20 years, the Navy tic, it rightfully acknowledges the for decades, including subma- The Arctic has the potential to ambassador to Norway, Braith- will increase participation in exer- need to evolve our forces to more rines and the U.S. Coast Guard’s “connect nearly 75% of the world’s waite said that he saw the in- cises, port calls and training of its adeptly project and sustain naval icebreakers. The Navy’s recently population” as ice melts and trade creased presence of the Chinese at personnel, the document states. power throughout the high lati- reestablished 2nd Fleet and 6th routes open up shorter routes to a northern Arctic port due to more Braithwaite also said the Navy tudes,” he said. Fleet also operate and participate and from Asia, Europe and North open trade routes. is looking at sharing infrastruc- in exercises with other Arctic America. “So that presence is formidable. ture at bases that are already lo- [email protected] countries in the region, according The area also has an “estimated And the U.S. Navy…although cated in the region by other servic- Twitter: @caitlinmkenney Smithsonian historians searching for military stories from 2020 BY NIKKI WENTLING terest to future historians and re- “We know military families seas during this time? What has coronavirus pandemic, racial in- Stars and Stripes searchers. The Smithsonian has and military members who live been the same, what has been justice, politics or other events WASHINGTON — The Smith- asked specifically for stories both here in the U.S. and around different? Only they can tell us.” and life changes in 2020. Some of sonian Institution is collecting from health care workers, educa- the world will have had a range The Smithsonian titled the pro- the stories will be shared publi- stories from 2020, and historians tors, refugees, agricultural work- of experiences that include those ject “Stories of 2020” and is de- cly on the museum’s website. want service members and their ers and the military community. like everyone else around isola- scribing it as a digital time cap- “Everyone has a story to tell,” families to share theirs. Shannon Perich, curator of the tion, education and so forth,” sule for future generations. Perich said. The Smithsonian’s National photographic history collection Perich said. “But there is prob- To participate, volunteers are More information can be found Museum of American History is at the museum, said they want ably also something specific asked to visit the museum’s web- at americanhistory.si.edu/sto- urging Americans to share pho- stories from service members about what it means to be a mil- site and answer the question, ries-of-2020. tos, videos and written stories of and their families because they itary member or family member “How did your life change during

2020 — a historic year that the have likely had unique experi- during this time. What does it these times?” They’re asked to [email protected] institution assumes will be of in- ences. feel like to be an American over- share their experiences with the Twitter: @nikkiwentling Thursday, January 7, 2021 • STARS AND STRIPES • PAGE 7 VIRUS OUTBREAK How Germany’s tougher rules will affect US military

BY MARCUS KLOECKNER announced Tuesday also include agency the Robert Koch Institute. Stars and Stripes travel restrictions in areas where Wiesbaden had nearly 83 cases KAISERSLAUTERN, Germa- more than 200 new cases of the per 100,000 residents over the ny — Travelers from the U.S. and virus per 100,000 residents have past week, and Stuttgart around other countries with high rates of been registered over the previous 85. coronavirus infections will need seven days. Starting Monday, Weekly infections in the county to produce a negative test to en- residents of these so-called hot- in Bavaria that includes Vilseck ter Germany starting Monday, spots will not be allowed to travel were just over 89 per 100,000 res- when tougher rules and restric- more than 15 kilometers — just idents, and the 7-day incidence in tions aimed at slowing the spread over nine miles — from the city the county where Grafenwoehr is of the virus take effect across the or town they live in. was around 120 new cases per MICHAEL ABRAMS/Stars and Stripes country, officials said. That is unlikely to affect most 100,000 people, RKI said. Tighter coronavirus restrictions are set to begin in Germany on They will also need to test neg- members of the U.S. military The 21st Theater Sustainment Monday. One of the rules limits private gatherings to one household ative a second time to get out of community in Germany. Command last month restricted with a maximum of one other person. quarantine before 10 days, say Although U.S. military com- travel for troops under its com- the new rules announced after an mands, which impose their own mand to 30 kilometers from their took the limits on gatherings a chological and practical side-ef- hourslong meeting Tuesday be- coronavirus restrictions, have places of residence. It was not step further, with garrison com- fects” on residents and would be tween Chancellor Angela Merkel said that service members and ci- immediately clear if the com- mander, Col. Jason Condrey, say- impossible to enforce. The leader and the heads of Germany’s 16 vilians working for the military mand, which has troops in Ger- ing on AFN Radio on Wednesday of Lower Saxony, Stephan Weil, states. must follow whichever rules are many, the Benelux countries, Ko- that children of all ages will be questioned whether the govern- “The measures we’ve an- stricter — the German author- sovo, Bulgaria and Romania, included in the count of people ment was allowed to restrict trav- nounced are drastic,” Merkel ities’ or the military’s — the 7-day would tighten up travel restric- allowed at private social events. el under German law. said after the meeting. “They are incidence for coronavirus in ci- tions, following the new German He also said remote learning will The rules in place until Mon- not just a continuation of what we ties with sizeable American mil- rules. continue until at least Jan. 18. day do not require a coronavirus did before Christmas, but are itary populations has remained Germany also extended the U.S. Army Garrison Wiesba- test to enter Germany, and, up to tougher, given the situation.” below the rate at which German closures of restaurants, hair- den was expected to issue guid- now, the government has only Germany, like many other Eu- authorities consider a district a dressers, many retail shops and ance on the new German rules by recommended that leisure travel ropean countries, has struggled virus hotspot. schools, and limited private gath- Friday, a spokesperson said. be restricted. to contain the spread of a new, In the greater Kaiserslautern erings to “your own household, Not all of Germany’s states But, Merkel told reporters more infectious strain of the vi- area, which is home to a tens of with a maximum of one other agree with the new measures, Tuesday, “We must be especially rus. A partial lockdown in No- thousands of service members, person” from a different house- however. Georg Maier, interior careful now. We are in a new and vember failed to do the trick and their families and Defense De- hold. Until Monday, five mem- minister of the state of Thuringia, extraordinary situation.” was followed by tougher restric- partment employees, there were bers of a second household, not which has one of the highest tions and more business closures around 96 new cases per 100,000 counting children under 14, are weekly infection rates in Germa- Stars and Stripes reporters David Edge, John Vandiver and Karin Zeitvogel contributed to this last month. residents over the past week, ac- allowed at such gatherings. ny, said restricting travel to a report. The new, even tougher rules cording to German public health U.S. Army Garrison Stuttgart narrow radius would have “psy- [email protected] Second active-duty soldier dies from coronavirus

BY CAITLIN M. KENNEY lated to the coronavirus, said Jef- Soto deployed to Iraq from 2004 duty Army death from the corona- personnel hospitalized, and 73,515 Stars and Stripes ferson Wolfe, a spokesman for to 2005 and then Afghanistan from virus. Army Sgt. Setariki Korova- who have recovered, according to WASHINGTON — An active- U.S. Army Garrison Fort Lee. 2011 to 2012. Her military awards katuraga, 43, died Dec. 9 on the the Pentagon. duty soldier in Virginia is the 15th Originally from Florence, S.C., include the Army Commendation way to the hospital in Germany. The Navy has had 23,570 cases service member to die from the Soto served in the Army for more Medal (three awards), Army He had “previously tested positive of the coronavirus, the Air Force coronavirus, the Pentagon an- than 20 years, most recently at Achievement Medal (five for [the coronavirus] and was at has had 20,457 cases, and the Na- nounced Wednesday, almost a Fort Lee as a training instructor awards), Army Good Conduct home on quarantine when he be- tional Guard has surpassed the month after a soldier in Germany with Company A of the 244th Medal (six awards), the Noncom- gan experiencing increased Marine Corps in cases 13,791 to died from the disease. Quartermaster Battalion, Wolfe missioned Officer Professional symptoms,” U.S. Army Europe 13,661, respectively, according to Sgt. 1st Class Lisa Maria Soto, said. During her career, Soto had Development Ribbon (two and Africa said in a statement at the Pentagon. 38, died Saturday at John Ran- also been assigned to Mannheim, awards), and the Combat Action the time. Korovakaturaga was as- The United States has had more dolph Medical Center in Hope- Germany, Fort Jackson, S.C., and Badge. signed to the 44th Expeditionary than 21 million cases of the coro- well, Va., from complications re- Fort Drum, N.Y. Her death is the second active- Signal Battalion, 2nd Theater Sig- navirus and 358,107 people in the nal Brigade at Baumholder. country have died from the dis- As of Wednesday, the Army has ease as of Wednesday, according had 39,330 cases of the virus, the to Johns Hopkins University. EU agency approves Moderna’s vaccine highest case numbers among the military services. The military [email protected] Associated Press strong criticism of the slow pace of comed the move and added in a overall has had 111,581 cases, 959 Twitter: @caitlinmkenney AMSTERDAM — The Europe- vaccinations across the region of tweet: “Now we are working at full an Union’s medicines agency gave some 450 million people. speed to approve it & make it avail- the green light Wednesday to Mod- “This vaccine provides us with able in the EU.” erna Inc.’s COVID-19 vaccine, a another tool to overcome the cur- The EMA has already approved decision that gives the 27-nation rent emergency,” said Emer a vaccine made by American bloc a second vaccine to use in the Cooke, Executive Director of drugmaker Pfizer and Germany’s battle to tame the virus. EMA. “It is a testament to the ef- BioNTech. Both vaccines require The approval recommendation forts and commitment of all in- giving people two shots. by the European Medicines Agen- volved that we have this second The EU has ordered 80 million cy’s human medicines committee positive vaccine recommendation doses of the Moderna vaccine with — which must be rubber-stamped just short of a year since the pan- an option for a further 80 million. by the EU’s executive commission demic was declared by WHO.” The bloc also has committed to — comes amid high rates of infec- European Commission Presi- buying 300 million doses of the tions in many EU countries and dent Ursula von der Leyen wel- Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine. PAGE 8 • STARS AND STRIPES • Thursday, January 7, 2021 VIRUS OUTBREAK USFK must abide by S. Korea rules testing travelers

BY MATTHEW KEELER Stars and Stripes OSAN AIR BASE, South Korea — All U.S. military personnel in- bound for South Korea must abide by a new requirement to present proof of a negative coronavirus test upon their arrival starting Fri- day, according to U.S. Forces Ko- rea. South Korea will require all for- eign travelers to present proof of a negative polymerase chain reac- AKIFUMI ISHIKAWA/Stars and Stripes tion, or PCR, coronavirus test tak- Visitors to Kawasaki­Daishi temple in Kanagawa prefecture, Japan, wear masks while strolling past souve­ en within 72 hours before their de- nir and food stands on Monday. parture for South Korea, the Min- istry of Foreign Affairs an- nounced Dec. 31. USFK has asked the govern- Japan, Tokyo set new 1-day case ment to delay the requirement for U.S. citizens subject to the status highs; Yokosuka orders curfew of forces agreement until Jan. 15, but the requirement is in effect MATTHEW KEELER/Stars and Stripes BY JOSEPH DITZLER discovered during contact trac- as a precaution on base quarters until it receives a response, USFK U.S. service members and their Stars and Stripes ing. Nine were recent arrivals to or the aircraft carrier USS Ronald spokeswoman Jacqueline Leeker families exit the Patriot Express TOKYO — Japan and its capital Japan and one tested positive dur- Reagan as a result. told Stars and Stripes in an email at Osan Air Base, South Korea, in city reported their highest one- ing a medical screening. Two base “However, in the past 10 days, Tuesday. October. day new coronavirus case totals employees also fell ill and tested we are now observing many USFK passed the word to its Wednesday. positive, according to the naval unique cases that are not tracea- personnel in a news release Mon- resident foreigners entering the The largest U.S. naval base in base. The base has 86 patients un- ble to a previously known clus- day. country, but U.S. military person- the country on the same day or- der observation. ter,” he said, “and the sources of “The Republic of Korea govern- nel are not required to present dered an overnight curfew and Base commander Capt. Rich these infections is unknown.” ment’s new testing requirements proof of a negative test upon arriv- other measures to combat a grow- Jarrett imposed a curfew and oth- Jarrett said he ordered the cur- will impact both Patriot Express al, a spokesman for U.S. Forces ing cluster of coronavirus infec- er measures to stem the local out- few after Kanagawa prefecture, and commercial flights,” Leeker Japan said Dec. 30. tions of unknown origin. break, he said in a Facebook video where the base is located, asked said. Col. Robert Firman said no Japan exceeded 5,000 new cor- address Wednesday. that the base cease activity after 8 The Patriot Express is a govern- changes were made to regulations onavirus cases Wednesday for the “We are entering a new, critical p.m. Essential work and duty per- ment-contracted passenger air governing U.S. personnel govern- first time, according to public phase of our COVID-19 re- sonnel are exempted. service between the U.S. and its ed by the status of forces agree- broadcaster NHK, which provid- sponse,” Jarrett said in the 4 The government of Japan is bases in the Pacific. ment. Like USFK, the U.S. com- ed no further information. ½-minute-long video. “The next preparing a state of emergency in Of nearly 500 cases of the coro- mand in Japan has the same test- The Tokyo Metropolitan Gov- month will be difficult, probably the four prefectures that com- navirus reported by USFK during ing and quarantine requirements ernment reported that 1,591 peo- our most difficult period of CO- prise the greater Tokyo metro ar- the pandemic, the majority of for its people entering the country, ple tested positive Wednesday, VID-19 response.” ea, including Kanagawa, in an at- them, 464, were individuals arriv- he said. exceeding the previous high The thousands affiliated with tempt to curb the virus’s spread, ing in South Korea on either the USFK is contacting U.S. com- mark, 1,337, reached Dec. 31, ac- the naval base must be in their Jarrett said. Patriot Express or commercial mands, asking them to individual- cording to the metro government own homes, whether on the base Naval Air Facility Atsugi, 25 flights into Incheon International ly update anyone with orders for and NHK. or in the surrounding community, miles northwest of Yokosuka, re- Airport. That number includes assignments in South Korea. The number of seriously ill pa- between 8 p.m. and 5 a.m., accord- ported that 17 individuals tested service members, Defense De- The Army began testing over- tients in Tokyo on Wednesday was ing to Jarrett’s order posted on positive Wednesday for the virus. partment civilians and depend- seas travelers in late August, 113, the highest number ever, Facebook. All 17 were already in quarantine, ents. while other service branches have NHK reported. Hotel stays are prohibited, un- base spokesman Sam Samuelson The move by South Korea only required random testing. Though Japan’s numbers are less they’re related to official said Wednesday. comes as the nation grapples with “A negative test prior to travel low compared to many other business, Jarrett said. Visitor pas- Marine Corps Air Station Iwa- a rising coronavirus caseload. The has already been an Army direc- countries its size, the third wave ses are canceled. Base restau- kuni, 500 miles west of Tokyo, re- country reported its highest num- tive for quite some time, but will of the coronavirus has hit the na- rants may serve takeout orders ported three new coronavirus pa- bers in December: 27,117 new be a new requirement for person- tion hardest. It set and broke re- only. Trips on public transporta- tients Wednesday, according to a cases and 391 deaths, according to nel in the other services,” said cords one after another in Decem- tion are off-limits except for es- Facebook post. One was quaran- the Johns Hopkins Coronavirus Leeker. ber. sential activities or work com- tined as a close contact of another Resource Center. Short-term travelers who are U.S. military bases in Japan to- mutes with no other alternatives infected individual; the other two South Korean public health offi- not affiliated with the Defense De- gether reported 69 new patients available, Jarrett said. were not in isolation, but the base cials announced Dec. 28 that it had partment will be required to quar- Tuesday evening through 6 p.m. Defense Department schools on provided no further information. detected the first individuals in- antine at a government-designat- Wednesday, including 46 at Yoko- base will remain in session, he Kadena Air Base on Okinawa fected with a coronavirus variant ed facility at their own expense for suka Naval Base and 17 at nearby said. He also said units should en- reported three new patients linked to an increase in cases in 14 days, according to the U.S. Em- Naval Air Facility Atsugi. courage telework and 50% man- Wednesday. All of them tested the United Kingdom. bassy in Seoul’s website. The new patients at Yokosuka, ning where possible. positive while in the mandatory, USFK has kept the coronavirus The nightly cost at these facili- the home 35 miles south of Tokyo Jarrett in December attributed two-week quarantine following at bay, however, through a regime ties could range from $100-$150 of the U.S. 7th Fleet, have tested a local outbreak to individuals dis- travel outside Japan, according to of mandatory testing and 14-day per night, prices are set by Korean positive since Dec. 30, according regarding bans on visiting high- a Facebook post. quarantine for new arrivals and authorities. to a Facebook post. risk areas and visiting off-limits confirmed cases.

Eleven became ill with symp- bars and similar venues. Hun- [email protected] On Dec. 28, Japan imposed a [email protected] toms of COVID-19, 23 others were dreds of sailors were quarantined Twitter: @JosephDitzler similar requirement for proof on Twitter: @MattKeeler1231 Thursday, January 7, 2021 • STARS AND STRIPES • PAGE 9 VIRUS OUTBREAK Governors scramble to speed vaccine effort BY MICHELLE R. SMITH ernments, distrust of the vaccine Associated Press and disarray created by the holi- New York’s governor is threat- days. ening to fine hospitals that don’t Politicians are getting aggres- use their allotment of COVID-19 sive in trying to accelerate the vaccine fast enough. His South campaign. The governors of Cali- Carolina counterpart says health fornia, Maryland and North Car- care workers have until Jan. 15 to olina said they will use the Nation- get a shot or move to the back of al Guard to speed things up. the line. California’s governor Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan wants to use dentists to vaccinate warned, too, that any facility that people. has not administered at least 75% With frustration rising over the of its first doses may have future slow rollout of the vaccine, state allocations reduced until they can leaders and other politicians speed up vaccinations. around the United States are turn- While about 270,000 doses have ing up the pressure, improvising been put directly in the hands of and seeking to bend the rules to front-line vaccinators in the state get shots in arms more quickly. over the last three weeks, Hogan “Move it quickly. We’re seri- said that only about 77,000 people ous,” New York Gov. Andrew Cu- had been vaccinated as of Tues- omo warned hospitals on Tues- day, or about 1.3% of the state’s day. “If you don’t want to be fined, population. just don’t participate in the pro- Gov. Henry McMaster of South gram. It’s not a mandatory pro- Carolina warned that health care gram.” workers will lose their place in As of Wednesday morning, just line if they don’t move quickly to 4.8 million people in the U.S. had get their shots. As of Monday, the gotten their first shot out of 17 mil- state had given out less than half lion doses distributed, according its initial allotment of the Pfizer to the Centers for Disease Control vaccine to about 43,000 people. and Prevention. While that is be- In California, where just 1% of lieved to an undercount because the population has been vaccinat- of a lag in reporting, health offi- ed, Gov. Gavin Newsom said he cials are still well behind where wants to give providers the flex- they wanted to be. ibility to dispense shots to people Meanwhile, the U.S. death toll not on the priority list if doses are has climbed past 357,000. CO- in danger of going to waste. VID-19 deaths set another one- New York Mayor Bill de Blasio day record at 3,775 on Tuesday, said it is time to broaden eligibil- though authorities have cautioned ity to include people older than 75 that the numbers around holidays and essential workers such as po- can fluctuate dramatically be- lice officers and firefighters to get cause some health agencies fall things moving. behind in reporting cases, then “Give them the freedom to vac- rush to catch up. cinate and they will vaccinate Health care workers and nurs- thousands, then tens of thousands, ing home residents are being giv- LYNNE SLADKY/AP then hundreds of thousands, then en priority for the most part in the Simon Simkovic, 90, right, and his wife Phyllis, 85, left, leave Jackson Memorial Hospital after receiving millions,” de Blasio said. “What U.S., but some places are begin- the COVID­19 vaccine Wednesday in Miami. they don’t need is to be shamed. ning to move on to the next stage, What they don’t need is more bu- involving the elderly. blamed on a multitude of prob- and guidance from Washington, demand, a patchwork of ap- reaucracy. What they don’t need The slow rollout has been lems, including a lack of funding mismatches between supply and proaches by state and local gov- is a threat of fines.” Pandemic-era Mardi Gras: No big crowds, but plenty of cake Associated Press New Orleanians from coming up to look for different ways of doing NEW ORLEANS — A subdued with socially distant ways to cele- things this year,” said Antoinette Carnival season began Wednes- brate. de Alteriis, one of the club’s cap- day after the coronavirus pan- The Krewe de Jeanne d’Arc is a tains. demic put an end to the crowd- club that annually pays homage to The Phunny Phorty Phellows, a heavy balls and street parades the fallen French hero with a pa- group that usually gathers Jan. 6 that draw thousands of people to rade through the French Quarter to mark the beginning of the sea- the city every year. on the official start of the Carnival son with a costumed party on a The Mardi Gras season always season. This year, the krewe is street car, is also altering its starts on Jan. 6 and ends on Fat hosting a “Tableaux de Jeanne plans. Tuesday, which this year falls on d’Arc,” where onlookers will Usually throngs of people gath- Feb. 16. The season is usually drive by various “tableaux” — a er at the facility where the street marked by extravagant balls and French term for “living pictures” car starts its journey to see the parades where costumed riders — that will include stations of cos- group off, but this year, people are throw trinkets to the mobs of peo- tumed revelers sparring as asked to disperse along the street RUSTY COSTANZA / AP ple packed along the parade knights, sharpening their swords car route and watch from there in- Bourbon Street is a sea of humanity on Mardi Gras day 2020 in New routes. and feasting at a grand fireplace stead. Orleans. A subdued Carnival season began Wednesday. The coronavirus has put an end with a pig roasting in the back- But people can still eat cake — to those large events. But that has ground. king cake that is. decorated with the official Carni- gold, are only to be eaten starting not stopped notoriously creative “Life as usual is gone, so we had The sweet cakes, which are val colors of purple, green and on Jan. 6. PAGE 10 • STARS AND STRIPES • Thursday, January 7, 2021 NATION Protesters swarm Capitol, halt tally Congress forced to stop deliberations over Republican challenges to Joe Biden’s presidential victory

Associated Press WASHINGTON — As demon- strators swarmed the U.S. Capitol, Congress was forced to abruptly halt deliberations Wednesday over Republican challenges to Joe Biden’s presidential victory. President Donald Trump’s re- lentless effort to overturn the elec- tion results and cling to the White House drew a massive crowd to the White House, and then Trump sent them to the Capitol. Lawmakers had convened for an extraordinary joint session to Trump supporters rallied in confirm the Electoral College re- Washington on Wednesday. AP photos sults but protests erupted outside Trump supporters try to break through a police barrier, Wednesday at the Capitol in Washington. As the Capitol and government office Still, Trump vowed to he would Congress prepares to affirm President­elect Joe Biden’s victory, thousands of people have gathered to buildings were being evacuated. “never concede” and urged the show their support for President Donald Trump and his claims of election fraud. Though fellow Republicans massive crowd to march to the were behind the challenge to Bi- Capitol where hundreds had al- a surging COVID-19 pandemic. cluding Al Gore and Richard Nix- said. den’s 306-232 Electoral College ready gathered under tight securi- Lawmakers were told by Capi- on, also presided over their own Still, more than a dozen Repub- victory, Senate Majority Leader ty. tol officials to arrive early, due to defeats, Pence supports those Re- lican senators led by Josh Hawley Mitch McConnell sought to lower “We will never give up,” Trump safety precautions with protesters publican lawmakers mounting of Missouri and Ted Cruz of Tex- tensions and argued against it. He told his noontime rally. in Washington. Visitors, who typ- challenges to the 2020 outcome. as, along with as many as 100 warned the country “cannot keep Arizona was the first of several ically fill the galleries to watch It’s not the first time lawmakers House Republicans, were press- drifting apart into two separate states facing objections from the landmark proceedings, were not have challenged results. Demo- ing ahead to raise objections to in- tribes” with “separate facts.” Republicans as Congress took an allowed under COVID-19 restric- crats did in 2017 and 2005. dividual states’ reports of Biden’s McConnell declared, “The vot- alphabetical reading of the elec- tions. But the intensity of Trump’s wins. ers, the courts and the states all tion results. The session also came as over- challenge is like nothing in mod- Under the rules of the joint ses- have spoken.” Biden won Arizona by more night results from Georgia’s run- ern times, and an outpouring of sion, any objection to a state’s elec- But other Republicans, includ- than 10,000 votes, and eight law- off elections put Democrats within current and elected GOP officials toral tally needs to be submitted in ing House GOP leaders among suits challenging the results have reach of a Senate majority. warn the showdown is sowing dis- writing by at least one member of Trump’s allies were acting out the failed. With the Senate results from trust in government and eroding the House and one of the Senate to pleas of supporters at his huge The state’s Supreme Court on Georgia streaming in and Demo- Americans’ faith in democracy. be considered. Wednesday rally up Pennsylvania Wednesday upheld the dismissal crats within reach of controlling Sen. Mitt Romney, R-Utah, told Each objection will force two Avenue outside the White House of an election challenge. the chamber, Trump amplified his reporters on Capitol Hill that hours of deliberations in the to “fight for Trump.” The joint session of Congress, pleas to stay in office as a veto Trump’s election challenge has House and Senate, ensuring a long The last-gasp effort is all but required by law, convened before check on the rival party. “disgraced the office of the presi- day. certain to fail, defeated by biparti- a watchful, restless nation — At the rally he said he had just dency.” House Republican lawmakers san majorities in Congress pre- months after the election, two talked to Pence and criticized Re- “We’ll proceed as the Constitu- are signing on to objections to the pared to accept the November re- weeks before the inauguration’s publicans who are not willing to tion demands and tell our support- electoral votes in six states — Ari- sults. Biden is to be inaugurated traditional peaceful transfer of fight for him as “weak.” ers the truth — whether or not zona, Georgia, Nevada, Michigan, Jan. 20. power and against the backdrop of While other vice presidents, in- they want to hear it,” Romney Pennsylvania and Wisconsin. Victory: Warnock’s win shows big shift in Georgia’s politics

FROM PAGE 1 Deep South. It follows Biden’s victory in until the results of Tuesday’s election are Trump’s false claims of voter fraud cast a If Ossoff wins, Democrats will have com- November, when he became the first Dem- finalized, said she would return to Wash- dark shadow over the runoff elections, plete control of Congress, strengthening ocratic presidential candidate to carry the ington on Wednesday morning to join a which were held only because no candidate President-elect Joe Biden’s standing as he state since 1992. small group of senators planning to chal- hit the 50% threshold in the general elec- prepares to take office on Jan. 20. A Demo- The Associated Press declared Warnock lenge Congress’ vote to certify Biden’s vic- tion. He attacked the state’s election chief cratic sweep would also make it more diffi- the winner after an analysis of outstanding tory. on the eve of the election and raised the cult for Republicans to block Biden’s ambi- votes showed there was no way for Loeffler Georgia’s other runoff election pitted prospect that some votes might not be tious progressive agenda, along with his to catch up to his lead. Warnock’s edge is Perdue, a 71-year-old former business ex- counted even as votes were being cast. Cabinet picks and judicial nominations. likely to grow as more ballots are counted, ecutive who held his Senate seat until his Many in Georgia’s large African Amer- This week’s elections mark the formal fi- many of which were in Democratic-leaning term expired on Sunday, against Ossoff, a ican community were ecstatic when they nale to the turbulent 2020 election season areas. former congressional aide and journalist. awoke to news of Warnock’s win on more than two months after the rest of the Loeffler refused to concede in a brief At just 33 years old, Ossoff would be the Wednesday. nation finished voting. The unusually high message to supporters shortly after mid- Senate’s youngest member. Tracey Bailey, a 58-year-old assistant stakes transformed Georgia, once a solidly night. “This campaign has been about health community manager at an apartment com- Republican state, into one of the nation’s “We’ve got some work to do here. This is and jobs and justice for the people of this plex in downtown Atlanta, said she jumped premier battlegrounds for the final days of a game of inches. We’re going to win this state — for all the people of this state,” Os- for joy. Trump’s presidency — and likely beyond. election,” insisted Loeffler, a 50-year-old soff said in a speech broadcast on social “It’s going to be great for Georgia, and Warnock’s victory is a symbol of a strik- former businesswoman who was appointed media Wednesday morning. “Whether you it’s going to be great for our Black commu- ing shift in Georgia’s politics as the swell- to the Senate less than a year ago by the were for me, or against me, I’ll be for you in nity as a whole,” she said. “I think he’s go- ing number of diverse, college-educated state’s governor. the U.S. Senate. I will serve all the people of ing to be a fair guy for the people, and that’s voters flex their power in the heart of the Loeffler, who remains a Georgia senator the state.” for all people.” Thursday, January 7, 2021 • STARS AND STRIPES • PAGE 11 AMERICAN ROUNDUP

Man returns statue’s sword after 40 years WESTFIELD — A MA veteran returned a sword he stole from a statue of a Revolutionary War general 40 years ago, telling the head of the Massachusetts town’s historical commission that he regretted tak- ing it. Cindy P. Gaylord, the chair of Westfield’s Historical Commis- sion, said a man contacted city hall saying he had the sword stolen from the town’s statue of Gen. Wil- liam Shepard in 1980 when he was a student at Westfield State Uni- versity, the Springfield Republi- can reported. Gaylord agreed to give the man anonymity if he returned the bronze sword and arranged for him and his wife to drop it off at her home, she said. “He is a veteran and told me the fact that he did this to another sol- dier troubled him,” Gaylord told the newspaper. Police: Man stole items from hospital helicopter ASHEVILLE — Police NC in North Carolina said that a man was accused of stealing medical equipment from a heli- copter that was parked at a hospi- MATT HAMILTON, CHATTANOOGA (TENN.) TIMES FREE PRESS/AP tal. The Raleigh News & Observer reported that the incident oc- Life in the fast lane curred on New Year’s Day at Mis- Swimmer Giancarlo Malpartida practices with the Carpet Capital Aquatics Club at the Dalton Parks and Recreation Department pool in Dalton, sion Hospital in Asheville. Ga. Despite temperatures dipping into the 40s, the swim team splits swimming between the indoor pool at Dalton High School and the heated Asheville police said that they outdoor pool at the recreation department. arrested Jason Alan Roland, 34, and charged him with breaking through a number of New Jersey THE CENSUS Ragley by a driver who spotted the and entering and damage to prop- communities rammed through the toddler walking unattended down erty. Canadian border and fled on foot The number, in thousands, of ash trees Cornell University will the middle of the road, according Police said that at least two ther- into that country before he was 1.7 fell on its lands due to an emerald ash borer infestation. The to a statement from the agency. mometers and other equipment captured, police in New Jersey infested trees will be felled between January and the end of March on and off Deputies said they determined was reported missing. said. campus, the Ithaca, N.Y., university said. The beetle, which bores under the the mother of the child, Rochelle Howell Township police said a tree’s bark, kills most infested ash trees within four years, creating a hazard. Renee Riley, 41, left her home to go ‘Haunted house’ burns patrolman tried to stop an erratic “The work will be highly visible and will, unfortunately, create significant to the store and the father, Brock driver, believing the motorist was changes on the campus landscape for decades,” said Todd Bittner, director of Kevin Manuel, 27, failed to watch days after body found natural areas for Cornell Botanic Gardens. intoxicated. A pursuit wound the children. NORWAY — The aban- through several cities to the Gar- The two were arrested and SC doned South Carolina den State Parkway, but was ended ficer as they fled the scene, ac- authorities in New Mexico are in- booked on charges of criminal home where a group of people when the patrolman’s siren failed. cording to the Polk County Sher- vestigating a spate of unusual abandonment, the sheriff’s office found a body stuffed in a deep Howell police said they were no- iff’s Office. armed mail robberies in recent said. freezer burned down two days af- tified by Canadian and U.S. Cus- The officer was treated for inju- months in the Albuquerque and The children were turned over ter the gruesome discovery, au- toms and Border Protection offi- ries and released. Santa Fe areas, an official said. to their grandmother. thorities said. cials that the driver had “rammed U.S. Postal Inspector Brook The early Tuesday blaze at the through the Canadian border and Cracked windshield Robinson told KOB-TV in Albu- Two injured in home in Norway is considered sus- fled on foot into Canada.” He was forces emergency landing querque that officials usually in- explosion at home picious, but a cause has not been ultimately captured, police said. vestigate mail and parcel thefts determined, Orangeburg County MILWAUKEE — Au- during the holidays, and they WASHINGTON — Two firefighters said. 2 in custody after wildlife WI thorities said a SkyWest aren’t seeing a similar trend in oth- IA people were injured in an Sunday, eight adults out riding officer run over by ATV flight from Milwaukee to Denver er places. explosion at a house in southeast four-wheelers decided to explore made an emergency landing in “This is specific to Albuquerque Iowa, officials said. the abandoned home after hearing AVON PARK — Polk South Dakota over the weekend af- right now, this isn’t really a trend The explosion was reported it was haunted, deputies have said. FL County authorities had ter the flight crew reported a nationwide,” Robinson said. about 4 a.m. Monday at a home in The group spotted the freezer on two people in custody and were cracked windshield. Robinson said agents were in- Washington, KCRG-TV reported. the back porch of the home and searching for a third person after a The Federal Aviation Adminis- vestigating eight cases since mid- Washington police said at least when it was opened, an 18-year-old Florida Fish and Wildlife Conser- tration said the twin-engine air- October. two people suffered injuries that man told deputies he saw what ap- vation Commission officer was craft was diverted to Joe Foss were not considered life threaten- peared to be a body wearing blue run over by an ATV during a con- Field in Sioux Falls, S.D., and land- Parents charged after ing. All residents were evacuated jeans and socks and smelled a hor- frontation. ed without incident. toddler found in road from the home. rible odor, the Orangeburg County WTVT-TV of Tampa reported The FAA is investigating the in- Fire crews were able to extin- Sheriff's Office said in an incident that the officer was patrolling the cident, according to the Milwau- RAGLEY — A Louisia- guish the blaze caused by the ex- report. Avon Park Bombing Range when kee Journal Sentinel. LA na couple was charged plosion, which damaged the home he spotted three people shining a with abandonment after their 3- and blew out windows of nearby Police: Driver pursued in spotlight into the Avon Park USPS reports spate of year-old child was found walking homes, police said. NJ captured in Canada Bombing Range property. armed mail thefts alone in the middle of a road, au- Investigators are trying to de- When the officer approached thorities said. termine the cause of the explosion. HOWELL — A driver the individuals, a scuffle broke ALBUQUERQUE — Jeff Davis Parish Sheriff’s dep- NJ who led police on a chase out. The assailants ran over the of- NM A postal official said uties were called to the street near From The Associated Press PAGE 12 • STARS AND STRIPES • Thursday, January 7, 2021 NATION No charges for Wis. officer who shot Black man

Associated Press Ben Crump, an attorney for KENOSHA, Wis. — A Wiscon- Blake’s family, said in a statement sin prosecutor declined Tuesday the decision “further destroys to file charges against a white po- trust in our justice system” and lice officer who shot a Black man said he would proceed with a law- in the back in Kenosha, conclud- suit. In a later tweet, he ques- ing he couldn’t disprove the offi- tioned whether Blake threatened cer’s contention that he acted in Sheskey with a knife, saying “no- self-defense because he feared the where does the video footage show man would stab him. a knife extended and aimed to es- The decision, met with swift tablish the requisite intent.” criticism from civil rights advo- A federal civil rights investiga- cates and some public officials, tion into Blake’s shooting is still threatened to reignite protests underway. Matthew Krueger, the that rocked the city after the Aug. U.S. attorney for Wisconsin’s 23 shooting that left Jacob Blake Eastern District, said the Depart- paralyzed. Gov. Tony Evers, a ment of Justice will make its own Democrat, called the decision charging decision.The shooting of “further evidence that our work is Blake, captured on bystander vid- not done” and called for people to eo, turned the nation’s spotlight on work together for equity. Lt. Gov. Wisconsin during a summer Mandela Barnes, who is Black, MORRY GASH/AP marked by protests over police was more pointed on Twitter: “I Protesters confront National Guard members outside a museum late Tuesday in Kenosha, Wis. brutality and racism. More than wish I could say that I’m shocked. 250 people were arrested during It’s another instance in a string of was going to stab him with the decision. tution everybody’s supposed to be protests in the days that followed, misapplications of justice.” knife” as he tried to stop Blake “This is going to impact this city so committed to, and yet we stand including then-17-year-old Kyle Kenosha County District Attor- from fleeing the scene. and this state and this nation for in the state that has the most con- Rittenhouse, a self-styled medic ney Michael Graveley said inves- “I do not believe the state ... many years to come,” Justin victions of African Americans in with an assault rifle who is tigators concluded Blake was car- would be able to prove that the Blake, an uncle, said. “Unless the the United States. So they’re charged in the fatal shootings of rying a knife when police respon- privilege of self-defense is not people rise up and do what they’re weighing heavy on one side of jus- two men and the wounding of a ded to a report he was trying to available,” Graveley said. supposed to do. This is a govern- tice, but they’re allowing police of- third. Rittenhouse pleaded not steal a car. Officer Rusten Shes- Blake family members ex- ment for the people by the people, ficers to rain down terror on our guilty to all charges at a hearing key said he “feared Jacob Blake pressed anger about the charging correct? We talk about this Consti- communities. It’s injust.” Tuesday. More than a week later, FBI avoids terror label for bombing Associated Press ing at the direction of, foreign ter- damaged. At issue are the varying NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The FBI rorist organizations. Domestic definitions of terrorism sprinkled investigation into whether the terrorism generally involves polit- throughout federal law. Nashville bombing was a terrorist ically motivated violence intend- Small business owners tend to act has sparked criticism about a ed to further a particular cause or opt out of terrorism coverage possible racial double standard agenda. when selecting insurance policies, and drawn questions from down- The explosion in Music City’s presuming that a terrorist act town business owners whose in- historic downtown damaged more would be unlikely to affect their surance coverage could be affect- than 40 businesses. Since then, a company, said Jason Schupp, ed by the bureau’s assessment. handful of state and city leaders founder and managing member of More than a week after an ex- have raised concerns about the Centers for Better Insurance, an plosion that struck at the heart of a terrorism designation, arguing insurance industry think tank major American city, the FBI has that authorities would have acted near Washington, D.C. resisted labeling it an act of terror- differently if the 63-year-old War- Pete Gibson is owner of Pride ism, an indication that evidence ner had not been a white man. and Glory Tattoo Parlor, which is gathered so far does not conclu- MARK HUMPHREY/AP “To those bending over back- directly across from the bomb sively establish that the bomber Officers walk past damaged buildings Monday in Nashville, Tenn. ward to not call this an act of ter- site. He said terrorism coverage was motivated by political ideolo- ror, if Warner had been a Muslim/ was the farthest detail from his gy — a key factor in any formal Day explosion of a recreational agent in charge of the agency’s immigrant/black, will you say the mind when he was selecting an in- declaration of terrorism. The bu- vehicle that also wounded three Memphis office, told reporters same thing or will you be one of surance policy seven years ago. reau is still examining evidence other people. last week at a news conference. the millions condemning not just He is still unsure what will be cov- and has not announced any con- “When we assess an event for The FBI investigates two types him but his entire community?” ered, but he has a meeting with at- clusions, but investigators are domestic terrorism nexus, it has to of terrorism that are defined not Nashville City Council member torneys this week to go over his known to be reviewing whether be tied to an ideology. It’s the use by the ethnicity or background of Zulfat Suara tweeted just days af- policy. Anthony Warner believed in con- of force or violence in the further- the suspect, but by the person’s ter the bombing. “I hadn’t even heard of terror- spiracy theories involving aliens ance of a political or social ideol- motivation or ideology. Interna- The classification of the attack ism coverage back then,” Gibson and 5G cellphone technology. ogy or event. We haven’t tied that tional terrorism involves acts by could help determine insurance said. “So now it’s just a big mess. Warner died in the Christmas yet,” Doug Korneski, the FBI people who are inspired by, or act- payouts for businesses that were I’m hoping to know more soon.” Thursday, January 7, 2021 • STARS AND STRIPES • PAGE 13 WORLD Kim admits failures as N. Korean congress opens

Associated Press tives” under a previous five-year one of the North’s biggest propa- decades of economic mismanage- Asia, and the already besieged SEOUL, South Korea — North development plan established at ganda spectacles, is meant to help ment and Kim’s headlong pursuit economy is being hammered by Korean leader Kim Jong Un ad- the 2016 congress, according to Kim show a worried nation that of expensive nuclear weapons pandemic-related border closings mitted that his economic develop- the North’s official Korean Cen- he’s firmly in control and to boost meant to target the U.S. mainland. with China, the North’s major eco- ment plans have failed as he tral News Agency. unity behind his leadership in the Kim, 36, is holding the congress, nomic lifeline, the fallout from a opened the nation’s first full ruling “We should further promote face of COVID-19 and other grow- which is expected to last a few series of natural disasters last party congress in five years, state and expand the victories and suc- ing economic challenges. days, amid what may be the tough- summer and persistent U.S.-led media reported Wednesday. cesses we have gained at the cost But some observers are skepti- est challenge of his nine-year rule sanctions over the nuclear pro- In an opening speech at the con- of sweat and blood, and prevent cal that the stage-managed con- and what he has called “multiple gram. gress that began Tuesday, Kim the painful lessons from being re- gress will find any fundamental crises.” U.S. President-elect Joe Biden, said that “almost all sectors fell a peated,” he was quoted as saying. solutions to North Korea’s diffi- Authoritarian North Korea is who takes office later in January, long way short of the set objec- The Workers’ Party Congress, culties, many of which stem from one of the poorest countries in will likely maintain the sanctions. Hong Kong police arrest 53 activists Associated Press Beijing last June to quell dissent gain a majority of the seats in the HONG KONG — Hong Kong in the semi-autonomous territory. legislature to create a situation in police arrested 53 former law- “The operation today targets which the chief executive had to makers and democracy propo- the active elements who are sus- resign and the government would nents Wednesday for allegedly vi- pected to be involved in the crime stop functioning. olating the new national security of overthrowing, or interfering In a video released by former law by participating in unofficial (and) seriously destroy the Hong lawmaker Lam Cheuk-ting on his election primaries for the territo- Kong government’s legal execu- Facebook page, police turned up ry's legislature last year. tion of duties,” John Lee, Hong at his house and told him he was The mass arrests, including of Kong’s security minister, said at a “suspected of violating the na- former lawmakers, were the news conference. tional security law, subverting largest move against Hong He said those arrested were state power.” Police told those re- AP Kong’s democracy movement suspected of trying to paralyze cording the video to stop or risk American human rights lawyer John Clancey, center, is arrested by since the law was imposed by the government, via their plans to arrest. police in Hong Kong on Wednesday. PAGE 14 • STARS AND STRIPES • Thursday, January 7, 2021 OPINION

Max D. Lederer Jr., Publisher Lt. Col. Marci Hoffman, Europe commander Lt. Col. Richard McClintic, Pacific commander A ‘Category 5’ mental health crisis is coming Caroline E. Miller, Europe Business Operations BY KERRY MALAWISTA ach capacity. The demand for psychiatric While we can physically distance from Special to The Baltimore Sun hospital beds has outpaced their availabili- one another and don masks, we can’t cover henever a hurricane nears our ty, with people in need stranded for days in our emotional windows in plastic glass to EDITORIAL shores, the government im- emergency rooms, while potentially being guard against the loneliness, anxiety and de- Terry Leonard, Editor plements a system to track the exposed to COVID-19. pression that engulf us. We cannot prepare [email protected] Wdisaster, including assigning a Until the new vaccines reach more people, as we do when a hurricane is approaching: score on a scale of one to five to assess its se- our primary protections from COVID-19 re- Know our risk, know our plan. And nothing Robert H. Reid, Senior Managing Editor verity and to guide disaster preparedness ef- main social distancing and masks to shield raises anxiety in a crisis like the unpredict- [email protected] forts. A storm reaching a magnitude of 3 or ourselves. Paradoxically, these safety pre- able and the inability to protect oneself. Tina Croley, Managing Editor for Content higher has the potential for devastating cautions exacerbate psychological trauma, Medical experts on President-elect Joe [email protected] damage and loss of life. most importantly the loneliness and isola- Biden’s COVID-19 Task Force can ramp up No such scale exists to warn us of the psy- tion that ensue. More than 35 million Amer- testing, track the available ICU beds and Sean Moores, Managing Editor for Presentation [email protected] chological dangers of our current crisis. icans live alone, and we know that loneliness push mask mandates. Epidemiologists will While the invisible COVID-19 virus devas- weakens the immune system. A data analy- trace new cases and the number of deaths. Joe Gromelski, Managing Editor for Digital tates our nation, we are simultaneously sis from 2018 covering more than 580,000 The military will assist in handling the com- [email protected] bombarded by gale-force winds of financial adults found that social isolation increases plicated job of distributing the vaccine. Con- hardship, racial and political tensions, and a the risk of premature death across gender gress has reached an agreement on a stimu- BUREAU STAFF polarizing election, where the loser refuses and race. lus package to help those in need. What is to concede. But statistics tell us nothing about the indi- missing, though, is the ramping up of mental Europe/Mideast As a psychotherapist, I have witnessed viduals my colleagues and I are seeing each health care to manage this psychological cri- Erik Slavin, Europe & Mideast Bureau Chief [email protected] firsthand the anxiety, fear and depression day — mothers overwhelmed by trying to sis — the social workers, psychologists and +49(0)631.3615.9350; DSN (314)583.9350 that have resulted from the confluence of work as they oversee their children’s online psychiatrists whose expertise is needed to Pacific these once-in-a-century emotional storms. learning, marriages on the brink of divorce. manage the “cleanup” of this psychological Aaron Kidd, Pacific Bureau Chief ACategory 4 mental health storm of incalcu- Last month a colleague told me of a patient trauma, which will remain long after the vi- [email protected] lable proportions has reached landfall whose husband, depressed after losing his rus is gone. +81.42.552.2511 ext. 88380; DSN (315)227.7380 across our entire nation, and a Level 5 disas- job, stepped in front of a train. Biden’s commitment and reliance on Washington ter may make landfall this winter. Adolescents are at particularly high risk. medical expertise, in contrast to his prede- Joseph Cacchioli, Washington Bureau Chief None of us are immune. Nor are we ade- At a time when teens are developmentally cessor, offers us hope, as does the distribu- [email protected] (+1)(202)886-0033 quately prepared for this unprecedented wired to fall out of love with their parents and tion of vaccines. But no vaccine can inocu- Brian Bowers, Assistant Managing Editor, News emergency. fall into love with their peers, they find them- late us from the grief, pain and anxiety [email protected] Alcohol and drug use are rising at an selves trapped at home. In teletherapy ses- wreaked by the pandemic. Mental health alarming rate (a Rand Corp. study found that sions with teens, I hear the psychological im- symptoms, after all, do not respond to vac- CIRCULATION heavy drinking by women is up 41% com- pact of living a virtual life, doing school on- cines. Behavioral health professionals are Mideast pared to 2019). Many people report feeling line without the social and developmental urgently needed on the COVID-19 Task Robert Reismann, Mideast Circulation Manager helpless, unable to sleep, plan or imagine a benefits of contact with peers. Young people Force to tackle the psychological devasta- [email protected] future. By midsummer 2020, a majority of may be less at risk for the serious physical tion and debris that will be left behind from [email protected] U.S. adults reported that the worry and health consequences of the virus, but their this Category 5 mental health storm. DSN (314)583-9111 stress of the pandemic had negatively affect- mental health immune systems, not as ro- Europe ed their mental health. We have sadly bust as adults’, leave them at greater psycho- Kerry Malawista is a writer and psychotherapist practicing in Karen Lewis, Community Engagement Manager watched our virtual “consulting rooms” re- logical risk, including death by suicide. the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area. [email protected] [email protected] +49(0)631.3615.9090; DSN (314)583.9090 Pacific Mari Mori, [email protected] The equal liberty agenda finds common ground +81-3 6385.3171; DSN (315)227.7333 BY MATTHEW MITCHELL ing for public services that benefit us all. Can we acknowledge that the system is not CONTACT US Tribune News Service Second, eliminate regulations that con- working well while granting that the vast ma- hances are you didn’t get every- tribute to economic inequality. Not so long jority of officers are honest and decent? Then Washington thing you wanted in 2020. If you’re ago, proud progressives like Ralph Nader, we can move beyond the divisive and unhelp- tel: (+1)202.886.0003 633 3rd St. NW, Suite 116, Washington, DC 20001-3050 a Donald Trump supporter, your Jimmy Carter and Ted Kennedy were enthu- ful debate over whether cops are good or bad man didn’t win. If you’re a pro- siastic deregulators. They understood that people and focus on a constructive question: Reader letters C gressive, you didn’t see the blue wave you bad regulations protect firms from competi- What needs to change? [email protected] were promised. Moderates got more polari- tion rather than consumers from harm. They Would it help to reduce the mountain of Additional contacts zation; libertarian candidates barely got any- saw regulations weaponized, for example, to nonviolent crimes for which a person can be stripes.com/contactus thing. But as divided as we are, it remains keep entrepreneurs from getting businesses arrested? Don’t forget that the altercation true that federal, state and local policymak- off the ground, to raise the costs of rival firms with Eric Garner began over selling loose OMBUDSMAN ers can find common ground—willingness and even to facilitate price cartels. cigarettes. Would it help to demilitarize po- Ernie Gates being key — and give voters more of what Thanks to their resources and political or- lice forces? Or free officers from enforcing they want. ganization, established firms have outsized minor traffic violations or doing the jobs of The Stars and Stripes ombudsman protects the free flow of news and information, reporting any attempts by the The trick is to find an agenda that appeals influence over regulators and often gain the social workers? Should we eliminate quali- military or other authorities to undermine the newspaper’s to all of these sensibilities. Believe it or not, upper hand over consumers or public inter- fied immunity? Require body cameras? independence. The ombudsman also responds to concerns and questions from readers, and monitors coverage for one exists. Let’s call it the “equal liberty est advocates. Move to more localized policing? Strike pro- fairness, accuracy, timeliness and balance. The ombudsman welcomes comments from readers, and can be contacted by agenda” — policies aimed at giving everyone Go to any state capital in which occupa- visions in union contracts that protect truly email at [email protected], or by phone at a more equal shot at America’s blessings. It tional licensure is being debated. Nine times bad cops? End civil asset forfeiture? Stop is- 202.886.0003. addresses the progressive itch to root out in- out of 10, those who push for the regulation suing “get out of jail free cards?” Asking equality, the conservative ambition to rekin- are industry leaders — usually protecting these questions shouldn’t be controversial. Stars and Stripes (USPS 0417900) is published week- days (except Dec. 25 and Jan. 1) for 50 cents Monday dle the ideas of 1776 that made America great their own positions — not consumer advo- Conservatives in particular, with their well- through Thursday and for $1 on Friday by Pacific Stars and and most everyone’s desire for more free- cates. Licensure is ripe for reform. The re- placed worry about government overreach, Stripes, Unit 45002, APO AP 96301-5002. Periodicals postage paid at San Francisco, CA, Postmaster: Send dom and dignity. search is clear that it raises prices, locks vul- should be asking them. address changes to Pacific Stars and Stripes, Unit 45002, APO AP 96301-5002. This newspaper is authorized by the First, fight corporate welfare. Each year, nerable people out of jobs and does little-to- Most Americans can trace their intellec- Department of Defense for members of the military services states and localities spend about $95 billion nothing to increase service quality or safety. tual heritage to the great liberal tradition that overseas. However, the contents of Stars and Stripes are unofficial, and are not to be considered as the official views on corporate subsidies. Though some politic- Third, make the criminal justice reform grew from the Enlightenment. It empha- of, or endorsed by, the U.S. government. As a DOD newspa- ians may tell you otherwise, this money debate about policy. We know the names: sized the inherent worth of every individual, per, Stars and Stripes may be distributed through official channels and use appropriated funds for distribution to doesn’t benefit the communities that provide Breonna Taylor, George Floyd, Freddie a healthy skepticism of power and a belief in remote locations where overseas DOD personnel are located. it. Instead, it privileges the wealthy and well Gray, Eric Garner, Michael Brown. Their checks and balances. We don’t agree on ev- The appearance of advertising in this publication does not constitute endorsement by the Department of Defense or connected at the expense of democratic and lives — like all lives — mattered. Moreover, erything. That’s OK. But if we care about a Stars and Stripes of the products or services advertised. Products or services advertised shall be made available for free market ideals. their stories seem to fit a pattern. As The better world, we can work together to im- purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, Government should promote the general Washington Post’s Radley Balko put it in his prove it. An equal liberty agenda can do that. religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other nonmerit factor of welfare of all, not that of special interests. If review of the evidence: “[W]e have systems the purchaser, user or patron. states and localities mutually agreed to stop and institutions that produce racially dis- Matthew Mitchell is a senior research fellow and director of the © Stars and Stripes 2021 subsidizing private businesses, they’d be parate outcomes, regardless of the intentions Equal Liberty Initiative with the Mercatus Center at George stripes.com able to cut everyone’s taxes or increase fund- of the people who work within them.” Mason University. Thursday, January 7, 2021 • STARS AND STRIPES • PAGE 15 PAGE 16 • STARS AND STRIPES • Thursday, January 7, 2021 Eugene Sheffer Crossword Frazz Dilbert

ACROSS 60 Evergreens 23 Storefront 1 London mist 61 Badminton sign abbr. 4 Porgy’s love barrier 27 ’60s war 8 401(k) relatives zone

Pearls Before Swine Pearls Before 12 Hot temper DOWN 29 Lip plumper 13 Hybrid fruit 1 Pear-shaped fruit 30 Fencing sword 14 Alaskan seaport 2 Raw rock 31 Fax 15 Charitable 3 Pentagon figures 33 2020 World 17 “Yeah, right” 4 Department Series winners 18 Before 5 Id counterpart 35 Sailor’s chart 19 Stocking 6 Punch 38 Zilch supporters 7 Twine fiber 40 Defies authority 21 “Yay!” 8 First 43 Substantive

Non Sequitur 24 Floral necklace 9 Judicial garb 45 Corn spike 25 Lawyers’ org. 10 From the U.S. 46 Island near Java 26 Ornate vase 11 Collections 47 Actor Rickman 28 Walks nervously 16 Goof up 48 German refusal 32 Maintained 20 Workout unit 49 — gin fizz 34 Muppet eagle 21 “Funny!” 53 Despondent 36 Easy gait 22 Modern taxi 54 Night before 37 Incendiary crime alternative 55 — King Cole 39 Ruin the veneer Answer to Previous Puzzle

Candorville 41 Actor Cariou 42 Poorly lit 44 Prepared potatoes 46 Bracelets 50 Sheepish remark 51 Sheltered 52 Pollen or dust, e.g.

Carpe Diem 56 Hideaway 57 Implement 58 Actress Mendes 59 Hostels Beetle Bailey Bizarro Thursday, January 7, 2021 • STARS AND STRIPES • PAGE 17 PAGE 18 • STARS AND STRIPES • Thursday, January 7, 2021 FACES Grammys are moved to March

BY MESFIN FEKADU Associated Press The 2021 Grammy Awards will no longer take place this month in Los Angeles and will broadcast in March due to a recent surge in coronavirus cases and deaths. The show will shift from Jan. 31 to March 14, according to a state- ment released Tuesday from the Recording Academy and CBS, which broadcasts the ceremony. The statement said the decision was reached “after thoughtful conversations with health experts, After the our host and artists scheduled to appear.” “The deteriorating COVID sit- uation in Los Angeles, with hospi- tal services being overwhelmed, ICUs having reached capacity, gold rush and new guidance from state and local governments have all led us to conclude that postponing our show was the right thing to do. AMY HARRIS, INVISION/AP Nothing is more important than Neil Young performs in Napa, Calif., on May 25, 2019. The Hipgnosis Songs Fund, a British investment company, announced that it had the health and safety of those in acquired a 50 percent stake in Young’s catalog of some 1,180 songs that include “Heart of Gold” and “Rockin’ in the Free World.” our music community and the hundreds of people who work tire- lessly on producing the show,” Following Dylan, Neil Young becomes latest artist to sell stake in his songs read the statement from Record- ing Academy interim CEO Har- BY DAVID BAUDER million and a half billion dollars. virus pandemic, song publishing is campaigns. But at least through vey Mason Jr., CBS executive Associated Press Stevie Nicks sold an 80 percent seen as an increasingly valuable 2016, Young continued to resist Jack Sussman and Grammys ex- Neil Young has become the latest stake in her music to Primary asset. The companies generally having his music used this way, ac- ecutive producer Ben Winston. musician to strike gold with his Wave for a reported $100 million. push for use of an artist’s songs in cording to Rolling Stone magazine. “We want to thank all of the tal- song catalog, selling a 50 percent Merck Mercuriadis, founder of movies, video games and advertis- It was unclear whether the Hip- ented artists, the staff, our ven- stake in his music to a British in- Hipgnosis Songs Fund Limited, ing. gnosis deal augers a change in that dors and especially this year’s vestment company in a deal an- said that he bought his first Neil The latter use has been a sticking policy. nominees for their understanding, nounced Wednesday. Young album when he was seven point for Young, whose 1988 song In Wednesday’s announcement, patience and willingness to work The Hipgnosis Songs Fund said years old. “This Note’s For You” sharply crit- Mercuriadis said that his company with us as we navigate these un- it had acquired half of the copyright “‘Harvest’ was my companion icized artists who leased their mu- and Young “have a common integ- precedented times.” and income interests in some 1,180 and I know every note, every word, sic for advertising campaigns. The rity, ethos and passion born out of a Los Angeles County, the epicen- songs written by the 75-year-old every pause and silence intimate- accompanying video parodied ads belief in music and these important ter of the crisis in California, has rock star, composer of “Heart of ly,” he said. “Neil Young, or at least that featured Michael Jackson and songs. There will never be a ‘Burg- surpassed 11,000 COVID-19 Gold,” “Rockin’ in the Free World” his music, has been my friend ... ev- Eric Clapton. er of Gold’ but we will work togeth- deaths and has had 40% of the and “Cinnamon Girl.” er since.” In the song, Young sang: “Ain’t er to make sure everyone gets to deaths in California. Terms were not disclosed. The businessman also said singin’ for Pepsi, ain’t singin’ for hear them on Neil’s terms.” “The Daily Show” host and co- The deal comes a month after Young’s late manager, Elliot Ro- Coke. I don’t sing for nobody. Young has released some 70 al- median Trevor Noah is set to host Bob Dylan sold publishing rights to berts, was equally an idol to him. Makes me look like a joke.” bums as a solo artist and with bands the Grammys, where Beyonce is more than 600 songs to the Univer- In an industry where music sales In the years since, it has become like Buffalo Springfield, Crazy leading contender with nine nomi- sal Music Publishing Group for a have dwindled and the concert in- much more common for musicians Horse and Crosby, Stills, Nash & nations. reported fortune of between $300 dustry is on hold due to the corona- to earn income through advertising Young. Eric Jerome Dickey, bestselling novelist, dies of cancer at 59 Associated Press Dickey also worked on Tanya Roberts, Bond girl and Roberts played geologist Stacey Sutton Eric Jerome Dickey, the bestselling nov- the screenplay for the opposite Roger Moore in 1985’s “A View to elist who blended crime, romance and erot- 1998 film “Cappuccino,” ‘ ’70s Show’ star, dead at 65 a Kill.” She replaced Shelley Hack in icism in “Sister, Sister,” “Waking With wrote a comic book minis- Tanya Roberts, who captivated James “Charlie’s Angels,” joining Jaclyn Smith Enemies” and dozens of other stories about eries for Marvel, and con- Bond in “A View to a Kill” and appeared in and Cheryl Ladd as third Angel Julie. A contemporary Black life, has died. tributed to such antholo- the sitcom “That ’70s Show,” died Monday, new generation of fans saw her on “That Dickey’s publicist at Penguin Random gies as “Mothers and several hours after she was mistakenly de- ’70s Show” from 1998 and 2004, playing House, Emily Canders, told The Associated Sons” and “Black Silk: A clared dead by her publicist and her part- Midge, mother to Laura Prepon’s charac- Dickey Press that the author died at age 59 of can- Collection of African ner. She was 65. ter Donna. cer Sunday in Los Angeles. American Erotica.” Roberts’ death was related to a urinary Dickey was an aspiring actor and stand- He wrote 29 novels, according to his pub- tract infection, publicist Mike Pingel said. Other news up comic who began writing fiction in his lisher. His final book, “The Son of Mr. Sule- Roberts collapsed at home on Dec. 24 af-
Dr. Dre says he will be “back home 30s and shaped a witty, conversational and man,” comes out in April. ter walking her dogs and was admitted to soon” after the music mogul received med- sometimes graphic prose style. It brought “I am truly saddened to hear about the Cedars-Sinai. She had been reported dead ical treatment at a Los Angeles hospital for him a wide readership through such novels passing of Eric Jerome Dickey,” author on Sunday, but Pingel said that was based a reported brain aneurysm. The rapper as “Sister, Sister” and “Naughty or Nice” Roxane Gay tweeted Tuesday. “His were on a mistake by her longtime companion and producer said in a social media post and through his “Gideon” crime fiction se- some of the first novels I ever read about Lance O’Brien, who believed Roberts had Tuesday night that he’s “doing great” and ries, which included “Sleeping With black people that weren’t about slavery or slipped away during what was expected to thankful for the well wishes, and that he Strangers” and “Resurrecting Midnight.” civil rights. He was a great storyteller.” be a final visit at the hospital. was getting excellent medical care. Thursday, January 7, 2021 • STARS AND STRIPES • PAGE 19 PAGE 20 • STARS AND STRIPES • Thursday, January 7, 2021 SCOREBOARD/COLLEGE BASKETBALL

PRO FOOTBALL COLLEGE BASKETBALL

NFL playoffs Men’s Top 25 Fared Ohio 76, N. Illinois 73 Toledo 84, Kent St. 82 Wild-card Playoffs Tuesday UConn 65, Marquette 54 Saturday’s games No. 1 Gonzaga (10­0) did not play. Next: Indianapolis at Buffalo vs. BYU, Thursday. SOUTHWEST Los Angeles Rams at Seattle No. 2 Baylor (9­0) did not play. Next: vs. Kansas 93, TCU 64 Tampa Bay at Washington Oklahoma, Wednesday. Texas 78, Iowa St. 72 Sunday, Jan. 10 No. 3 Villanova (8­1) did not play. Next: at Texas Tech 82, Kansas St. 71 Baltimore at Tennessee UConn, Friday, Jan. 15. Chicago at New Orleans No. 4 Texas (9­1) beat Iowa St. 78­72. Women’s Top 25 Fared Cleveland at Pittsburgh Next: at No. 14 West Virginia. Tuesday No. 5 Iowa (9­2) did not play. Next: at Ma­ ryland, Thursday. No. 1 Stanford (9­0) did not play. Next: vs. No. 6 Kansas (9­2) beat TCU 93­64. Next: No. 11 Oregon, Friday. DEALS vs. Oklahoma, Saturday. No. 2 Louisville (8­0) beat UT Martin 96­ No. 7 Creighton (8­2) did not play. Next: 61. Next: vs. Clemson, Sunday. vs. Seton Hall, Wednesday. No. 3 NC State (10­0) did not play. Next: Tuesday’s transactions No. 8 Wisconsin (9­2) did not play. Next: at Virginia Tech, Thursday. No. 3 UConn (6­0) did not play. Next: at BASEBALL vs. Indiana, Thursday. No. 9 Tennessee (7­1) did not play. Next: No. 6 Baylor, Thursday. Major League Baseball No. 5 South Carolina (7­1) did not play. American League vs. Arkansas, Wednesday. No. 10 Michigan (9­0) did not play. Next: Next: at Georgia, Thursday. BALTIMORE ORIOLES — Named Tony No. 6 Baylor (8­1) did not play. Next: vs. Mansolino third base coach, Darren vs. No. 16 Minnesota, Wednesday. No. 11 Houston (8­1) did not play. Next: No. 3 UConn, Thursday. Holmes assistant pitching coach and No. 7 Arizona (8­1) did not play. Next: at Chris Holt pitching coach/director of vs. Wichita St., Wednesday. No. 12 Illinois (8­3) did not play. Next: at Washington, Friday. pitching. RON JENKINS / AP Northwestern, Thursday. No. 8 Texas A&M (10­0) did not play. Next DETROIT TIGERS — Agreed to terms with vs. No. 10 Kentucky, Thursday. OF Robbie Grossman on a two­year con­ No. 13 Missouri (7­2) lost to Mississippi St. 78­63. Next: vs. LSU, Saturday. No. 9 UCLA (6­2) did not play. Next: Col­ Kansas forward David McCormack, left, works to the basket against tract. Designated LF Troy Stokes Jr. for as­ orado, Friday. signment. No. 14 West Virginia (9­3) did not play. TCU center Kevin Samuel. McCormack had a season­high 20 points Next: vs. No. 4 Texas, Saturday. No. 10 Kentucky (9­1) did not play. Next: TEXAS RANGERS — Named chief operat­ at No. 9 Texas A&M, Thursday. to lead the Jayhawks to a 93­64 win in Fort Worth, Texas. ing officer Neil Leibman to also assume No. 15 Rutgers (7­3) lost to No. 23 Michi­ gan St. 68­45. Next: Ohio St., Saturday. No. 11 Oregon (8­1) did not play. Next: at the role of president of business oper­ No. 16 Minnesota (10­2) did not play. No. 1 Stanford, Friday. ations. Acquired OF Carl Chester from Next: at No. 10 Michigan, Wednesday. No. 12 Maryland (7­1) did not play. Next: Tampa Bay to complete a Dec. 8 trade. No. 17 Oregon (8­1) did not play. Next: at at No. 23 Michigan St., Thursday. COLLEGE BASKETBALL ROUNDUP Signed RHP Drew Anderson to a minor Colorado, Thursday. No. 13 Arkansas (10­2) did not play. Next league contract. at Tennessee, Thursday. National League No. 18 Texas Tech (9­3) beat Kansas St. 82­71. Next: at Iowa St., Saturday. No. 14 Mississippi St. (6­2) did not play. LOS ANGELES DODGERS — Agreed to No. 19 Clemson (9­1) beat N.C. State. 74­ Next: at Florida, Thursday. terms with RHP Blake Treinen on a two­ 70, OT. Next: at North Carolina, Saturday. No. 15 Michigan (6­0) did not play. Next: year contract. No. 19 Virginia Tech (8­1) did not play. vs. Nebraska, Thursday. NEW YORK METS — Announced Brian Next: at Louisville, Wednesday. No. 16 Ohio St. (5­0) did not play. Next: vs. Schneider moves from quality control to No. 21 Duke (3­2) did not play. Next: vs. Illinois, Thursday. major league field coordinating/catching Boston College, Wednesday. No. 17 Texas (8­1) did not play. Next: at coach. West Virginia, Saturday. McCormack leads No. 22 Virginia (5­2) did not play. Next: BASKETBALL vs. Wake Forest, Wednesday. No. 18 South Florida (7­1) did not play. National Basketball Association No. 23 Saint Louis (7­1) did not play. Next: vs. Wichita St., Wednesday. ATLANTA HAWKS — Named vice presi­ Next: at La Salle, Wednesday. No. 19 Indiana (5­3) did not play. Next: at dent of public relations Amy Phuong chief No. 23 Michigan St.(8­3) beat No. 15 Rutg­ Penn St.,Thursday. operating officer for Saving Our Atlanta ers 68­45. Next: Purdue, Friday. No. 20 DePaul (6­3) did not play. Next: at Region’s Residents. No. 25 Florida St. (5­2) did not play. Next: Butler, Thursday. FOOTBALL at Pittsburgh, Saturday. No. 21 Gonzaga (9­2) did not play. Next: Kansas’ rebound National Football League vs. Portland, Saturday. ARIZONA CARDINALS — Signed TE Ian Tuesday’s men’s scores No. 22 Northwestern (4­2) did not play. Bunting, DL Michael Dogbe, WRs Krishawn Next: at Wisconsin, Wednesday. Hogan, A.J. Richardson, JoJo Ward and EAST No. 23 Michigan St. (8­0) did not play. Isaac Whitney, K Brett Maher, OL Koda Next: No. 14 Maryland, Thursday. Coppin St. 81, Delaware St. 77 No. 24 Syracuse (5­1) did not play. Next: Martin, S Chris Miller, RB Khalfani Muham­ Davidson 61, Duquesne 48 mad, LBs Terrance Smith, Reggie Walker vs. Virginia, Thursday. Fordham 55, Dayton 54 No. 25 Missouri St. (4­2) did not play. victory over TCU and Evan Weaver and CBs Jace Whittaker Holy Cross 68, Boston U. 66 and Picasso Nelson to reserve/future con­ Next: vs. Loyola, Friday. tracts for the 2021 season. Activated DB SOUTH Tuesday’s women’s scores Associated Press Chris Banjo from the reserve/COVID­19 Alabama 86, Florida 71 blocks, helping the host Spartans list. Clemson 74, NC State 70, OT EAST pull away. BALTIMORE RAVENS — Activated TE Gardner­Webb 85, Campbell 70 Sean Culkin from the practice squad in­ James Madison 79, FAU 70 Boston U. 72, Holy Cross 56 FORT WORTH, Texas — David Michigan State (8-3, 2-3 Big jured reserve. Released LB James Craw­ Kentucky 77, Vanderbilt 74 Delaware 68, Northeastern 61 ford. Mississippi St. 78, Missouri 63 Rhode Island 48, UMass 47 McCormack scored a season-high Ten) had a 17-point scoring edge CAROLINA PANTHERS — Signed K Joey North Carolina 67, Miami 65 20 points to lead five Kansas play- in the second half to win a second Slye to a one­year extension. Radford 76, Hampton 65 SOUTH CLEVELAND BROWNS — Placed G Joel Bi­ SC­Upstate 65, Longwood 59 Charleston Southern 66, Presbyterian 63 ers in double figures as the No. 6 straight game. tonio and WR KhaDarel Hodge on the re­ Winthrop 78, Charleston Southern 76 Delaware St. 60, Coppin St. 45 serve/COVID­19 list. Placed C Nick Harris Furman 73, Erskine 44 Jayhawks beat TCU 93-64 Tues- No. 18 Texas Tech 82, Kansas and DE Olivier Vernon on injured reserve. MIDWEST High Point 73, Campbell 67 day and matched the Big 12 record State 71: Terrence Shannon Jr. DENVER BRONCOS — Signed C Patrick Bowling Green 90, Cent. Michigan 69 Longwood 54, SC­Upstate 52 Morris to a reserve/future contracts for Michigan St. 68, Rutgers 45 Louisville 96, UT Martin 61 by winning their 11th consecutive beat the first-half buzzer with a the 2021 season. DETROIT LIONS — Signed WRs Tom Ken­ PRO BASEBALL conference road game. jumper on his way to 22 points, nedy, Victor Bolden, G Evan Brown, S Jalen Elliott and LB Anthony Pittman to reserve/ Kansas (9-2, 3-1 Big 12) Mac McClung added 16 and the future contracts for the 2021 season. Salary arbitration eligibles ATLANTA (4) — Max Fried, lhp; A.J. Min­ matched the league mark it initial- host Red Raiders beat the Wild- INDIANAPOLIS COLTS — Signed S Nick ter, lhp; Mike Soroka, rhp; Dansby Swan­ Nelson and TE Jordan Thomas to reserve/ NEW YORK — The 130 players eligible for son, ss. ly set 18 years ago. The win in Fort cats. future contracts for the 2021 season. salary arbitration. Players and teams ex­ CHICAGO (5) — Javier Báez, ss; Kris JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS — Waived P change proposed salaries on Jan. 15: Bryant, 3b; Willson Contreras, c; Zach Da­ Worth came only three days after No. 19 Clemson 74, North Car­ Dustin Colquitt. Activated OL Ben Bartch AMERICAN LEAGUE vies, rhp; Ian Happ, of. a 25-point loss at home to Texas. olina State 70 (OT): Aamir Simms from the reserve/COVID­19 list. BALTIMORE (2) — Trey Mancini, of; An­ CINCINNATI (6) — Luis Castillo, rhp; Amir LAS VEGAS RAIDERS — Signed TE Nick thony Santander, of. Garrett, lhp; Michael Lorenzen, rhp­of; Tyl­ Ochai Agbaji added 19 points, hit a go-ahead basket for a second Bowers, K Dominik Eberle, DB Rashaan BOSTON (1) — Rafael Devers, 3b. er Mahle, rhp; Noé Ramirez, rhp; Jesse Gaulden, DE Gerri Green, OLs Jaryd Jones­ CHICAGO (3) — Lucas Giolito, rhp; Rey­ Winker, of. while Jalen Wilson had 16, Tristan straight game as the host Tigers Smith and Erik Magnuson, LBs James On­ naldo López, rhp. COLORADO (8) — Carlos Estévez, rhp; Enaruna 12 and Christian Braun rallied from nine points down in waualu and Javin White, DT Niles Scott, OT CLEVELAND (3) — Austin Hedges, c; Kyle Freeland, lhp; Mychal Givens, rhp; Jon Kamaal Seymour and CB Kemah Siverand Francisco Lindor, ss; Phil Maton, rhp. Gray, rhp; Ryan McMahon, 2b; Antonio 10. the second half to beat the Wolf- to reserve/future contracts for the 2021 DETROIT (9) — Matt Boyd, lhp; Jeimer Senzatela, rhp; Robert Stephenson, rhp; season. Candelario, 3b; José Cisnero, rhp; Buck Raimel Tapia, of. Chuck O’Bannon Jr. had a ca- pack in overtime. LOS ANGELES RAMS — Waived K Kai For­ Farmer, rhp; Michael Fulmer, rhp; Niko LOS ANGELES (7) — Austin Barnes, c; Co­ reer-high 18 points to lead the North Carolina State (6-2, 2-1 bath from injured reserve. Goodrum, ss; Joe Jiménez, rhp; JaCoby dy Bellinger, of­1b; Walker Buehler, rhp; MIAMI DOLPHINS — Signed DEs Nick Coe Jones, of; Daniel Norris, lhp. Dylan Floro, rhp; Corey Knebel, rhp; Corey Horned Frogs (9-3, 2-2). Atlantic Coast Conference) took and Tyshun Render, S Brian Cole, CBs Java­ HOUSTON (3) — Carlos Correa, ss; Aled­ Seager, ss; Julio Urías, lhp. ris Davis and Tino Ellis, C Tyler Gauthier, T mys Díaz, inf; Lance McCullers Jr., rhp. MIAMI (5) — Jorge Alfaro, c; Brian Ander­ No. 4 Texas 78, Iowa State 72: its last lead on DJ Funderburk’s Jonathan Hubbard, LB Kylan Johnson, TE KANSAS CITY (2) — Brad Keller, rhp; son, 3b; Richard Bleier, lhp; Adam Cimber, Andrew Jones scored a career- three-pointer with 3:12 to go in OT. Chris Myarick, G Durval Queiroz Neto, QB Adalberto Mondesi, ss. rhp; Yimi García, rhp. Reid Sinnett and LS Rex Sunahara to re­ LOS ANGELES (6) — Dylan Bundy, rhp; MILWAUKEE (2) — Josh Hader, lhp; Bran­ high 23 points and the host Long- That’s when Simms got the ball serve/future contracts for the 2021 sea­ Andrew Heaney, lhp; Mike Mayers, rhp; don Woodruff, rhp. son. Shohei Ohtani, dh­rhp; Felix Peña, rhp; NEW YORK (9) — Miguel Castro, rhp; Mi­ horns continued their torrid start down low for a basket to put Clem- MINNESOTA VIKINGS — Signed TE Bran­ Max Stassi, c. chael Conforto, of; J.D. Davis, 3b­of; Edwin to the season. son (9-1, 3-1) ahead for good. don Dillon to a reserve/future contract for MINNESOTA (0) Díaz, rhp; Robert Gsellman, rhp; Seth Lugo, the 2021 season. NEW YORK (8) — Clint Frazier, of; Chad rhp; Brandon Nimmo, of; Amed Rosario, Texas (9-1, 3-0 Big 12) led by as Kentucky 77, Vanderbilt 74: NEW YORK GIANTS — Signed WR Derrick Green, rhp; Aaron Judge, of; Jordan Mont­ ss; Dominic Smith, 1b­of. Dillon and RB Jordan Chunn to reserve/fu­ gomery, lhp; Gary Sánchez, c; Gleyber PHILADELPHIA (3) — José Alvarado, lhp; much as 15 early in the second half Olivier Sarr scored 24 points, Da- ture contracts for the 2021 season. Signed Torres, ss; Gio Urshela, 3b; Luke Voit, 1b. Rhys Hoskins, 1b; Vince Velasquez, rhp. but the Cyclones (2-6, 0-4) kept vion Mintz made the game-win- defensive coach Patrick Graham to a con­ OAKLAND (6) — Chris Bassitt, rhp; Mark PITTSBURGH (9) — Steven Brault, lhp; tract extension as assistant head coach/ Canha, of; Matt Chapman, 3b; Sean Ma­ Kyle Crick, rhp; Adam Frazier, 2b; Chad chipping away and made it tough ning three-pointer with 47 sec- defensive coordinator. naea, lhp; Frankie Montas, rhp; Lou Triv­ Kuhl, rhp; Colin Moran, 3b; Joe Musgrove, SEATTLE SEAHAWKS — Activated OT ino, rhp. rhp; Richard Rodríguez, rhp; Jacob Stall­ for the Longhorns to close out the onds left and the host Wildcats Brandon Shell from the reserve/COVID­19 SEATTLE (3) — J.P. Crawford, ss; Rafael ings, c; Chris Stratton, rhp. game. took their ninth-straight win list. Released G Wyatt Miller from the Montero, rhp; Tom Murphy, c. ST. LOUS (4) — Harrison Bader, of; Jack practice squad. TAMPA BAY (6) — Yonny Chirinos, rhp; Flaherty, rhp; Jordan Hicks, rhp; Alex Mississippi State 78, No. 13 against the Commodores. TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS — Signed RB Ji­Man Choi, 1b; Tyler Glasnow, rhp; Manu­ Reyes, rhp. C.J. Prosise to the practice squad. Re­ el Margot, of; Joey Wendle, inf; Ryan Yar­ SAN DIEGO (5) — Dan Altavilla, rhp; Vic­ Missouri 63: DJ Stewart scored The Wildcats (3-6, 2-0 South- leased CB Mazzi Wilkins from practice brough, lhp. tor Caratini, c; Dinelson Lamet, rhp; Emilio 24 points and the host Bulldogs eastern Conference), who had lost squad. TEXAS (2) — Joey Gallo, of; Isiah Kiner­ Pagán, rhp; Tommy Pham, of. HOCKEY Falefa, 3b­ss. SAN FRANCISCO (2) — Reyes Moronta, overcame a 12-point halftime def- six straight before beating Missis- National Hockey League TORONTO (2) — Teoscar Hernandez, of; rhp; Donovan Solano, 2b. CHICAGO BLACKHAWKS — Waived C Ross Stripling, rhp. WASHINGTON (3) — Josh Bell, 1b; Juan icit to roll past the Mizzou. sippi State 79-73 in double-over- Zack Smith. NATIONAL LEAGUE Soto, of; Trea Turner, ss. Iverson Molinar added 20 time on Saturday, avoided the first COLORADO AVALANCHE — Announced ARIZONA (3) — Carson Kelly, c; Caleb Winker, Jesse CIN Woodruff, Brandon LW Colin Wilson retired. Smith, lhp; Luke Weaver, rhp. MIL points for the Bulldogs (7-4, 2-1 three-game losing streak in the 45- TORONTO MAPLE LEAFS — Waived RW Denis Malgin. AP SPORTLIGHT Southeastern Conference). Tolu year history of Rupp Arena. SOCCER Major League Soccer Smith had 15 points and nine re- North Carolina 67, Miami 65: LOS ANGELES GALAXY — Named Greg Jan. 7 1972 — The Los Angeles Lakers defeat bounds. Leaky Black scored 16 points, and Vanney head coach. the Atlanta Hawks 134­90 for their 33rd MINNESOTA UNITED — Signed MF Wil 1961 — Detroit’s Dick Lane blocks Sam straight victory, an NBA record. No. 23 Michigan State 68, No. Andrew Platek’s running jumper Trapp. Baker’s extra­point kick to save a 17­16 2013 — Alabama rolls to its second con­ 15 Rutgers 45: Aaron Henry had with three seconds to go carried ORANGE COUNTY — Signed F Ronaldo win for the Lions over the Cleveland secutive BCS championship and third in Damus. Browns in the NFL’s first Playoff Bowl. just four seasons. 20 points, eight rebounds and four the Tar Heels to a road win. Thursday, January 7, 2021 • STARS AND STRIPES • PAGE 21 NBA/COLLEGE FOOTBALL Grab: Smith becomes only 4th wide receiver to win Heisman Trophy FROM PAGE 24 chigan’s Desmond Howard in Heisman voting 1991, Notre Dame’s Tim Brown in 1987 and Nebraska’s Johnny Finalist voting for the 2020 Heisman Tro- phy, with first-, second- and third-place Rodgers in 1972. votes and total points (voting on 3-2-1 ba- Quarterbacks had won 17 of the sis): previous 20 Heisman trophies, in- Player 1st 2nd 3rd Total cluding the past four. DeVonta Smith, Alabama 447 221 73 1,856 Smith was presented the award Trevor Lawrence, Clemson 222 176 169 1,187 in a virtual ceremony orchestrat- Mac Jones, Alabama 138 248 220 1,130 ed by ESPN. The usual trip to New Kyle Trask, Florida 61 164 226 737 York for the finalists was called off because of the pandemic. Smith carved out a place in Ala- Smith accepted the trophy in bama’s storied history as a fresh- DAVID ZALUBOWSKI / AP Tuscaloosa, Ala., decked out in a man, catching the winning touch- Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic, left, heads down the court after intercepting a pass Tuesday. deep crimson jacket and shiny down pass from Tua Tagovailoa black bow tie. on second-and-26 in overtime He got a big hug from his quar- against Georgia to give the Tide NBA ROUNDUP NBA scoreboard terback, who told Smith that he the 2017 national championship. loved and was proud of him. Then The story of the game was the Eastern Conference Smith held back tears during his guy who threw the walk-off TD speech. pass. Tagovailoa became Alaba- Atlantic Division “To all the young kids out there ma’s Heisman contender and Jokic lifts Nuggets WLPct GB that’s not the biggest, not the most beloved player for the next Philadelphia 6 1 .857 — strongest, just keep pushing. Be- two years. Boston 5 3 .625 1½ cause I’m not the biggest. I’ve Smith was the overlooked star New York 4 3 .571 2 Brooklyn 4 4 .500 2½ been doubted a lot because of my in the Tide’s talented 2017 class of past Timberwolves Toronto 1 5 .167 4½ size and, really, it’s just comes receivers that included All-Amer- Southeast Division down to you just put your mind to ican Jerry Jeudy and the blazingly Associated Press four-game skid. WLPct GB it, no job’s too big,” said the 6- fast Henry Ruggs. Both of those Dejounte Murray added 21 foot-1, 175-pound Smith. players decided to skip their se- Orlando 5 2 .714 — DENVER — Nikola Jokic points, Rudy Gay had 16 points, Atlanta 4 3 .571 1 Meanwhile, his parents nior seasons and enter the draft scored 13 of his 35 points in the LaMarcus Aldridge 14 points and Miami 3 3 .500 1½ watched from a community cen- last year. Both were selected in fourth quarter after losing his cool Keldon Johnson a career-high 11 Charlotte 2 5 .286 3 ter in his hometown of Amite, La., the first round. earlier in the game, and the Den- rebounds for the Spurs. They led Washington 2 5 .286 3 where a socially distanced watch “I kind of like being out of the ver Nuggets scrambled late to by 24 in the first quarter and with- Central Division party was held. way and not in the mix,” Smith beat Minnesota 123-116 on Tues- stood an onslaught by Kawhi Leo- WLPct GB “We love him. Everybody here said. “I’m not the most vocal per- day night for their 10th straight nard in the third before nearly Indiana 5 2 .714 — is supporting him, we’re so proud son. I don’t like talking that much. win over the Timberwolves. blowing their lead in the fourth. Milwaukee 4 3 .571 1 of him. Continue being humble. It was enjoyable while it lasted.” Jokic shook off two second- Leonard scored a game-high 30 Cleveland 4 3 .571 1 Let God lead him. And we are here He returned to school to form an Chicago 4 4 .500 1½ quarter technical fouls — one for points and had 10 assists. He had Detroit 1 6 .143 4 to support him every step of the explosive combination for the hanging on the rim and another 11 points in the third, when Pa- way,” Smith’s mother, Christina Tide with junior Jaylen Waddle. Western Conference for jawing at an official — to lead trick Beverley made three three- Smith-Sylve, said to ESPN. Then Waddle went down with a the Nuggets to the comeback vic- pointers, and the Clippers closed Southwest Division Smith is the third Alabama play- season-ending leg injury on Oct. tory. He also had 15 rebounds. within one. Nicolas Batum had 21 er to win the Heisman, all since 24. WLPct GB Will Barton added 20 points and points and nine rebounds, and Be- 2009. Like Tide running backs As the Tide’s undisputed No. 1 New Orleans 4 3 .571 — reserve JaMychal Green had 17 verley finished with 20 points. Dallas 3 4 .429 1 Mark Ingram (’09) and Derrick receiver, Smith shined. The week for the Nuggets, who squandered Nets 130, Jazz 96: Kyrie Irv- San Antonio 3 4 .429 1 Henry (2015), Smith will play for after Waddle went out, Smith had an 18-point lead in the first half ing scored 20 of his 29 points in Houston 2 3 .400 1 the national championship as a 11 catches for 204 yards and four and fell behind by eight. Denver the first half to lead undermanned Memphis 2 5 .286 2 Heisman winner. touchdowns against Mississippi held Minnesota scoreless for Brooklyn past visiting Utah. Northwest Division Alabama faces No. 3 Ohio State State. more than five minutes during the The Nets, who entered the WLPct GB on Jan. 11 in the College Football Smith’s soaring one-handed TD decisive stretch. game having lost two straight and Utah 4 3 .571 — Playoff title game in Miami Gar- grab against LSU was not just his D’Angelo Russell scored 33 four of five, never trailed. Denver 3 4 .429 1 dens, Fla. signature play, but one of the 2020 points and Juancho Hernango- As brilliant as he was individu- Portland 3 4 .429 1 Smith said he returned for his season’s best. Oklahoma City 2 4 .333 1½ mez added 25 against his former ally, Irving had help from Jarrett Minnesota 2 5 .286 2 senior season to earn his degree A former four-star recruit, team. It was the fifth straight loss Allen and Caris LeVert. and win a national title. Smith came to Tuscaloosa from Pacific Division for the Timberwolves. Allen recorded his third dou- “I checked one of those boxes. LSU’s backyard. Lakers 94, Grizzlies 92: An- ble-double of the season with 19 WLPct GB Just trying to check the other one The understated Smith quietly thony Davis and LeBron James points and 18 rebounds, and LeV- L.A. Lakers 6 2 .750 — now,” Smith said during his Zoom led the Tide in receptions and Phoenix 5 2 .714 ½ each scored 26 points, rallying ert had 24 points off the bench. L.A. Clippers 5 3 .625 1 news conference. yards last year as a junior and be- Los Angeles to a win at Memphis. Joe Harris chipped in with 10 Golden State 4 3 .571 1½ The Heisman voting was com- came a second-team All-Ameri- James added 11 rebounds and points. Sacramento 3 4 .429 2½ plete on Dec. 21, so playoff per- can. seven assists, and Dennis Schrod- Bulls 111, Trail Blazers 108: Tuesday’s games formances were not a factor. But Smitty — as teammates and er finished with 12 points for the Coby White had 21 points and 10 Brooklyn 130, Utah 96 Smith made those who supported coaches call him — didn’t emerge L.A. Lakers 94, Memphis 92 Lakers, who have won their rebounds and short-handed Chi- Denver 123, Minnesota 116 him feel good about it with a bril- as a Heisman contender this sea- San Antonio 116, L.A. Clippers 113 fourth straight game. cago won at Portland. Chicago 111, Portland 108 liant three-touchdown game son until Waddle went down. Jonas Valanciunas, Dillon Otto Porter Jr. added 19 points Wednesday’s games against Notre Dame in the CFP Starting with that Mississippi Brooks and Gorgui Dieng led the and 13 rebounds for the Bulls, Cleveland at Orlando semifinals last weekend. State game, Smith went on a four- Houston at Indiana Grizzlies with 13 points apiece. who have won four of their last Washington at Philadelphia Smith has 105 catches for 1,641 game tear with 35 catches for 749 Spurs 116, Clippers 113:Patty five games. Boston at Miami yards and 22 total touchdowns go- yards and 11 touchdowns that Charlotte at Atlanta Mills came off the bench to hit a CJ McCollum led the Blazers Utah at New York ing into the final game of his col- earned him another nickname: Detroit at Milwaukee career-high eight three-pointers with 26 points, including six Oklahoma City at New Orleans lege career — which will also be Slim Reaper. and scored 27 points, and San An- three-pointers points and nine as- Toronto at Phoenix his third national championship Whatever you call Smith, he’s Chicago at Sacramento tonio won at Los Angeles to snap a sists. L.A. Clippers at Golden State game. been quite a catch for Alabama. PAGE 22 • STARS AND STRIPES • Thursday, January 7, 2021 NFL Coaches, QBs, COVID-19 among offseason topics The 18 nonplayoff teams have already started tackling tough issues

BY ROB MAADI leaves only three minority coach- canceled and held virtually. Clem- Associated Press es. Chiefs offensive coordinator son QB Trevor Lawrence is ex- While 14 teams are focused on Eric Bieniemy and 49ers defen- pected to go to Jacksonville with JULIE JACOBSON / AP their pursuit of the Vince Lombar- sive coordinator Robert Saleh are the first pick. The Jets have the Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning holds up the Vince di Trophy with the expanded NFL expected to interview for multiple second pick and could take Ohio Lombardi Trophy after Super Bowl 50 in 2016. playoffs set to kick off this week- open spots and would increase the State QB Justin Fields even end, the offseason is under way for total if they get jobs. Whoever re- though they have Sam Darnold. 18 other clubs. places Lynn in Los Angeles inher- Brigham Young QB Zach Wilson Six teams are searching for new its a solid nucleus led by quarter- could crack the top 10. Heisman No surprise: Peyton head coaches. Seven were looking back Justin Herbert. The opening Trophy winner Devonta Smith of for general managers. Quarter- in Houston is also attractive be- Alabama and fellow wide receiver backs and other star players will cause of quarterback Deshaun Ja’Marr Chase of LSU are project- among Hall finalists surely be on the move. Watson. Jacksonville has the No. 1 ed as potential top-five picks. Everyone hopes normalcy re- overall pick so the new coach Quarterbacks: A pair of NFC BY BARRY WILNER “To me it is not lost to be in this turns by the start of the new sea- should get a franchise QB. East QBs could be on the move in Associated Press moment, to be a Hall of Fame fi- son. Free agency: The new league the offseason. Carson Wentz may Peyton Manning, no surprise, is nalist in the first year; it takes a lot The league already pulled off a season begins March 17 and reve- have played his last game with the among 15 finalists for the Pro to get to this point. You really have difficult task by completing its nue losses due to the pandemic Philadelphia Eagles, and same for Football Hall of Fame’s class of to make an impact on the game 256-game regular season on time means the salary cap will be re- Dak Prescott with the Dallas Cow- 2021. and I am excited to be in this mo- during the coronavirus pandemic. duced. The floor is $175 million, boys. Wentz had the worst season The star quarterback, owner of ment.” The goal now is playing the Super which would be a decrease of $23.2 of his five-year career before he a record five NFL Most Valuable Two of the NFL’s most depend- Bowl in Tampa on Feb. 7. million. Over the Cap estimates was benched for the last four Player awards and two Super able defensive linemen got to the Getting an opportunity to win a it’ll be $176 million. There will be a games. Prescott put up excellent Bowl titles, was the first finalist finals: sack master Jared Allen championship begins with a slew of talented players available numbers before a gruesome ankle revealed by the hall on Tuesday and versatile Richard Seymour. strong offseason. because teams are going to make injury ended his season in Octo- night. Allen, who had 136 sacks and Here’s some things to look for cost-cutting decisions. Veterans ber. Mitchell Trubisky, Cam New- Manning, of course, was one of forced four safeties, is another this offseason: with big contracts will be looking ton and Jameis Winston will be the most prolific passers in NFL first-year eligible player, while Coaches: The Chargers, Jag- for new teams. The franchise tag among the free agents. The Lions history. In 18 pro seasons and 265 Seymour has made the finals for uars, Texans, Falcons, Jets and Li- will account for a larger percent- may shop Matthew Stafford, and starts out of 266 games played three of his four eligible years. ons need new coaches. Much at- age of the salary cap so that will de- retirement is a possibility for Phi- since being the top overall draft Zach Thomas, who also ex- tention is given to minority candi- ter teams from using it. The Eagles lip Rivers. choice by Indianapolis in 1998, he celled on special teams, was one dates because the league strength- and Saints are two teams facing COVID­19: It wasn’t business as had 14 seasons with 4,000-plus of three linebackers making the ened its Rooney Rule. In major cap issues and will have to usual this season because of the yards passing. finals, joining Sam Mills — a star November, the NFL implemented slash payroll significantly. pandemic and some changes will When he retired following lead- in the USFL and then the NFL — a seven-point mobility plan that it Draft: The 86th NFL draft is become part of the league. Virtual ing Denver to the 2015 league ti- and Clay Matthews, who led some projects will enhance opportuni- scheduled for April 29-May 1 in meetings, a prolonged training tle, Manning held NFL records for strong Cleveland defenses from ties for minorities in coaching and Cleveland. The city is planning for camp, expanded practice squads career passing yards (71,940), ca- 1978-1993 before playing three front office positions. The firing of a socially distanced event after and unlimited callbacks from in- reer passing touchdowns (539) seasons in Atlanta. Thomas and Anthony Lynn by the Chargers last year’s draft in Las Vegas was jured reserve will be considered. and consecutive seasons with at Mills became second-time final- least 25 passing touchdowns (13). ists, and Matthews for the first He won 201 of those games, in- time. Gore unsure cluding playoffs, guiding the Colts Two offensive linemen who to the 2006 NFL championship. have been frequent finalists He also made the Super Bowl for round out the potential class of he’ll play a the 2009 and 2013 seasons, was a 2021: Alan Faneca and Tony Bo- seven-time All-Pro, and a mem- selli. Faneca, who played guard 17th season ber of the NFL’s All-Decade and tackle and starred for three Team of the 2000s. franchises (Steelers, Jets, Cardi- BY DENNIS WASZAK JR. Joining Manning as a finalist nals) made his sixth final in as Associated Press was one of the players he threw to, many years of eligibility, while NEW YORK — Frank Gore is in wide receiver Reggie Wayne, a fi- Boselli, a standout for Jackson- no rush to decide if he’ll give it an- nalist for the second time. First- ville, reached the finals for a fifth other run next season. year eligible Calvin Johnson and time. The New York Jets running second-time finalist Torry Holt al- Voting on the entrants to the back, who ranks third on the so made the cut among receivers. Hall will be conducted later this NFL’s career rushing list with Wayne played in two Super month, with the inductees an- 16,000 yards, will be 38 in May and Bowls with Manning. nounced during Super Bowl just completed his 16th season. Four defensive backs, includ- week. A maximum of five mod- He’s scheduled to be a free agent ing current 49ers general manag- ern-day players can be chosen, this offseason. er John Lynch, advanced. This along with three previously an- “I’m going to get some down JAE C. HONG / AP will be Lynch’s eighth time as a nounced candidates should they time with the fam and get to Mia- Jets running back Frank Gore, left, is uncertain he’ll return to play a finalist, while it’s the first for get the required votes: coach Tom mi and chill out with my kids,” 17th season. The 38­year­old is third on the career rushing list. Charles Woodson in his initial Flores, contributor Bill Nunn, and Gore said Tuesday. “And then, I’ll year of eligibility, and Ronde Bar- senior Drew Pearson. see what’s up. I still have fun, man, has played more games — 240 — and if I want to play with a team ber, and the second appearance in Inductions are scheduled for playing the game of football. But I than anyone at the position in that really wants me,” Gore said of the finals for Leroy Butler. next August, when the 2020 class didn’t make a decision yet.” league history. So, Gore knows what will factor into his decision. “I am just enjoying this mo- and a special centennial class also Gore knows whether he plays teams likely won’t be lining up to “A team that’s got a young guy ment, sitting here watching those will be enshrined after the CO- next season won’t be entirely up to sign him, despite his Pro Football who I can mentor, to help out to be highlights and what you immedi- VID-19 pandemic forced post- him. At his age, most NFL running Hall of Fame-type resume. a better pro. A team that has a ately do is kind of reliving some of ponement of those ceremonies backs have been long retired. He “Basically, whoever wants me, chance to win. Things like that.” those moments,” Woodson said. last summer. Thursday, January 7, 2021 • STARS AND STRIPES • PAGE 23 NFL Virus complicates rare Browns playoff game BY TOM WITHERS of Cleveland’s wild-card game at Pittsburgh when the pandemic McCarthy added the league is continuing Associated Press on Sunday night — the Browns’ first playoff 18 began. to conduct contact tracing to identify any CLEVELAND — Amid a masked, muted appearance since the 2002 season. Stefanski, who in possible high-risk close contacts. NFL rules celebration in the locker room after the The Browns announced Tuesday — 18 his first year returned state that anyone testing positive must be Seasons since the Browns ended the NFL’s longest playoff years to the day since their last playoff game Browns’ last playoff the Browns to re- away from the team at least 10 days. drought, coach Kevin Stefanski asked for a —that Stefanski tested positive for the coro- appearance in spectability, can only Tretter said he had been in touch with Bi- game ball and then told Pro Bowl guard Joel navirus, which has plagued the team in re- 2002. coach virtually from tonio. Bitonio to step forward. cent weeks and has thrown Cleveland’s home this week. He’ll “I feel for him,” Tretter said. “Obviously Source: Associated Stefanski flipped the ball to Bitonio, who plans this week into disarray for the wild- Press be replaced by special with what he’s gone through, what he’s en- had survived seven long seasons, 0-16 in card game. teams coordinator dured over his career and finally finding that 2017, the Johnny Manziel mess and numer- In less than 48 hours, joy for the Browns Mike Priefer, and the Browns will have to success for the first time and then it being ous coaching changes. and their fans long-suffering fans was all but make other staff adjustments as tight ends taken away at the last second, it’s hard. I feel “You’re going to the playoffs, 75,” Stefanki extinguished. coach Drew Petzing and defensive backs for all the guys that won’t be able to play for told Bitonio. “Very sad,” Browns center and NFLPA coach Jeff Howard are also out. the first playoff game. Two days later, nothing is certain with the President JC Tretter said. “It’s really unfor- Despite the Browns’ issues — they now “Extremely tough. This is just a terrible Browns. tunate.” have eight rotational players and five coach- scenario for him and for everybody in- Positive COVID-19 tests have knocked Now, after beating the Steelers last Sun- es on the COVID-19 list — league spokesman volved.” Stefanski, Bitonio, wide receiver KhaDarel day to make the playoff field, the Browns are Brian McCarthy said the game is on sched- It’s still possible the Browns will lose other Hodge and at least two assistant coaches out implementing contingency plans drawn up ule. players after contact tracing is completed. Testing replaces tailgating as Bills will welcome fans

BY JOHN WAWROW accommodate the number of peo- Associated Press ple showing up and have the re- ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. — sults returned within close to a 24- Testing is replacing tailgating in hour period. the Bills Stadium parking lot, with “We have approximately 150 a limited number of fans being al- staff who are in Buffalo to pull this lowed to attend Buffalo’s wild- thing off, who were arriving Satur- card playoff game against the In- day, Sunday, training and getting dianapolis Colts on Saturday. everything set up and ready to go,” Before that can happen, New BioReference executive chair- York state guidelines require the man Jon Cohen said Tuesday. approximate 6,700 fans, plus 200 Though the company has con- employees and members of the ducted more than 10 million CO- media, first test negative for CO- VID-19 tests since May, including BILL WIPPERT / AP VID-19 within 72 hours of kickoff. NFL and NBA players and staff, Testing replaced tailgating in the Bills Stadium’s parking lot starting Wednesday. Some 6,700 fans must Each person must show his or her this will be BioReference’s largest be tested for the coronavirus to attend an AFC wild­card playoff game against the Colts on Saturday. ID and proof of a negative test be- drive-thru event and the first fore being allowed in the outdoor mandatory fan-testing program in even Broadway theaters. antee them playing at home again Mafia can finally see their AFC facility, which seats about 70,000. the country, Cohen said. “Everybody’s focused on what the following week, there have East champions in action up close. The tests will be held Wednes- The state considers the pro- should be the game and the fans been no discussions as to whether It will be Buffalo’s first home play- day and Thursday and conducted gram a test run in granting the and everything, but this is also fo- fans would be allowed to attend a off appearance since a 30-27 loss by New Jersey-based BioRefe- Bills permission to have fans at- cused on how testing programs second game, Cohen said. to Jacksonville on Dec. 28, 1996, in rence Laboratories. tend a home game for the first like this help reopen the New York “Everybody’s totally focused on what proved to be Hall of Fame The company is converting a time this season. Should all go State economy. That’s a very im- getting the job done at hand, and quarterback Jim Kelly’s final portion of the expansive stadium well, the program has the poten- portant issue,” Cohen said. “So it’s then we’ll figure out if there’s go- game. lots into a drive-thru testing site. tial of being used to open other a broader brush than it just hap- ing to be next steps,” Cohen said. Not surprisingly, the limited Tests will be done over 14-hour pe- New York venues, such as indoor pens to be a sports event.” In Buffalo, there’s relief that number of tickets sold out shortly riods both days, feature 30 lanes to sports arenas, music halls and Though a Bills’ win would guar- members of the so-called Bills after being made available. Gailey resigns as Dolphins’ OC

BY STEVEN WINE rookie quarterback Tua Tagovai- 2021. Associated Press loa, who struggled at times but If Flores decided to promote MIAMI — Miami Dolphins of- went 6-3 as a starter. Gailey’s successor from within the fensive coordinator Chan Gailey The Dolphins finished 10-6 with organization, candidates include has resigned one season after one of the NFL’s youngest teams. tight end coach George Godsey coming out of retirement. A blowout loss Sunday at Buffalo and running backs coach Eric Stu- The announcement was made kept them out of the playoffs. desville. Godsey was offensive co- Wednesday, one day after Gailey’s “I want to thank Chan for all of ordinator for the Houston Texans 69th birthday and one day after his hard work and dedication,” in 2015-16. coach Brian Flores said he expect- Flores said in a statement. “He This season was Gailey’s 21st as ed all of his assistant coaches played an important role on the an NFL coach and his second stint would return in 2021. staff and in the development of our with Miami. He was head coach With Gailey calling plays, the young roster.” for the Buffalo Bills (2010-12), Ge- PHELAN M. EBENHACK / AP Dolphins scored 404 points, their Gailey’s resignation means orgia Tech (2002-07) and the Dal- Miami Dolphins offensive coordinator Chan Gailey is stepping down highest total since 1986. He had a Flores will have his third offensive las Cowboys (1998-99). one season after coming out of retirement. major role in the development of coordinator in as many seasons in He did not coach in 2017-19. PAGE 24 • STARS AND STRIPES • Thursday, January 7, 2021 COVID complicates game plan SPORTS Browns coach will miss team’s 1st playoff appearance in 18 years ›› NFL, Page 23

COLLEGE FOOTBALL Alabama’s Smith 1st WR in 29 years to win Heisman

BY RALPH D. RUSSO Associated Press NEW YORK — On an Alabama team stacked with stars, DeVonta Smith emerged as the best player in college football while playing a position that rarely gets that kind of recognition. Smith became the first wide re- ceiver to win the Heisman Trophy in 29 seasons Tuesday night, breaking the monopoly quarter- backs have had on the award by beating out three of them. “Just to be one of the very few that played receiver to win the Heisman, it means a lot to me,” Smith said. Smith finished with 447 first- place votes and 1,856 points to eas- ily outdistance Clemson’s Trevor Lawrence (222; 1,187), Alabama teammate Mac Jones (138; 1,130) and Florida’s Kyle Trask (61; 737). Crimson Tide running back Na- jee Harris finished fifth in the vot- ing, making No. 1 Alabama the second team in the 85-year history of the Heisman to have three of the top five vote-getters. Army did it in 1946 with Glenn Davis (first), Doc Blanchard (fourth) and Ar- nold Tucker (fifth). “I want to thank my team- mates,” Smith said during his ac- ceptance speech. “With team suc- cess comes individual success so without you all, I wouldn’t be where I’m at today, winning this award.” Smith is onlyt the fourth receiv- er to win the Heisman, joining Mi- SEE GRAB ON PAGE 21

Alabama wide receiver DeVonta Smith poses after winning the Heisman Trophy on Tuesday night in Tuscaloosa, Ala. Smith broke the monopoly quarterbacks have had on college football’s most prestigious award Tough grab by beating out three of them. KENT GIDLEY, HESIMAN TROPHY TRUST/AP

Jayhawks bounce back from blowout ›› College basketball, Page 20