Jonathan Lehrfeld
Early Bird Brief Editor, Military Times
Jonathan is a staff writer and editor of the Early Bird Brief newsletter for Military Times. Follow him on Twitter @lehrfeld_media
All Stories By Jonathan
Weighing benefits: Could anti-obesity meds help troops’ weight issues?
Advocates argue that anti-obesity drugs like Ozempic could help overweight troops, but the services have no uniform policy for such treatments.
Key Senate confirmation moves follow Trump’s inauguration
Defense and veterans hearings for the week of Jan. 20, 2025.
Senate panel advances Hegseth’s bid to become next defense secretary
The vote from the Senate Armed Services Committee sets up a full Senate confirmation vote on Trump's pick to lead the Pentagon later this week.
Trump promises to bring back troops booted for refusing COVID vaccine
Both Trump and his pick to lead the Pentagon have promised back pay for troops dismissed for refusing the COVID-19 vaccine.
Biden pardons Milley in move to guard against possible Trump ‘revenge’
It’s customary to grant clemency at the end of presidential terms, but such acts are traditionally offered to Americans who have been convicted of crimes.
Polish general fired after anti-tank mines found in Ikea warehouse
An Ikea warehouse representative reportedly telephoned military officials and inquired about “when they would collect their mines.” As one does.
Lawmakers again push to ease firing rules for misbehaving VA staff
Punishing underperforming VA workers was a priority during Trump's first term. Congressional leaders want to zero in on the problem again.
Lloyd Austin ends term marred by Afghanistan but buoyed by Ukraine
Defense Secretary Austin will bid farewell Friday following a term that included three major military crises, a global pandemic and a brush with cancer.
Navy relieves CO of Naval Information Warfare Training Group Norfolk
Cmdr. Sarah M. Quemada was relieved of her duties “due to a loss of confidence in her ability to command,” the service said.
Trump picks intel community official as next Air Force secretary
If confirmed, Troy Meink would inherit key decisions about the Air Force's fighter force and how to right-size the Space Force as it takes on new missions.
