MIL News Weekly

In this episode of MIL News Weekly, we cover key updates impacting military personnel, retirees, and veterans from November 16-22, 2025. Major topics include the aftermath of a government shutdown, which nearly disrupted pay for 2 million service members and highlighted vulnerabilities in military financial systems. The reopening restored retroactive pay for furloughed employees and lifted administrative freezes on personnel actions and travel orders. A significant Department of War policy overhaul aims to reduce non-essential training and improve fairness in discipline and retention. Legislative highlights feature progress on the FY2025 National Defense Authorization Act, which boosts pay and leave protections, especially for reservists, and secures financial stability during budget impasses. Retired personnel received confirmation of a 2.8% COLA for 2026, offering vital economic relief. TRICARE’s open season encourages eligible families to review healthcare coverage. VA disability benefits remained stable despite shutdowns, with services resuming post-reopening. Persistent challenges remain with the VA claims backlog, while the VHA continues to advance preventive care and medical research.