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The Duffel Brief · the free edition, Monday, Wednesday and Friday

Vol. 15 · No. 118 · Friday, 2 October 2026

Navy & Marines

Paste-eating Marine praised for unmatched commitment to unit

Unit leaders say his ability to stick with the mission is unmatched

Backed-up toilet appointed new Secretary of the Army

Space Force’s new uniform puts a little goose back in the step

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Vol. 15 · No. 118

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Vol. 15 · No. 118 · Deployed worldwide

Friday

2 October 2026

1925 Zulu

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· Page 2

Holiday half-day schedule canceled due to low morale

Filed · 1534

WASHINGTON — Base Commanders across the military have steadily become aware of seasonal low morale across the force, and they're going to do something about it.

“Our research uncovered that the dip in morale began among the junior enlisted who have to serve at the duty desks and on guard positions," said a Pentagon spokesman. "We think making those kids stare at walls when everyone else is at home with their families may be a factor, but not a substantial one.”

The military has historically experienced a decrease in morale during the holidays, defense officials said.

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