
**FILE** The Pentagon, across the Potomac River from Washington, is seen in this aerial view in March 2008. (Associated Press)

associated press An American flag waves at half staff in Hawthorne, Calif., not far from the Army depot where seven Marines were killed and others seriously injured late Monday when a 60 mm mortar exploded during a training exercise. The Pentagon suspended use of the mortars until a review is complete.

An American flag waves at half staff in Hawthorne, Calif., not far from the Army depot where seven Marines were killed and others seriously injured late Monday when a 60 mm mortar exploded during a training exercise. The Pentagon suspended use of the mortars until a review is complete. (Associated Press)

ASSOCIATED PRESS A study commissioned by the Pentagon and Veterans Affairs recommending a smoke-free military has drawn strong reactions.

**FILE** President Obama discusses defense strategic guidance at the Pentagon in Washington on Jan. 5, 2012. (Associated Press)

**FILE** President Obama discusses defense strategic guidance at the Pentagon in Washington on Jan. 5, 2012. (Associated Press)

**FILE** The Pentagon, across the Potomac River from Washington, is seen in this aerial view in March 2008. (Associated Press)

**FILE** The Pentagon, across the Potomac River from Washington, is seen in this aerial view in March 2008. (Associated Press)

**FILE** Deputy Defense Secretary Ashton Carter speaks March 1, 2013, during a news conference regarding the automatic spending cuts at the Pentagon. (Associated Press)