The Strategy Behind “The Rock”

June 22, 2026

In December 1972, with the Vietnam War at a diplomatic stalemate, the U.S. military launched Operation Linebacker II. Sending waves of B-52 bombers directly into the world’s most formidable air defense network, this intense 11-day campaign became a masterclass in crisis management and rapid tactical evolution.

Now, the official, unfiltered account of this historic operation is available to the public.

To understand what truly happened in the skies over North Vietnam, read Linebacker II: A View from the Rock. Published by the Department of Defense and available through the U.S. Government Publishing Office (GPO) Bookstore, this riveting narrative details the high-stakes reality of the campaign:

  • The Brutal Reality: Initial American sorties faced devastating losses from dense surface-to-air missile (SAM) salvos.
  • The Pivot: Instead of sticking to a broken blueprint, planners adapted on the fly—radically changing flight paths, electronic countermeasures, and strike timings in real time.
  • The Outcome: By neutralizing critical infrastructure, Linebacker II bypassed a decade of attritional warfare and forced a return to the peace table.

Beyond the Cockpit

A View from the Rock goes beyond the decision-makers to highlight the immense collaboration of the thousands who lived it. It captures the staggering coordination among military branches, the logistical grit of ground crews, and the raw courage of crew members flying into radar traps. With no existing playbook for an operation of this scale, these service members wrote it themselves. Perfect for military history enthusiasts and anyone inspired by resilience under pressure.

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THIS RESOURCE?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From the US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger contributor Ed Kessler is a Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publications and Information Sales Office.

Images and additional content provided by Government Book Talk Editor Trudy Hawkins. Trudy is the Senior Marketing & Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication & Information Sales Office, supporting the U.S. Government Online Bookstore (https://bookstore.gpo.gov).

Leave a Comment » | Department of Defense, Military History, U.S. Air Force, Vietnam | Tagged: , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

Economic Report of the President 2026

June 18, 2026

The 2026 Economic Report of the President is now available from the U.S. Government Publishing Office. Combined with the Annual Report of the Council of Economic Advisers, this year’s edition delivers an authoritative analysis of recent economic developments and a forward-looking forecast for the U.S. economy.

Key Focus Areas in This Year’s Report Include:

  • The Economic and Fiscal Benefits of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act
  • Rebuilding America’s International Trade Policy
  • Achieving Energy Dominance to Power American Prosperity
  • The Revolution of Artificial Intelligence
  • Protecting and Rebuilding the American Dream of Homeownership
  • The Year in Review and the Years Ahead

To read the full findings and explore the data driving these economic policies, purchase your copy directly from the GPO Bookstore today.

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THESE RESOURCES?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Order by Phone: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From the US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger Trudy Hawkins is the Senior Marketing & Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication & Information Sales Office, supporting the U.S. Government Online Bookstore (https://bookstore.gpo.gov).

Leave a Comment » | Federal Budget, Presidents, The White House, U.S. Economy | Tagged: , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

Your Guide to the 119th Congressional Directory

June 16, 2026

Whether you work in Washington or are just a citizen trying to see how your government operates, the 119th Congressional Directory, 2025-2026, is an invaluable tool. Created by the Joint Committee on Printing, this official guide gives everyone quick, accurate access to the inner workings of the federal government.

What’s Inside?

  • Your Representatives: Short biographies, committee roles, and terms of service for every Senator and Representative.
  • The Federal Government: Clear lists of executive departments, independent agencies, the military, and federal courts.
  • Local & International Leaders: Information on U.S. territory governors, the D.C. government, and foreign diplomats.

Why It Matters to Everyone

  • For Government Staff: It is a daily lifeline for prepping for meetings, researching officials, and cutting through bureaucratic noise.
  • For the General Public & Constituents: It is the ultimate tool for civic engagement. It helps you look up your own representatives, understand which committees they sit on, find contact information for federal agencies, and hold your government accountable.

From political insiders to everyday voters, this directory is a foundational asset for anyone who wants to navigate or understand the nation’s capital.

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THIS RESOURCE?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From the US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger contributor Ed Kessler is a Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publications and Information Sales Office.

Images and additional content provided by Government Book Talk Editor Trudy Hawkins. Trudy is the Senior Marketing & Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication & Information Sales Office, supporting the U.S. Government Online Bookstore (https://bookstore.gpo.gov).

Leave a Comment » | Congress, House of Representatives, Legislative Branch | Tagged: , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

Our Flag

June 12, 2026

Flag Day is a holiday celebrated in the U.S. on June 14th. It commemorates the adoption of the United States flag by the Second Continental Congress on June 14, 1777. In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson issued a proclamation officially establishing June 14 as Flag Day. On August 3, 1949, National Flag Day was established by an Act of Congress.

Did you know the first flag that flew over our nation before it became free of the British Empire, where our state stars are, was a United Kingdom emblem? Our Flag can help you better understand how far we’ve come as a nation. It briefly describes the history of the American flag and sets forth the practices and observances appropriate to its display. The publication also features a section on the Flags of States and Territories.

Ideas for a joyful Flag Day celebration:

  • Display your flag proudly! Make sure it’s in good condition and flying correctly in accordance with the U.S. Flag Code.
  • Learn more about the history of the American flag. There are many great resources online or at your local Federal Deposit Library Program (FDLP).
  • Play patriotic music and sing along!
  • Attend a local Flag Day parade or ceremony.

No matter how you choose to celebrate, National Flag Day is a great time to reflect on the meaning of the American flag and what it represents.

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THIS RESOURCE?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From the US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger contributor Ed Kessler is a Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publications and Information Sales Office.

Images and additional content provided by Government Book Talk Editor Trudy Hawkins. Trudy is the Senior Marketing & Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication & Information Sales Office, supporting the U.S. Government Online Bookstore (https://bookstore.gpo.gov).

Leave a Comment » | Congress, Libraries, Teachers and teaching, U.S. History | Tagged: , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

Mapping the Turning Points: 4 Official WWII Histories for June

June 9, 2026

June marks the anniversary of the turning tides of World War II. While names like Midway and Normandy live on in historical memory, the full picture of how these massive operations were planned, sustained, and won requires looking at the official record.

Whether you are an academic researcher, a military history buff, or a collector, the U.S. Government Bookstore holds the primary-source repository of these monumental years. This month, we are highlighting four crucial volumes that examine the strategy behind global victory:

  1. For Naval Strategy Buffs: Major Fleet-versus-Fleet Operations in the Pacific War provides an incredible look into carrier strikes using both Allied and Japanese records.
  2. For Visual Historians: The War Against Germany and Italy offers an immense pictorial archive of the terrain and conditions soldiers faced during the momentous 1944 European breakthroughs.
  3. For Logistics & Engineering Enthusiasts: Corps of Engineers: The War Against Japan highlights the building blocks of victory—constructing the runways and supply lines that won the Pacific.
  4. The Blueprint for Victory: Pull back the curtain on the secret war games, simulations, and experimental strategic testing that built the carrier strike groups destined to win the Pacific theater in Winning a Future War: War Gaming and Victory in the Pacific War.

Enhance your perspective this summer with these popular WWII publications. Explore our complete, official World War II historical collection here.

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THESE RESOURCES?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Order by Phone: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From the US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger Trudy Hawkins is the Senior Marketing & Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication & Information Sales Office, supporting the U.S. Government Online Bookstore (https://bookstore.gpo.gov).

Leave a Comment » | Army War College, Center of Military History, Department of Defense, U.S. Air Force, U.S. Army, World War II | Tagged: , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

Navigate with the Stars: The New Nautical Almanac for 2027

June 4, 2026

In an age of GPS and electronic charts, the time-honored skill of celestial navigation remains an essential art for mariners. It requires precision, knowledge, and a reliable guide. That guide is the Nautical Almanac, a critical resource that continues to serve as the standard for marine navigation. The new Nautical Almanac for 2027 is now available, providing the essential data needed for celestial navigation.

The Nautical Almanac is a powerful tool. It’s an annual treasure trove of astronomical information, published jointly by the U.S. Naval Observatory and the U.K. Hydrographic Office. This indispensable guide includes Celestial Body Positions: Accurate data for the Sun, Moon, planets, and stars. Rise and Set Times: Precise calculations for sunrise, sunset, moonrise, and moonset. Ephemeris Data: Detailed information on planetary and lunar positions. Together, these provide everything you need to plot your position on the open sea, ensuring you can always navigate confidently and precisely.

Beyond the Open Sea

While primarily a resource for navigators, the Nautical Almanac’s applications extend far beyond the maritime world. Amateur astronomers can use it to plan observations, track celestial events, and deepen their understanding of the night sky. Even for those with a casual interest in astronomy, the Almanac offers a fascinating look into the detailed movements of the cosmos. Whether on the water or under the stars, the Nautical Almanac connects you to the timeless art and science of finding your way.

HOW DO I OBTAIN THIS RESOURCE?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Order by Phone: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From the US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Trudy Hawkins is Government Book Talk Editor and Senior Marketing & Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication & Information Sales Office, supporting the U.S. Government Online Bookstore (https://bookstore.gpo.gov).

Leave a Comment » | Naval Observatory, U.S. Navy | Tagged: , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

Celebrate Latino Books Month with the GPO Bookstore

May 21, 2026

Latino Books Month celebrates the history, culture, and contributions of the Latino community. To mark the occasion, the U.S. Government Publishing Office (GPO) Bookstore is highlighting a curated collection of unique publications for and about Hispanics.

Here are a few standout titles available from the GPO Bookstore’s Hispanics Collection that you should check out this month:

Hispanic Americans in Congress, 1822–2012                   

For history buffs and political science enthusiasts, this comprehensive hardcover book is a must-read. Prepared by the Library of Congress, it profiles every Hispanic American who served in the U.S. Congress over a nearly 200-year span. Filled with rarely seen historical images, statistical charts, and deeply researched biographical essays, it traces the journey of Latino lawmakers from the era of continental expansion right through to modern legislative leadership. It’s an inspiring testament to the enduring impact of Latino voices in American democracy.

Bilingual and Spanish Resources for Families

The GPO Bookstore features a robust selection of Spanish-language titles designed to support families, parents, and new citizens. If you or someone you know is navigating the path to citizenship, look for essential resources like:

Preparación para el examen de naturalización: Guía de Bolsillo – A handy, accessible guide to mastering the civics portion of the naturalization interview.

Bienvenidos a los Estados Unidos de América: Guía para Inmigrantes Nuevos – Spanish-language edition of Welcome to the United States, A Guide for New Immigrants. An indispensable roadmap offering practical information to help new immigrants settle into life and understand the American system of government.

Children’s Books in Spanish

Instilling a love for reading at an early age is a core pillar of Latino Books Month. The GPO collection includes wonderful educational books in Spanish for toddlers and young children, such as:

¿Dónde está Osito? (Where is Bear?) – A fantastic, interactive story designed for 2-year-olds that helps track early childhood developmental milestones.

El Club de los Dos Bocados (The Two Bite Club) – A fun, illustrative story introduced by the USDA to encourage healthy eating habits among children.

Expand your bookshelf today, from tracking the legislative triumphs of Hispanic leaders to navigating daily life and education, federal publications offer an unexpected and invaluable window into la vida americana.

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THESE RESOURCES?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Order by Phone: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From the US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger Trudy Hawkins is the Senior Marketing & Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication & Information Sales Office, supporting the U.S. Government Online Bookstore (https://bookstore.gpo.gov).

Leave a Comment » | Children, Family, Hispanics, Language, Minorities | Tagged: , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

Older Americans Month

May 19, 2026

Celebrated annually in May, Older Americans Month 2026 is a great time to ensure our seniors have affordable, high-quality healthcare so they can live life to the fullest. For healthcare providers with private patients, now is also an excellent time to check your inventory of Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) forms to ensure your patients receive the seamless, affordable care they deserve.

The Health Insurance Claims Form (CMS-1500) is the standard claim form used by all non-institutional medical providers or suppliers to bill Medicare carriers and durable medical equipment regional carriers (DMERCs). This form is essential when a provider qualifies for a waiver from the Administrative Simplification Compliance Act (ASCA) requirement for electronic claims submission. It is also widely used for billing various Medicaid State Agencies.

The Administration for Community Living (ACL) theme for Older Americans Month 2026 is Champion Your Health. Let’s join them in honoring our seniors by recognizing the profound impact that meaningful relationships and social connections have on their health, well-being, and independence. By keeping older adults engaged, connected, and included, our entire community benefits.

Provider Checklist: Don’t let paperwork delay patient care. Take a moment this May to review your physical form inventory and ensure your office is fully stocked with the current, compliant version of the CMS-1500.

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THIS RESOURCE?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Order by Phone: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From the US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger contributor Ed Kessler is a Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publications and Information Sales Office.

Images and additional content provided by Government Book Talk Editor Trudy Hawkins. Trudy is the Senior Marketing & Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication & Information Sales Office, supporting the U.S. Government Online Bookstore (https://bookstore.gpo.gov).

Leave a Comment » | aging, Department of Health & Human Services, NIH | Tagged: , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

Honoring Our Heroes: Exploring America’s Military Heritage

May 14, 2026

As we observe Military History Month, we invite you to reflect on the historic publications that document America’s enduring role in global peace. From the nation’s founding in 1776 to the complexities of the modern era, the GPO Bookstore serves as the premier gateway to our shared military heritage.

Whether you are a dedicated history buff or a casual reader, there is no better time to explore our definitive collection of titles honoring the legacy of those who serve.

Browse our curated selection of military history titles here: Military Appreciation Month Collection.

A Month of Remembrance and Appreciation

May is filled with significant milestones, including Armed Forces Day on May 16th. This day is dedicated to recognizing the contributions, sacrifices, and unwavering service of armed forces members, both past and present. It is the perfect opportunity to extend our gratitude to the brave men and women who have dedicated their lives to protecting our country.

Essential Resources for Veterans and Their Families

For our nation’s Veterans, staying informed about their health benefits is vital. If you are a veteran, dependent, survivor, or caregiver, the booklet Federal Benefits for Veterans, Dependents, Survivors, and Caregivers is an indispensable resource for your home.

This guide provides a concise overview of the most sought-after information regarding VA services, ensuring you have a printed, reliable source to turn to in times of need.

Key subjects covered in the guide include:

  • Applying for Care: A step-by-step guide on how to apply for VA Health Care.
  • Programs & Services: An overview of available VA health care initiatives.
  • Support for Disabled Veterans: Specific resources tailored to those injured in service.
  • Future Planning: Essential details on Home Loans, Education, and Training.

Secure your copy today to ensure you and your family have the information necessary to improve your quality of life and access the benefits you’ve earned.

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THESE RESOURCES?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Order by Phone: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From the US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger contributor Ed Kessler is a Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication and Information Sales program office.

Images and additional content provided by Government Book Talk Editor Trudy Hawkins. Trudy is the Senior Marketing & Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication & Information Sales Office, supporting the U.S. Government Online Bookstore (https://bookstore.gpo.gov).

3 Comments | Army War College, Center of Military History, Department of Defense, Military History, U.S. Air Force, U.S. Army, U.S. Marines, U.S. National Guard, U.S. Navy, U.S. Senate | Tagged: , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

Preserve the Past: Your Guide to Historic Preservation

May 11, 2026

Celebrate National Preservation Month with expert guides for historic buildings. Preservation Briefs from the U.S. Government Publishing Office (GPO) Bookstore are your essential guide to caring for them!

Developed by the National Park Service’s Technical Preservation Services, Preservation Briefs are concise, convenient publications designed to help property owners, preservation professionals, and anyone working on historic structures understand and address common preservation challenges. They provide expert guidance on properly preserving, rehabilitating, and restoring historic buildings while maintaining their unique character and integrity.

The GPO Bookstore offers Preservation Briefs on focused topics like “Historic Decorative Metal Ceilings and Walls,” offering a history of these features and methods for their proper repair and replacement; “The Seismic Rehabilitation of Historic Buildings,” explaining how to strengthen historic structures against earthquakes while retaining their character; and “Preserving Grave Markers in Historic Cemeteries,” which addresses the unique challenges of protecting these important historical artifacts, covering materials, decay, and treatment.

Why are they a must-have?

Preservation Briefs are a must-have for several reasons. They help protect our heritage by ensuring that historic buildings are properly cared for, thereby preserving their unique value for future generations. Following their trusted guidance can prevent costly errors, helping you avoid damage and expensive mistakes. These briefs also empower owners, providing the essential knowledge to sensitively work on historic homes. Finally, they support professionals as a key reference for architects, contractors, and preservationists.

Investing in Preservation Briefs means investing in our shared architectural past.

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THESE RESOURCES?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Order by Phone: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From the US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger Trudy Hawkins is the Senior Marketing & Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication & Information Sales Office, supporting the U.S. Government Online Bookstore (https://bookstore.gpo.gov).

Leave a Comment » | Art and Architecture, Department of the Interior, National Park Service | Tagged: , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

Honoring the Frontline: National Police Week

May 8, 2026

During National Police Week (May 11-17, 2026), we honor the bravery and sacrifice of law enforcement. To help celebrate this important occasion, Government Book Talk highlights a vital tool that supports the justice system, the recently released U.S. Sentencing Commission Guidelines Manual 2025, available from the U.S. Government Publishing Office (GPO) Bookstore.

This comprehensive and essential manual provides federal judges with the framework needed to ensure consistency and fairness in sentencing across the country. It serves as a roadmap for the legal outcomes of the tireless investigations conducted by our nation’s officers.

The Guidelines cover critical areas investigated by federal agents and local task forces, including:

  • Offenses Against the Person and Public Safety
  • Drugs, Narco-Terrorism, and Racketeering
  • Public Officials and Federal Election Laws
  • National Defense and Weapons of Mass Destruction
  • And much more

The manual utilizes a precise points system to determine recommended sentences, factoring in offense severity, criminal history, and aggravating or mitigating circumstances.

To understand why these guidelines are so critical, the Inter-District Differences in Federal Sentencing Practices highlights how sentencing can vary by geography, underscoring the Commission’s ongoing mission to reduce disparities and ensure that the hard work of officers results in uniform justice across every district.

As we observe National Police Week, let’s remember the fallen and acknowledge the ongoing commitment of the law enforcement community. Their work, paired with a fair and structured sentencing system, ensures justice is served.

Let’s thank all law enforcement for their unwavering service.

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THESE RESOURCES?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Order by Phone: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From the US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger Trudy Hawkins is the Senior Marketing & Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication & Information Sales Office, supporting the U.S. Government Online Bookstore (https://bookstore.gpo.gov).

Leave a Comment » | Commission report, Crime and Justice, Law Enforcement | Tagged: , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

World Immunization Week: Your Passport to a Safe Summer

April 27, 2026

World Immunization Week (April 24–30) serves as a vital reminder that vaccines are the foundation of global health, allowing us to explore the world with confidence. As summer vacation planning begins, ensuring your health records are in order is just as important as booking your flight.

The Essential “Yellow Card”

For those traveling overseas, the International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis is a critical travel companion. Approved by the World Health Organization (WHO), this document, frequently called the “Yellow Card,” acts as an official medical passport. It provides verified proof of the immunizations required for entry into various countries, ensuring you meet international health regulations at every border.

Preparing for Your Journey

Don’t let preventable illnesses or paperwork delays interrupt your seasonal adventures.

  • Check Requirements: Vaccination needs vary significantly by destination.
  • Order Your Copy: The official certificate is now available through the GPO online bookstore.
  • Stay Current: Schedule any necessary shots well in advance of your departure date.

Celebrate World Immunization Week by protecting yourself and the communities you visit. With an updated certificate in hand, you can focus on making memories while staying travel-ready and globe safe.

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THIS RESOURCE?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Order by Phone: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From the US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger Trudy Hawkins is the Senior Marketing & Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication & Information Sales Office, supporting the U.S. Government Online Bookstore (https://bookstore.gpo.gov).

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