January 19, 2005
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Media Training Now Required for Iraq-Bound Soldiers
By Joe Strupp
Published: January 18, 2005 12:00 PM ET
NEW YORK Media training for soldiers going into the war zone has been stepped up, becoming mandatory.
"Talking point" cards for military personnel are being updated regularly. Among the current talking points: "We are a values-based, people-focused team that strives to uphold the dignity and respect of all."
Soldiers preparing for deployment in hostile or critical areas have received some kind of media training in handling press inquiries since the first Persian Gulf War. Such training has also included pocket cards with suggested talking points.
The media training consists of one or two hours of briefings by public-affairs specialists. Since October, it has become a mandatory requirement for all deploying Army troops.
The first talking point in a slide show for troops at Fort Bragg was: "We are not an occupying force."
The Marine Corps has made such training a requirement for years. A list of "wallet-card" talking points given to a group of Marines heading to Iraq included:
• The Marine Corps is committed to the cause and will remain in Iraq as long as we are needed.
• We will remain steadfast and not lose heart.
• We are moving forward together with the Iraqi government as partners in building a future for the sons and daughters of Iraq.
• Coalition forces will help our Iraqi partners as they build their new and independent country and take their rightful place in the world community.
• Our troopers and their families are our greatest and most treasured resource.
• The Corps is a national institution -- it has never failed to do the will of the American people.
Other advice includes talking to the interviewer, not the camera; avoiding acronyms, profanity, or a "no comment"; and not arguing.
Comments (1)
Can't the geniuses who come up with these cheesy ideas ever, think of something original that hasn't failed at some point. Hearts and Minds redux I say.
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