Posted on Feb 20, 2015
SPC Lukas Jones
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Is the Media hindering our military operations?

It seems like every time I read an article on Army Times or CNN that there is some report on the next step the Army is going to take against ISIS. Back in WWII this would not happen! Loose lips sink ships and all that.

Should we be pressuring our government to stop publicly disclosing our military strategies?

As soldiers, we are told to maintain OPSEC/INFOSEC with our social media and public presence, but is all this effort for naught when the media is doing such a great job at announcing our next moves?

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Responses: 5
CW5 Desk Officer
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I think the media often goes way too far, SPC Lukas Jones. I voted for a blackout/embargo/gag order, but I would limit that to ongoing operations and anything that could aid the enemy. I swear I've seen anchors on CNN (and other channels) ask questions like this: "Well, General Expert ... That attempt by the enemy or the terrorists was foiled by U.S. forces, but what could the enemy have done to succeed? What would it take?" And then the expert and the journalist will talk about weaknesses in the U.S. "armor." I find that just plain wrong. Regardless of freedom of speech.
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SPC Lukas Jones
SPC Lukas Jones
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I completely agree Chief! Why are we airing our strategies and weaknesses for the enemy to exploit?
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CPT Public Affairs Officer
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The media should not be on a blackout unless they participate in seditious activities. I don't know what specifics you are listing in particular but from what I see, the media does a good job of not dropping the ball so to speak. And, if they do, it would be because one of us have them information. It's human. If the military doesn't talk to the media, they are going to find someone to talk to, with our without you, and when that happens, the story could turn into who knows what. media - double edged sword. Does that help?

As far as social media, Joe is the worst when it comes to blaming an OPSEC violation. Not the media.
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LCpl Mark Sims
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Yes I think the media has over stepped there bonds. They have cable as well. Stop showing everything.
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