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Media Focus Sharpens as Deployment Nears

Jul-14-2005 » Filed Under: 172nd SBCT

Some helpful tips for family members from the Ft. Wainwright PAO.

Link to Full Article with Photos
Linda Douglass
Fort Wainwright PAO

FORT WAINWRIGHT– Spouses of deployed Soldiers will be the focus of media attention in the coming weeks.

Next month’s deployment is the largest group of Soldiers stationed in Alaska sent to a combat zone since Vietnam, and it is big news for Alaska.

Reporters will want to talk with people associated with the deployment in various ways – those who are deploying, Soldiers remaining with the rear detachment and families.

Although they know they are supposed to contact the Public Affairs Office first, reporters often go directly to their potential interviewees – Soldiers and families.

Though PAO can and does direct Soldiers to refer the reporter to us it cannot, however, tell family members what to do in this circumstance.

Here are some media tips that can keep you in your comfort zone and let others know about your experiences.

• Be comfortable, relax and enjoy the interview. Smile. Local media are friendly and want you comfortable throughout the interview.

• Protect classified and sensitive information. Do not talk about exact numbers or about exact locations.

• Be confident; you’re the expert here.

• Avoid speculation – don’t guess what might happen.

• Avoid technical terms, jargon or acronyms.

• Don’t say, “No comment.” If you can’t answer, explain why. If you don’t know, say so.

• For TV – Keep your answers to 20 seconds or less. Keep your eyes on interviewer.

• Be honest.

• Talk only about what you know.

You don’t have to talk with media if you don’t want to, but it is a way to let the community know what you’re facing and to let people know your feelings.

Remember – this is a mutually beneficial opportunity. Reporters need you to do their jobs and you need them to help tell your story.

PAO can sit in on interviews, if requested, and provide briefings before scheduled interviews. You can get some tips to help relax and enjoy the experience. Call 353-6701 at Fort Wainwright or 384-1542 at Fort Richardson.


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