Army/Media Conflict: Origins, Development, and Recommendations,
Abstract
This study reviews the historical development of Army/media conflict. It shows that there has been conflict from the earliest days of the development of the newspaper. The reasons for conflict are reviewed in their historical context. Censorship, accreditation, and secrecy are each looked at as government functions which play a role in the relationship. A survey was conducted among US Army officers attending the US Army War College Class of 1986. The survey measured positive and negative attitudes toward the media and solicited comments on the reasons for conflict and recommendations for improvement of the working relationship. A computer analysis was conducted and its results are included in the study. The survey showed senior Army officers hold a number of negative views about the media. An interview was conducted with Mr. Drew Middleton, a military reporter and correspondent for more than 40 years for the New York Times. His comments are transcribed into the study. Finally, the study makes a number of recommendations on how the Army might take a new direction in improving the Army/media relationship. The basic thrust is to start treating Army/media relations as an important part of the Army mission. Training and education must be developed and new operational approaches used to insure the entire chain of command is energized to participate in improving our relationship. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 30, 1986
- Accession Number
- ADA170610
Entities
People
- Gerald W. Sharpe
Organizations
- United States Army War College