Media Training Now Required for Iraq-Bound Soldiers

[NNN0LHI]

http://newsmine.org/archive/propoganda/media-training-required-for-iraq-bound-soldiers.txt

<snip>"Talking point" cards for military personnel, meanwhile, are being updated regularly as the war progresses -- often as much as once a week -- to keep up with the conflict's changing issues and the proximity of embedded reporters. Among the current talking points: "We are a values-based, people-focused team that strives to uphold the dignity and respect of all." snip

A list of "wallet-card" talking points given to a group of Marines heading to Iraq, obtained by that newspaper, included:

• The Marine Corps is trained, resourced, and ready to accomplish its missions. We are committed to the cause and will remain in Iraq as long as we are needed.
• The fight in Iraq is tough, but 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.

[pecwae]

1. The last paragraph of the article

"Capt. Landis responded to such criticism by defending the promotion of positive aspect, but stressing that no one was being asked to lie. "These are not for use for propaganda means," he told E&P. "They are the truth."

Is a lie. The PAO exists for disseminating propaganda within and outside of the military. Just one very small example: at the Ft. Bragg PAO, 1982-86, when queried about Delta Force my answer was always, "Sir/Mam, I have no knowledge of the existence of such a unit within the structure of our command (1st SOCOM)." I felt so idiotic parroting that obvious lie when both the questioner and I knew Delta Force most definitely existed and was based at Bragg under the same command to which I was assigned.