Showtime: An Analysis of the Embedded News Media Program During the Pre- Combat and the Combat Phases of Operation Iraqi Freedom

摘要

The embedded news media program has set a new model for media coverage of future conflict, because it was a win-win-win-situation for the military, the media and the public. The program enabled the military to provide the public with timely, accurate and fair information on the operation, without violating the OPSEC rules. The media, especially experts and producers, were hesitant to participate in the embedded program, because the program could violate the idealistic rules of good journalism. It turned out differently. The media took enormous economic advantage of the embedded program. The program facilitated journalists to keep a tight rein on all military activities during the operation. The American public was positive about the embedded program. Their collective opinion was that it was a 'good thing.' The international press and audience were less positive on the embedded program, but that did not affect the effectiveness of the program in the United States. Though the program was effective during Operation Iraqi Freedom, the U.S. Department of Defense needs to make improvements, such as enhancement of media training, selection criteria for the embedded program, prevention of negative impact on the home front, and an update of the prevailing joint pubs and army field manuals.