Role of the Public Affairs Officer in Regional Conflicts

摘要

The role of the division level Public Affairs Officer in regional conflicts isexamined. The doctrinal literature is reviewed to determine the roles prescribed. The conclusion is that the doctrine is valid and should be adhered to. The recommendations of the study are that: Doctrinal guidance should be expanded to encompass the expanding internal Army audience namely those family members left behind when units deploy to regional conflicts, and the civilian workers who must support not only the deployed troops but the families. Further recommendations include training Public Affairs Officers to perform their roles in regional conflicts, training Public Affairs Teams to support Army operations in combat theaters, training the upcoming Army leadership in dealing with the press, and lastly training the working press on Army operations.