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Tips for telling the Air Force story

  • Published
  • By Christine Sullivan
  • 305th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
MCGUIRE AFB, N.J. --  Representing the U.S. Air Force to the world ... it's a full-time job and critical when members of the media are involved in any capacity. 

Here are some prioritized recommendations when approached by media representatives; whether it's a top-rated affiliate television network, at an Air Expo, or if you're casually approached by a talk or reality show outlet. 

1. Always contact your public affairs office immediately. As your 305th Air Mobility Wing public relations team, we can best serve you if we have advance knowledge of anyone making inquiries or requesting an interview with you. This way, your own leadership and the command won't be blindsided by seeing your remarks online, on TV or in the newspaper. This is our specialty, so please offer us the courtesy of assisting you in preparing responses, escorting you through the process or even being the 'bad guy' (if needed), in protecting you from unwanted media attention. 

2. Think "Air Force" always. Remember that anywhere, anytime, a member of the press or someone who could be connected to them may be watching you or listening to you. Please conduct yourself in a manner that would benefit both you, the 305 AMW and the Air Force as a whole. The importance of representing the Air Force on-air or in print makes that mind-set even more critical. 

3. Nothing is "off-the-record!" Don't say anything, even casually in passing, that you wouldn't want to see splashed across the front page of any newspaper or evening news program. Past experience has shown us that even if they tell you "this is between you and me," such is not always the case. 

4. Never divulge personal information or information that might compromise operational security. In the presence of media, please do not give out your own personal information at any time or divulge any sensitive information about your job, your deployment or your family that could jeopardize your or your loved ones' security. Know that Public Affairs will never divulge that information to anyone without express permission in advance. 

As you can see from this shortened list, the importance of keeping Public Affairs "in the loop" and getting any necessary approvals in advance is not only crucial, it is required. Military members represent the service as a whole, for their entire active-duty tenure, whether in uniform or not. We're here to help, so take advantage of our expertise and help us help you. 

If you have questions or concerns about a media opportunity, or need additional information, feel free to contact the 305 AMW/PA office at (609) 754-2104.