Afghan media learn about close-air support
January 8th, 2009
Fourteen journalists and cameramen from various Afghan news agencies received an up-close look at close air support in Afghanistan, complete with tours of the F-15E Strike Eagle and the A-10 Thunderbolt II and a briefing from Brig. Gen. James M. "Mike" Holmes, the 455th AEW commander.
The conflict in Afghanistan is just as much an information war as it is a kinetic one, General Holmes said. Department of Defense Public Affairs officials strive to provide timely and accurate information; however, succeeding at the information war becomes a challenge when competing with an enemy who is not concerned with facts. Since the insurgents are good at getting their story out, in order for balanced media coverage it becomes essential for U.S. and coalition forces to engage the local media.
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