Central Commands (CentCom) choice of information that they released to the media during the war in Iraq is really in my opinion a tale of two story's.First of all how CentCom went aound their news briefings was completley astounding. The occassion where the general showed the waiting press the deck of cards which showed the most wanted terrorists in Iraq is an example of this. Only one card was shown! Of course Saddam was going to be the ace of spades, but he isnt the only one. Showing those journalists one card before retreating created unrest. Even when asked to see them placed on the wall they were rejected.
The case of the army entering Baghdad was another similar to this. CentCom released information claiming they had entered the capital days before they actually did. This annoyed the already cranky journalists, who had now broadcast false information.
On the other side of the spectrum though I can see where CentCom was coming from. Looking out for the wellfare of their soldiers has to be priority number one. So this makes sense about the Baghdad controversy. Why would CentCom give details of their mens locations when it would spread the lenght and breath of Iraq and probably into the hands of insurgents. As for the card situation, if those names and photos were released then the named Iraqis would simply flee the country or go into deeper hiding.
A good look at the military's side -- but you were to look at the other two groups, too, and what they see as the role of news in wartime. You were to also give your own view.
ReplyDeleteSloppy spelling: "... a tale of two story's."