What do you guys think of Public Affairs?

When I was more junior, I had no idea what public affairs did. Being trained by the military to avoid the media did not help in my bias. As I later became exposed to public affairs, I came to understand that they are one of the most important parts of the military because they help present the military to the civilian population (among others).

There are so many misconceptions by the civilian population about the military, and a civilian-military divide helps nobody. Having public affairs tell the story of what the military does, and representing the military in a positive and professional light in the media is of great benefit to everyone. I know that this is only one part of what pubic affairs does, but I think it's a very important role.

To improve: I would have military public affairs be more proactive in interaction with mainstream media... basically serving as spokespeople. My view on public affairs is that they "put the information out there" if the news wants to pick it up, but I don't see public affairs commenting about news stories on CNN, sitting on TV panels, etc. I guess this is because the military is always concerned about being taken out of context, but I think the added exposure would be a net benefit.

Some of the most rewarding times in my career happened when I could tell a soldier's story. They'd get so excited when they became "famous" in their hometown. Better yet, the times I got to go with a line unit and tell their story. That's when I had the chance to elaborate on the colossal amount of suck company-level units and below had to embrace in Kuwait, Iraq and Afghanistan.

As far as Public Affairs altogether, well...a lot of great ideas but unfortunately not enough backing to support.

Public Affairs plays key and critical functions for every command. Their role as a key agency on any installation is most not realized below brigaide and battalion level unfortunately. The installation Public Affairs officer will meet daily with the Division Commander.

A very key role (and little known) role of Public Affairs is in Crisis and Emergency Management (i.e. Ft. Hood and Naval Shipyard Active Shooter Incidents). They are the face of the military to the civilian community; They work to ensure that the correct information is put out and that can be a very difficult thing to do. They are the voice of the command to the public.

They are a very overworked and under apprecaited group of professionals. Also as with most DOD civilian organizations, they have been hit hard during the recent cut in authorized postions as well and also are doing more with less!