Puckey completes military media workshop at Ft. Leavenworth

Sept. 26, 2009 - PRLog -- Kansas University and the Army teamed up to provide a training workshop for both journalists and the military.  Bridging the Gap: Media and the Military was founded by The McCormick Foundation and took place at Ft. Leavenworth and Ft. Leonard Wood from Sept. 20 to Sept. 25.  Journalists were exposed to several aspects of the military, while service members worked to find mutual understanding with a media they have long avoided.

The Command and General Staff College at Ft. Leavenworth became a base for the workshop, allowing media access to the majors receiving training there.  A new building, the Lewis and Clark Center, provided the newest technology and panels of military officers.

Missouri Air National Guard members flew the group on a C-130 to Ft. Leonard Wood, where they were whisked off for full day training with the military.  The 43rd AG provided the journalists with an inside look at the in processing of new recruits.  After, the Physical Endurance Course or PEC showed the strengths of new soldiers and even some media members took the challenge.  

Simulated weapons training proved that many participants in the workshop do more than just write, some scoring high.  After a quick drive in the simulator for military vehicles, a MRE (Meal Ready to Eat), and a trip to the real firing range, the journalists were overwhelmed and exhausted.

An amazing learning experience, Puckey feels she is lucky to have been involved.

"I met some amazing journalists," Puckey said.  "All members of the Army were courteous and helpful and I made some amazing contacts.  I am thankful for the opportunity and can't wait to use what I've learned."

A more in-depth look at her experience, as well as photos can be viewed at:

http://tarapuckey.wordpress.com

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Freelance writer and editor specializing in military media, features and profiles and project management.