Photo By Staff Sgt. Tabitha Kuykendall | The 506th Air Expeditionary Group Public Affairs office has created the first-ever...... read more read more
By Master Sgt. Martie Moore
506th Air Expeditionary Group Public Affairs
KIRKUK, Iraq - Research shows traditional journalism is shifting and people now use the Internet as a primary resource of information and communication. For that reason, the 506th Air Expeditionary Group Public Affairs office has created the first-ever Kirkuk Regional Air Base Facebook page.
While communication with the media and the public has traditionally been the responsibility of public affairs, today all Airmen are considered Air Force communicators.
The intent of the Facebook page is to share 506 AEG stories, photos and videos with the Airmen of Kirkuk as well as their family, friends and the general public.
Facebook gives the opportunity to received comments on the information which isn't possible through the external Web site or through a newsletter, which are traditional PA products.
Along with social media (e.g. Facebook, Myspace, YouTube) there's a genuine responsibility. The media has widely publicized people getting fired for doing and saying inappropriate things on a social network site. Therefore, Airmen should understand anytime they engage in social media, they are representing the Air Force and should not do anything that will discredit themselves or the Air Force.
In general, the Air Force views personal Web sites and blogs positively and respects the rights of Airmen to use them as a medium of self-expression.
However, Airmen must abide by certain restrictions to ensure good order and discipline. All Airmen are on duty 24-hours a day, 365-days a year, and all actions are subject to the Uniform Code of Military Justice.
To join the Kirkuk Facebook page, simply search Kirkuk Regional Air Base and become a fan. (Information gathered from Social Media and the Air Force guide)
Following are the Top 10 tips for military members to follow while using any type of social media.
DON'T GIVE CLASSIFIED INFORMATION
Don't divulge classified, For Official Use Only or sensitive materials, photos or video. OPSEC that is crucial to our mission. Think before you speak or film -- if you're not sure, ask someone. A harmless video of an Airman dancing on the flightline could be sensitive if it's a deployed environment showing bombers on the flightline. Be smart. Security is at the source.
THE ENEMY IS ENGAGED
The enemy is engaged in this battle space and you must engage as well.
STAY IN YOUR LANE
If you're an aircraft mechanic, you're well suited to communicate messages about aircraft maintenance. If you're an aircraft mechanic blogging about legal issues—reconsider your blog.
DON'T LIE
Credibility is critical: without it, no one cares what you have to say. It's also punishable by the UCMJ to give a false statement.
GIVE YOUR OPINION
Tell them what you think. Just make sure you state it's your opinion and not that of the organization. Also, be sure to identify what is your opinion and what is factual.
ALWAYS IDENTIFY YOURSELF
Identification makes your post more credible.
SAFETY
Videos that get widespread attention, or become "viral," feature death-defying stunts or acts that are considered "extreme" in nature. Don't let the desire to get your message across compromise your consideration for safety.
BE AWARE OF THE IMAGE YOU PRESENT
If using a visual medium, don't let your message get overshadowed because the viewer's attention is drawn to your improperly worn uniform or something occurring in the background. The image you present will set the tone for your message and often mean the difference of whether or not people listen to your message. Your tactical representation could have strategic and international consequences for the Air Force and the nation.
DON'T BE AFRAID TO TAKE CALCULATED RISKS
Military life often deals in uncertainty: In order to make the best decision, it's recommended to take in as much information as possible in order to make the smartest decision.
USE COMMON SENSE
This is the bottom line. If you wouldn't say it in front of your mother, you probably shouldn't say it on YouTube. Realize your words and images will go out to thousands and possibly millions of people around the world instantly and once it's out there, it's out there for good. The 506th Public Affairs office is a source of advice and guidance in this medium. Also, be careful what personal information you divulge, such as address, phone numbers or any information that could aid identity thieves or the enemy.
(Courtesy of the Air Force Public Affairs Agency)
| Date Taken: | 01.18.2010 |
| Date Posted: | 01.18.2010 08:27 |
| Story ID: | 44051 |
| Location: | KIRKUK, IQ |
| Web Views: | 417 |
| Downloads: | 376 |
This work, Kirkuk Facebook makes debut: Social media and the Air Force can be 'friends', by MSgt Martie Moore, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
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