Communicating for the Long War: Options for Squadron Commanders

Abstract

Abstract : Public opinion is critical for the United States to succeed in accomplishing its strategic objectives. Immediately after the United States experiences a crisis, public opinion is normally in support of US military forces and their operations. As time goes on, that public support tends to decline. Joint and service doctrine has changed to emphasize the need for public opinion and to provide direction for commanders to succeed in winning public support. Commanders at all levels need to comprehend the doctrinal concepts of strategic communication, information operations, public affairs and propaganda. Advance in communication technology has made it increasingly easier for US adversaries to communicate their message. Commanders must also understand how the adversaries are communicating their message. Commanders and the service members they command play a critical role in winning public support. Usually commanders use formally trained personnel to handle public affair matters. But there is informal public affairs training and opportunities available to commanders that they can use to increase public support for operations.