Army Releases AR 530-1 Fact Sheet
May 3rd, 2007 by Patriot
The response to the Army's changes in AR 530-1 have been overwhelming, both from the military community and without. Huge email campaigns are being organized that encourage American to write their congressman in response to this new freedom of speech violation. Additionally, other sites are publishing the contact information for leaders at the Pentagon.
Today, the Army released THIS fact sheet relating to the new regulation. I won't copy the whole thing here, but here's the summary of the document (click the link to read the entire thing):
o America’s Army respects every Soldier’s First Amendment rights while also adhering to Operations Security (OPSEC) considerations to ensure their safety on the battlefield.
o Soldiers and Army family members agree that safety of our Soldiers are of utmost importance.
o Soldiers, Civilians, contractors and Family Members all play an integral role in maintaining Operations Security, just as in previous wars.
Now, here is what I was talking about before with respect to blogging, emphasis is mine:
Soldiers may also have a blog without needing to consult with their immediate supervisor and OPSEC officer if the following conditions are met:
1. The blog’s topic is not military-related (i.e., Sgt. Doe publishes a blog about his favorite basketball team).
2. The Soldier doesn’t represent or act on behalf of the Army in any way.
3. The Soldier doesn’t use government equipment when on his or her personal blog.
Isn't the whole definition of a military blog that it be "military-related"? And what if I want to blog about the Army basketball team? Where does that fit in? The second two points I completely agree with. Oh, the frustration!!
Posted in Military Perspective