MOB Brief

Army Public Affairs

Army Public Affairs Office (PAO) fulfills the Army's obligation to keep the American people and the Army informed, and helps to establish the conditions that lead to confidence in America's Army and its readiness to conduct operations in peacetime, conflict and war.

Army Public Affairs

Mission: Tell the story of America’s Army to the public to maintain their trust, respect and understanding of our role in the community and to the nation so that the Army can fight and win our nation’s wars.
Vision: Improve the trust and support of the American people in their Army and its missions.

PAOs Top 10 “Do’s”

1. Be relaxed, confident, and professional
2. Be concise; plan what you will say before you speak
3. Consider the sensitivity of unclassified data
4. Stay in your lane, talk only about what YOU KNOW
5. If you won’t tell something, explain why (OPSEC)
6. Always be truthful, never lie
7. EVERYTHING is on the record
8. Remain calm and professional
9. Report results of media visits to higher command
10. Direct press inquiries to the unit PAO

PAOs Top 10 “Don’ts”

1. Violate OPSEC
2. Confirm, deny, or discuss info regarding units
3. Speculate about military course of action
4. Talk exact numbers and locations of troops
5. Give info on equipment or Rules of Engagement
6. Discuss specific locations of U.S. or friendly forces
7. Identify yourself by last name
8. Confiscate audio/video tapes or reporter’s notes
9. Discuss introduction or addition of forces/equipment
10.Discuss relocation or movement of forces

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