Let's Build: a Military Journalist

[Raellus]

Thanks for posting that, Ewan. I didn't know about that particular publication. That's the sort of thing that I envision being produced at the cantonment level late in the Twilight War.

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[Raellus]

Equipment for Military Journalist characters:

• 35mm Camera with assorted accoutrements (various lenses, sling, tripod, etc.) and film
• Digital camera with memory cards and rechargeable batteries
• Camcorder with videocassettes
• Sketchbook and pencil set
• Notepad and ballpoint pens
• Battery powered tape recorder and mini-microphone
• Carrier pigeon (for delivering field reports) [if that seems outlandish, see link in OP]

What else?

A Google Search for "portable military dark room" yielded this:

https://petapixel.com/2012/01/11/us-...minum-shelter/

Could make for a neat random encounter, if nothing else.

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[Homer]

Could easily see some form of AFN continuing post TDM. The resources are there; AFN did mobile broadcasts from various FTXs in Korea in the 90s, division PAOs have editing gear, and Army PSYOP Units have broadcast capability as well. Maybe not TV, but definitely radio. By 1998/99 there’s probably going to be three lines of programming: officially controlled news with a heavy helping of “why we fight” and minimal mention of stateside conditions; music and other entertainment programming (audio tracks from tv shows like old radio plays?); and command information split between the typical “AFN commercial”, things like UCMJ proceedings/punishments (especially for looting, desertion, and insubordination), “explaining” why mail and news from home has been slow, and actual useful tips like how to patch your kit or boil your water.

All of this will in one way or another be driven by military journalists and reporters. Some of the current generation’s work is on the DVIDS website. Or for a laugh, search AFN commercials on YouTube. It’ll take you back to the good old days…

[CraigD6er]

Not to derail this from journalists, but another option for a good character would be the combat chaplain. I'm recalling It Took Heroes by Claude Newby, about his service as an LDS chaplain that would accompany troops on patrols and missions. Obviously he's not going to be doing the fighting but if I recall correctly he had, unofficially, a handgun for self defence and carried part of the load for troops that were struggling. Such a character would be a boon for parties that aren't just the "kill 'em all and let God sort it out" types but prefer a bit more role playing.

[Raellus]

@Homer: Thanks for that helpful info.

@CraigD6r: No worries. I moved your post and all subsequent posts about chaplains to another thread dedicated to the topic.

https://forum.juhlin.com/showthread.php?t=5336

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[Matt W]

Something like the Wipers Times?

[Raellus]

Originally Posted by Matt W

Something like the Wipers Times?

Absolutely. I reckon most well-run large unit cantonments would have something of the sort.

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