A military reporter is a person who writes:
- Articles covering the military field;
- Helps create programmes for radio and TV;
- Hosts interviews; and
- A focus upon all military events.
All these aspects are a part of their job. Working in this field is both demanding and stressful, so you should think carefully before you make the decision to become a military journalist.
To begin with, it is important to highlight that the first step to becoming a military reporter is getting a degree. A lot of war reporters typically major in journalism as colleges do not offer specific degrees in military reporting. In addition to this, an applicant will need to pass the Armed Forces Vocational Aptitude Battery, as well as to meet the requirements of the service branch one has chosen.
Your day-to-day duties as a military reporter will vary depending on the branch of service you have joined. What is more, a person engaged in war reporting will deal with a variety of issues. For instance, a military journalist may also have to:
- Be involved in media operations;
- Do a lot of editing;
- Social media associated activities; and/or
- Even record podcasts.
The main task of any military reporter is to inform the public about the actual state of affairs, as well as to combat enemy propaganda. The latter is a common aspect when military conflicts occur. It is on of those tactics the enemy uses to trick the public into believing something that is not true, as well as to destabilise the situation.
Apart from this, a military journalist may also be exposed to scenes of a violent nature, sometimes on a daily basis. It can be rather shattering to one’s mental state. For this reason, one needs to be 100% sure they are able to work in such conditions.
The reality of war can be really tough – both physically and mentally. In addition to seeing it on a daily basis, military reporters also need to write about it in great detail. Another important aspect to mention is the living conditions of a journalist when they work in the zone of military conflict. They are usually very basic, not to mention the fact that one may experience lack of sleep as well as limited access to the internet. It is a risky job too!
Yet, the main reason why people decide to become military journalists is to give voice to those who protect their country – the military. Journalists are the ones who tell about their victories and and share their personal stories. What is more, working a military reporter gives people a sense of purpose: they are doing something for the greater good.
In a way, they are also serving their country. The difference is that the only weapon a journalist has is the words with the help of which they deliver the latest news, inform the public and tell stories. In case you are willing to cover the issues related to the military field but do not have the skills to become a journalist, there are tons of jobs for editors.
Besides, somebody has to reread all those articles and correct mistakes (proofread). You can even be a remote editor as there is no need for you to go to places with an ongoing military conflict. A lot of news agencies, TV channels and newspapers are constantly looking for editors. Check out their websites and you might come across some editing positions. In addition, look through websites where jobs for editors vacancies are posted. When you see an offer ‘editor wanted’, view the details and send your CV right away. Do not waste your time. Those companies that are looking for editors typically find a new employee very quickly. Another platform where you can come across jobs editing offers is social media. A lot of companies and organisations post information about vacant jobs for editors on their social media pages, so do not forget to check them as well.
