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thedrifter
10-09-03, 06:30 AM
Famous author addresses Marine commanders at East Coast Media Symposium
Submitted by: New York Public Affairs
Story Identification Number: 2003108141445
Story by Gunnery Sgt. Tim McGough



NEW YORK(October 8, 2003) -- Most people in America have probably read his magazine at least once in their lives. His biography reads like a laundry list of amazing accomplishments and accolades. Although, when he was asked what was the proudest moment of his life, he answered, "the day I was promoted to lance corporal."

Walter Anderson, author, CEO and publisher of Parade Magazine spent a few hours with Marine commanders at the 2003 East Coast Media Symposium in New York City. A Vietnam veteran, he served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1961 to 1966.

Anderson discussed leadership and talked of choices Marine leaders make that affect not only them but also the people around them.

"You control your choices," said Anderson. "You determine your appearance, you choose the language that you use and you are the product of your own creation."

Anderson also discussed how today's Marine leaders can take these "choices" and use them to tell the Marine Corps' story more effectively to the public.

"Tell the truth," he said. "That is the best advice on communication I've received from Gen Jones (former Commandant of the Marine Corps). It is so easy. Use common sense, be honest and fair."

As his lecture went on he praised the embedding process during the war. "Embedding reporters is one of the best things the military has done." He also made the leaders think about the power of the media. For his example, Anderson asked who won the first gulf conflict. They answered General Schwarzkopf. His response was, "Why? Because that is what you saw on television."

Anderson had a little help during his lecture. He brought some "heavy ordnance" in a "small package." Joining him was former U.S. Army captain and Medal of Honor recipient Jack H. Jacobs.

Jacobs also a Vietnam vet echoed Anderson's advice on the truth. "Don't tell a lie," he said. "Lying is like the old Russian proverb about bad news - it doesn't get better with age."

Jacobson also shared some of his own wisdom about people and reporters. The reporter who is trying to get a story from you believe it or not is just trying to do his job, he said. After a quick laugh he told the Marines that you must practice dealing with reporters.

Anderson then took the podium again and took questions from the Marines. After the question and answer period ended he went back and answered a question asked about why he left the Marine Corps. "I wanted to be a writer," said Anderson. "But I have never not been a Marine."

http://www.usmc.mil/marinelink/image1.nsf/Lookup/200310814393/$file/andersonlow.jpg

Walter Anderson, author, CEO and publisher of Parade Magazine spent a few hours with Marine commanders at the 2003 East Coast Media Symposium in New York City. A Vietnam veteran, Anderson gave the Marines some insite to the media.
Photo by: Gunnery Sgt. Tim McGough

http://www.usmc.mil/marinelink/mcn2000.nsf/main5/A96B3212AE1E8C3A85256DB900643A69?opendocument


Sempers,

Roger
:marine: