Need for media-savvy Soldiers on the rise            Chris Rasmussen      Leader Staff

The ever-increasing need for a Soldier to be able to communicate effectively when dealing with the media, has prompted a Fort Jackson institution to train its leaders in public speaking. Command Sgt. Maj. Billy Blackmon, Adjutant General School command sergeant major, has spearheaded a program with an on-post college to offer AG School instructors professional public speaking courses. “The media, during the initial periods of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, did not do a very good job in reporting the good news,” Blackmon said. “This caused many leaders and Soldiers to stay clear of the cameras for mistrust of what they say might be misinterpreted or misprinted. “I don’t believe Soldiers should look for the spotlight but they must be prepared to perform when in it,” he said. “By learning how to become a dynamic speaker in public, Soldiers will increase their self-confidence and become more comfortable around others, including strangers. The sergeant major of the Army has charged all leaders and Soldiers to be active ambassadors for the Army by telling ‘the Army’s Story’ wherever we go, on and off duty.” In addition to speaking effectively with the media, the program can benefit a Soldier’s career. “Soldiers turn down opportunities to participate in the Hometown Recruiting Assistance Program, speak at public events in their hometown or appear before a promotion board panel because they lack the confidence to speak publicly,” Blackmon said. “Some Soldiers even steer away from volunteering to serve in special duty assignment for fear of public speaking. “Public speaking is by nature important because it’s a primary and powerful avenue to give of yourself and share with others, thus benefiting all in a profitable way,” he said. The program is especially useful, Blackmon said, because many Soldiers do not have the opportunity to attend the Instructors Training Course until they have achieved the rank of staff sergeant and many never get this type of training. “We are in a period of transformation and growing the Army to sustain itself,” he said. “A public speaking course will help Soldiers to redefine their everyday verbal and non-verbal communication skills, to vocalize their message and to get their points across.” For more information about the program or to register for the course, call 1-800-950-1908.