New media policy coming for Arlington burials

New media policy coming for Arlington burials

By William H. McMichael - Staff writer
Posted : Friday Aug 8, 2008 17:03:35 EDT

Conversations between Arlington National Cemetery officials and family members regarding media coverage of funerals would be strictly scripted in an effort to develop a clear understanding of the family’s wishes, according to a new draft policy being considered by Army Secretary Pete Geren.

And if family members give their consent for “limited audio coverage,” the main speaker at the service will be able to wear a wireless microphone so nearby reporters can hear the remarks.

Army officials unveiled the proposed policy in an unusual Friday afternoon roundtable with reporters and representatives of veterans groups, soliciting criticisms and suggestions to bring the policy into sharper focus. The Army secretary has oversight responsibility for Arlington.

The outsiders were invited to comment because coverage of funerals at Arlington has come under fire in recent months, sparked by a Washington Post column on the April 23 funeral of Marine Corps Lt. Col. Billy Hall that blasted Arlington officials for keeping the media out of earshot and at a disadvantageous camera angle despite the fact that the family granted permission for coverage.

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