Iowa Guard media specialists called up

A small group of Iowa National Guard soldiers is being mobilized to help spread the word on what U.S. troops are doing. Iowa Guard spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Greg Hapgood says they’re members of the 135th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment based at Camp Dodge in Johnston who’re headed for Kosovo. He says they’re experts in media, newspaper, radio and television all mixed together. They provide stories to the public and the military about what soldiers are doing. Hapgood is very familiar with the detachment, as he was its commander before being promoted to his current position. He says it’s not only getting the word out, but helping those who have to spread the word. He says they provide support for military people who interact with the press. He says that includes preparing senior officers for interacting with the press, whether it’s preparing for news conferences or helping soldiers talk to the media. He says some of the members may also work as spokespeople. Hapgood says these 10 soldiers will be the only Iowa Guardmembers on duty in Kosovo. He says at one point there were approximately 330 Iowa Guard solidiers serving in Kosovo, but they returned this fall. These new soldiers will be “in country” for 12 months, and on active duty altogether for 15 months. Hapgood says the solidiers are from across the state and include a detachment from Minnesota.