In 1934, the Infantry Journal was in disarray. Subscribers had dwindled to less than 4,000 as the “atrociously written articles” and Great Depression made the three-dollar subscription too much for many. Fortunately, Major General Edward Croft, the Chief of Infantry, appointed Major Edwin Harding as editor. Empowered, Harding renewed Infantry.
Today, the United States Army’s professional publications require renewal as Harding renewed Infantry Journal in the 1930s. But renewal requires more with special attention to policy, digital archives, editorial teams, and educating the force.
Four Point Platform
The Army's publications have renewed before, and now is the time for a modest investment.
Perfect the policy. Update Army Pamphlet 25-40 to support transitioning professional bulletins to web-first formats with strong social media presence. MWI “channels” might make a good host for modernized branch magazines.
Improve the archives. Archive our history at the article-level, rather than at the issue-level as currently.
Empower volunteers. Establish volunteer editorial teams that increase capacity, build a capable writer cohort, and connect the force with outlets.
Educate the force. Familiarize students with professional outlets by requiring citation of one professional article in all written assignments.
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