FT. MEADE, Md, 2 July 2014 — Marine Corps Sgt. Brandon Owen addresses graduates of his Video Production and Documentation course at the Defense Information School (DINFOS) at Ft. Meade, Md. It was Sgt. Owen who invited me to deliver the commencement address at the ceremony.
For about 10 minutes I spoke about how the practice of our craft defines who we are, which applies to both military and civilian journalists. Here is part of what I said:
Never, ever, ever, give up on the pursuit of truth. Unlike accolades from friends and colleagues, unlike fame and fortune, the truth will never let you down. Even though that truth may be hard, cold and ugly, having told it, will comfort you.
You can hear the address HERE.
Also pictured are graduates and attendees at the ceremony at Ft. Meade. Also pictured is the Certificate of Achievement presented to me at the event.
I am deeply humbled by, and proud of, the fact that I was able to address these new visual communicators at DINFOS, which prepares journalists working for our U.S. Armed Forces. And I thank them for the opportunity.
(Photos by Bill Gentile)