A Battlefield Tourist

Public Multimedia, Inc. and The Long War Journal

Dec 23 at 11:11am by David Tate

I would be completely amiss if I didn’t do a complete post on PMI, Bill Roggio and The Long War Journal.  I cannot express properly just how important this organization is to, not only my work, but to the most complete assemblage reporting on our world at war today.

When I first stumbled onto Bill’s work in 2007, he was writing under the blog name, “The Fourth Rail”.  I instantly realized the awesome resource he was putting out there and I contacted him immediately.  A month later, we were in Iraq together.  Within those first three days of meeting, Bill launched The Long War Journal and the rest is history.

As I got to know him, it turns out he convinced his wife of this idea, quit his job, secured a loan and a partner then went for it.  A true entrepreneur, he took a huge chance and is now moving forward successfully.  For the reader, it means the most centralized resource in regards to current events regarding the fight against al Qaeda.  It cannot be missing from your favorites.

What’s In It For Me?

While cannot speak for Bill, I can speak about him and what he means to my work.  He believes in the independent hard working spirit that he is creating and told me that he supports independents like myself. 

His big contributions to me include a major forum to present my first person battlefield observations.  He has also graciously provided a letter of accreditation needed for my embed (PMI is recognized by allied forces as a legitimate journalistic outlet), which is on its way to ISAF as we speak.

The biggest thing, however, is the very expensive insurance needed to financially protect myself, and my family, in the event of injury or death.  This is as important as it gets and cannot be overlooked by independents.

Because PMI has an ongoing policy, they can add journalists to it while embedded, which they have agreed to do for me.  I’m not sure of the cost yet, but it is not cheap.  If there is any interest at all in helping this organization out, and ultimately me, this is a great chance.

Here at tax time, people may be interested in a write off.  PMI is a legitimate 501(c) organization and is happy for the help.  If you want to make it personal, just note it as funds to help pay my combat insurance.

Bill Roggio: billroggio@gmail.com
Paul Hanusz: phanusz@gmail.com

Address:

Public Multimedia Inc.
124 Kettlebrook Drive
Mt. Laurel NJ, 08054