Michael Yon, the man who has re-defined wartime journalism in the new media era, swings by the Editor's Desk to update the Military.com audience on the war in Afghanistan. In the middle of a pitched battle (audible in the background), Mike explains how the war is going, what the near-term mission is, and what America needs to do to if it ultimately wants to win.
Read select dispatches from Michael in the Warfighter's Forum and visit his site here.
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All I want to know is why is your blog not on every NEWS Chanel, Media etc.
I read about the story of the Afghan people had to leave their hut so that we could fight the Taliban.
These people live on practically nothing and we think we can educate them? Its all so sad.
Posted by: elli | August 13, 2009 at 07:40 AM
I am a proud sponsor of Michael's work and I hope that everyone considers hitting his paypal tip jar and join me in support.
Posted by: El Coqui | August 13, 2009 at 08:19 AM
Michael Yon is the Ernie Pyle of this generation. Please support! http://www.michaelyon-online.com
Posted by: MSgt TK | August 13, 2009 at 08:27 AM
I am a sponsor of Michael also. Many of us military types complain about the lack of accurate reporting about the war efforts from the media. Now is our chance to actually do something actionable to change that. SUPPORT Michael Yon!
Posted by: Eddie Clark | August 13, 2009 at 09:42 AM
Also a proud sponsor of Michael. When I want accurate, indepth info I go to michaelyon-online.com. After years of following his work our family no longer reads or listens to the liberal media outlets - such a waste of time. Keep up the good work and God's Speed Michael.
Posted by: J Harris | August 13, 2009 at 10:12 AM
Liberal media? Like Fox News or CNN? ;-)
I listen to NPR and Democracy Now and read the New York Times and Al-Jazeera, but I also have followed Michael's writing (and supported him with PayPal) for some time.
We're all in this together, and the truth will set us free.
Posted by: Richard | August 13, 2009 at 11:35 AM
Great interview with military.com . Michael your work is impressive! Please keep it up and stay as safe as possible and we hope you receive more than enough support.
Posted by: Tom & Sharon Hatch | August 13, 2009 at 12:16 PM
Michael Yon's professionalism -- he consistently provides highly detailed, deeply insightful reports without a bias -- puts most of the big media professional journalists to shame. I have followed his reports for years (and hit his tip jar from time to time), and he was absolutely spot-on in his reports particularly when the Iraqi insurgency required a change in strategy. His report linked here is his typical "telling you like it is" approach. I couldn't hold a reporter in higher esteem. I encourage others to read his reports with regularity, and don't be shy to contribute to defray his costs.
Posted by: jmurphy | August 13, 2009 at 01:27 PM
Just to clarify for those new to the work of Michael Yon. He is a truly independent journalist who has covered both wars since the start. He plundered his own assets to fund his early work and is completely dependent on the generosity of his reader's to find his efforts.
From his comments on his site, the cost to pay for his gear and upkeep are a fraction of the cost for him to upload his stories and photos from the frontlines. He is in dire financial straits and has cautioned his followers that he may have to abandon his reporting if reader support doesn't tick upward. Here are some examples of his costs:
-$60,000/yr. to maintain his site
-$80,000/yr. communications from Afghanistan
-$100,000/yr. legal expenses
For more details go to: http://www.michaelyon-online.com/hurricane-afghanistan.htm
I've been unemployed for 2 years, but my family hosted a garage sale and donated the proceeds to Michael. Please find a way to help out. We need a trustworthy reporter who is there on our behalf day in and day out.
Posted by: in_awe | August 13, 2009 at 03:38 PM
I'm proud to have been a sponsor of Michael over several years. He is one of few reporters who actually REPORTS reality.
I hope all who see this will kick in $20 or $50 for him - - every little bit goes a long ways.
Posted by: Dave | August 15, 2009 at 12:17 PM
Michael, Having known you for a number of years John and I still can't get enough of your reporting. We have given your web site to everyone we know and many people who are reading your dispatches and are amazed at the depth of your reporting. For your personal info part of the Ft Lewis (now Alaskan) group we knew are headed home. We will be going to AK in Sep for that. Know that our prayers are with you. Nancy and John
Posted by: Nancy and John Komp | August 17, 2009 at 03:37 PM
Your doing a great job, keep it up.
Shadowman
Posted by: DAN E. HUBBELL | August 19, 2009 at 12:38 AM
Excellent interview.
I also have supported Michael's mission for years and encourage others to do so. BTW, I don't see any point in using terms like "liberal media." That's just name calling and muddies the issues.
Posted by: Tay | August 19, 2009 at 11:30 AM
Michael rocks, he is the real deal.
Posted by: Ray | August 21, 2009 at 06:47 PM
For God's sake,and maybe our's Mike.Keep you'r head down,and you'r eye's down range.Thank you
Posted by: josh | August 22, 2009 at 08:18 AM