In today's society, Americans often take for granted the accessibility of news; it is available twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, in print and on television, the radio and the internet. However, it was not so very long ago that the availability of information was in short supply, especially in times of war. Throughout history, it was repeatedly demonstrated how field news, as well as news from home, was necessary both to those fighting the battle, and to the loved ones waiting for them to return. It was only in the 20th century that the answer to this demand was fully developed, as America's concern over its role on the world stage and the condition of its soldiers fighting overseas led toward the emergence of expanded military press coverage.

Includes bibliographical references.