Improving Military Image

A recent CNN.com article titled “Grub, chow, mystery meat – combat food 2.0” discusses the quality of food that our servicemen and women consume while out on the battlefield. More generally, the article appears to be an effort to shift the focus to a more positive view of military-life.

First, the article helps the reader identify with the soldiers who “‘really want pizza and beer’” like any other average American. Obviously food is something we as Americans value and to think that our soldiers have to eat food that most of us wouldn’t touch as a result of protecting our country strikes a chord in people.

However, the article makes it clear that “Meals Ready to Eat” or MREs are rapidly improving to meet the needs and wants of soldiers. Food technicians are listening to the soldiers’ requests and responding to them. If you’re considering joining the military, it might help to know that even in Iraq you can have coffee, Red Bull, and beef stew. Military families are probably relieved to know that their family members or spouses are well-nourished and fed while abroad.

Beyond that, the article conveys the message that the military doesn’t view its troops as a means to an end; it cares about their health and nutrition. At a time when many Americans are losing faith in those in charge of the military, this article is a small step to frame the military and the government in a more positive way as people who care.

Source: http://edition.cnn.com/2007/TECH/09/13/combat.food/index.html