Defense Information School

Can you imagine a school where truth is its weapon? Right here at the Defense Information School, or DINFOS, “Strength Through Truth” isn’t just a motto. It’s the core of their mission. The Defense Information School, nestled within Fort George G. Meade, is where the military’s storytellers are forged. They are the journalists, broadcasters, photographers, and public affairs professionals who inform the world about the U.S. military. DINFOS is a unique institution, training members from all branches of the military, as well as international military personnel and DoD civilians. Established in 1946 as the Army Information School at Carlisle Barracks, Pennsylvania, DINFOS has evolved through mergers and relocations. It finally found its home at Fort Meade in 1995. DINFOS offers a range of programs, from leadership courses for public affairs officers to hands-on journalism and broadcasting training. Ever heard of “headline-ese”? It’s a special headline writing style taught here. Aspiring military journalists can undertake the six-month Mass Communication Fundamentals Course. They even offer specialized courses in equipment maintenance, teaching students to repair studio and transmission equipment, and maintain digital editing systems. DINFOS boasts an impressive alumni list. It includes Vice Presidents Al Gore, Dan Quayle, and Walter Mondale. Even actor Rob Riggle and the father of Tiger Woods, Earl Woods, honed their communication skills here. DINFOS’s training extends beyond the traditional. Recognizing the importance of emerging media, they incorporate training on platforms like Facebook and Twitter. This ensures graduates can navigate the ever-evolving digital landscape. The Defense Information School is more than just a school. It’s a testament to the power of information, a place where words and images are crafted into stories that inform, educate, and inspire.