Manchester, N.H. – On Saturday, the 362nd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment, an Army Reserve unit that drills out of Londonderry, stepped inside the WMUR television studios for a hands‑on tour. The visit gave the soldiers a glimpse of how the public‑affairs skills they hone in uniform are applied in a civilian newsroom.
Training meets real‑world media
Public‑affairs soldiers are taught to act as trusted liaisons between the military and the press, crafting stories, photos and video that accurately portray Army life. During the WMUR tour, the reservists observed the day‑to‑day workflow of a broadcast operation, from script preparation to live‑to‑air production.
Guided by a fellow veteran
WMUR producer Staff Sergeant Kevin Henderson, who previously served in military media, led the group through the control rooms and editing bays. Henderson shared his own transition from uniformed service to civilian broadcasting, emphasizing how the discipline and storytelling techniques learned in the Army are valuable assets in any media environment.
Building community ties
The tour reinforced the unit’s mission to build trust with the public. By showing local journalists the professionalism and dedication of Army public‑affairs personnel, the detachment helps ensure that the community receives accurate information about the Guard’s role in emergencies, humanitarian missions and everyday training.
“When you see how our work fits into a real newsroom, it brings home the importance of clear, honest communication,” said Sergeant First Class Maria Lopez, a public‑affairs specialist with the 362nd. “It’s about serving both our country and our neighbors here in New Hampshire.”
Why it matters to New Hampshire
New Hampshire relies on its citizen‑soldiers for disaster response, community outreach and national defense. Public‑affairs soldiers act as the bridge that connects those efforts to the people who benefit from them. The WMUR visit highlighted that bridge, showcasing the professionalism of the reservists and the value of local media partnerships.
WMUR management expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, noting that the station regularly covers stories involving the Guard and other service members. “We’re proud to host these dedicated men and women and to help them see how their training supports the broader mission of informing the public,” said WMUR news director Lisa Carter.
Looking ahead
The 362nd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment will continue its community‑engagement schedule, planning additional visits to schools, civic groups and local media outlets throughout the state. Those efforts aim to foster mutual understanding and to keep New Hampshire residents informed about the contributions of their citizen‑soldiers.
For more information about the unit’s activities or to arrange future media engagements, contact the Army Reserve Public Affairs Office in Londonderry.
Original reporting: WMUR (Hearst) – local news — read the source article.
