Today’s my last day at Defense News; I’m heading off to be the deputy editor of Defense One, Atlantic Media’s national-security publication.
I couldn’t be more excited about the new job; it’ll put me back in the thick of covering news, and will allow me to work with great folks, some of whom are former colleagues and others I know so far only by reputation.
Here’s Navy Times senior reporter John Burlage, a retired Navy master chief journalist and a mentor to me and many others, receiving the Superior Public Service Award from Adm. Vern Clark, Chief of Naval Operations, in 2002. (U.S. Navy photo)
But it’s a bittersweet moment as well. I joined Gannett Government Media back in 1997 when it was still Army Times Publishing Company. As a new Navy Times reporter, I learned about covering the military from a retired master chief journalist, who drilled into his charges the importance of serving readers who have chosen the path of military service. I went on to work for Defense News in 2001, later took over Armed Forces Journal (and C4ISR Journal and Training & Simulation Journal as well), and last year moved back to Defense News. At each step, I learned from colleagues and contributors who were generous with their time and thought, and I am grateful for all of their help and counsel.
Now it’s time for new lessons and new challenges. Farewell, Defense News, and hello, Defense One!
I’m heading off to be the deputy editor of Defense One, Atlantic Media’s national-security publication.