Legal Definitions - American Forces Information Service

The American Forces Information Service (AFIS) is an agency within the U.S. Department of Defense. Its primary role is to provide news, information, and entertainment to American military personnel and their families stationed around the world. AFIS achieves this by operating various media outlets, including radio and television services, press and publication services, and a dedicated broadcast center. It is responsible for creating and distributing official military publications, periodicals, and other informational materials.

• Example 1: Global News Access for Deployed Personnel

  Imagine a U.S. Army soldier deployed to a remote forward operating base in Eastern Europe. To keep morale high and ensure personnel remain informed about global events and news from home, the base relies on broadcasts from the Armed Forces Radio and Television Service. The content, scheduling, and transmission of these vital news and entertainment programs are managed by the American Forces Information Service, ensuring the soldier has access to reliable information despite their isolated location.

• Example 2: Official Information for Military Families Overseas

  A Navy family living near a base in Japan needs to understand new regulations regarding dependents' travel or changes to healthcare benefits. They might look for official pamphlets, newsletters, or online articles specifically tailored for military families. The American Forces Information Service is the agency responsible for producing and distributing these authoritative publications and digital content through its Armed Forces Press and Publications Service, ensuring military families receive accurate and timely information directly from the Department of Defense.

• Example 3: Producing Educational Content for Service Members

  The Department of Defense decides to launch a new initiative to promote financial literacy among service members, requiring a series of engaging video tutorials and public service announcements to be shown across all military installations. The American Forces Information Service, through its Broadcast Center, would be tasked with the production, editing, and distribution of these educational video materials, ensuring they are professionally created and effectively disseminated to reach service members worldwide via military media channels.