Media Advisory 20110525-01
May 25, 2011

CPIC Closure: The future of badging and media access

WHO: All media

WHAT: As part of the upcoming strategic transition, the 10th Press Camp Headquarters, operators of the Combined Press Information Center, will end all media operations on July 1, 2011. This includes USF-I badging, embed and escort operations, and support for media events. This will result in a change in both badging and access procedures.

New Badging Process: The final day for new USF-I badge applications will be June 15, 2011, approximately two weeks prior to the CPIC closure. After the deadline, the CPIC will no longer accept badge applications and all media will need to go to the Green Zone Badging Office to apply for access badges. The GZBO will assume responsibility as the badging authority for those with a continuing need for frequent access to the Green/International Zone. Questions about the GZBO and the badging process should be sent to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Extensions: Green and yellow badge holders whose USF-I badges are valid through July 1, 2011, but expire by the end of the year, can request an extension through the CPIC until June 30, 2011. This extension will renew badge privileges through December 31, 2011. After June 30, green and yellow badge holders who did not renew their badges will be ineligible for an extension and will need to go to the GZBO for any future badge requirements.

Red Badges End July 1, 2011: All red USF-I badges will be voided on July 1, 2011, regardless of expiration date. Media currently authorized a red USF-I badge should contact the GZBO to apply for a GZBO access badge if continued Green/International Zone access is required.

Installation Access After July 1, 2011: Installation access and privileges between July 1 and December 31, 2011, will be based on access controls for each individual installation and the controlling entity (e.g. USEMB-B, USF-I). For access to sites controlled by the U.S. Embassy, coordination must be made with the Embassy or its office at that specific location.

Embed/Escort Operations: All media requesting to embed with U.S. forces after July 1, 2011, will need to contact the USF-I J9 Media Outreach section. Media needing escort support must contact the Public Affairs office at the specific installation being visited.

WHERE: FOB Prosperity

WHEN: Friday, July 1, 2011

NOTE: The CPIC understands that this transition will require flexibility, and we and our staff are committed to assisting all media during the transition process. It is imperative that you contact our office should you have any concerns regarding specific issues not covered in this advisory. Our goal is a seamless transition with minimal disruption to media operations. We thank you in advance for your patience and flexibility as we prepare for our eventual closure.

Should you have any questions, please contact CPT Todd Coates at 0770-444-2254 / This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or Soheir Flanagan at 0770-444-2283 / This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .