Elements of the 75th Ranger Regiment participating in Operation Enduring Freedom will return Friday, Dec. 7, 2001, to Fort Benning, Ga. Media are invited to cover the Rangers homecoming and will be allowed to capture images of the soldiers exiting the aircraft, the welcome home ceremony and will be allowed to interview soldiers. The welcome home ceremony is tentatively scheduled for 4 a.m. EST.
Further information will be distributed upon arrival at Fort Benning. Media attending are asked to assemble at the former "U.S. Cavalry" store parking lot on Victory Drive, US 27. From Interstate 185, take exit 1B and turn right immediately after the first traffic light. Media must assemble by 1 a.m. EST or they will not be allowed on post. To obtain updated information concerning arrival and meeting times, call the Fort Benning Public Affairs Office at (706) 545-2236, 545-2237 or 545-3438, between the hours of 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. EST.
The event is open to all members of the press. Bus transportation and access to the post will be provided for all media wishing to attend. Broadcast crews wishing to do live broadcasts will be able to drive their remote satellite vans on post, with a public affairs escort. All media must have valid picture identification for access to Fort Benning.
NOTE: Media representatives must R.S.V.P. with the Public Affairs Office at (706) 545-2236, 545-2237 or 545-3438 no later than 7 p.m. EST Dec. 6, 2001, to confirm attendance. When confirming attendance, names and positions of media crewmembers and if they are bringing their satellite vans must be provided. The public affairs staff will also need contact information (cellular telephone numbers and/or pager numbers) to share immediate information.