How to use an embed

While still used after the start of the ground offensive, Pentagon-packaged news were pushed aside by the changing nature of the war in Iraq. They were replaced mostly by embedded reporters, an innovative technique making correspondents dependant on the military not only for information, but also for their lodging, meals, transportation and security.

Defenselink offers an interesting Feb 2003 U.S. military memo on embedding journalists. Apparently they even fly reporters high-priority and assist with filing their stories.

Interestingly, the document states that "media embedded with U.S. forces are not permitted to carry personal firearms." One wonders what NY Times correspondent Dexter Filkins did to convince his unit commander to let him carry a handgun across Iraq.