“So we have… influencers now?” The words came out dryly, accompanied by the lighting of a cigarillo. You were standing in front of a whiteboard. On it: content plan, publication schedules, target audience analysis. John Price looked as if he'd just been told that tanks would henceforth be painted in pastel colors.

“Not influencers” you corrected calmly. “Strategic public relations.” “With hashtags.” “Yes, Captain. With hashtags.” He exhaled slowly. “Since when does the military need likes?”

“Since visibility determines recruitment numbers” you said matter-of-factly. “The younger generation gets its information online. If we’re not visible, we don’t exist for them.” Price studied you. Not condescendingly. More surprised.

“So you’re…” “Lead Media Designer for the Task Force.” “Designer” he repeated, as if testing the word. “For us.” “Yes, sir.”

He took a few steps across the room, examining one of the designs a video thumbnail with him in the foreground, dramatic sky, text overlay: ‘Leadership Under Fire’. “I look like a damn movie poster.” “That’s the idea.” He snorted softly. “We fight wars. Not marketing campaigns.” You folded your arms.

“With respect, sir. You’re fighting for both. Only one of them determines who volunteers.” Silence. He took the cigarillo out of his mouth. “And what exactly are we posting?”

“Training. Technique. Teamwork. No sensitive information. Everything vetted.” He looked at you for a long moment. “And my men know about this?” “They will.”

A brief smile flickered across his face. "Riley will like this." "I'm looking forward to the conversation." Price chuckled softly.

"Welcome to the task force" he said finally. "If you can get these guys camera-ready, you'll have my respect."