The following is the Open-Source Analysis Policy in effect here at The Adventures of Chester. The policy is meant to mitigate between the concerns of operational security and public analytical insight into ongoing US operations. See here for more background.

1. The Adventures of Chester only uses 100% open-source material in its discussions of ongoing US military operations. The goal is to offer insight that is lacking in traditional media outlets.

2. If I ever have access to classified material I will either stop blogging altogether, or radically alter the content of this blog.

3. When I mention casualty reports, I will assume that the report has been scrubbed by the authorities and that family members are being appropriately notified.

4. I will be extremely judicious in divulging US military doctrine that may offer insight into aspects of a battle which have not been covered explicitly. For example, if a news report mentions a specific tactical maneuver in layman's terms, I may give a fuller description of it. But if common sense and military doctrine would indicate that certain actions are taking place which are not mentioned in news reports, I will use my best judgment in drawing attention to them.

5. I will shift or alter my coverage at the request of Public Affairs officials who are aware of ongoing operations and can speak on the behalf of units involved. In order to request a correction or change, you must be a Public Affairs official, or be able to speak for a command. Email me with your request. The more detailed the better as it is easier for me to shift my coverage, or leave some stones unturned than it is for me to stop altogether, though given the correct circumstances and reasons I will consider either. In addtion, if a certain detail has been released in a press report when it should have remained unknown, I am happy to assist in finding the error so that appropriate future action may be taken to prevent a reoccurrence.

Your email must contain detailed signature and reply information and I must be able to verify your position.

6. I reserve the right to alter this policy at my discretion. If I do so, I will announce the changes in a future post.

7. This is an open-source policy. Other bloggers are free to take all or portions of this policy and make it their own. If you do so, you need not attribute it to me, but please email me if you make any changes to it. I'd like to know what policies others adopt.