American Forces Network facts for kids

The United States Armed Forces has its own special radio and television service. It's called American Forces Network (AFN). AFN broadcasts popular American radio and TV shows. These programs go to American soldiers, sailors, airmen, and other US government civilians. Their families who are stationed outside the U.S. and on U.S. Navy ships also get to watch and listen. AFN is sometimes called the Armed Forces Network. AFRTS, American Forces Network, and AFN are official names owned by the U.S. Department of Defense.

What is the American Forces Network?

The American Forces Network, or AFN, is a special broadcasting service. It provides radio and television programs to American military members. This service helps connect them with home. It also offers news and entertainment.

Who Does AFN Serve?

AFN serves all parts of the U.S. military. This includes soldiers, sailors, and airmen. It also reaches other U.S. government workers and their families. They receive AFN broadcasts when they are living or working outside the United States. This includes people on Navy ships around the world.

What Kind of Programs Does AFN Broadcast?

AFN broadcasts many popular American radio and television programs. These shows come from regular U.S. networks. This means service members and their families can watch and listen to the same shows as people back home. It helps them feel more connected to American culture.

Connecting with Home

Being far from home can be tough. AFN helps by bringing familiar voices and faces. It provides a taste of home through entertainment. This can be very important for morale. It helps people feel less isolated.

News and Information

Besides entertainment, AFN also provides important news. It keeps military families updated on events from the U.S. and around the world. This includes news about military operations. It also shares information specific to their base or ship.

History of AFN

AFN has been around for a long time. It started during World War II. The goal was to provide news and entertainment to troops fighting overseas. Over the years, it has grown and changed. It now uses modern technology to reach its audience.

Early Days of Military Broadcasting

In the beginning, military broadcasting used radio. It was a way to boost spirits during wartime. Famous entertainers would often perform for the troops. This tradition continues today.

Modern AFN Broadcasting

Today, AFN uses advanced satellite technology. This allows it to send TV and radio signals globally. It ensures that American service members can access their programs wherever they are. This includes remote bases and ships at sea.

Images for kids

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  Bob Hope welcomes Jane Russell to Command Performance (1944)

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  Frank Sinatra interviews actress Alida Valli for one of the many programs produced by the Armed Forces Radio Service for broadcast to the troops overseas during World War II

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  Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall being interviewed by the Armed Forces Radio Service

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  Lionel Barrymore broadcasting the Armed Forces Radio Service's Concert Hall radio show (1947)

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  AFN Iraq on-air radio studio. Baghdad, Iraq (April 2004).

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  QSL card from AFRTS

See also

In Spanish: American Forces Network para niños