US Navy restricting press access to sailors’ service history

The US Navy is restricting journalists’ access to sailors’ service histories, limiting information that has traditionally helped the press scrutinise military personnel and leadership. The change matters because it could make it harder to verify officials’ records, investigate misconduct or assess the experience of those involved in major events.

The available article text does not provide the Navy’s reasons, the scope of the restrictions or when they take effect. The report’s headline indicates that the policy concerns service-history information supplied to the press, rather than routine operational reporting.