Part 10/11:
The conversation concludes with a strong defense of the free press. Speakers express concern that restricting access, especially during times of war and conflict, poses a danger to democracy. The Pentagon’s tendency to withhold information, sometimes under the guise of national security, makes investigative journalism more difficult and weakens oversight.
One speaker passionately affirms that the Pentagon belongs to the American people, not just the military or government officials who seek to control information. The enduring hope is that public pressure and legal challenges will ensure that transparency and accountability remain central to democratic governance, that the press can continue its vital watchdog role, and that government secrecy does not compromise truth and public trust.