Media Briefing Center for Operation Iraqi Freedom
On January 22, 2003, Chicago Scenic began construction on a set that would become one of the most recognizable in television history. The set served as the media-briefing center for Operation Iraqi Freedom and was used by Major General Vincent Brooks, General Tommy Franks, and other American commanders to give daily updates to hundreds of international reporters and millions of viewers worldwide. George Allison designed the center as a product of the military’s desire to reflect modern US warfare, and bring up the level of technology when communicating with reporters and the public about the war.

Scenic elements consisted of three 50-inch and two 70-inch plasma video screens used to display maps, precision air strikes, satellite battlefield photography, and other graphics during briefing. The screens were mounted on thick tubular grey struts and the larger screens could be adjusted for height. Other scenic elements include a stylized blue and white map of the world consisting of wood panels created in the CSSI shop, two custom-made podiums, and five digital clocks that showed the local time around the world.

Dozens of CSSI employees worked around the clock and finished the set in less than one week. CSSI’s Metals Department Head Dan Yuen served as the job lead on the project and worked closely with Carpentry Department Head Ken Glucksburg. Project Manager Ken Zommer worked with George Allison and the Department of Defense to make sure the fast- track project was completed and shipped to its destination in Doha, Qatar, in time for the impending war.

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