National Press Club and Journalism Institute Optimistic Over POTUS Statements On Austin Tice

WASHINGTON, March 19, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- The Following is a statement by National Press Club President Michael Freedman on the President's mention of Austin Tice in today's briefing:

President Trump began today's press conference by calling on the Syrian government to "work with us" to free journalist Austin Tice. The National Press Club and the Journalism Institute are grateful that work is being done with Syria to bring him home. May it be soon. We are pleased for his family which has worked so hard to make this possible and appreciative of the good work of Robert O'Brien and others. We will be monitoring the situation and are encouraging all in government to not lose this moment and do what they can at this time. We are with you in spirit.

Austin Tice is an award-winning journalist and Marine veteran. He was taken while reporting from Syria in 2012 and is currently the only US journalist being held overseas. Austin is a member of the National Press Club along with his parents, Marc and Debra. He is one of the Club's John Aubuchon Press Freedom Honorees.

The National Press Club, the world's leading professional organization for journalists, represents more than 3,000 reporters, editors and professional communicators worldwide. The Club's nonprofit affiliate, the National Press Club Journalism Institute, promotes an engaged global citizenry through an independent and free press, and equips journalists with skills and standards to inform the public in ways that inspire civic engagement.

PRESS CONTACT: Lindsay Underwood for the National Press Club; [email protected], (202) 662-7561

SOURCE National Press Club