Campaign guidance for reservists seeking office Published Aug. 6, 2008 WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Department of Defense policy directive on campaigning was revised this year and requires candidates with a military background to include a disclaimer whenever they use photos of themselves in uniform, mention their rank or even talk about their duties in campaign literature. The directive was issued in February 2008, as part of an update of the broader policy governing political activities by members of the military. The disclaimer must state that the use of that information doesn't mean the Department of Defense endorses them, according to the policy. Members not on active duty should avoid inferences that their political activities imply or appear to imply official sponsorship, approval, or endorsement.