that use letters of the alphabet to indicate a prearranged subject matter. If all elements are required, they appear in the following order: 1. Classification or the abbreviation UNCLAS. The highest classification authorized for visual means, regardless of method, is Confidential. 2. Special category marking (EXCLUSIVE, COSMIC, and the like). 3. Special handling security markings (NOFORN, RESDAT, and so on). 4. Exercise identification (EXERCISE MAIN BRACE). 5. Code name or nickname of special projects or operations. 6. Flag word (EXPRESS, REDLINE, and so on.) 7. Passing instructions and other indications of message distribution (FOR ) . 8. Subject line, concise and untitled. 9. References, identified by letter(s). 10. Text: a. Paragraphs are numbered. b. Subparagraphs are indented and lettered or numbered as appropriate. c. In a one-paragraph message, any subparagraphs are lettered. d. If a message is classified, proper declassification markings are included. If unclassified paragraphs or subparagraphs appear within a classified message, each number and/or letter will be followed by the abbreviated classification in parentheses; for example, A.(C), l(U). Following is an example of a message using most of the elements of the standard text format: UNCLAS //N01430// COMTWELVE PASS TO VADM SMITH REVISED CONFERENCE SCHEDULE A. MY091700-Z MAR 95 B. COMTHIRTEEN 131530-Z MAR 95 1. REQUEST DESIGNATED COMMITTEE 2. AGENDA: ARRIVE COM TWELVE 24 HOURS PRIOR CNO A. ADD “LOGISTICS OF PROJECT.” B. DELETE “POSSIBLE LOCATION 3. CNO ITINERARY, 19 AUG, TIMES UNIFORM If FACILITIES.” ETA ETD LOCATION ORIG 1300 NAS SEATTLE 1515 1800 NAS ALAMEDA 2300 TERM CHICAGO-OHARE a message does not require all elements, the format is adjusted accordingly by omitting nonessentials. Certain other exceptions are allowed when using the standard format. The subject line may be omitted if it requires that an otherwise unclassified message be classified; if it noticeably increases the length of what would be a brief message; or if it increases commercial charges when the message is addressed to activities served by commercial communications facilities. If a short message consists of only one paragraph, the paragraph is not numbered. When there is only one reference, the reference identification is included in the body of the paragraph. For example: UNCLAS YOUR 100915Z MAR 95. BUDGET APPROVED SUBJECT TO CNO CONCURRENCE. The first word of all plain language text messages must be either the abbreviation UNCLAS (unclassified), or the security classification of the message. Each message will be authorized by the commanding officer for transmission by directional visual communications. As a Signalman, you must be alert to prevent the transmission of any classified message not authorized for transmission. Ending Procedure The procedure component of the ending of a message contains three elements: time group, final instructions, and ending prosign. Normally a time group is not used in a plaindress message. The elements of the ending procedure are assigned by communications personnel to complete delivery of the message or signal. In figure 3-2, the ending is C WA DEBARK TROOPS K. The first two prosigns and the two words constitute the final instructions of the message. 3-9