Figure 8-3.—Watch-to-watch inventory sheet.
HANDLING CLASSIFIED MATERIAL
Classified material available on the signal
bridge while under way involves not only signal
publications as such, but may include such
documents as encrypted call signs and task force
call signs.
Classified material is made available to
personnel only on a “need-to-know” basis. In
other words, the material is on the signal bridge
only because Signalmen need it to perform their
duties. As a signal supervisor, you are directly
responsible for the classified matter on the signal
bridge during your watch. If possible, keep the
material out of sight until needed. Do not allow
lookouts, telephone talkers, or other watch
standers to have access to it. In the first place,
they have no need for the information. Secondly, you
have no way of knowing whether they have been
granted the appropriate security clearance.
When the ship is not under way, classified matter
required for use by the signal bridge generally is
retained in the communications spaces where facilities
are available to provide adequate security. Needed
material is delivered to the signal bridge by the
communications officer when the ship gets under way
and is removed by the communications officer when
the ship enters port. In ships having proper stowage
facilities on the bridge, the signal officer is responsible
for delivering, collecting, and securing the classified
material.
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