Public Affairs Guidance

MC1(SW/AW) M. E. Miller

Objective

• Write proposed public affairs guidance

Overview

• Purpose

• Format

• PPAG vs. PAG

• Routing/Approval

Purpose

• Support public discussion of defense issues

and operations

• Source document for responding to

media/public

• Internal document, not for distribution

• Involves planning and coordination

Format

• Classification/References

• Background

• Purpose

• PA Posture/Approach

• Public Statement

• Questions & Answers

• Miscellaneous Information

• Points of Contact

Format

Unclas

Subject: Public Affairs Guidance (PAG) - Hurricane Katrina Support Operations 2005 (U)

1. References. Ref A, Department of Defense (DoD) Instruction 5405.3, Development of PPAG, 5 Apr 1991. Ref. B, USNORTHCOM Execution Order for Hurricane Katrina Disaster Relief Operations, DTG 192300ZAUG2005.

Format

• Background

– Provides user general information about the event.– Clear and Concise – Who, What, When, Why, etc.– Background NOT for release or public disclosure.

• Ensure this is clearly marked on PAG.

Format

• Purpose

– Explains the PAG’s purpose and identifies coordination actions, if any.

– If created for higher approval, this is where that request for approval is listed.

Format

• Public Affairs Approach

– PA Approach will be either Active or Passive.– If passive, ensure you specifically cite “Response

to Query Only”.

Format

• Statement for Public Release

– An approved public statement exercising the 5Ws and H in a news release format.

– Can be for both Active or Passive PA postures, as needed.

– Can include a contingency statement as well.

Format

• Questions and Answers (RTQ)

– Anticipated questions and coordinated responses.– Always go beyond the obvious questions.– Numbered “Q1./A1., Q2./A2., etc.” – Keep answers thorough, concise and clear.

Format

• Miscellaneous Information

– Includes Command Messages, Talking Points and Targeted Media

• Messages organized by subject.

• Messages & information goes deeper than RTQ

Format

• Points of Contact (POCs)

– List the overall PAO and anyone who had a hand in drafting the PAG.

– Include complete information (names, phone numbers, email, mail address, fax, etc.)

PPAG vs. PAG

• PPAG developed by local command prior to

operation or exercise

• Forwarded to OASD(PA)

• OASD(PA) completes and publishes PAG

Coordination

• Higher headquarters

• Subordinate units

• Staff agencies

– SAPP concerns, legal concerns, logistics

Public Affairs Guidance

Any Questions?