Do I have to submit all documents originating in the DC area for pre-publication review by N09N2 and DoD?
SECNAVINST 5510.36, exhibit 8B, lists the types of information that must be forwarded to CNO(N09N2) for review by the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Public Affairs) prior to publication. This includes information which “Originates or is proposed for public release in the Washington DC area” (paragraph 1.a). The long-standing interpretation of this requirement is that it is directed to and applies to Senior Level personnel (i.e., Flag Officers and SES) dealing with political policy and military “hot-button” issues that have the potential to be of news-worthy interest, such as the TV evening news or the newspaper. Follow the guidelines of Exhibit 8B and coordinate with your public affairs office to complete pre-publication security reviews at your command to the maximum extent possible.
