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?