Which statement best describes the responsibility for COMSEC material at a command?

Which statement best describes the responsibility for COMSEC material at a command?

• A. XO is responsible
• B. CO is responsible
• C. SCMSRO is responsible
• D. COMMO is responsible

Answer: (B)

Ultimate accountability for COMSEC material at a command rests with the commanding officer. COMSEC material is government property that must be safeguarded, inventoried, and properly disposed of, and the CO is the official who establishes policy, assigns responsibility, and ensures the program is run correctly—often through a designated COMSEC Manager or CRO for day-to-day custody and operations. The executive officer assists in running the command, but the permanent accountability lies with the commander. The SCMS Responsible Officer focuses on the larger Security Command Management System program, not the command’s on-site custody and accountability. The Communications Officer handles the operational aspects of communications, but does not bear the ultimate responsibility for COMSEC material.

Ultimate accountability for COMSEC material at a command rests with the commanding officer. COMSEC material is government property that must be safeguarded, inventoried, and properly disposed of, and the CO is the official who establishes policy, assigns responsibility, and ensures the program is run correctly—often through a designated COMSEC Manager or CRO for day-to-day custody and operations. The executive officer assists in running the command, but the permanent accountability lies with the commander. The SCMS Responsible Officer focuses on the larger Security Command Management System program, not the command’s on-site custody and accountability. The Communications Officer handles the operational aspects of communications, but does not bear the ultimate responsibility for COMSEC material.