What's that Buzz? "CHECK SIX"

By Victor Duckarmenn
Wing OPSEC Program Manager

Check Six means to remember to always consider who or what may be behind you in that area where do not have any situational awareness (SA). Operations security is essential for planning all events on and off base to include vacations, picnics, and attendance to National conventions. The Democratic National Convention (DNC) in Denver is an extraordinary event. The question you might need to ask yourself is "What about my personal or family's OPSEC?" "What is the critical information, threat, vulnerabilities, risk and measures my family can implement during this weeks' festivities?"

First, the critical information is that information found in open sources that will compromise security of the event by any adversary with an agenda. Be assured law enforcement has all this well in hand. What about your information? Remember, you're a military representative and have a responsibility to maintain essential secrecy even in civilian clothing. While your assigned to support the DNC event, remember OPSEC training: Deter-Detect-Defend!

Second, there is always a threat to our political process while we are engaged in the Global War on Terror (GWOT). You always must assume a "worst case" scenarios where there is an aggressive intelligence collection activity by an adversary. Stay vigilant and apply your "Eagle Eyes" security training. The threat is real, they are trained, and have the hostile intentions with the capability to disrupt the DNC or any National event.

Third, vulnerability comes in four parts. They are the physical, administrative, action and technical. Vulnerabilities or a weakness in any of these four critical areas can make the adversary's job much easier. Lock your car or government vehicle. Keep points of contact rosters under control. Take a low profile. Keep radio, cell phone and conversations free of any critical information that can be used be the "Bad guys".

What is risk? Risk is defined as the probability of the adversary creating a problem and the impact of their involvement. Is it probable there will be a hostile situation? Would there be a relatively high impact to life or property if there was a hostile event? As we know, there is risk in everything we do. Local and Federal law enforcement considers all of this in their Operational Risk Management (ORM) as well as OPSEC. You must do your part if your are assigned or attending as well.

The OPSEC and counter surveillance measures are in place during the DNC are and will be transparent to most. The best measure for anyone attending is to have a great time with OPSEC covering your back. Check Six!