compliance with this publication is mandatory

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AIR FORCE MARS OPERATING INSTRUCTION 2 August 2017

Revised as of 01 June 2019 Rev. C Communications and Information

MILITARY AUXILIARY RADIO SYSTEM

OPERATIONS

COMPLIANCE WITH THIS PUBLICATION IS MANDATORY

ACCESSIBILITY: This publication is available through the MARS Program Office [email protected] .

RELEASABILITY: There are no public release restrictions on this publication. OPR: 38 CYRS/SCM (Chief USAF MARS) AGA5C Supersedes AFMARS MOI 21 APR 2016 Rev A, and all previous revisions Pages:124 This Air Force MILITARY AUXILIARY RADIO SYSTEM (MARS) Operating Instruction (MOI)

(MOI) sets forth responsibilities, operational characteristics, organizational structure, policy, and

procedures for the operations of the Air Force MARS (AFMARS) Program. This MOI details MARS station operations, the administration of AFMARS membership, network operation, and management of government property used in MARS as authorized by DoD Instruction 4650.02, AF Instruction (AFI)17-210, and other governing DoD and AF directives. This instruction applies to individual AFMARS members and AFMARS stations when operating on MARS nets. AFMARS stations will use this publication in conjunction with other applicable publications governing military radio and MARS station operations procedures. Refer MOI questions to Chief, USAF MARS, 38 CYRS/SCM, 203 West Losey St., Rm 2100, Scott AFB, IL 62225-5222. This MOI may be amended at any time, in whole or in part, by direction of the Chief, USAF MARS. Further, no supplements or changes to current operating procedures, modes, or practices are allowed without the consent of the Chief or his representative. Reporting errors in this document: Members are urged to report typographical errors, inconsistencies, or related matters to their respective State MARS Director (SMD) in writing, detailing such observations. SMD’s shall forward such comments to the Region MARS Director for additional handling.

mailto:[email protected]

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REVISION PAGE

REVISION DATE DESCRIPTION

- 17 APR

2016

Initial Rewrite DRAFT

A 21 APR

2016

Initial MARS Release

B 20 JUN 17 Fix Typos throughout, Substantial Updates to Sections 4; 6; 11;

13; & 16.

20 June 2017

Revision B

2 Aug 2017 Revision “2 Aug 2017” published superseding all previous versions.

C 01 June 2019 Numerous format and content changes. Supersedes all previous versions. Effective on date of issue.

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Table of Contents

Chapter 1.0. MISSION AND ORGANIZATION .................................................................... 13

1.1. AFMARS Mission. ........................................................................................................13 1.1.1. DoD Instruction 4650.02 Military Auxiliary Radio System (MARS). ..................13 1.1.2. MARS Mission Supplement. ................................................................................13 1.1.3. Additional AFMARS Missions. ............................................................................13

1.2. AFMARS Tasking. ........................................................................................................14 1.2.1. Per DoD Instruction (DoDI) 4650.02. ...................................................................14 1.2.2. MARS Mission Responsibilities. .........................................................................14

1.3. Duties and Responsibilities. .......................................................................................15 1.3.1. Office of the Secretary of the Air Force (SAF). ..................................................15 1.3.2. Chief, USAF MARS. ..............................................................................................15 1.3.3. MAJCOM, Guard, & Reserve Communications Systems Offices. ....................16 1.3.4. Installation MARS Director (IMD). .......................................................................17 1.3.5. Base Support Team (BST). ..................................................................................18

1.4. National Appointments. ..............................................................................................18 1.4.1. National Director TRANSGLOBAL Operations (NDTO). ....................................18 1.4.2. Deputy Director TRANSGLOBAL Network Operations (DDTNO). .....................19 1.4.3. Deputy Director TRANSGLOBAL Digital Operations (DDTDO). ........................20 1.4.4. Deputy Director Automatic Link Establishment (ALE) Operations (DDALEO).

................................................................................................................................21 1.4.5. Deputy Director TRANSGLOBAL Radio Relay Operations (DDTRRO). ............21 1.4.6. National MARSRADIO Net Manager (NMRM). ....................................................22 1.4.7 Deputy National MARSRADIO Net Manager (DMRM). ........................................22 1.4.8. National Military Support Network Manager (NMSNM). .....................................23 1.4.9. Deputy National Military Support Network Manager (DNMSNM). .....................23 1.4.10. National Planning Coordinator (NPC). ..............................................................23 1.4.11. National Emergency Coordinator (NEC). ..........................................................24 1.4.12. Deputy National Emergency Coordinator (DNEC). ..........................................25 1.4.13. National Exercise Coordinator (NXC). ..............................................................25 1.4.14. Deputy National Exercise Coordinator (DNXC). ...............................................26 1.4.15. National Director Operations (NDO). ................................................................26 1.4.16. National VHF Coordinator (NVC). ......................................................................27 1.4.17. National Military Liaison (NML). ........................................................................28 1.4.18. National Training Manager (NTM). ....................................................................28 1.4.19. Deputy National Training Manager (DNTM). .....................................................29 1.4.20. National Records Manage (NRM). .....................................................................29 1.4.21. National Public Information Officer (NPIO). .....................................................29 1.4.22. National Technical Services Manager (NTSM). ................................................30 1.4.23. National Administrative Assistant (NAA). ........................................................30 1.4.24. National Telephone Support Manager (NTSM). ................................................31

1.5. Region Appointees. .....................................................................................................32 1.5.1. Region MARS Director (RMD). ............................................................................32 1.5.2. Deputy Region MARS Director (DRMD). .............................................................33 1.5.3. Region Emergency Coordinator (REC). ..............................................................33 1.5.4. Region Records Manager (RRM). ........................................................................33 1.5.5. Region Training Manager (RTM). ........................................................................34 1.5.6. Region Exercise Coordinator (RXC). ..................................................................35

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1.5.7. Region Digital Networks Manager (RDNM). .......................................................35 1.5.8. Region Voice Network Manager (RVNM). ...........................................................36 1.5.9. Region VHF Coordinator (RVC)...........................................................................36 1.5.10. Region Technical Services Manager (RTSM). ..................................................37

1.6. State Appointments. ....................................................................................................37 1.6.1. State MARS Director (SMD). ................................................................................38 1.6.2. Deputy State MARS Director (DSMD). ................................................................39 1.6.3. Individual Volunteer Members. ...........................................................................39

1.7. Member Official Appointments. ..................................................................................40 1.7.1. Appointment Process. .........................................................................................40 1.7.2. Position Applications. .........................................................................................40 1.7.3. Selection and Appointment Process. .................................................................41 1.7.4. Special Net Manager (SNM) Appointments. .......................................................41 1.7.5. Outgoing Officials. ...............................................................................................41 1.7.6. Staff Positions. .....................................................................................................41 1.7.7. Billet Expectations. ..............................................................................................41 1.7.8. National Billets. ....................................................................................................42 1.7.9. Region Billets. ......................................................................................................42 1.7.10. State Billets. .......................................................................................................42 1.7.11. Non-Billeted Assignments. ................................................................................42 1.7.12. Non-Billeted AF Form 3661. ..............................................................................42 1.7.13. Non-Billeted Duties and Responsibilities. ........................................................42

Chapter 2.0. MEMBER APPLICATION, ASSIGNMENTS AND TRAINING ..................... 43

2.1. Scope. ..........................................................................................................................43 2.2. MARS Station Categories. ..........................................................................................43

2.2.1. IAW DoDI 4650.02. ................................................................................................43 2.2.2. Station Association..............................................................................................43 2.2.3. Civilian Volunteer Minimum Eligibility. ...............................................................43 2.2.4. Eligibility Requirements Grandfathering. ................. Error! Bookmark not defined.

2.3. Eligibility Criteria. ........................................................................................................43 2.3.1. Age. .......................................................................................................................43 2.3.2. Citizenship. ...........................................................................................................44 2.3.3. FCC License Class. ..............................................................................................44 2.3.4. Station Requirements. .........................................................................................44 2.3.5. VHF Requirements. See Section 16.0 for more information on VHF operations.

................................................................................................................................45 2.3.6. Contact Information. ............................................................................................45

2.4. Net Control Station. .....................................................................................................45 2.5. Deployment. .................................................................................................................45

2.5.1. Willing and Able. ..................................................................................................45 2.5.2. Course Completion AF Form 3661. .....................................................................46

2.6. Individual Responsibilities..........................................................................................46 2.6.1. Application. ..........................................................................................................46 2.6.2. Application and SMD contact info. .....................................................................46 2.6.3. Completed application. ........................................................................................46 2.6.4. Call sign assignment. ..........................................................................................46 2.6.5. Form 3661 distribution. .......................................................................................46 2.6.6. After training completion.....................................................................................46 2.6.7. Primary assignment. ............................................................................................47 2.6.8. Form 3666 creation. .............................................................................................47

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2.6.9. SMD Form 3661 responsibilities. ........................................................................47 2.6.10. Maximum training period. ..................................................................................47 2.6.11. Training period extension. ................................................................................47 2.6.12. Waivers. ..............................................................................................................47 2.6.13. NCS training. ......................................................................................................47 2.6.14. Certificate of completion. ..................................................................................47 2.6.15. Station authorization limits. ..............................................................................47

2.7. Training Material. .........................................................................................................48 2.7.1. ACP-121 (I). ...........................................................................................................48 2.7.2. ACP-125 (G). .........................................................................................................48 2.7.3. ACP-126 (C). .........................................................................................................48 2.7.4. ACP-127 (G). .........................................................................................................48 2.7.5. ACP-127 (G) U. S. Supp-1 (K). .............................................................................48 2.7.6. ACP-131 (F). .........................................................................................................48 2.7.7. Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Instruction (CJCSI) 6241.04C. ..........................48 2.7.8. DoDI 4650-02 (23 DEC 2009). ...............................................................................48 2.7.9. AFMARS National Training Manual, (NTM) ........................................................48 2.7.10. AFMARS Messaging Manual, (MMM) ................................................................48 2.7.11. AFMARS Messaging Manual Annex I, (FOUO) .................................................48 2.7.12. Other manuals and material. .............................................................................48 2.7.13. Region manuals. ................................................................................................48

2.8. FCC License Renewal Procedures. ............................................................................49 2.8.1. FCC Amateur Radio License Requirement. .......................................................49 2.8.2. AFMARS Renewal Procedure. .............................................................................49 2.8.3. Form 3666 Issue. ..................................................................................................49

Chapter 3.0. PARTICIPATION, REPORTING, AND LOGGING ................................................. 50

3.1. Scope. ..........................................................................................................................50 3.2. Member Activity Time. .................................................................................................50

3.2.1. Total Active MARS Service Date. ........................................................................50 3.2.2. Self-Reporting. .....................................................................................................50 3.2.3. Time Reporting. ....................................................................................................50 3.2.4. Members Inactive Status. ....................................................................................50 3.2.5. Members Return to Active Status. ......................................................................50

3.3. Participation Time Requirements. ..............................................................................51 3.3.1. Time Reporting. ....................................................................................................51 3.3.2. Accuracy and Timeliness. ...................................................................................52 3.3.3. Right to Audit. ......................................................................................................52

3.4. Failure to Keep Records or Fraudulent Activity. .......................................................52 3.5. Member Participation Time. ........................................................................................52

3.5.1. On-Air Participation Time. ...................................................................................52 3.5.2. Not On-Air (NOA) Participation Time. .................................................................53

3.6. Reporting Procedure and Methodology. ....................................................................53 3.6.1. Monthly Member Participation Report (MPR). ....................................................54 3.6.2. Member Base Support Team (BST). ...................................................................55 3.6.3. State MARS Directors Quarterly Report Content. ..............................................55 3.6.4. Region MARS Directors Quarterly Feedback Report. .......................................56 3.6.5. RMD Quarterly Feedback Report Content. .........................................................56 3.6.6. National Records Manager Quarterly Report. ....................................................56 3.6.7. Additional Reporting. ...........................................................................................57 3.6.8. Member Station Logs. ..........................................................................................57

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Chapter 4.0. PERSONNEL ACTIONS ...................................................................................... 59

4.1. Scope. ..........................................................................................................................59 4.2. Releasing Officials. .....................................................................................................59 4.3. Resignations. ...............................................................................................................59 4.4. Member Terminations. ................................................................................................59 4.5. Member Transfers. ......................................................................................................59 4.6. Reinstatement Waiting Periods. .................................................................................60 4.7. Extenuating Circumstances. .......................................................................................60 4.8. Assignment Actions Requiring AF Form 3661 Preparation. .....................................60

4.8.1. AFMARS Personnel Action Notification (AF FORM 3661). ................................61 4.8.2. AF Form 3661 Content. ........................................................................................61 4.8.3. AF Form 3661 Preparation Instructions. ............................................................62

4.9. Maintenance of Records. ............................................................................................64 4.10. Public Records Information. .....................................................................................64 4.11. DoD Benefits Procedure. ..........................................................................................64 4.12. Reserve Points Procedure. ............................................. Error! Bookmark not defined.

Chapter 5.0. INTEROPERABILITY .......................................................................................... 65

5.1. Scope. ..........................................................................................................................65 5.2. Interoperability – overall policies ...............................................................................65

5.2.1. Working with Organizations. ...............................................................................65 5.2.2. Non-MARS Frequency Approval. ........................................................................65 5.2.3. Other organization Compliance. .........................................................................65 5.2.4. AFMARS members will train for interoperability. ..............................................66 5.2.5. AFMARS members will equip for interoperability..............................................66 5.2.6. Callsigns ...............................................................................................................66

5.3. Interoperability - Army MARS (AMARS). ....................................................................66 5.3.1. AFMARS / AMARS Interoperability. ....................................................................66 5.3.2. Participation with AMARS. ..................................................................................67 5.3.3. AMARS Non-Interoperability. ..............................................................................67

5.4. Interoperability - Other US Government Organizations. ...........................................67 5.4.1. Other US Government Organizations. ................................................................67 5.4.2. Participation. ........................................................................................................68 5.4.3. SHARES. ...............................................................................................................68

5.5. Interoperability – Civil Authorities..............................................................................69 5.5.1. Support to Civil Authorities. ................................................................................69 5.5.2. Civil Authority Aspects of Interoperability. ........................................................69 5.5.3. Pre-Authorization with Civil Authorities. ............................................................69 5.5.4. Civil Radio Specifications. ..................................................................................69 5.5.5. Operation SECURE. .............................................................................................69

5.6. Interoperability – Civil Non-Government Organizations (NGO)................................70 5.6.1. AFMARS and NGOs. ............................................................................................70 5.6.2. Participation with NGOs. .....................................................................................70 5.6.3. Operations on Amateur Frequencies. ................................................................70 5.6.4. Use of FCC Part 90 Frequencies. ........................................................................71

5.7. Special Authorizations. ...............................................................................................71 5.8. Regional Joint MARS Operating Group (RJMOG) .....................................................71

5.8.1. When Necessary Establishment. ........................................................................71 5.8.2. DoD or Chief Establishment. ...............................................................................71 5.8.3. AFMARS Support. ................................................................................................71 5.8.4. Examples. .............................................................................................................71

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5.8.5. Chain of Command. .............................................................................................71 5.8.6. Training Net. .........................................................................................................71

5.9. MARSRADIO Network. .................................................................................................72

Chapter 6.0. PROTECTION OF SENSITIVE INFORMATION ........................................... 72

6.1. Scope. MARS Communication Protection Guidance. ...............................................72 6.2. For Official Use Only (FOUO). .....................................................................................73

6.2.1. MARS Communication Protection Guidance. ....................................................73 6.2.2. FOUO Documents. ...............................................................................................73 6.2.3. FOUO Transmittal. ...............................................................................................73

6.3. Personally Identifiable Information (PII). ....................................................................74 6.4. Amateur Call Sign. .......................................................................................................74 6.5. Safeguarding Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). ........................................74

6.5.1. Access to CUI. ......................................................................................................74 6.5.2. Securing CUI. .......................................................................................................74

6.6. Security Training. ........................................................................................................74 6.6.1. CUI Training. ........................................................................................................74 6.6.2. Personally Identifiable Information (PII) Training. .............................................75 6.6.3. Cyber Awareness Challenge (CAC) Training. ....................................................75

Chapter 7.0. CORRESPONDENCE .................................................................................... 76

7.1. General. ........................................................................................................................76 7.2. Proper Channels. .........................................................................................................76

7.2.1. Criticality. .............................................................................................................76 7.2.2. Personal or sensitive nature. ..............................................................................76

7.3. Written Correspondence. ............................................................................................76 7.3.1. Endorsement. .......................................................................................................76 7.3.2. Concurrence. ........................................................................................................76 7.3.3. Responses. ...........................................................................................................76 7.3.4. Application. ..........................................................................................................77

7.4. On the Air or Email. .....................................................................................................77 7.5. U.S. MAIL......................................................................................................................77

Chapter 8.0. CONFERENCES AND MEETINGS ................................................................. 78

8.1. Scope. ..........................................................................................................................78 8.2. Annual Conference. .....................................................................................................78 8.3. State Meetings. ............................................................................................................78 8.4. General Conferences...................................................................................................78

8.4.1. Planning. ...............................................................................................................78 8.4.2. Committee. ...........................................................................................................78 8.4.3. Scheduling. ..........................................................................................................79 8.4.4. Discussion Items. ................................................................................................79 8.4.5. Social Events........................................................................................................79 8.4.6. Agenda Coordination. ..........................................................................................79 8.4.7. Chairperson Duties. .............................................................................................79 8.4.8. Attendance Participation. ....................................................................................79 8.4.9. FOUO Restrictions. ..............................................................................................79

8.5. General Meetings. ........................................................................................................79 8.5.1. Meeting Outline. ...................................................................................................80 8.5.2. Discussion Content. ............................................................................................80 8.5.3. Award Presentation. ............................................................................................80

Chapter 9.0. RESERVED FOR FUTURE USE ...................................................................... 81

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Chapter 10.0. RESERVED FOR FUTURE USE .................................................................... 82

Chapter 11.0. CALL SIGNS ................................................................................................. 83

11.1. Scope. ........................................................................................................................83 11.2. Issuing Authority. ......................................................................................................83 11.3. Regions and States. ..................................................................................................83 11.4. MARS Call Sign Suffixes. ..........................................................................................83 11.5. MARS Call Sign Use Outside of Home Area. ...........................................................84 11.6. Military Base Station Call Signs Prefix “AGA”. .......................................................84 11.7. MARS Member Call Signs Prefix. “AFA”. .................................................................84 11.8. MARS Member Call Signs In Training Prefix “AFT”. ...............................................84 11.9. Billet Call Signs. ........................................................................................................84 11.10. National Level Billet Call Signs...............................................................................85 11.11. Region Level Billet Call Signs. ...............................................................................87 11.12. State Level Billet Call Signs. ...................................................................................87 11.13. Digital Station Call Signs. .......................................................................................88

11.13.1. TRANSGLOBAL Digital Network PMC Stations. ............................................88 11.13.2. VHF Secondary Station Identifiers (SSID). .....................................................89

11.14. Special Event Station Call Signs. ...........................................................................89 11.14.1. Requesting Special Event Call Signs. ............................................................89 11.14.2. “AFM” Prefix. ....................................................................................................89

11.15. Civil Agency and AFMARS Club Station Call Signs. .............................................89 11.15.1. Club Station Association with AFMARS. ........................................................90 11.15.2. Approval of AFMARS Club Stations. ..............................................................90

11.16. Net Nomenclature. ...................................................................................................91 11.16.1. AFMARS Nomenclature. ..................................................................................91 11.16.2. Special Nets and Circumstances. ...................................................................92 11.16.3. Exceptions. .......................................................................................................92

11.17. Special Recognition Status Prefix “AFZ”. .............................................................92

Chapter 12.0. MESSAGES .................................................................................................. 93

12.1. Scope. ........................................................................................................................93 12.2. Message Creation and Handling...............................................................................93

Chapter 13.0. HF NETWORK ................................................................................................ 94

13.1. Scope. ........................................................................................................................94 13.2. HF Purpose. ...............................................................................................................94

13.2.1. TRANSGLOBAL HF Network. ............................................................................94 13.2.2. Region and State Networks. ..............................................................................94 13.2.3. Training Nets. .....................................................................................................94

13.3. General Traffic. ..........................................................................................................94 13.4. Net Control Station (NCS). ........................................................................................94 13.5. Alternate Net Control Station(S). ..............................................................................95 13.6. MARS Broadcast Messages. .....................................................................................95 13.7. Encryption of Message Traffic. .................................................................................95

13.7.1. Training operations. ...........................................................................................95 13.7.2. Encryption. .........................................................................................................95

13.8. Authentication/Tactical Encryption ..........................................................................95 13.9. Frequency Use. ..........................................................................................................95 13.10. Verification. ..............................................................................................................95 13.11. Reporting Suspicious Use. .....................................................................................96 13.12. Shared Resources High Frequency Radio Program. ............................................96

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13.13. Authorized Modes of Operation. .............................................................................96 13.13.1. Voice Modes. ....................................................................................................96 13.13.2. Data Modes. ......................................................................................................96 13.13.3. Primary Data Mode. ..........................................................................................97 13.13.4. ALE Operations. ...............................................................................................97

13.14. Required Capability and Proficiency. .....................................................................97 13.15. Tactical Phone Patch. ..............................................................................................97 13.16. Inappropriate Transmissions. .................................................................................97

13.16.1. Inappropriate transmissions. ..........................................................................97 13.16.2. Business Conversations Only. ........................................................................98 13.16.3. Military Rules. ...................................................................................................98

13.17. HF Frequency Assignments, Special Stations and Interference. .........................98 13.17.1. Spectrum Action Focal Point. .........................................................................98 13.17.2. Special Temporary Station Authority. ............................................................99 13.17.3. Master Record Required, Updates / Changes. ...............................................99 13.17.4. Technical Requirements. .................................................................................99 13.17.5. Interference Reports/Technical Deficiencies/Suspicious

Operations/Jamming. ............................................................................................99 13.18. Remote Operations and Station Remote Control ..................................................99

13.18.1. Definitions: .......................................................................................................99 13.18.2. Station Security and Technical Standards .....................................................99 13.18.3. Rights of the Remote Station Owner. ........................................................... 100 13.18.4. Hours of Operation. ....................................................................................... 100 13.18.5. Operations During Exercises. ....................................................................... 100 13.18.6. Logging of Operator Time. ............................................................................ 100

Chapter 14.0. MARSRADIO NETWORK (MRN) ................................................................ 101

14.1. MARSRADIO MEMBERS ......................................................................................... 101 14.1.1. Membership Encouraged. ............................................................................... 101 14.1.2. Regular Individual Members. .......................................................................... 101 14.1.3. MARSRADIO-only Members. ........................................................................... 101

14.2. Closed Net. ............................................................................................................... 101 14.3. Base Support Team MARSRADIO Participation. ................................................... 101

14.3.1. BST Members. .................................................................................................. 101 14.3.2. BST Member Training. ..................................................................................... 101 14.3.3. Network Procedures manual. .......................................................................... 102

14.4. MARSRADIO Network Participation. ...................................................................... 102 14.4.1. Weekly MARSRADIO Participation Reporting. ............................................... 102 14.4.2. Monthly MARSRADIO Participation Reporting. ............................................. 102

14.5. MARSRADIO Network Procedures. ........................................................................ 102 14.6. MARSRADIO Discussions....................................................................................... 102 14.7. MARSRADIO Frequency Discussion ...................................................................... 102

Chapter 15.0. MILITARY SUPPORT NETWORK (MSN) ................................................... 103

15.1. Scope ....................................................................................................................... 103 15.2. MSN National Network. ........................................................................................... 103

15.2.1. National MSN Manager (NMSNM). ................................................................... 103 15.2.2. MSN Net Control Station.................................................................................. 103

15.3. MSN Frequency Management. ................................................................................ 104 15.3.1. Approve Required Frequencies Uses. ............................................................ 104 15.3.2. MSN Frequency Use Authorization Requests. ............................................... 104 15.3.3. MSN Emergency Frequency Coordination. .................................................... 104

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15.3.4. Prior Use Coordination/Notification. .............................................................. 104 15.3.5. Report of Activities. ......................................................................................... 105

15.4. MSN Administrative Net. ............................................................................. 105 15.5. MSN Phone Patch. ....................................................................................... 105 15.6. MSN Assignment.......................................................................................... 105

15.6.1. Assignment Authority. ..................................................................................... 105 15.6.2. SMD Recommendation. ................................................................................... 105 15.6.3. Military Support Network Designation. ........................................................... 106 15.6.4. Member’s Agreement. ...................................................................................... 106 15.6.5. MSN Procedures Manual. ................................................................................ 106

15.7. Station MSN Requirements. .................................................................................... 106 15.8. MSN Participation. ................................................................................................... 106 15.9. MSN Station Logs. ................................................................................................... 106

Chapter 16.0. VHF NETWORK ............................................................................................... 107

16.1. Scope. ...................................................................................................................... 107 16.2. VHF Operations. ...................................................................................................... 107 16.3. VHF Network Equipment Operations Requests / Frequency Management. ........ 107

16.3.1. Application Processing and Approval Criteria. ............................................. 107 16.3.2. Station Call Signs Prefix “AFV”. ..................................................................... 108 16.3.3. Station Identification. ....................................................................................... 108 16.3.4. License Required. ............................................................................................ 108 16.3.5. Special Temporary Authority Prefix “AFX”. ................................................... 108 16.3.6. Applications and Operations on Active Military Installations. ...................... 109 16.3.7. Master Record Required, Updates / Changes. ............................................... 109 16.3.8. Technical Requirements. ................................................................................. 109 16.3.9. Interference Reports / Technical Deficiencies. .............................................. 109

16.4. VHF Network Equipment Owners. .......................................................................... 109 16.5. Terminating VHF Network Operation. .................................................................... 110 16.6. VHF Network Equipment Sharing. .......................................................................... 110 16.7. VHF Network Equipment Identification. ................................................................. 110 16.8. VHF Network Equipment POC. ............................................................................... 110

Chapter 17.0. DIGITAL NETWORKS ................................................................................. 112

17.1. Scope. ...................................................................................................................... 112 17.2. TRANSGLOBAL Digital Network (TDN). ................................................................. 112

17.2.1. Digital Networks Call Sign Assignments. ....................................................... 112 17.2.2. TDN Spectrum Utilization. ............................................................................... 112 17.2.3. TDN Station Requirements. ............................................................................. 112 17.2.4. TRANSGLOBAL Digital Network Station. ....................................................... 112 17.2.5. Frequency Utilization. ...................................................................................... 113 17.2.6. VHF/UHF Frequencies. .................................................................................... 113 17.2.7. Terminal Software. ........................................................................................... 113 17.2.8. Network Integrity. ............................................................................................. 113 17.2.9. System Operators (SysOps). ........................................................................... 114 17.2.10. Operator and Call Sign Assignment. ............................................................ 114

17.3. TRANSGLOBAL Radio Relay Network (TRR). ....................................................... 114 17.3.1. TRR Digital Mode Software. ............................................................................ 114 17.3.2. TRR Special Net. .............................................................................................. 114 17.3.3. TRR Structure. .................................................................................................. 114 17.3.4. TRR Assignment. ............................................................................................. 114

17.4. TRANSGLOBAL CW Telegraphy Network (TCN). .................................................. 115

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17.4.1. CW Use. ............................................................................................................ 115 17.4.2. CW Network. ..................................................................................................... 115

17.5. TRANSGLOBAL Automatic Link Establishment (ALE) Network. ......................... 115 17.5.1. ALE General. .................................................................................................... 115 17.5.2. ALE Special Net. .............................................................................................. 115 17.5.3. ALE Software. ................................................................................................... 116 17.5.4. ALE Identifier. ................................................................................................... 116

17.6. AFMARS WinLink Operations ................................................................................. 116

Chapter 18.0. EMERITUS MEMBERSHIP ........................................................................ 117

18.1. Scope. ...................................................................................................................... 117 18.2. Duties. ...................................................................................................................... 117 18.3. Participation requirements. .................................................................................... 117 18.4. Requirements for conversion from regular member to emeritus member. ......... 117 18.5. Nomination Process. ............................................................................................... 118

18.5.1. Nomination Source. ......................................................................................... 118 18.5.2. Nomination Method. ......................................................................................... 118 18.5.3. Processing. ...................................................................................................... 118

18.6. Emeritus Member Status Duration. ........................................................................ 118

Attachment 1 REFERENCED DOCUMENTS ....................................................................... 119

Attachment 2 ACRONYMS ............................................................................................... 121

List of Figures

Figure 1.2.3-1: AFMARS Operations Command Structure ...................................................15 Figure 1.5-1: Region MARS Organization ..............................................................................32

Figure 1.6-1: State MARS Organization ..................................................................... 38 Figure 3.6-1: Participation Summary Reports Roll-up Due Dates .......................................54 Figure 3.6.1-1: Member Monthly Participation Report version 2 Error! Bookmark not defined. Figure 11.16.1-1: AFMARS Network Nomenclature Example ...............................................91

List of Tables

Table 3.3.1-1: Activity Participation Times ............................................................................52

Table 3.6.1-1: Member Monthly Participation Report version 1 . Error! Bookmark not defined. Table 3.6.1-2: Member Monthly Participation Report version 1 example Error! Bookmark not defined. Table 3.6.3-1: State MARS Directors Quarterly State Participation Report .........................56

Table 3.6.5-1: Region MARS Directors Quarterly Region Participation Report ..................56

Table 4.8-1: AF Form 3661 Actions and Responsibilities ............ Error! Bookmark not defined. Table 4.8.2.3-1: AF Form 3661 Comments Section Required ElementsError! Bookmark not defined. Table 11.3-1: Regions and States ...........................................................................................83

Table 11.10-1: National Billet Appointments .........................................................................86

Table 11.11-1: Region Staff Appointments ............................................................................87

Table 11.12-1: State Staff Appointments ...............................................................................87

Table 11.13.1.2-1: PMC Station Call Sign Assignment ............... Error! Bookmark not defined. Table 11.13.2-1: RMS Station Call Sign Assignment .................. Error! Bookmark not defined. Table 11.13.3-1: Secondary Station Identifiers (SSID) ................ Error! Bookmark not defined. Table 11.16.1-1: AFMARS NET Designator Construction Codes .........................................91

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Table A1.1: US, USAF, and DoD Documents ........................................................................ 119

Table A1.2: Allied Communications Procedures ................................................................ 119

Table A1.3: AFMARS Documents ........................................................................................ 120

Table A1-4: Forms ................................................................................................................. 120

17 Jan 2019

1.1. AFMARS Mission.

1.1.1. DoD Instruction 4650.02 Military Auxiliary Radio System (MARS).

DoD Instruction (DoDI) 4650.02, Military Auxiliary Radio System (MARS). Section 4 specifies the four primary MARS missions.

It is Department of Defense (DoD) policy that MARS shall provide:

1.1.1.1. Contingency radio communications support to United States (U.S.) Government operations through the utilization of organized volunteer radio operators and operating facilities under appropriate authorities, as directed by and coordinated within the DoD.

1.1.1.2. Contingency radio communications support to the DoD Components.

1.1.1.3. Contingency radio communications support to civil authorities at all levels, in fulfillment of DoD responsibilities under DoD Directive 5111.13 (Establishes the position and responsibilities of the Assistant Secretary of Defense (ASD) Homeland Defense and America’s Security Affairs (HD&ASA).

1.1.1.4. Health, morale, and welfare radio communications support to military members, civilian employees and contractors of DoD Components, and civil agency employees and contractors, when in remote or isolated areas, in contingencies or whenever appropriate.

1.1.2. MARS Mission Supplement.

1.1.2.1. AF Instruction (AFI) 17-210, Radio Management, Section C – Managing the AF Auxiliary Radio System (MARS). 1.1.2.2. Paragraph 5 assigns all four DoDI 4650.02 missions to AFMARS. Paragraph 5 adds one additional mission. 1.1.2.3. AFMARS shall not develop or provide contingency radio communications capabilities solely to support civil agency needs. Other government entities have this responsibility.

1.1.3. Additional AFMARS Missions.

In addition to the above missions, AFMARS missions include:

1.1.3.1. Conducting communications research, experimentation, engineering services, and technical support.

Chapter 1.0.

MISSION AND ORGANIZATION

http://www.esd.whs.mil/Portals/54/Documents/DD/issuances/dodi/465002p.pdf

http://static.e-publishing.af.mil/production/1/saf_cio_a6/publication/afi17-210/afi17-210.pdf

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1.1.3.2. Providing additional communications capacity to military units in training or responding to actual events. This additional communications capacity support shall be on frequencies identified for AFMARS use and through AFMARS nets.

In addition to the above, AFMARS may provide communications engineering services and technical support and additional communications capacity to military units in training or responding to an actual event, on frequencies identified for AFMARS use and through AFMARS nets.

1.2. AFMARS Tasking. AF MARS operators and stations shall execute missions and associated responsibilities defined in §1.1 above, as specified in this MOI.

1.2.1. Per DoD Instruction (DoDI) 4650.02. MARS provides contingency radio communications support to U.S. government operations “as directed by and coordinated within the Department of Defense.” This includes support to civil authorities at all levels, “in fulfillment of DoD responsibilities under DoD Directive (DoDD) 5113.13.” In supporting civil agencies, specific capabilities will not be developed by Air Force (AF) MARS solely to serve civil agency needs, since other government entities have this assigned responsibility. Of specific importance is the assistance AFMARS can provide to civil communities, under the provisions of DoDD 3025.18, “Defense Support of Civil Authorities (DSCA)”, and DoDD 5111.13.

1.2.2. MARS Mission Responsibilities.

As an organized military auxiliary, MARS shall:

1.2.2.1. Provide radio-based transfer or exchange of information to assist with DoD or civilian authorities’ operations during, or responses to, any major disruption of DoD or other communications networks, such as those associated with official national security or emergency preparedness events or activities.

1.2.2.2. Provide point-to-point record message, data, and voice communications that support personnel morale and welfare.

1.2.2.3. Create interest and train members in military communications technology and procedures.

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Figure 1.2.3-1: AFMARS Operations Command Structure

1.3. Duties and Responsibilities.

1.3.1. Office of the Secretary of the Air Force (SAF). IAW DoDI 4650.02, MARS, SAF manages operations, readiness, planning, and other aspects of the AFMARS program.

1.3.2. Chief, USAF MARS (CAFM).

IAW Air Force Instruction (AFI) 17-210, Radio Management, the CAFM shall:

1.3.2.1. Ensure AFMARS program compliance with DoDI 4650.02, Military Auxiliary Radio System (MARS).

1.3.2.2. Develop Major Command (MAJCOM) and below policy and guidance for the AFMARS program, for MARS operations.

1.3.2.3. Represents the AF on the DoD Joint MARS Chiefs Panel, the Shared Resources (SHARES) high frequency (HF) program administered by the Department of Homeland

Security’s (DHS) National Coordinating Center for Communications (NCC), and various amateur-radio and Region MARS conventions and conferences.

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1.3.2.4. Coordinates with Army MARS (AMARS) on matters requiring joint-service resolutions or requiring cross-service station sharing coordination.

1.3.2.5. Coordinates with Major Commands, Guard, and Reserve Units to:

1.3.2.5.1. Determine emergency and contingency communications requirements.

1.3.2.5.2. Respond to MARS frequency requests.

1.3.2.6. Coordinates MARS spectrum utilization.

1.3.2.6.1. Validates frequency requests for submission to the AF Spectrum Management Office (AFSMO).

1.3.2.6.2. Allocates and manages assigned MARS repeater frequencies according to AFI 17-220, Spectrum Management

1.3.2.7. Establishes a management structure to administer the AFMARS organization and control network operations using AF Form 3661, MARS Personnel Action Notification, and AFMARS Form 3665, Military Auxiliary Radio System Certificate of Appointment.

1.3.2.8. Appoints key officials, as required, to promote and implement the MARS mission.

1.3.2.9. Approves military MARS stations in coordination with the host command (when exercised).

1.3.2.10. Authorizes individual members to serve as MARS station operators.

1.3.2.11. Directs applications for MARS membership to the Region MARS Director (RMD) for action and upon notice from the Region Training Manager (RTM) of successful completion of training, issues to the member as follows: (a) AFMARS Form 3666, Military Auxiliary Radio System Station License; (b) Training Certificate; and (c) Identification Card.

1.3.2.12. Grants periods of inactive status through the organizational structure to MARS members on a case-by-case basis.

1.3.2.13. Manages membership voluntary and involuntary terminations through the organizational structure.

1.3.2.14. Establishes procedures for MARS stations to access the government telephone systems.

1.3.2.15. Serves as AF liaison for the amateur radio community.

1.3.3. MAJCOM, Guard, & Reserve Communications Systems Offices.

These offices are responsible for the following:

1.3.3.1. Appoint a command MARS director, as necessary.

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1.3.3.2. Identify MARS support requirements, as necessary. 1.3.3.3. Authorize appointment of installation MARS directors, as required. 1.3.3.4. Notify CAFM of all appointments.

1.3.4. Installation MARS Director (IMD).

This position is appointed at the discretion of the Installation Commander. Military MARS Stations are established under the auspices of a military command and/or activity and operated or maintained by designated military and/or civilian personnel, to include appropriately assigned volunteer MARS members. The duties and responsibilities of the IMD are as follows:

1.3.4.1. Authorizes the assignment of personnel, to include volunteer civilian MARS members, to a military installation MARS station.

1.3.4.2. Responsible for providing a point of contact and coordination between the military unit establishing the MARS station and the civilian MARS community.

1.3.4.3. Works with the Base Communications Officer and/or the Civil Engineering Disaster Response Unit to coordinate the use of MARS assets are requested to fulfill any contingency operations or disaster response communications requirements for the base.

1.3.4.4. Provides the Installation Commander and the Communications Squadron or Flight Commander with information concerning MARS capabilities for planning purposes.

1.3.4.5. Ensures MARS tasking in local plans clearly specifies who, what, when, and where for communications support.

1.3.4.6. Maintains a roster of auxiliary MARS and Base Support Team (BST) members in the local and state areas, who can assist as required.

1.3.4.7. Ensures BST members are trained in accordance with (IAW) applicable procedures.

1.3.4.8. Establishes recall procedures for personnel to respond to disaster or emergency communications support.

1.3.4.9. Establishes procedures, including coordination, for deploying mobile MARS communications (if applicable).

1.3.4.10. Conducts periodic exercises to include field operation of the MARS mobile

capabilities (constructing and operating field stations, generating and forwarding message traffic, etc.) if applicable.

1.3.4.11. At the request of the installation commander, Base Communications Officer, and/or the Civil Engineering Disaster Response Unit, coordinates with the Base Support Team Leader to arrange for BST support in training military personnel

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in the use of MARS equipment and on-the-air operations using frequencies designated

for MARS use and on established MARS training and operational nets.

1.3.5. Base Support Team (BST). This is a group of volunteer MARS members appointed at the discretion of the Installation MARS Director (IMD), to support a specified military installation or unit with communications and technical support.

1.3.5.1. BST members must be capable of providing reliable communications support to the base of assignment under emergency and/or contingency conditions.

1.3.5.2. Each BST is required to periodically exercise operational capabilities, at least annually.

1.3.5.3. The responsible State MARS Director (SMD) in cooperation with the IMD shall appoint a BST Leader.

1.3.5.4. The BST Leader is the point-of-contact (POC) between the IMD and the BST auxiliary members.

1.4. National Appointments.

Figure 1.4-1: National Organization

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1.4.1. National Director TRANSGLOBAL Operations (NDTO).

This is a position appointed on an as needed basis by the, CAFM. The duties and responsibilities of the NDTO are as follows:

1.4.1.1. Directs and manages all phases of TRANSGLOBAL Operations through the Deputy Directors for TRANSGLOBAL Network Operations, TRANSGLOBAL Digital Operations, and Automatic Linking Establishment (ALE) Operations.

1.4.1.2. Manages the HF frequencies assigned to TRANSGLOBAL by the National Director Operations (NDO). Works with the NDO on all TRANSGLOBAL frequency matters.

1.4.1.3. Works with the National Emergency Coordinator (NEC) and National Exercise Coordinator (NXC) on all TRANSGLOBAL HF Emergency Communications (ECOM) support issues, actual and exercise.

1.4.1.4. Appoints Trainers required to support TRANSGLOBAL Operations.

1.4.1.5. Integrates TRANSGLOBAL Network, Radio Relay, BBS and ALE Operations.

1.4.1.6. Investigates and resolves technical, personnel and interference issues related to TRANSGLOBAL Operations.

1.4.2. Deputy Director TRANSGLOBAL Network Operations (DDTNO). The Deputy Director TRANSGLOBAL Network Operations position is appointed by the National Director TRANSGLOBAL Operations with the concurrence of the CAFM. The duties and responsibilities of the DDTNO are as follows:

1.4.2.1. Directs operations on the TRANSGLOBAL net.

1.4.2.2. Serves as primary Net Control Station (NCS) and/or Major Relay Station (MRS).

1.4.2.3. Maintains a list and schedule of selected members to serve as NCS and/or MRS.

1.4.2.4. Controls the use of the assigned TRANSGLOBAL Net frequencies.

1.4.2.5. Ensures proper operating procedures, circuit discipline, and integrity.

1.4.2.6. Serves as primary contact point for any station needing communication support.

1.4.2.7. Develops and distributes station procedures promoting the efficient flow of traffic and reducing in-station message handling time to a minimum.

1.4.2.8. Provides additional training for NCS members, as required.

1.4.2.9. Must have the capability to operate on all TRANSGLOBAL Net frequencies.

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1.4.2.10. Must have necessary computer skills, including hardware and software applications, for various duties that are associated with the position.

1.4.3. Deputy Director TRANSGLOBAL Digital Operations (DDTDO). The Deputy Director TRANSGLOBAL Digital Operations position is appointed by the National Director TRANSGLOBAL HF Operations, with the concurrence of the CAFM. The duties and responsibilities of the DDTDO are as follows:

1.4.3.1. Responsible for the management of TRANSGLOBAL Digital Operations (BBS) except for the Automatic Link Establishment (ALE) network.

1.4.3.2. Determines the number of systems needed on the inter-region network for adequate traffic forwarding and appoints stations as needed.

1.4.3.3. Establishes BBS located geographically to assure coverage throughout the Continental United States (CONUS).

1.4.3.4. Establishes gateways to other services to assure the flow of traffic during exercises or in the event of an actual emergency.

1.4.3.5. Ensures all Bulletin Board Systems (BBS) stations are functioning to pass traffic efficiently.

1.4.3.6. Must have the capability to operate on all TRANSGLOBAL HF BBS frequencies.


1.4.3.8. Provides training for membership, as needed.

1.4.3.9. Serves as or appoints a primary BBS Station.

1.4.3.10. Maintains a list and frequency schedule of selected System Operators (SysOp).

1.4.3.11. Controls the use of the assigned TRANSGLOBAL HF BBS frequencies.


1.4.3.13. Serves as primary contact point for any station needing communication support.

1.4.3.14. Establishes system configuration standards for all BBS Systems Operators.

1.4.3.15. Coordinates frequencies and operations with the National Director TRANSGLOBAL Operations (NDTO).

1.4.3.16. Coordinates Operations with interfacing SHARES and AMARS services.

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1.4.4. Deputy Director Automatic Link Establishment (ALE) Operations (DDALEO). The Deputy Director Automatic Link Establishment (ALE) Operations is appointed by the Director TRANSGLOBAL Operations, with the concurrence of the CAFM. The duties and responsibilities of the DDALEO are as follows:

1.4.4.1. Controls ALE sound card software license (specifically MARS ALE program software) distribution to authorized MARS members.

1.4.4.2. Serves as primary NCS station.

1.4.4.3. Maintains a list of ALE stations.

1.4.4.4. Maintains a list and schedule of NCS stations.


1.4.4.6. Responsible for the day-to-day management of the AFMARS ALE Network.

1.4.4.7. Establishes procedures to other services to assure the flow of traffic during exercises or in the event of an actual emergency.

1.4.4.8. Must have the capability to operate on all designated ALE frequencies.

1.4.4.9. Must have necessary computer skills, including hardware and software applications, for various duties associated with the position.

1.4.4.10. Provides training for new members, as needed.

1.4.5. Deputy Director TRANSGLOBAL Radio Relay Operations (DDTRRO). The Deputy Director TRANSGLOBAL Radio Relay Operations position is appointed by the National Director TRANSGLOBAL HF Operations, with the concurrence of the CAFM. The duties and responsibilities of the DDTDO are as follows:

1.4.5.1. Responsible for the day-to-day management of the TRANSGBLOBAL Radio Relay Network (TRR).

1.4.5.2. Schedule net control operators for daytime and evening sessions of the net.

1.4.5.3. Assume NCS at least once per week.

1.4.5.4. Improve net operations through operator training.

1.4.5.5. Promote the use of M110A.

1.4.5.6. Handle routine issues associated with net operations.

1.4.5.7. Integrate TRR operations with the TRANSGLOBAL Net.

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1.4.5.8. Configure the net as a backup communications link between Regions and with TRANSGLOBAL when radio conditions are poor.

1.4.6. National MARSRADIO Net Manager (NMRM).

This is a position appointed on an as needed basis by the CAFM. The duties and responsibilities of the NMRM are as follows:

1.4.6.1. Responsible for the day-to-day management of the MARSRADIO Network.

1.4.6.2. Determines the number of personnel needed for adequate traffic handling and

appoints member stations to be assigned.

1.4.6.3. Establishes procedures for other services to assure the flow of traffic during exercises or in the event of an actual emergency.

1.4.6.4. Ensures all stations pass traffic efficiently.

1.4.6.5. Must have the capability to operate on all MARSRADIO frequencies.


1.4.6.7. Provides training for new members, as needed.

1.4.6.8. Serves as primary NCS Station.

1.4.6.9. Coordinates frequency requirements with the National Director Operations (NDO).


1.4.6.11. Fills out AF Form 3661 appointing qualified members to be authorized MARSRADIO operators and coordinates appointments with the Region MARS Director (RMD) and the State MARS Director (SMD).

1.4.6.12. Responsible for development, maintenance and publishing of the MARSRADIO Network Procedures Manual.

1.4.7 Deputy National MARSRADIO Net Manager (DMRM).

The National MARSRADIO Network Manager appoints the Deputy National MARSRADIO Network Manager (DMRM) position on an as needed basis. This appointment is with the concurrence of the CAFM. The DMRM shall assist the NMRM in all activities as directed by the NMRM.

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1.4.8. National Military Support Network Manager (NMSNM). This is a position appointed on an as needed basis by the CAFM. The duties and responsibilities of the NMSNM are as follows:

1.4.8.1. Responsible for the day-to-day management of the Military Support Network (MSN).

1.4.8.2. Establishes procedures for other services to assure the flow of traffic during exercises or in the event of an actual emergency.

1.4.8.3. Must have the capability to operate on all MSN frequencies as well as other frequencies required during an actual event.

1.4.8.4. Must have necessary computer skill for various duties that are associated with the position.

1.4.8.5. Ensures training is provided as necessary for all new net members.

1.4.8.6. Serves as Primary Net Control Station.

1.4.8.7. Coordinates frequency requirements with the AFM-SMG.

1.4.8.8. Fills out AF Form 3661 appointing qualified members to be authorized Military Support Network operators.

1.4.8.9. Responsible for development, maintenance and publishing of the AFMARS Military Support Network Procedures Manual for all AFMARS MSN members.

1.4.9. Deputy National Military Support Network Manager (DNMSNM).

The National Military Support Network Manager appoints the Deputy National Military Support Network Manager (DNMSNM) position on an as needed basis. This appointment is with the concurrence of the CAFM. The DNMSNM shall assist the NMSNM in the support of all MSN activities as directed by the NMSNM.

1.4.10. National Planning Coordinator (NPC).

This is a position appointed on an as needed basis by the CAFM to serve as an adviser on the future direction and course of the AFMARS program. The duties and responsibilities of the NPC are as follows:

1.4.10.1. Provides advice and recommendations to CAFM on matters affecting the AFMARS program. Advice and recommendations may include matters affecting operating policy and instructions, guidelines and management procedures for MARS operations, management structure, and spectrum coordination.

1.4.10.2. Responsible for ensuring AFMARS guidance documents, including the AFMARS Operating Instruction (MOI) and other related documents regarding the AFMARS program conform to DoD-level guidance, including DoD Instruction 4650.02, as appropriate.

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1.4.10.3. Works closely with other AFMARS National Staff officials to ensure unity of effort.

1.4.10.4. May establish formal or informal working groups, as needed, with other AFMARS officials to coordinate on program guidance and make recommendations to CAFM.

1.4.10.5. Works with Public Information Officers, as appropriate, to facilitate public information efforts.

1.4.10.6. Acts as liaison with AMARS officials, as appropriate, for purposes of exchanging MARS program and planning information.

1.4.10.7. In coordination with the National Military Liaison Coordinator, acts as liaison with the Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD) and DoD Components, as appropriate, to facilitate working relationships between HQ USAF MARS and DoD entities with MARS program responsibilities per DoDI 4650.02.

1.4.10.8. Develops and recommends approaches for ensuring timely and effective communications among HQ AFMARS, AFMARS officials, military MARS stations, civil agency MARS stations, MARS club stations, and individual MARS members.

1.4.11. National Emergency Coordinator (NEC). This is a position appointed on an as needed basis by the CAFM to serve as manager for all AFMARS activities involving Emergency Communications. The duties and responsibilities of the NEC are as follows:

1.4.11.1. Works closely with TRANSGLOBAL, Military Support Network (MSN), and MARSRADIO Managers to ensure that all MARS functions are available to support ECOM operations as needed.

1.4.11.2. Serves as primary liaison with AMARS leadership for coordinating ECOM exercises and actual operations.

1.4.11.3. Promotes Joint Service operations during all ECOM exercises and operations.

1.4.11.4. Coordinates ECOM support for Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), SHARES, and DoD as required in support of exercises and actual events.

1.4.11.5. Provides guidance for ECOM training and contingency operations in support of exercises and actual emergencies and/or disasters.

1.4.11.6. Develops and coordinates an AFMARS National Emergency Communications Plan. This plan shall serve as a basic plan for all Regions and States to develop individual plans to meet the specific needs of each jurisdiction.

1.4.11.7. Develops and forwards quarterly reports regarding ECOM activities for AFMARS, including ECOM net participation. Reports are to be submitted to the National Records Manager (NRM) no later than the 15th day of the new quarter.

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1.4.11.8. Must have the capability to operate throughout the HF spectrum and in various operating modes.


1.4.11.10. Coordinates use of AFMARS frequencies with the NDO and other officials during ECOM events. 1.4.11.11. Any emergency net activation order should be cleared and issued by the NEC with condition that in case the NEC is not available, the following chain of command (COC) will be followed to issue an emergency net activation order with no delay: CAFM /NDO/affected RMD/affected REC. These COC positions will have full authority to issue an emergency net activation order immediately when the event dictates.

1.4.12. Deputy National Emergency Coordinator (DNEC). The National Exercise Coordinator is appointed as the Deputy National Emergency Coordinator (DNEC). The DNEC shall assist in AFMARS activities involving Emergency Communications as directed by the NEC.

1.4.13. National Exercise Coordinator (NXC). This is a position appointed on an as needed basis by the CAFM to serve as coordinator for AFMARS Communications Exercises (COMEX) that support the AFMARS Emergency Communications program and any military communications unit training as needed. The duties and responsibilities of the NXC are as follows:

1.4.13.1. Develops an AFMARS COMEX program that supports the AFMARS National ECOM Plan. The exercise plan provides MARS members with opportunities to develop, enhance and maintain proficiency in operating skills and procedures and also tests the MARS networks required to support the MARS mission at the local, region and national level.

1.4.13.2. Coordinates with AMARS and other agencies to ensure joint exercises are coordinated within AFMARS and participation opportunities are disseminated to AFMARS membership in a timely manner.

1.4.13.3. Assists the National ECOM Coordinator in identifying exercise goals that test and validate national, region, state, and joint service ECOM plans, and MARS operator proficiency.

1.4.13.4. Serves as the primary exercise coordinator for AFMARS. Working with the National ECOM Coordinator, provides guidance to AFMARS Region and State MARS Directors, Emergency Coordinators and Exercise Coordinators in the development, planning, coordination and execution of exercises at all levels including joint service, SHARES, and FEMA National Emergency Communication Network (NECN) exercises. Serves as the AFMARS liaison and coordinator for joint service exercises, SHARES and FEMA exercises.

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1.4.13.5. Coordinates the availability of networks and systems with the NDTO, NMSNM, and NMRN to ensure that MARS networks, and systems are available to support exercises that test and enhance MARS capabilities.

1.4.13.6. Builds an exercise program that supports AFMARS training of active duty, National Guard, and Reserve units as necessary.

1.4.13.7. Assists local MARS officials with development, planning, and execution of communications exercises with local ECOM partners including Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES), Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service (RACES), and local military units.

1.4.13.8. Collects, analyzes and reports exercise results in the form of After Action Reports and Lessons Learned to the NEC, each RMD, each Region Emergency Coordinator (REC), Region Exercise Coordinator (RXC) and the National Training Manager (NTM). Reports shall identify areas for improvement and highlight best practices. The NXC shall assist the NEC and NTM in facilitating changes that enhance the ability to fulfill the AFMARS mission.

1.4.13.9. Assists Region MARS Directors in the selection and assignment of Region Exercise Coordinators when requested.

1.4.13.10. Assists RXC in the development and implementation of a COMEX program that shall enhance the ability to fulfill the AFMARS mission at all levels.

1.4.13.11. Solicits exercise After Action and Lessons Learned Reports that identify Areas for Improvement and Best Practices. Provides written reports to the NEC and NTM for review and action as needed.

1.4.14. Deputy National Exercise Coordinator (DNXC). The National Emergency Coordinator is appointed as the Deputy National Exercise Coordinator (DNXC). The DNXC shall assist in AFMARS Communications Exercises (COMEX) activities as directed by the NXC.

1.4.15. National Director Operations (NDO). This is a position appointed on an as needed basis and reports solely to CAFM. This position operates functionally as the Deputy CAFM when the CAFM is unavailable. Provides advice, counsel, coordinates and assists with AFMARS operations as directed by CAFM. The primary duties and responsibilities of the NDO are as follows:

1.4.15.1. Serves as a liaison between AFMARS and its mission partners on operations to ensure operational objectives are identified and met. Coordinates closely with the CAFM on the objectives and their eventual outcome.

1.4.15.2. Establishes and maintains working relationship with Chief AMARS and Operations counterparts to insure coordination of joint operational matters.

1.4.15.3. Through a broad relationship with AFMARS membership and leadership, serves as the AFMARS functional lead for most operational activities, and coordinates with the CAFM.

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1.4.15.4. Provides direct daily supervision of Region MARS Directors, MARSRADIO Manager and others. Coordinates with national staff and region directors to assist with the development and direction of an operational response to incidents and events, particularly when events may tax the resources of a Region or Regions. 1.4.15.5. Coordinates with the National Technical Services Manager (NTSM) to help provide technical support to the AFMARS team with currently fielded and emerging technologies used to support the AFMARS mission.

1.4.15.6. Coordinates with the National Training Manger to ensure training activities support mission objectives.

1.4.15.7. Coordinates with the National VHF Operations Manager to administer MARS operations on authorized VHF spectrum.

1.4.15.8. Coordinates with the NEC and NXC to develop realistic and appropriate ECOM exercise objectives.

1.4.15.9. Coordinates with the NEC to provide resources (frequencies, nets, personnel) and assists with operational and administrative tasks in response to ECOM incidents.

1.4.15.10. Leads the AFMARS Spectrum Working Group (AFM-SMG). Responsible for establishment and maintenance of the AFMARS National Frequency Plan, which is revised and distributed on a periodic basis. 1.4.15.11. This position is authorized a deputy on an as needed basis. When appointed, by AF3661 action, shall utilize call sign AFD”X”O. The Deputy shall complete assignments and special projects as assigned and be prepared to stand-in for the Director when he/she is unavailable. 1.4.15.12. Other duties and assignments as directed by CAFM.

1.4.16. National VHF Coordinator (NVC).

This is a position appointed on an as needed basis by the CAFM and works directly with the NDO to support AFMARS VHF operations. The duties and responsibilities of the NVC are as follows:

1.4.16.1. All applications to AFMARS for voice and digital repeaters shall be forwarded to the NVC.

1.4.16.2. The NVC shall maintain a registration of all Very High Frequency (VHF) repeaters and digital repeaters and/or routers (digipeater), which are normally unmanned automated fixed station relays.

1.4.16.3. The NVC, in coordination with the respective SMD who is responsible for the repeater/digipeater, shall provide contact information for each repeater/digipeater, the

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shutdown method for each repeater and/or digipeater, and within what period of time the repeater/digipeater can be shut down.

1.4.16.4. For each voice and digital repeater, the NVC shall maintain data on the geographic coordinates, transmitter output power, transmitter ID, elevation above sea level, frequency, mode of the transmitter, antenna feed line length and dB loss, type of antenna, gain of antenna, and (if the antenna is directional) information regarding the antenna direction. This information shall be provided to the NDO and CAFM as necessary

1.4.16.5. The NVC shall establish interoperations with AFMARS mission partners.

1.4.16.6. The NVC works directly with the NDO regarding VHF frequency allocation, use, licensing, and related issues.

1.4.16.7. Collaborates with the NTSM to help resolve interference and technical issues related to VHF operations

1.4.16.8. Other duties and assignments as directed by CAFM.

1.4.17. National Military Liaison (NML). This is a position appointed on an as needed basis by the CAFM to serve as representative of the Chief USAF MARS and serve as the principal point of contact for coordination with the DoD regarding the AFMARS program. The duties and responsibilities of the NML are as follows:

1.4.17.1. Serves as liaison between the Office of Secretary of Defense (OSD) and other DoD components to facilitate working relationships between Headquarters (HQ) USAF MARS and other DoD entities with MARS program responsibilities.

1.4.17.2. Serves as liaison between the AMARS, AFMARS, and other military and Federal programs to ensure mutual understanding and unity of purpose in all matters related to performing the MARS mission.

1.4.17.3. Serves as liaison for coordination and joint planning with military and civilian agencies in all matters pertaining to providing contingency radio communications and deployment of MARS assets in support of the Defense Support of Civil Authority (DSCA) mission.

1.4.17.4. Serves as a subject matter expert on military affairs.

1.4.17.5. Responsible for other duties as assigned.

1.4.18. National Training Manager (NTM).

This is a position appointed on an as needed basis by the CAFM and directly coordinates with the NDO on all national training objectives. The duties and responsibilities of the NTM are as follows:

1.4.18.1. Responsible for ensuring standardized training within the AFMARS program.

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1.4.18.2. Responsible for development, maintenance, publishing and dissemination of the AFMARS National Training Manual (NTM) for all AFMARS members and trainees.

1.4.18.3. Works closely with Region Training Managers to identify and resolve training issues.


1.4.19. Deputy National Training Manager (DNTM).

The National Training Manager appoints the Deputy National Training Manager (DNTM) position on an as needed basis. This appointment is with the concurrence of the CAFM. The DNTM shall assist in all AFMARS training activities as directed by the NTM.

1.4.20. National Records Manage (NRM). This is a position appointed on an as needed basis by the CAFM. The duties and responsibilities of the NRM are as follows:

1.4.20.1. Responsible for maintaining the master MARS national member database for current, inactive and former members.

1.4.20.2. Under the direction of CAFM the NRM establishes a system to standardize administrative reports and personnel actions.

1.4.20.3. Interacts with RMD, SMD, and National Managers and Coordinators on behalf of CAFM as needed to maintain national records database(s) and disseminate information.

1.4.20.4. Maintains the master copy of the “Chief’s Billet List” a national list of all authorized billet assignments, along with contact information and expiration dates for each billet.

1.4.20.5. Must have necessary computer skills, including hardware and software applications, for various duties associated with the position.

1.4.20.6. The NRM shall periodically provide copies of the national database or derivative copies as applicable to Region Records Manager, to ensure correctness and accuracy of the national database.

1.4.20.7. Manages the AFMARS National Participation Reporting system (refer to Section 3).

1.4.21. National Public Information Officer (NPIO). This is a position appointed on an as needed basis by the CAFM. An individual with good writing and speaking skills holds this duty position. The duties and responsibilities of the NPIO are as follows:

1.4.21.1. Maintains liaison with all National Staff and HQ USAF MARS.

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1.4.21.2. Serves as a staff adviser on matters of journalism and publications to the CAFM, and AFMARS officials at all levels.

1.4.21.3. Provides assistance to MARS members in preparing items for release to news media.

1.4.21.4. News releases about the MARS program or its participants are permissible, provided a disclaimer statement is used. The following disclaimer must accompany any items provided by local MARS members or groups to the news media: “This is not an official United States AF release, and does not necessarily reflect the views of the AF or National AFMARS organization.” This is not an attempt to manage (or limit) news, but to help news organizations identify the source of material.

1.4.21.5. Attends Region, and state meetings and/or conferences as time and finances permit.

1.4.21.6. Computer skills are necessary for various administrative duties that are associated with the position.

1.4.22. National Technical Services Manager (NTSM).

This is a position appointed on an as needed basis by the CAFM. The duties and responsibilities of the NTSM are as follows:

1.4.22.1. Acts as the AFMARS subject matter expert (SME) on technology to the AFMARS staff and membership.

1.4.22.2. Manages and directs the activities of the AFMARS Technical Service and provides support to the Region personnel.

1.4.22.3. Responds with information and guidance to requests from the CAFM, NDO and Region Directors for technical resource support.

1.4.22.4. Responds to requests from the CAFM, NDO and Region Directors to oversee technical projects that can support the AFMARS program. All request are coordinated with the NDO.

1.4.22.5. The individual appointed shall be competent in the range of technology required in the AFMARS program, to include, radio equipment, antennas, transmission lines, data equipment, modems, and computers.

1.4.22.6. The individual appointed shall have a station capable of operation on most AFMARS CONUS frequency and mode assignments, as necessary.

1.4.22.7. The individual appointed shall have the computer equipment and skills necessary to meet the requirements of the position.

1.4.23. National Administrative Assistant (NAA).

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This is a position appointed on an as needed basis by the CAFM. The duties and responsibilities of the NAA are generally as follows:

1.4.23.1. Provide administrative support in any task assigned by the CAFM.

1.4.23.2. Provides publishing support (editing, formatting, etc.) for all National Level Documents.

1.4.23.3. The individual appointed shall have the computer equipment and skills necessary to meet the requirements of the position.

1.4.24. National Telephone Support Manager (NTSM). This is a position appointed on an as needed basis by CAFM. The duties and responsibilities of the NTSM are generally as follows:

1.4.24.1. Provides support to membership by virtue of the national toll free telephone support hotline. 1.4.24.2. Establishes and maintains coverage for the support hotline. 1.4.24.3. Recruits, trains and manages necessary staff to insure customer support coverage. 1.4.24.4. The individual appointed shall have the computer equipment and skills necessary to meet the requirements of the position.

1.4.24.5. Use of call sign AFN#B is authorized.

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1.5. Region Appointees.

Figure 1.5-1: Region MARS Organization

1.5.1. Region MARS Director (RMD). The Region MARS Director position appointment is made by the CAFM and is responsible for the Region. The RMD is the senior member management position in each region. Appointment term is two years. The duties and responsibilities of the RMD are as follows:

1.5.1.1. Performs duties as directed by Headquarters USAF MARS (HQ).

1.5.1.2. Responsible for management of AFMARS activity in support of the MARS mission, including support to DoD and selected government agencies in the respective region.

1.5.1.3. Participates in all region administrative actions and radio nets.

1.5.1.4. Coordinates with NDO and other RMD, SMD and AMARS counterparts as needed.

1.5.1.5. In coordination with HQ, serves as liaison to Military MARS stations, civil agency MARS stations, and MARS club stations established in the Region.

1.5.1.6. Appoints and directly supervises all region member operations.

1.5.1.7. Attend Region and State conferences as time and finances permit.

1.5.1.8. Must have and maintain a radio station with suitable equipment and antenna systems to participate on the air in all AFMARS activities in all authorized modes of operation.

1.5.1.9. Must have necessary computer skills for various duties that are associated with the position.

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1.5.1.10. Maintains an accurate database of members for the Region. Synchronizes changes to the database with the NRM.

1.5.1.11. Responsible for accurate participation reporting for all states/territories. The RMD may delegate responsibility for handling of this report to the RRM.

1.5.2. Deputy Region MARS Director (DRMD).

The Deputy Region MARS Director position is appointed by the RMD for a period of two years. The DRMD shall assist in the RMD in all Region activities as directed by the RMD and Serves as the RMD in the absence of the RMD.

1.5.3. Region Emergency Coordinator (REC). The Region Emergency Coordinator position is appointed by the RMD. The duties and responsibilities of the REC are as follows:

1.5.3.1. Organizes and coordinates all region emergency communications (ECOM) activities to include planning for exercises, contingencies and support for actual emergencies. A minimum of two exercises should be performed per calendar year.

1.5.3.2. Reports exercise results in the form of After Action Reports (AAR) and Lessons Learned to the RXC and RMD appointees. Reports should identify areas for improvement and highlight best practices.

1.5.3.3. Provides the RMD and RRM with activity reports and status of ECOM programs in that Region.

1.5.3.4. Possesses sufficient communications capabilities to operate throughout the HF spectrum and various operating modes.

1.5.3.5. Assists SMD appointees to establish and coordinate the ECOM programs.

1.5.3.6. Develops and/or updates a Region Emergency Communications Plan to supplement the National ECOM Plan. This plan will provide guidance for Region members to follow.

1.5.3.7. Promotes Joint Service operations during all ECOM exercises and operations throughout the Region.

1.5.3.8. Must have and maintain a radio station with suitable equipment and antenna systems to participate on the air in all AFMARS activities in all authorized modes of operation.

1.5.3.9. Computer skills, including hardware and software applications that are necessary for various administrative duties that are associated with the position.

1.5.4. Region Records Manager (RRM).

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The Region Records Manager position is an optional appointment with length of service determined by the RMD. An individual with good administrative skills holds this duty. The duties and responsibilities of the RRM are as follows:

1.5.4.1. Advises RMD of activity report submission and compilation of problems or problem areas.

1.5.4.2. Initiates and performs follow-up action on missing reports as needed.


1.5.4.4. Responsible for the accumulation and forwarding of the state’s participation summary reports to the RMD.

1.5.5. Region Training Manager (RTM).

An individual knowledgeable in MARS communications procedures holds this position. Position appointment and tenure are made by the RMD. Manages the Region member HF operator and Net Control Station (NCS) training programs. The duties and responsibilities of the RTM are as follows:

1.5.5.1. Manages Region training and ensures each AFMARS trainee receives initial training.

1.5.5.2. Provides training to members in the Region to include net operations, procedures, and voice operations, as well as Net Control Station training.

1.5.5.3. Develops training network schedules to minimize interference issues between training and scheduled operational nets.

1.5.5.4. Coordinates training with the Region Voice Net Manager (RVNM), appropriate Region MARS Director (RMD) and the appropriate SMD.

1.5.5.5. Coordinates and develops other specialized training to meet changing requirements.

1.5.5.6. Ensures training is in compliance with the AFMARS National Training Manual, AFMARS Messaging Manual and Annex, Allied Communications Publications (ACP), this AFMARS Operating Instruction (MOI) and applicable Region directives.

1.5.5.7. Identifies subjective areas needing corrective training or education.

1.5.5.8. May assign an assistant training manager(s) based on ability, equipment, and location.

1.5.5.9. Provides monthly participation and trainee report(s) to the appropriate state SMD and quarterly reports to the appropriate Region Records Manager.


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1.5.5.11. Maintains an HF radio station capable of operating all modes on all assigned Region frequencies.

1.5.5.12. May provide training to other Regions, if called upon, time permitting.

1.5.6. Region Exercise Coordinator (RXC). The Region Exercise Coordinator position is appointed by the RMD. The duties and responsibilities of the RXC are as follows:

1.5.6.1. Organizes and coordinates all Region ECOM exercise activities to include planning for exercises, contingencies, and direction of exercises.

1.5.6.2. Coordinates exercises with the National Exercise Coordinator (NXC).

1.5.6.3. Reports exercise results in the form of After Action Reports and Lessons Learned to the National Exercise Coordinator, National Emergency Communications Coordinator, the RMD and each REC appointee. Reports should identify areas for improvement and highlight best practices.

1.5.6.4. Provides the RRM and the RMD with activity reports and status of ECOM exercises in the Region.

1.5.6.5. Must possess sufficient communications capabilities to operate throughout the HF spectrum and various operating modes.

1.5.6.6. Assists all the RMD and SMD to establish and coordinate the ECOM programs.

1.5.6.7. Promotes Joint Service operations during all ECOM exercises and operations throughout the Region.


1.5.7. Region Digital Networks Manager (RDNM). The Region Digital Networks Manager position appointment and length are determined by the RMD. An individual that is knowledgeable in the various digital transmitting techniques holds this duty. The duties and responsibilities of the RDNM are as follows:

1.5.7.1. Coordinates BBS System Operators (SysOp) within the Region, in the development and maintenance of a Region Emergency/Disaster Support Program.

1.5.7.2. Determines a routing for traffic within the Region, so each Region is doing its part to implement the policies established by the DDTDO.

1.5.7.3. Works closely with the Deputy Director TRANSGLOBAL Network Operations, the Deputy Director TRANSGLOBAL Digital Operations, and the Deputy Director ALE Operations.

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1.5.7.4. Requires ability to operate on all MARS frequencies, and in all MARS digital modes (both HF and VHF).

1.5.7.5. Fluency in the management of automated Bulletin Board Systems (BBS) and message routing is required.

1.5.7.6. Computer skills, including hardware and software applications that are necessary for various duties that are associated with the position.

1.5.8. Region Voice Network Manager (RVNM). An individual knowledgeable in voice transmitting techniques holds this duty position. Position appointment and length are determined by the RMD. The duties and responsibilities of the RVNM are as follows:

1.5.8.1. Directs operations of the Region voice network.

1.5.8.2. Assigns selected members to serve as net control stations to the Region voice network.

1.5.8.3. Maintains a list and schedule of selected members to serve as net control stations to the Region voice network.

1.5.8.4. Serves as primary Net Control Station for Region nets.


1.5.8.6. Provides additional training for NCS members.

1.5.8.7. Works closely with the Deputy Director TRANSGLOBAL Network Operations, the Deputy Director TRANSGLOBAL Digital Operations, and the Deputy Director ALE Operations.

1.5.8.8. Manages assigned Region frequencies and works closely with the NDO on frequency matters.

1.5.8.9. Requires ability to operate on all MARS voice frequencies.


1.5.9. Region VHF Coordinator (RVC). The Region VHF Coordinator position is appointed by the RMD to develop, direct, and manage the VHF assets and activities in the Region. This is an optional as required position. The duties and responsibilities of the RVC are as follows:

1.5.9.1. The RVC in coordination with the respective SMD shall maintain a record of contact information for each set of VHF Equipment, the shutdown contact and method for each

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repeater/digipeater, and within what period of time the repeater/digipeater can be shut down.

1.5.9.2. The RVC shall establish interoperations with the other MARS organization counterparts.

1.5.9.3. Acts as the Region VHF frequency manager. Works closely with the NVC on VHF matters and the NDO on frequency matters.

1.5.10. Region Technical Services Manager (RTSM).

The Region Technical Services Manager position appointment and length of service are set by the RMD. An individual with technical experience and background in electronics holds this duty position. This is an optional as required position. The duties and responsibilities of the RTSM are as follows:

1.5.10.1. Responsible for organized technical studies and projects assigned within the Region.

1.5.10.2. Responsible for assisting Region members with equipment situations.

1.5.10.3. Advises the RMD on all MARS Technical Services (MTS) matters.

1.5.10.4. Compiles MTS quarterly activity report and forwards to the RRM.

1.5.10.5. Maintains a liaison with other Region staff members to determine suitable MTS projects, share information and experience, and avoid duplication of efforts from one region to another.

1.5.10.6. Approves or otherwise acts on projects and/or proposals from the RMD, SMD or other members within the Region.

1.5.10.7. Provides for monitoring services with designated members, as needed, on Region frequencies.

1.5.10.8. Attends State and Region conferences as time and finances permit.

1.5.10.9. Conducts technical education seminars.

1.5.10.10. Must have necessary computer skill for various duties that are associated with the position.

1.5.10.11. Provides a Single Point of Contact (SPOC) for members with technical questions

or issues.

1.6. State Appointments.

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Figure 1.6-1: State MARS Organization

1.6.1. State MARS Director (SMD). The Region MARS Director appoints each State MARS Director (SMD), with the concurrence of CAFM. Each SMD appointment is for a period of two years. The State MARS Director is the senior member management position in each State. The SMD and Deputy SMD are the only state positions provided official call signs. The duties and responsibilities of the SMD are as follows:

1.6.1.1. Responsible for the management of MARS operations and member activities within the State and for providing services to military, civilian, and intrastate MARS components.

1.6.1.2. In coordination with the RMD works with Military MARS stations, civil agency MARS stations, and MARS club stations established in the state.

1.6.1.3. The SMD is the administrative point of contact (POC) for all military, civil authority, and individual civilian volunteer MARS stations in the state.

1.6.1.4. Optionally appoints and oversees the Deputy State MARS Director (DSMD), if required, along with other staff needed to assist the SMD in accomplishing certain duties that require further assistance.

1.6.1.5. Develops emergency support capability and an alerting network within the state.

1.6.1.6. Initiates AF Form 3661 action on state members IAW current procedures.

1.6.1.7. Reviews each membership application prior to submission to the RMD, as appropriate.

1.6.1.8. Maintains a personnel file on each member in the state.

1.6.1.9. Assigns net designators for all state VHF nets, IAW the national nomenclature legend.

1.6.1.10. Provides each IMD with a current BST membership list.

1.6.1.11. Assigns a mentor to each new member for the duration of their training to assist in developing familiarity with program mission and requirements.

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1.6.1.12. Coordinates operation of VHF operations within the state and works with adjacent state SMD regarding interstate VHF operations.

1.6.1.13. Coordinates State administrative and traffic nets. May serve as NCS for state nets or delegate NCS responsibility to another state member.

1.6.1.14. Attends State and Region MARS meetings as required, time and finances permitting.


1.6.1.16. Constructs and submits a quarterly report to the Region records manager, by the 10th day following the end of the quarter.

1.6.1.17. Receives Monthly Individual Member participation reports for compilation quarterly.

1.6.2. Deputy State MARS Director (DSMD). The Deputy State MARS Director position is appointed by the SMD, with the concurrence of the RMD, for a period of two years. This is an optional position as required. The DSMD shall assist in the SMD in all State activities as directed by the SMD and Serves as the SMD in the absence of the SMD.

1.6.3. Individual Volunteer Members. Individual Volunteer Members are amateur radio operators licensed by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and approved for MARS membership by HQ, USAF MARS. Stations may be established, operated, and maintained by military, civil authority, or

civilian volunteers authorized to operate on assigned MARS frequencies. The terms “Member(s)”, “Individual Member(s)”, “Auxiliary Member(s)”, and “Individual Volunteer Member(s)” shall have the same meaning for this MOI. Such members shall:

1.6.4.1. Maintain and be familiar with a current copy of the AFMARS MOI.

1.6.4.2. Read, monitor, and adhere to all AFMARS broadcasts and other issued instructions.

1.6.4.3. Comply with the provisions of the AFMARS MOI and other AF Instructions, AFMARS training materials, and applicable operating manuals and procedures governing AFMARS operations, including AFMARS broadcasts.

1.6.4.4. At a minimum, participate twelve (12) hours of Primary On-Air (POA) time on Air Force HF nets each calendar quarter, reporting their POA time on line 1 of their Member Participation Report (MPR) (See Figure 3.3.1-1 and Table 3.3.1-1). Secondary On-Air (SOA) time accumulated on SHARES, Army HF nets, VHF operations, etc. will be reported by the member on line 2 of their MPR. Members are strongly encouraged to send their

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MPRs directly to their SMD via radio. NCSs should be ready to relay such MPRs to the appropriate SMD via radio or email when necessary. 1.6.4.5. Each member is required to participate in at least one COMEX per calendar year. Participation is defined as preregistration, on air participation and completion of applicable after action report, and any other COMEX required activity. 1.6.4.6. IAW established net operating procedures, each member shall participate in an on-air net in the capacity of Net Control Station or Alternate Net Control Station as often as practical.

1.6.4.7. Maintain a current amateur license and keep the SMD apprised of all changes that affect membership status (e.g., a change in station location, call sign, expiration date, license level, mailing address, e-mail address, phone number, or station capability) within 30 days.

1.6.4.8. Provide technical advice, assistance, general support, and guidance to the extent possible, to other MARS members and especially trainee stations.

1.6.4.9. Provide operations, maintenance, or administrative support to Installation MARS Directors, when requested and to the extent possible.

1.6.4.10. Avoid, while operating on any MARS or DoD frequencies, any deliberate action, or conduct that would reflect unfavorably on the individual member or AFMARS.

1.6.4.11. Attend and contribute to MARS meetings and conferences, time and finances permitting.

1.6.4.12. Maintain a station log in accordance with this MOI.

1.6.4.13. Submit accurate, required self-participation reports in accordance with this MOI.

1.7. Member Official Appointments.

1.7.1. Appointment Process.

Appointments to Official billet positions are made through a controlled and orderly process to periodically rotate AFMARS officials with other qualified members as an essential part of a dynamic and progressive MARS program. The appointment of members to the positions of Region MARS Director (RMD) or State MARS Director (SMD) shall be for a term of two (2) years (1 Jan - 31 Dec of following year), with renewal at the discretion of the CAFM. Newly appointed members will use the interim months after appointment as a period of transition to familiarize themselves with the procedures and responsibilities of the position

1.7.2. Position Applications. Positions to be filled shall be announced in a MARS broadcast message, when applicable. Applicants shall submit a brief resume stating the applicants’ qualifications, past experience, station capability, and willingness to serve in the position.

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1.7.3. Selection and Appointment Process.

Selection and appointment process shall begin in October each year by the CAFM (or RMD as appropriate) for a term of service to begin in January of the subsequent year. The Chief, USAF MARS (or RMD) shall:

1.7.3.1. Review the qualifications and records of each applicant.

1.7.3.2. Forward AF Form 3661, MARS Personnel Action Notification to individuals selected.

1.7.3.3. Notify those individuals not selected.

1.7.4. Special Net Manager (SNM) Appointments. The Special Net Manager positions are direct appointments by the CAFM, on an “as required” basis for an unspecified duration.

1.7.5. Outgoing Officials. All outgoing officials (National, Region, or State) shall:

1.7.5.1. Contact the new official and make arrangements for the transition.

1.7.5.2. Forward pertinent records to the new official on or before the date of transition.

1.7.5.3. Provide necessary assistance to promote continuity of operations.

1.7.6. Staff Positions.

The Region and State staff may vary, depending upon the tasking needs of each entity. Each RMD and SMD shall appoint staff members depending upon the specific needs and availability of members possessing the requisite skills to fulfill the duties of each position.

1.7.7. Billet Expectations. Members volunteering for AFMARS billeted positions must be aware of the following:

1.7.7.1. AFMARS managers must be conversant with the MOI regarding billet appointments at the National, Region, and State levels. AF Form 3661, MARS Personnel Action Notification, is the instrument for all personnel actions, including billet appointments.

1.7.7.2. The MOI establishes and describes each billet for each level - National, Region, and State. Directors are empowered to solicit and appoint applicants for each billet assignment. Additional billet assignments are not authorized.

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1.7.8. National Billets.

1.7.8.1. The CAFM appoints all National billets per the MOI. The CAFM, assigns these positions on an “as needed” basis. The CAFM, determines the service length for each appointment.

1.7.8.2. National billets are two-year assignments, from the date of the appointment.

1.7.9. Region Billets.

1.7.9.1. The CAFM, makes RMD appointments.

1.7.9.2. The RMD appoints the Deputy Region MARS Director billet. The length of this appointment is two years.

1.7.9.3. The RMD appoints the Region staff billets.

1.7.9.4. The length of region billet assignments is determined by the RMD.

1.7.10. State Billets.

1.7.10.1. The RMD makes SMD appointments in consultation with the CAFM.

1.7.10.2. The SMD is authorized two staff billets and a Deputy SMD

1.7.10.3. The Deputy State MARS Director is appointed by the SMD. The length of this appointment is two years from the date of the appointment.

1.7.11. Non-Billeted Assignments.

Occasionally situations may arise within a Region or State where the director deems it appropriate to appoint an official to act in a specific activity not described in this Section. The director may appoint an individual to that activity on AF form 3661 with the following provisions:

1.7.11.1. For state or region assignments, the SMD must have the approval of the Region MARS Director.

1.7.11.2. The appointment shall not be assigned a billet call sign.

1.7.12. Non-Billeted AF Form 3661. The AF Form 3661 comments section shall spell out the start and end date of the assignment, not to exceed one year but may be renewed upon approval by need.

1.7.13. Non-Billeted Duties and Responsibilities.

In addition to the justification, the request to activate the non-billeted appointment shall contain specific duties and responsibilities for the activity and/or assignment.

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2.1. Scope.

Because emergencies and contingencies are not restricted geographically, there is a requirement to establish MARS communication nets configured to support a wide spectrum of potential applications over a wide range of territory, Region HF nets, the Military Support Net, and TRANSGLOBAL HF voice and digital traffic systems are the backbone of the AFMARS HF communication network. Except for the MARSRADIO Network and the Military Support Net, most AFMARS traffic is passed on these nets. Support of these nets depends on recruiting HF-capable amateur radio operators. In recognition of the fact that many AFMARS high frequencies are not located near the amateur bands, members with continuous 3 to 30 MHz capabilities should be actively recruited to satisfy system requirements.

2.2. MARS Station Categories.

2.2.1. IAW DoDI 4650.02. MARS stations may include military MARS stations, civil agency MARS stations, MARS club stations, individual MARS stations, and MARSRADIO-only stations.

2.2.2. Station Association. Military, civil agency or club MARS stations may associate with more than one MARS Service. Individual MARS stations may associate with only one MARS Service.

2.2.3. Civilian Volunteer Minimum Eligibility. All individual civilian volunteer MARS applicants must meet minimum eligibility criteria for membership in AFMARS as outlined below. Because AFMARS is a dynamic volunteer organization with the mission of supporting multiple agencies and organizations through the Department of Defense, specific membership requirements may be amended at any time to better position AFMARS to meet its mission responsibilities.

2.3. Eligibility Criteria.

2.3.1. Age.

2.3.1.1. Minimum age of applicant is 18 years of age at time of application.

2.3.1.2. To maintain a healthy flow of new members into AFMARS, working relationships with well-established youth organizations such as the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts of America, and other such programs, should be developed. These relationships should be based on offering amateur radio and MARS exposure to these youth organizations. All contacts with the organizations shall be in accordance with those organizations’ rules and regulations.

Chapter 2.0.

MEMBER APPLICATION, ASSIGNMENTS AND TRAINING

01 JUNE 2019

2.3.2. Citizenship.

Applicants and/or current members must be citizens of the United States, or lawfully admitted to the United States for permanent residency under the provisions of Title 8, United States Code, Chapter 12 (as revised), and reside within the borders of the United States, its territories, or possessions. This applies to alien residents who are U.S. military members stationed overseas under an overseas military command's jurisdiction.

2.3.3. FCC License Class.

Applicants and/or current members must hold a valid amateur radio operator's license issued by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).

2.3.4. Station Requirements.

2.3.4.1. Applicants and current members must have and maintain an operational HF radio station prior to acceptance into the AFMARS program. Members who normally operate a MARS licensed club station shall be deemed compliant with this policy.

2.3.4.2. HF stations must be capable of operating on MARS frequencies and modulation types, as assigned by National or Region AFMARS officials.

2.3.4.3. HF stations must be capable of operating at least 100 Watts PEP RF output power.

2.3.4.4. HF stations shall employ an antenna system of sufficient design and construction to allow operation on appropriate regional and national frequencies.

2.3.4.5. New HF stations must have the capability of operating voice and digital modes specified by HQ USAF MARS. Digital mode is defined as any computer-generated signal other than continuous wave (CW).

2.3.4.6. HF stations may employ integral, external or sound card modems for digital operations.

2.3.4.7. HF stations may employ integral, external or sound card modems for automatic link establishment (ALE), when utilized, operations.

2.3.4.8. Unless specifically exempted from this requirement, all HF radio equipment must have a frequency stability and tolerance of +/- 20 Hz as set by the NTIA. 2.3.4.9. MARSRADIO-only members.

2.3.4.9.1. MARSRADIO-only stations are encouraged, but not required, to comply with

2.3.4.5 through 2.3.4.7. 2.3.4.9.2. MARSRADIO-only members are not required to complete the general

membership training requirements described in section 2.6, associated with trainees or AF’T” members.

2.3.4.9.3. MARSRADIO-only stations must comply with these specialized requirements

before acceptance:

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a) Comply with the MARSRADIO Network Procedures Manual.

b) Capability to operate on assigned network frequencies as designated by the National MARSRADIO Network Manager.

c) RF output power of at least 500 watts.

d) Rotatable directional antenna on primary and higher frequencies.

e) Minimum of 36 On-Air net hours per quarter participation is required.

f) Nationwide telephone (toll-free) capability or use PBX system

g) Internet (email/browser) capability for internal communications and use of custom software while checked into the net.

2.3.5. VHF Requirements. See Section 16.0 for more information on VHF operations.

2.3.5.1. If VHF is used, it shall be used to complement the HF station, providing critical “first mile/last mile” connectivity.

2.3.5.2. Unless specifically exempted from the NTIA requirement, all VHF equipment must not exceed a frequency deviation of +/- 2.5 kHz, and have a channel spacing of 12.5 kHz (or less).

2.3.6. Contact Information.

2.3.6.1. Members are charged with the responsibility to ensure that email addresses, telephone numbers, and members’ mailing address are kept up to date by prompt notification to the State MARS Director (SMD).

2.3.6.2. Email is the basic vehicle for all administrative actions and correspondence in AFMARS. For that reason, it is mandatory that a current Email address be provided and that members ensure this information is kept up to date and read frequently. Access to the Internet is required for membership, although use of the Internet at a public venue such as the local public library for email and document downloading is acceptable.

2.4. Net Control Station. All new AFMARS members are required to participate in Net Control Station (NCS) training, as these skills may be required in the event of an actual incident. Members in NCS training shall work with the respective National, or Region Training Manager to complete NCS training.

2.5. Deployment.

2.5.1. Willing and Able. Willing and able AFMARS members may deploy on-site to provide communications support in the event of an emergency or incident where such support is directed by the CAFM. A prerequisite to be eligible for deployment requires successful completion of FEMA courses IS-100c, IS-200b, IS-700b, and IS-800c. Successful completion of FEMA course IS-802 is also encouraged but is not mandatory. Whether or not members volunteer for deployment all

01 JUNE 2019

AFMARS members are encouraged to complete these FEMA courses, which can be taken on line at the FEMA Emergency Management Institute website: (http://training.fema.gov/is/nims.asp).

2.5.2. Course Completion AF Form 3661.

2.5.2.1. Members who complete the FEMA IS-100c, IS-200b, IS-700b, and IS-800c courses shall provide a copy of the FEMA course completion certificate to the members’ SMD. Upon completion of all four courses the SMD shall issue an AF Form 3661 indicating the course numbers competed and the date of each certificate. This shall become part of the member's personnel record. Based on the AF Form 3661, the National Records Manager shall annotate the national register.

2.5.2.2. A copy of the AF Form 3661 shall be distributed to the NRM, RRM, RMD, and the individual.

2.6. Individual Responsibilities.

2.6.1. Application. Individual membership applications shall be made using the membership application form.

2.6.2. Application and SMD contact info. Each new applicant shall be provided a copy of the AFMARS application form, as well as the contact information of the appropriate SMD.

2.6.3. Completed application. The new applicant shall send the completed application form to the SMD. The SMD shall review the application for completeness, accuracy, eligibility, and verification of FCC license, and then forward it to the RMD for processing.

2.6.4. Call sign assignment. The RMD shall assign an “AFT#xx” call sign, enter the information into the AFMARS database program, initiate an AF Form 3661 assigning the individual to the Region training net. The AF Form 3661 shall be the authorization for the individual to operate on the AFMARS training nets. A MARS training status “AFT” AF Form 3666 MARS Station License and ID Card will be issued to the trainee to show MARS affiliation during the training period.

2.6.5. Form 3661 distribution. The RMD shall distribute AF Form 3661 to the applicant, RMD, RTM, RRM, SMD, and the NRM.

2.6.6. After training completion. After successful completion of the training, the RTM shall notify the RMD, SMD, and individual. The RMD shall create a new AF Form 3661 to change the call sign by changing of the “AFT” prefix to “AFA” prefix call sign and include an initial primary assignment.

http://training.fema.gov/is/nims.asp)

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2.6.7. Primary assignment. Unless otherwise specified, “Primary Assignment” shown on the member’s AF Form 3661, can be one of State, Region, or National AFMARS HF traffic nets. Members may be assigned to the MARSRADIO, Military Support, TRANSGLOBAL networks, or a Base Support Team, as their primary assignment.

2.6.8. Form 3666 creation. The RMD shall forward the new AF Form 3661 assigning the station its call sign, initial primary net assignment, and notification of successful completion of training to the CAFM who shall issue AF Form 3666. These documents shall be distributed to CAFM, NRM, RMD, RTM, RRM, SMD, and individual.

2.6.9. SMD Form 3661 responsibilities. Except as otherwise stated in this MOI, the SMD is responsible for initiating and distributing as appropriate an AF Form 3661 to reflect any changes in the individual member’s primary net assignment, station capabilities, or operating status. If any PII information is included on the AF Form 3661 the data must be encrypted. If the use of the AFMARS station generic callsign is sufficient to convey the information, further identifying information may be omitted and no encryption is necessary.

2.6.10. Maximum training period. Initial member training must be completed within one hundred eighty (180) days of the issuance of AF Form 3661 by the RMD. Returning MARS members, following a break in service exceeding six months, must successfully complete initial AFMARS training.

2.6.11. Training period extension. An extension to initial member training may be approved by the RMD upon good cause and prior request by the trainee and the SMD. If the extension to initial member training is approved by the RMD, the RMD shall prepare and distribute AF Form 3661 back to the trainee, RMD, RTM, RRM, SMD, and NRM.

2.6.12. Waivers.

No waivers for the training requirement shall be allowed with the exception of active duty personnel, Reserve personnel, or MARSRADIO-only members. Personnel transferred from other MARS services, however, or with prior AFMARS membership, may be evaluated for waiver of the training requirement on a case-by-case basis by the RMD.

2.6.13. NCS training. Trainees shall be provided Initial Net Control Station training in conformance with the AFMARS National Training Manual.

2.6.14. Certificate of completion. For new members in training a certificate of completion of security web training listed in Section 6.6 is required prior to issuance of the individual “AFA#xx” call sign.

2.6.15. Station authorization limits.

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The establishment of a BBS, ALE, MSN, or a MARSRADIO Station is not authorized while in training status.

2.7. Training Material. All training and training materials shall be based upon this MOI and the following publications:

2.7.1. ACP-121 (I). ACP-121 (I) Allied Communications Publication “Communications Instructions General” (October 2010)

2.7.2. ACP-125 (G). ACP-125 (G) Allied Communications Publication “Communications Instructions Radiotelephone Procedures” (November 2016)

2.7.3. ACP-126 (C). ACP-126 (C) Allied Communications Publication “Communications Instructions Teletypewriter (Teleprinter) Procedures” (May 1989)

2.7.4. ACP-127 (G). ACP-127 (G) Allied Communications Publication “Communications Instructions Tape Relay Procedures” (November 1988)

2.7.5. ACP-127 (G) U. S. Supp-1 (K). ACP-127 (G) U. S. Supp-1 (K) supplement to ACP-127 (G) (November 2007)

2.7.6. ACP-131 (F). ACP-131 (F) Allied Communications Publication “Communications Instructions - Operating Signals” (April 2009)

2.7.7. Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Instruction (CJCSI) 6241.04C. Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Instruction (CJCSI) 6241.04C “Policy and Procedures for Management and Use of USMTF” (20 APR 2012)

2.7.8. DoDI 4650-02 (23 DEC 2009). Department of Defense Instruction (DoDI) 4650-02 (23 DEC 2009)

2.7.9. AFMARS National Training Manual, (NTM)

2.7.10. AFMARS Messaging Manual, (MMM)

2.7.11. AFMARS Messaging Manual Annex I, (FOUO)

2.7.12. Other manuals and material. Additional material as deemed appropriate by the CAFM, and the NTM.

2.7.13. Region manuals. Regions may write supplements to the AFMARS National Training Manual and the AFMARS Emergency Communications Plan. These supplements shall not change the basic content, but should provide additional information that is specific to the Region.

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2.8. FCC License Renewal Procedures.

2.8.1. FCC Amateur Radio License Requirement. Since MARS membership requires members to possess a current FCC amateur radio license, the term of MARS membership ends on the FCC license expiration date.

2.8.2. AFMARS Renewal Procedure.

Upon receiving the renewed FCC license the member shall notify the SMD. This provides the SMD with current member contact information along with the new FCC license expiration date. A reference copy of the applicant’s amateur radio license downloaded from the FCC’s on-line database is acceptable. The SMD shall initiate an AF Form 3661 indicating the member's renewal and noting the new FCC amateur license expiration date. Distribution shall be to the individual member, SMD, RMD, RRM, and NRM.

2.8.3. Form 3666 Issue.

CAFM, upon receipt of the AF Form 3661 shall issue a new AFMARS Form 3666, to the individual member. A copy shall also be sent to the, RMD, RRM, SMD and NRM.

17 Jan 2019

3.1. Scope. This chapter provides guidance in reporting participation time. In addition, it provides guidance to members for completing and retention of station logs. For the purposes of this MOI a “log” shall be defined as a record of activity either by manual (paper copy) or the preferred method of electronic records.

3.2. Member Activity Time. In order to provide an accurate database for management of the AFMARS system, individual member activity shall be recorded. Member activity is documented for many areas of MARS support. This Section identifies activities for which participation time may be credited and establishes participation reporting procedures.

3.2.1. Total Active MARS Service Date. For purposes of determining longevity within AFMARS an individual member’s total active AFMARS service date shall be computed as all MARS service regardless of which branch in which it was performed, less any breaks in service.

3.2.2. Self-Reporting. Members shall self-report their participation monthly in accordance with procedures specified herein.

3.2.3. Time Reporting. Members are ultimately responsible to ensure that their participation time is accurately reported within the organization. The final goal is to ensure that all members’ time, on a program-wide basis, is accurately accounted for. CAFM uses this data for several administrative purposes; consequently, the reported data shall be accurate and verifiable.

3.2.4. Members Inactive Status. Members on Inactive Status are exempt from reporting requirements for the duration of that status.

3.2.5. Members Return to Active Status. Members on inactive status may return to active status with a written request (letter or email) to the SMD. The SMD will then respond to the member (email or letter) with instructions and/or acceptance.

Chapter 3.0.

PARTICIPATION, REPORTING, AND LOGGING

01 JUNE 2019

3.3. Participation Time Requirements.

3.3.1. Time Reporting.

Minimum time as defined in section 1.6.4.4 is required from each member per calendar quarter. Logging for different activities are shown in the following table. Time may be reported to the nearest quarter of an hour (15-minute increments). During COMEX or real emergency operations, members may log additional POA time for each HF COMEX or real emergency net; the additional time is equal to actual time on net.

Type of Credit Details

Primary On-Air (POA)

For most members this is time on Air Force HF nets; (Region or State) routine nets, training nets or admin nets OR exercise/event nets. For special net appointees (appointment by Form 3661 to MARSRADIO or MSN), time spent on their appointed special nets.

Secondary On-Air (SOA)

Time credit for On-Air operations (HF or VHF) other than what is described in Primary On-Air time above.

Not On-Air Antenna, radio, cable, etc. work, creating messages, completing required Security Courses, studying AF MARS related manuals, preparing AF MARS participation reports, After Action Reports, etc. and any other duties required to keep you and your station communication ready.

MARSRADIO Refer to MARSRADIO Procedures Manual.

MSN Refer to Military Support Net (MSN) Procedures Manual.

SHARES Members shall log Secondary On-Air participation time credit for the actual time spent on each net. NCS and ANCS time on SHARES nets is counted as SOA credit.

Joint Nets Members shall log Primary On-Air participation credit for the actual time spent on each net. This includes Transglobal and National Support Net.

Base Sup. Team Members shall receive POA participation credit for the actual time spent supporting the BST.

NCS

NCS operators receive double time POA credit for their time on a POA net. NCS operators receive double time SOA credit for their time on a SOA net.

ANCS

ANCS operators receive double time POA credit for their time on a POA net. ANCS operators receive double time SOA credit for their time on a SOA net.

Msg. Creation and Transmission

Members who create and transmit one or more formal voice or digital message on a net which earns:

POA time, shall earn one additional hour of POA time.

SOA time, shall earn one additional hour of SOA time.

ALE (1) ALE-scanning: Log one-hour POA time credit when a member’s ALE-equipped radio scans at least one MARS ALE network (e.g., MARS South, NVIS South) for at least 16-hours per calendar day. Maximum ALE-scanning time credit per member is 1 hour POA per calendar day, and this credit counts even if not sounding. There is no additional time-credit for receiving ALL*CALL or NET*CALL broadcast messages while scanning.

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Table 3.3.1-1: Activity Participation Times

3.3.2. Accuracy and Timeliness.

Members shall accurately document, record and report their individual activities. The member shall retain records required for the purposes of station activity logging, for a minimum period of one year from time of final entry. Members are encouraged to use electronic means.

3.3.3. Right to Audit.

Member’s records are subject to audit. This paragraph establishes the authority for the SMD, RMD, or CAFM to request and receive copies of the member’s logs for the purposes of auditing upon written request. When such request is made, members shall provide the requested information to the requestor within ten (10) working days by paper, scanned or electronic format. Such audits may be random or specific to a study, trend analysis or other matter. Members shall not consider such a request as an investigation of wrongdoing.

3.4. Failure to Keep Records or Fraudulent Activity. If a member fails to keep accurate records as required, it shall be regarded as a violation of AFMARS policy. Further, fraudulent activity, in the form of falsification of entries, falsification of time reported, misrepresentation of reported information or intentional obfuscation shall constitute fraudulent and unethical behavior on behalf of the member. Such activity by a member shall subject that member to termination from the program in accordance with the standard termination procedure. Members terminated for fraudulent or unethical activity shall not eligible for reentry into the program

3.5. Member Participation Time. Members may accrue participation time as described in the following subsections.

3.5.1. On-Air Participation Time.

(2) ALE-relay: Log one-hour POA time credit per calendar day for operating a MARS ALE network relay or tributary station as an automated message relay (e.g., Station Manager, Message Machine). Maximum ALE-relay time credit per member is 1 hour POA per calendar day, and this credit counts even if there are no messages relayed via the member’s station.

(3) ALE-connect: Log actual time as POA time credit for initiating an ALE-connect to a MARS ALE network relay, tributary station, or another member station when sending or receiving a message, automated message display (AMD) text, GPS position report, or voice call. Maximum ALE-connect time credit per member is 1 hour POA per calendar day. This ALE-connect time credit is in addition to Message Creation and Transmission time credit.

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On-Air Participation time as defined in Table 3.3.1-1, is defined as all actual on-air time spent supporting the MARS mission (includes AFMARS, AMARS, SHARES, and Joint Nets). Questions regarding what constitutes On-Air participation should be directed to individual SMD. Some examples of On Air participation are listed below.

3.5.1.1. Participation credit shall be given to member stations that have full transmitting and receiving capabilities.

3.5.1.2. Participation credit for stations acting as NCS or ANCS shall be twice the scheduled time for that net.

3.5.1.3. Members attending a formally organized Region(s), or State(s) conference are entitled to full participation credit (12 hours POA) for one quarter. The member may choose which quarter to apply the credit to up to one year after the conference. Report this time on your MPR as POA.

3.5.2. Not On-Air (NOA) Participation Time.

Not On-Air Participation time is defined as all off-air time spent supporting the MARS mission. Questions regarding what constitutes not on-air participation should be directed to individual SMD. Some examples of Not On-Air participation are listed below.

3.5.2.1. Billeted members count time spent on the off-air aspects of billet duties as “Not On-Air” time.

3.5.2.2. Work on MARS special projects assigned by the Technical Services Manager, RMD, or SMD shall be credited as NOA time by the member based on the actual time spent. All members may count as NOA time, the time spent completing Personally Identifiable Information (PII) and Cyber Awareness Challenge (CAC) on-line courses.

3.5.2.3. Support of actual or training emergency and/or contingency operations shall be credited as “Not On-Air” based on the actual time spent.

3.6. Reporting Procedure and Methodology. Member’s individual reports are monthly. All reports to the NRM are quarterly. Quarters begin the first day of January, April, July, and October. Note that reports are due the day after the end of each cycle but shall be submitted on or before the not later than (NLT) date. Reports arriving after the NLT date shall not be included in the final report, but may be “rolled into” the following cycle’s report, at the discretion of the appropriate recording official.

NOTE: Monitoring only shall not count for participation credit, with the exception noted

for ECOM events.

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Roll-up Due Date

Figure 3.6-1: Participation Summary Report

3.6.1. Monthly Member Participation Report (MPR).

Members who have no activity for the month shall submit a “no activity” report to the SMD. Members who are on inactive status are exempt from this reporting for the duration of their inactive status.

Each Member station shall provide the following information to their respective SMD not later than the 5th of month immediately following the month of the report. Formal Message: Create a formal ACP-126 message using Message Manager, USMTF tab, MONTHLY REPORT. Modify the message format to copy the example in Figure 3.6.1-1 and enter your report participation information. Send the MPR directly to your SMD on the air if possible or copy and paste the completed MPR into the body of an email and send to your SMD. Do not attach as a separate file.

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Example Report

VZCZCMMM001 AFS#xx DE AFx#xx NR2 R 040332Z NOV 2018 FM MARS STATION AFx#xx TO AF MARS xx DIRECTOR BT UNCLAS

MSGID/GENADMIN/MARS STATION AFx#xx/2// SUBJ/MEMBER PARTICIPATION REPORT/OCT 2018// GENTEXT/REMARKS/ 1. 15 2. 10 3. 7 4. 0 5. 35// BT (eight blank lines removed for brevity) NNNN

The above message is in ACP-126 format. It is a modified version of the “MONTHLY REPORT” available in the “USMTF” tab of Message Manager. Simply modify the default “MONTHLY REPORT” to match the format above OR type out an exact format copy using your text editor. Explanations: AFS#xx is the billet callsign for your State MARS Director. AFx#xx is your individual (non-billet) callsign. TO line: “xx” is the two-letter abbreviation of your state. Message body: Line 1. Your Primary On-Air (POA) time in hours. Line 2. Your Secondary On-Air (SOA) time in hours. Line 3. Your Not On-Air time in hours. Antenna, radio, cable, etc. work, creating messages, completing required Security Courses, studying AF MARS related manuals, preparing AF MARS participation reports, After Action Reports, etc. and any other duties required to keep you and your station communication ready. Line 4. Total Base Support Team (BST) Hours. Should always be zero unless you have been appointed to a BST by Form 3661 action. Line 5. Total number of messages handled. Count only formal on the air messages that were “TO” you, “FROM” you or relayed by you. See Table 3.3.1-1 for further explanation.

Figure 3.6-2: Sample MPR.

3.6.2. Member Base Support Team (BST). BST time is included as a category on the member's report, and will be included as part of the POA time summary in the SMD roll up. The BST time is available per member at the SMD level and reported as POA time in the SMD's roll up

3.6.3. State MARS Directors Quarterly Report Content. Each SMD shall provide the following information to their respective RMD not earlier than

(NET) the 5th day after the end of quarter and NLT the 10th Day after the end of the Quarter.

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Table 3.6.3-1: State MARS Directors Quarterly State Participation Report

3.6.4. Region MARS Directors Quarterly Feedback Report. The Region MARS Directors shall ensure that the quarterly feedback report is shared with the respective SMDs. Members are entitled to review their participation levels and may query the SMD for the members quarterly report information. The Region report is a single line, four number report. The SMD will send a single line, four number report for the state to the region. The Region in turn submits a single line, four number report to NRM, consisting of the totals for all the states in each area.

3.6.5. RMD Quarterly Feedback Report Content.

Each RMD shall provide the following information to the NRM not earlier than (NET) the 10th day after the end of quarter and NLT the 15th Day after the end of the Quarter.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Call Sign Region

Primary On-Air Hours

Secondary On-Air Hours

Not On-Air hours

All Messages Quarter

Table 3.6.5-1: Region MARS Directors Quarterly Region Participation Report

3.6.6. National Records Manager Quarterly Report. The National Records Manager shall compile and transmit to CAFM a quarterly AFMARS Participation Report by the 25th day of the new quarter. The NRM quarterly report shall consist of the following information for each quarter:

3.6.6.1. Total on-air time.

3.6.6.2. Total non-on-air time.

3.6.6.3. Total Traffic handled system-wide.b

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Call Sign

State Name

Primary On-Air Hrs

Secondary On-Air Hrs

Not On-Air Hrs

All Messages

Quarter

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3.6.7. Additional Reporting. In addition to the above participation time reporting to CAFM, each RMD shall include the following reports:

3.6.7.1. Exercises/Actual events where AFMARS played a role.

3.6.7.2. Public recognition of AFMARS.

3.6.7.3. Status of projects as assigned by RMD, SMD, or any other official.

3.6.7.4. Status of new MARS trainees.

3.6.7.5. Names and Call signs of members who have left, joined, or have become a silent key.

3.6.8. Member Station Logs. All MARS members shall maintain a log of the events of their station. All logs are subject to review. Members are highly encouraged to utilize electronic means for recording required information in lieu of paper records. For messages to be logged or counted in a member’s Member Participation Report as messages handled, they must be To, From or Relayed by the member; messages that are merely intercepted are excluded. Station Logs shall include at a minimum:

3.6.8.1. MARS station call sign, net name, frequency designator, date, and time logged on and off the net using Zulu time.

3.6.8.2. Message number and date-time group (DTG).

3.6.8.3. Whom the message traffic is destined for and where it is originating.

3.6.8.4. Any other significant events that occurred during the station operation.

3.6.8.5. Each member shall retain his or her MARS station logs, for a minimum of one year from the date of the final entry of the log.

NOTE: For clarity when a net operates across the Zulu day, i.e., begins before 2359Z and ends after 0001Z, the starting calendar day will be used on the log. Example: 10S1, a two-hour net, begins on 28 SEP 2015 at 2300Z and ends at 0159Z. The net date will remain 28 SEP 2015.

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NOTE: A Region may have developed a suggested or standard log format for member

station use, to assist member stations with an organized capture of information, as

required. Inquire of your SMD if your Region has a preferred format; a member logging

computer program may be available.

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4.1. Scope. As a military auxiliary organization, MARS has a system of assigning members to various nets and positions of responsibility. The system also provides for documentation of authorized inactivity and termination of membership.

4.2. Releasing Officials. Any appointed official may be removed from office by the person who appointed them (or by the CAFM) for:

4.2.1. Failure to fulfill the duties and responsibilities of the position.

4.2.2. Failure to comply with instructions furnished by HQ USAF MARS.

4.2.3. Any action deemed by the appointing authority to be detrimental to the AFMARS program.

4.3. Resignations. Resignation from any position may be submitted at any time without prejudice.

4.4. Member Terminations. Individual members may be terminated for:

4.4.1. Bringing discredit upon themselves, MARS or another MARS member(s).

4.4.2. Failure to abide by the publications and rules governing MARS.

4.4.3. Failure to complete required MARS training.

4.4.4. Failure to maintain minimum quarterly participation on established MARS radio nets as instructed by published management guidelines.

4.4.5. Failure to maintain a current FCC amateur radio license.

4.4.6. Failure to notify appropriate authorities of a change in contact information, including mailing address, e-mail address, contact telephone number and physical address of the station location.

4.4.7. Repeated infractions caused from improper or inappropriate radio operations.

4.4.8. Failure to respond to official correspondence by US Mail, email, or telephone.

4.5. Member Transfers.

When relocating to a new Region, members shall request their membership be transferred to the new Region. The process for completing this action is as follows:

Chapter 4.0.

PERSONNEL ACTIONS

01 JUNE 2019

4.5.1. Member notifies their SMD of the pending relocation and requests their membership be transferred to the gaining Region. The losing SMD shall forward the transferring members file to the gaining SMD.

4.5.2. The gaining SMD shall request a new call sign from the RMD for the transferring member.

4.5.3. The gaining RMD shall assign a new call sign for that Region; prepare a new AF Form 3661 relinquishing the old Region call sign and assigning the transferee to the appropriate Region net. The gaining RMD shall have the authority to require the member to become compliant with all membership requirements prior to finalizing transfer.

4.5.4. Distribution of copies shall include all current State and Region Officials as appropriate, the old Region/State officials as appropriate with information copies to the National Records Manager and to the CAFM for issuance of a new MARS license.

4.5.5. Email will be used if possible; all transmitted items will be encrypted.

4.6. Reinstatement Waiting Periods. The following time periods have been established for reinstating previous MARS members wishing to re-enter active membership:

4.6.1. Members who are terminated from the AFMARS program shall not be allowed to reapply for consideration for new membership in AFMARS for a minimum period of two (2) years.

4.6.2. Members who resign must wait one (1) year before re-applying for membership. (Waiting period may be waived for members resigning specifically to transfer to another service's MARS program or to relocate.)

4.6.3. Members terminated for extreme cause (for example, unbecoming conduct) shall be prohibited from consideration for new membership for a minimum period of five (5) years.

4.6.4. The CAFM may waive reinstatement waiting time on a case-by-case basis.

4.7. Extenuating Circumstances. The CAFM, or a designated representative:

4.7.1. May grant termination waivers of members for extenuating circumstances on a case-by- case basis.

4.7.2. May grant periods of inactive status to MARS members, more than the 180-day inactive status period approved by the SMD and the additional 180-day inactive status approved by the RMD, when requested by the individual member, on a case-by-case basis.

4.8. Assignment Actions Requiring AF Form 3661 Preparation.

01 JUNE 2019

Table 4.8-1: AF Form 3661 Actions and Responsibilities.

4.8.1. AFMARS Personnel Action Notification (AF FORM 3661).

The AF Form 3661, AFMARS Personnel Action Notification, is employed to document MARS personnel actions. All personnel actions involving an AF Form 3661 and containing Personally Identifiable Information (PII) shall be treated as “unclassified for official use only” and encrypted when transmitted as an Email attachment.

4.8.2. AF Form 3661 Content.

Required Action Request

er

Initiation &

Approval Distribution

Appointment of RMD or SMD CAFM CAFM CAFM, NRM, RMD, RRM, SMD, Individual

Appointment of National Manager CAFM CAFM CAFM, NRM, RMD, RRM, SMD, Individual

Appointment of Special Assistant and other Key non-regional/state official

CAFM CAFM CAFM, NRM, RMD, RRM, SMD, Individual

Appointment of Region Staff officials other than RMD

RMD RMD CAFM, NRM, RMD, DRM SMD, Individual

MARSRADIO Network Assignment SMD NMRM CAFM, NRM, DRM, RMD, SMD, Individual

Military Support Network Assignment SMD NMSNM CAFM, NRM, RMD, RRM, SMD, Individual

TRANSGLOBAL Digital Network SMD DDTDO CAFM, NRM, RMD, RRM, SMD, Individual

TRANSGLOBAL Radio Relay Network SMD DDTDO CAFM, NRM, RMD, RRM, SMD, Individual

AFMARS BBS SMD DDTDO CAFM, NRM, RMD, RRM, SMD, Individual

TRANSGLOBAL Automatic Link Establishment Net

Member DDALEO CAFM, NRM, RMD, RRM, SMD, Individual

Initial Primary Assignment Upon Completion of Training

SMD RMD CAFM, NRM, RMD, RRM, SMD, Individual

Appointment of MARS Member Volunteer Official/State Level

SMD SMD CAFM, NRM, RMD, RRM, SMD, Individual

Appointment of Base Support Team Leader or Member

IMD SMD CAFM, NRM, RMD, SMD, BST Leader, Individual

180-Day Inactive Member (PCS, Illness, Equipment Failure, etc.)

SMD SMD CAFM, NRM, RMD, RRM, SMD, Individual

Extension of Inactive Status RMD RMD CAFM, NRM, RMD, SMD, Individual

Return to Active Status Member SMD CAFM, NRM, RMD, SMD, Individual

Cancellation of Net Assignments SMD CAFM CAFM, NRM, RMD, RRM, SMD, Individual

Termination SMD CAFM CAFM, NRM, RMD, RRM, SMD, Individual

Resignation SMD SMD NRM, RMD, RRM, SMD, Individual

Silent Key SMD SMD CAFM, NRM, RMD, RRM, SMD

FCC License Renewal SMD SMD NRM, RMD, RRM, SMD, Individual

Transfer Region SMD SMD NRM, RMD, RRM, Gaining SMD, Loosing SMD, Individual

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AF Form 3661 must contain certain specific information in each element.

4.8.2.1. At a minimum include the “TO” block which must contain the member’s name and the appropriate MARS call sign must be included for any actions involving current members.

4.8.2.2. AF Form 3661 Comments section must contain a minimum amount of information pertinent to the action being taken.

4.8.2.3. For official billet appointments, the AF Form 3661 Comments section must contain language describing the billet and position, call sign, and appointment term at a minimum, for example: “In accordance with (indicate the appropriate MOI Section number) you are appointed the billet (insert the exact title of the billet from the MOI). This appointment authorizes the use of the billet call sign (insert the billet call sign). This call sign is authorized on AFMARS networks only. This assignment is for two years and ends on (insert date). The appointing official reserves the right of reappointment with your concurrence.”

4.8.2.4. Table 4.8.2.3-1 provides an outline of minimum required information.

4.8.3. AF Form 3661 Preparation Instructions.

The following guidelines shall be used in the preparation of AF Form 3661 Personnel Action:

4.8.3.1. Table 4.8-1 shows the MARS officials authorized to prepare AF Form 3661, the situations under which the form is required to be initiated, the individual responsible to initiate, and the authorized approving official. All AF Forms 3661 shall be completed IAW with this table. A copy of each AF Form 3661 must be emailed to the NRM. 4.8.3.2. When a new member successfully completes initial training, the RTM shall notify the RMD, and the respective SMD. The RMD shall complete the process transitioning the trainee to full membership. 4.8.3.3. Except as otherwise provided in this MOI, after the above action, the SMD shall initiate and sign AF Form 3661 on the individuals in that state to include, resignations, deaths, and transfers, while terminations shall be initiated by the SMD and signed by the CAFM. The SMD shall forward a copy of AF Form 3661 to the CAFM and the RMD for distribution. Only the CAFM shall sign AF Form 3661 terminating a member for cause. Any terminated member may appeal within 180 calendar days in writing to the CAFM for reinstatement, based on mitigating circumstances.

AF Form 3661 (Required Information)

Individual Call Billet Call

Action Start Date

Action End Date

Enter Training AFT Call X X (180 days)

NOTE: The length statement may be modified for assignments that have no directed ending date: “The length of this assignment is at the pleasure of the appointing official.”

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Complete Training X FCC Expire Date

Primary Assign. Change X X

Base Support Team Assign.

X X X

MARS/FCC Renewal X X FCC Expire Date

Billet Appointment/Removal

X X X X

Member Resignation X

Member Termination X

Member Inactive Status X X X

Member Deceased X

Change of Location X

Assign to MARSRADIO or MSN

X

Change to Emeritus Member

AFZ Call

Table 4.8.2.3-1: AF Form 3661 Comments Section Required Element Table Notes: “Action Start Date” is the Form 3661 “EFFECTIVE DATE” unless specifically noted otherwise in the body of the Form 3661. A “Change of Location” Form 3661 completed by the gaining SMD requires an accompanying completed application from the member with all info (new location) filled in.

4.8.3.4. All RMD, SMD, and Special Net Managers (NMRNM, NMSNM, DDTNO, DDTDO) are authorized to originate AF Form 3661 involving individual members. RMD level authority for originating and authenticating AF Form 3661 shall only be used to preclude unreasonable delays in processing member assignments.

4.8.3.5. Computer generated substitutes for AF Form 3661 as authorized are encouraged but must include all required data.

4.8.3.6. Each SMD is empowered to approve requests for inactive status for periods not to exceed 180 days. The SMD may also approve a temporary waiver of the HF requirement for up to 180 days for members wishing to remain active but temporarily without HF capability (e.g., equipment failure or repair). Members on inactive status are exempt from participation and participation reporting. The SMD shall initiate AF Form 3661 indicating the start and end date, with copies to the individual, RMD, and National Records Manager (NRM). An RMD may grant an additional six-months, upon request and based on special consideration with full justification, such as nursing home residency, etc. AF Form 3661 shall be initiated for the extension indicating the beginning and ending dates with distribution to the individual, SMD, RMD, and NRM. This authority must be used judiciously. The CAFM, may grant waivers beyond one year.

4.8.3.7. The SMD shall initiate all AF Form 3661 actions for terminations, resignations, and “Silent Keys”. The SMD shall sign all the foregoing actions except terminations for cause, which must be forwarded to the CAFM for signature.

The SMD shall maintain a separate personnel file for each MARS member. Files for former members shall be archived and maintained for a period of two (2) years. Paper files shall not be

01 JUNE 2019

treated as trash or recycled, but must be destroyed in some manner, such as shredding. Electronic files and backups are encouraged in lieu of actual paper files.

4.9. Maintenance of Records. SMD shall ensure a copy of each AF Form 3661 pertinent to a member is in the member's personnel file, and that a current AF Form 3661 is on hand for each member.

4.10. Public Records Information. In keeping with the Privacy Act, only certain information regarding AFMARS members can be released as “public information”. This includes MARS call sign, city, state, and billet title, if any.

4.11. DoD Benefits Procedure. Procedures for allowing members to be considered for benefits associated with DoD civilian service, such as access to DoD morale, welfare, and recreation Category C recreational facilities, credit unions associated with the Department of Defense, and military ceremonies. These procedures do not require an AF Form 3661 action.

17 Jan 2019

5.1. Scope.

DoDI 4650.02 Enclosure (1) paragraph 4.b. defines MARS interoperability policy and requirements. AFMARS members must work to ensure that all AFMARS communications capabilities established are:

“available and mutually interoperable at the individual station and network level,”

“with other MARS and appropriate civil authorities’ radio services.”

Interoperability at the individual station level includes common resources such as frequencies, signal modulations, data exchange protocols, messaging formats, and operating practices. Interoperability at the network level includes common resources such as alerting, calling procedures, message addressing, routing, and means to ensure message delivery.

This section establishes policy, procedures, and standards for implementing this interoperability policy. Sections below identify some entities with which AFMARS may need to operate.

5.2. Interoperability – overall policies

5.2.1. Working with Organizations.

AFMARS members will always be professional and cooperative when working with all external organizations and stations. We must foster mutual support in accomplishing our joint communications-related tasks, especially during disasters and other emergencies.

5.2.2. Non-MARS Frequency Approval.

AFMARS members will obtain written approval before operating on non-MARS frequencies authorized to other agencies and authorities.

5.2.2.1. One example of getting written approval is participation in the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) SHared RESources (SHARES) HF Radio program. See 5.4.3 below for details.

5.2.2.2. NTIA rule 7.3.6 authorizes U.S. Government stations, including AFMARS, to operate on any FCC Part 90 frequency with the permission of the FCC licensee when such use is necessary for emergency communications. AFMARS members will comply with the additional NTIA rule 7.3.6 conditions, including submitting the required activity report within 10 days of completing the operation.

5.2.2.3. The only pre-authorization exception is for “imminent safety-of-life or property”. This situation is when an aircraft pilot or marine vessel operator would use the MAYDAY

distress signal. NTIA rule 7.3.6 and FCC Rule 90.403(g) require that “for transmissions concerning the imminent safety-of-life or property, the transmissions shall be suspended as soon as the emergency is terminated.”

5.2.3. Other organization Compliance.

Chapter 5.0.

INTEROPERABILITY

https://www.ntia.doc.gov/legacy/osmhome/redbook/7.pdf

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AFMARS members operating on frequencies authorized to other organizations will comply with that organization’s license conditions, regulations, and operation practices.

5.2.4. AFMARS members will train for interoperability.

5.2.4.1. AFMARS members will train to use AMARS and other agency operating and message handling procedures when operating on frequencies assigned to other agencies.

5.2.4.2. To improve our operational interoperability with non-DoD agencies and organizations, all AFMARS members are highly encouraged to complete training in National Incident Management System (NIMS) and the Incident Command System (ICS) procedures. This training includes using the ICS-213 general message form. Section 2.5.1 describes this training.

5.2.5. AFMARS members will equip for interoperability.

5.2.5.1. AFMARS members are highly encouraged to equip their stations with HF, VHF, and UHF communications capabilities that span MARS, other US Government, civil authority, and NGO frequency authorizations. For example, AFMARS members should consult the National Interoperability Field Operations Guide (NIFOG), which is a pocket-sized listing of land mobile radio (LMR) and other frequencies that are often used in disasters or other incidents where radio interoperability is required. The NIFOG includes other information useful to emergency communicators.

5.2.5.2. When not on MARS frequencies, member or station equipment must meet NTIA Chapter 5 technical requirements or be certified for FCC Part 90 operation, as appropriate. For example, all VHF/UHF FM transceivers must have narrow (12.5 or 6.25 kHz) emission bandwidth.

5.2.5.3. AFMARS members are highly encouraged to equip their stations with MODEMS and software for common communications protocols, such as modulations and encoding, used by other organizations.

5.2.6. Callsigns

5.2.6.1 AFMARS stations will use their AFMARS member call sign on MARS and other US Government agency frequencies, unless the supported agency assigns a different call sign.

5.2.6.2 AFMARS stations will only use the supported agency assigned call sign on civil authority and non-Governmental organization frequencies.

5.2.6.3 AFMARS stations will not use their MARS call signs on amateur radio frequencies.

5.3. Interoperability - AMARS.

5.3.1. AFMARS / AMARS Interoperability.

https://www.dhs.gov/publication/fog-documents

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AFMARS works to ensure interoperability with AMARS at the member and network levels through sharing:

core missions defined in DoDI 4650.02;

joint MARS policies and publications;

frequency allocations, such as common ALE networks;

modulations and protocols, such as ALE (MIL-STD 188-141C), data (MIL-STD 188-110C), FM narrowband voice, and single sideband (SSB) voice;

operating practices, such as that as specified in Allied Communications Publications (ACPs) 121 and 125;

messaging procedures, such as that specified in ACP 126, 127, and 201;

message format, using US Message Text Format (USMTF), as specified in MIL-STD 6040B; and,

communications security (COMSEC), as allowed under DoDI 8582.01.

5.3.2. Participation with AMARS.

5.3.2.1. AFMARS, both as an organization and individual stations, shall facilitate and participate in all authorized communications with AMARS stations, unless otherwise restricted in this Section. AFMARS interoperability is authorized on a global basis subject to the following: 5.3.2.2 AFMARS station shall comply with AMARS operational policies and restrictions when operating on AMARS frequencies. 5.3.2.3 AFMARS stations are authorized to use any MARS VHF frequency for digital and

voice communications within the frequency owner’s established guidelines.

5.3.3. AMARS Non-Interoperability.

AMARS interoperability provisions do not apply to MARSRADIO Network and Military Support Nets.

5.4. Interoperability - Other US Government Organizations.

5.4.1. Other US Government Organizations.

AFMARS works to ensure interoperability with other US Government organizations through sharing:

coordinated policies and publications;

HF, VHF, and UHF Federal (NTIA coordinated) frequency allocations;

modulations and protocols, such as SSB voice, FM narrowband voice, ALE (MIL-STD 188-141C), data (MIL-STD `88-110C), and WINLINK messaging;

plain language voice exchanges;

accepted operating practices, such as those in ACP, NIMS, or ICS;

https://www.esd.whs.mil/Portals/54/Documents/DD/issuances/dodi/858201p.pdf?ver=2017-10-27-110213-267

01 JUNE 2019

accepted messaging procedures and formats, such as USMTF and ICS-213 general messaging forms;

5.4.2. Participation.

AFMARS, when authorized as an organization or as individual stations, shall facilitate and participate in all authorized communications, unless otherwise restricted in this section. Section 5.2.2 above describes approval requirements. Unless otherwise noted, these authorizations are regardless of location, and when the US Government station/unit is operating from fixed, airborne, mobile, portable, or seaborn assets. Other US Government organizations supported include:

5.4.2.1. US military active or reserve stations/units;

5.4.2.2. Other DoD agencies and organizations, such as service laboratories;

5.4.2.3. National Guard and Air National Guard;

5.4.2.4. Civil Air Patrol;

5.4.2.5. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), such as:

5.4.2.5.1. SHARES HF Interoperability Program stations;

5.4.2.5.2. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA);

5.4.2.5.3. Transportation Security Administration (TSA);

5.4.2.5.4. U.S. Coast Guard (USCG);

5.4.2.5.5. U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary (USCG Aux);

5.4.2.5.6. Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers (FLETC);

5.4.2.5.7. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)

5.4.2.5.8. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE);

5.4.2.5.9. Secret Service;

5.4.2.6. National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA);

5.4.2.7. Department of Health and Human services (HHS);

5.4.2.8. Department of Agriculture (DOA);

5.4.2.9. Department of Interior (DOI);

5.4.2.10. Department of Justice (DOJ);

5.4.2.11. Department of Energy (DOE), including the national laboratories;

5.4.2.12. Department of Transportation (DOT); and,

5.4.2.13. Veterans Administration (VA).

5.4.3. SHARES.

DoDI 4650.02 Enclosure (1) paragraph 4.c. encourages AFMARS member participation in the Shared Resources High Frequency (HF) Radio (SHARES) Interoperability Program. SHARES is responsible for promoting interoperability between HF radio systems used by the Federal departments and agencies and with commercial critical infrastructure providers. See section 13.12 for additional details on SHARES participation.

NOTE: The list provided herewith is not intended to be an exhaustive list, rather a compendium of common example U.S. Government Stations.

01 JUNE 2019

5.5. Interoperability – Civil Authorities

5.5.1. Support to Civil Authorities.

AFMARS has specific requirements to provide support to civil authorities. See Sections 1.1.1.3 and 1.1.2.3 for limitations, special requirements, and required authorizations.

5.5.2. Civil Authority Aspects of Interoperability.

AFMARS works to ensure interoperability with civil authorities through sharing:

FCC and NTIA authorized interoperability frequency authorizations, such as those defined in the NIFOG and in ANSI/NPSTC 1.104.2, Standard Channel Nomenclature for the Public Safety Interoperability Channel;

modulations and protocols, such as FM narrowband voice and SSB voice;


accepted operating practices, such as those in NIMS or ICS; and,

accepted messaging procedures and formats, such as ICS-213 general messaging forms;

5.5.3. Pre-Authorization with Civil Authorities.

AFMARS, when expressly pre-authorized as an organization, shall facilitate and participate in all authorized communications. Participation is normally with the following Civil Authorities.

5.5.3.1. Emergency management organizations;

5.5.3.2. Fire and rescue;

5.5.3.3. Emergency medical services;

5.5.3.4. Community Emergency Readiness Team (CERT); and,

5.5.3.5. State defense forces, also known as state-sponsored military forces, state guards, state militias, or state military reserves, as specifically authorized under state statut

5.5.4. Civil Radio Specifications.

Supported civil authorities generally operate radio systems licensed under FCC Part 90. See Section 5.2.5.2 for technical requirements.

5.5.5. Operation SECURE.

Operation SECURE (State Emergency Capability Using Radio Effectively). When authorized by the supported civil authority, AFMARS stations may operate on Operation Secure HF frequencies. Under Operation SECURE, state governments obtain FCC Part 90 licenses for HF stations to provide communications circuits:

NOTE: The list provided herewith is not intended to be an exhaustive list, rather a compendium of common example stations.

01 JUNE 2019

in emergency or disaster situations, where safety of life and property are concerned; and

to provide standby or as backup communications circuits to regular domestic communications circuits which have been disrupted by disasters and/or emergencies.

For details of Operation SECURE, see 47 CFR 90.264, Disaster communications between 2 and 10 MHz, and the NTIA Manual of Regulations and Procedures for Federal Radio Frequency Management (Redbook) Chapter 4, United States (US) Footnotes US22.

5.6. Interoperability – Civil Non-Government Organizations (NGO).

5.6.1. AFMARS and NGOs.

AFMARS works to ensure interoperability with other civil Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) through sharing:

a common goal of supporting disaster relief and emergency services, especially when supporting military members and their families;

HF, VHF, and UHF FCC (Part 97 amateur radio and Part 90 business) frequency allocations;

modulations and protocols, such as SSB voice, FM narrowband voice, and repeater operation;


accepted operating practices, such as those in NIMS, or ICS; and

accepted messaging procedures and formats, such as ICS-213 general messaging forms;

5.6.2. Participation with NGOs.

When directed, AFMARS, both as an organization and individual stations, shall facilitate and participate in all authorized communications with civil NGOs, unless otherwise restricted in this Section. Example NGOs include:

5.6.2.1. The American Red Cross (ARC);

5.6.2.2. Salvation Army Team Emergency Radio Net (SATERN);

5.6.2.3. Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service (RACES – FCC Part 97.407); and,

5.6.2.4. American Radio Relay League (ARRL) Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES) or similar amateur radio organizations.

5.6.3. Operations on Amateur Frequencies.

NOTE: The list provided herewith is not intended to be an exhaustive list, rather a compendium of common example stations.

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All AFMARS members or stations that use amateur radio frequencies must be conducted by the member using the member’s amateur call sign and in accordance with FCC Part 97 rules.

5.6.4. Use of FCC Part 90 Frequencies.

All AFMARS members or stations that use commercial FCC Part 90 frequencies must be conducted using the civil authority assigned call sign and in accordance with the organization’s licensing, regulations, and procedures.

5.7. Special Authorizations.

In the case of special circumstances or exercise purposes, the CAFM may authorize operations with stations or groups other that those listed herein. CAFM or Director of Operations will issue special authorizations in writing.

5.8. Regional Joint MARS Operating Group (RJMOG)

5.8.1. When Necessary Establishment. When necessary, AFMARS and AMARS may establish a RJMOG. The RJMOG’s mission is to execute joint MARS tasking directed by DoD authority during a contingency situation.

5.8.2. DoD or Chief Establishment. DoD authorities or MARS Chiefs establish a RJMOG via a tasking message. This message provides the mission, authorities, and responsibilities that the specified joint Region Directors will execute.

5.8.3. AFMARS Support. AFMARS members will fully support the RJMOG, including operating in RJMOG nets. AFMARS members will comply with all tasking order provisions as implemented by the Region Directors.

5.8.4. Examples.

RJMOG tasking examples include the periodic joint MARS communications exercises (COMEX).

5.8.5. Chain of Command.

The RJMOG is a tactical, regional communications support group. As such, the RJMOG does not replace a member’s administrative chain of command.

5.8.6. Training Net.

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AFMARS and AMARS Region Directors may jointly create a training RJMOG. This training RJMOG will be of a short duration, provide member training on RJMOG operations, and exercise RJMOG message handling.

5.9. MARSRADIO Network.

The AFMARS MARSRADIO Network will process phone patch requests from units of any military branch and other authorized U.S. Government users. The AFMARS MARSRADIO Network shall be operated in a manner transparent to any particular authorized user, regardless of service origin.

6.1. Scope. MARS Communication Protection Guidance.

6.1.1. As a DoD-sponsored auxiliary, MARS provides contingency communications support to U.S. government operations in accordance with DoDI 4650.02. Consequently, there may be times when message traffic or other information containing sensitive information must be transmitted or relayed via either open radio circuits or unprotected electronic media such as email.

6.1.2. MARS does not handle classified information. However, DoD and other federal entities routinely handle unclassified information containing data that must be protected from unauthorized public disclosure. These entities may share such information with MARS or may rely on MARS to transmit or re-transmit such information.

Chapter 6.0.

PROTECTION OF SENSITIVE INFORMATION

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6.1.3. AFMARS operators will ensure that all necessary and appropriate measures are taken to protect sensitive information against unauthorized disclosure, theft, or loss. This includes data containing “Personally Identifiable Information (PII)” as well as information marked “Sensitive But Unclassified (SBU)” or “Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI)” which includes “For Official Use Only (FOUO)” information. All such CUI material (both paper and electronic) will be destroyed IAW DoD Man. 5200.01, Vol. 4.

6.1.4. Whenever possible, messages or information requiring protection from disclosure will be encrypted for transmission on open radio circuits or on unsecured electronic media. AFMARS stations will use the best level of privacy available, e.g., Encryption Wizard software (EWPublic) or real-time / Off-Line encryption program for encryption and decryption purposes.

6.2. For Official Use Only (FOUO).

6.2.1. MARS Communication Protection Guidance. FOUO is not a classification. Rather, it is a dissemination control marking applied by DoD to unclassified information when disclosure to the public would reasonably be expected to cause harm (for details see DoD Manual 5200.01, Volume 4, “DoD Information Security Program: Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI)”). FOUO falls under the heading established for CUI instituted in Executive Order 13556. If released to the public, information such as movement, personnel rosters, readiness data, and operational orders could cause harm to missions or personnel. This information should be properly safeguarded and only disseminated to MARS members and government/military personnel who have a need to know because of an operational requirement.

6.2.2. FOUO Documents. When a document is marked with the words “FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY”, or abbreviation U//FOUO or FOUO, on the header and footer, all material on that page is considered FOUO. One exception is the use of portion markings on a page, usually at the beginning of a paragraph. Portion markings identify specific areas of text in the document with the notations (U) or (U//FOUO).

6.2.3. FOUO Transmittal. AFI 33-332, Change 1, 17 November 2016 “ Exercise caution before transmitting personal information via e-mail to ensure the message is adequately safeguarded. Some information may be so sensitive and personal that e-mail may not be the appropriate means of transmitting.” “When transmitting personal information over e-mail, encrypt and add "For Official Use Only" ("FOUO") to the beginning of the subject line and apply the following statement at the beginning of the e-mail: "This e-mail contains FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY (FOUO) information which must be protected under the Freedom of Information Act (5 U.S.C 552) and/or the Privacy Act of 1974 (5 U.S.C. 552a). Unauthorized disclosure or misuse of this PERSONAL INFORMATION may result in disciplinary action, criminal and/or civil penalties. Further distribution is prohibited without the approval of the author of this message unless the recipient has a need-to-know in the performance of official duties. If you have received this message in error, please notify the sender and delete all copies of this message."

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6.3. Personally Identifiable Information (PII). The Office of Management and Budget Memorandum 07-16, Safeguarding Against and Responding to PII Breach defines PII as the “Personally Identifiable Information is defined as information which can be used to distinguish or trace an individual’s identity, such as their name, social security number, biometric records, etc. alone, or when combined with other personal or identifying information which is linked or linkable to a specific individual, such as date and place of birth, mother’s maiden name, etc.”

6.4. Amateur Call Sign. Your amateur radio call sign and your AFMARS call sign are not PII elements. Under FCC regulations, your amateur license information is public. However, linking FCC and MARS call signs may easily identify the owner/operator or the specific location of the station, which is often a private residence. Carefully consider the privacy implications should you associate your amateur call sign with your MARS call sign. To help preserve the anonymity of individual MARS members, it is recommended that MARS call signs not be used in any public venue, including email addresses and signature lines.

6.5. Safeguarding Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI).

6.5.1. Access to CUI. Reasonable steps shall always be taken to minimize the risk of access to CUI by unauthorized personnel (e.g., not reading, discussing, or leaving FOUO information unattended where unauthorized personnel are present). AFMARS members shall never disclose FOUO or other sensitive information received via the MARS program to anyone other than US Government employees or other MARS members who have a need-to-know for official MARS purposes. In addition, AFMARS members shall immediately report any unauthorized disclosure, theft, or

loss of FOUO or other sensitive information to your State MARS Director and shall properly destroy all FOUO or other sensitive information when no longer required for MARS operations.

6.5.2. Securing CUI. Adequate security must also be provided for all unclassified DoD information on non-DoD information systems. This information must be minimally safeguarded per the procedures listed in Enclosure 3 of DoD Instruction 8582.01, “Security of Unclassified DoD Information on Non-DoD Information Systems”.

6.6. Security Training.

6.6.1. CUI Training.

NOTE: Additional information on properly safeguarding CUI may be found in Enclosure 3 of the aforementioned DoD Manual 5200.01, Volume 4, on “DoD Information Security Program: Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI)”.

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All AFMARS members, including Emeritus Members, shall familiarize themselves with the requirements for protecting CUI as outlined in the aforementioned DoD Manual, DoD Directive, and DoD Instruction. All AFMARS members are required to complete the PII and CAC training:

prior to completing their initial AFMARS training and before receiving their Training Completion Certificate for new members.

prior to receiving their AFMARS call sign for fully trained AMARS members transferring into AFMARS.

Refresher CUI training will be accomplished on a 24-month training cycle. Forward the CUI completion certificate to your SMD. Members who allow this training to lapse will be prohibited from On-Air operations until they have submitted their current CUI completion certificates to their SMD and are again current in CUI training.

6.6.2. Personally Identifiable Information (PII) Training. The link to the online course, Identifying and Safeguarding Personally Identifiable Information, is available from the WWW. MARS.AF.MIL web site or from your SMD.

6.6.3. Cyber Awareness Challenge (CAC) Training. The link to the online course, Cyber Awareness Challenge, is available from the WWW. MARS.AF.MIL web site or from your SMD.

NOTE: If AF MARS members complete any Cyber Security/Awareness training as part of their business duties or continuing education, they may use that training and certificate to satisfy the reoccurring training requirement. There is no official list of approved training courses that meet this reoccurring awareness training. Please use acumen and intellect when submitting your substitute training to meet the reoccurring training requirement.

01 JUNE 2019

7.1. General. It is every member's responsibility to use proper channels for corresponding with HQ USAF MARS and staff. When an item of correspondence is generated, that item shall be processed in the swiftest manner available. Member questions, comments, concerns, or other issues directed to HQ USAF MARS shall be handled as expeditiously as possible. Whenever possible, issues shall be addressed at the lowest level within the member’s chain of command before elevating the issue to higher authority or contacting HQ USAF MARS directly.

7.2. Proper Channels. The following circumstances are the only provisions by which the proper channels may be bypassed when communicating with HQ USAF MARS or staff:

7.2.1. Criticality. When information in the correspondence is such that delays will adversely affect the mission being performed.

7.2.2. Personal or sensitive nature. When the information being conveyed may reflect unfavorably upon anyone in the proper channel or is of a personal or sensitive nature.

7.3. Written Correspondence. Written correspondence generated by a member to solicit a response from the HQ USAF MARS or staff shall normally be sent to the next person in the member’s Chain of Command.

7.3.1. Endorsement. As the correspondence progresses, each recipient shall either add statements to the material or endorse it prior to forwarding. This can be done by adding onto the bottom of the correspondence, or by drafting a letter to be attached to the original document. If an attached letter is used, it shall not be removed before reaching HQ USAF MARS.

7.3.2. Concurrence. If no comments are necessary, an endorsement shall still be needed to signify concurrence or non-concurrence with the correspondence.

7.3.3. Responses.

Chapter 7.0.

CORRESPONDENCE

01 JUNE 2019

Likewise, responses prepared by the AFMARS staff shall be sent direct to the originator with info copies provided for each intermediary.

7.3.4. Application. These procedures apply equally to e-mail correspondence and ordinary mail.

7.4. On the Air or Email. Information may be sent on the air, via written correspondence, or by Internet e-mail. On- the-air discussions, however, shall not adversely reflect upon another MARS member or bring discredit upon the MARS program.

7.5. U.S. MAIL. All mail forwarded by members via U.S. mail shall bear the return address of the sender, per United States Postal Service (USPS) regulation. A slant bar (/) and the MARS member’s call sign shall be included on the first line of the return address.

17 Jan 2019

8.1. Scope. MARS conferences and meetings are vital to the MARS program. Conferences and Meetings afford individual members and managers the opportunity to exchange information, discuss procedures, and clarify policy.

8.2. Annual Conference. Each Region and State may schedule an annual MARS conference convened by the respective RMD and/or SMD. The participants shall be individual members and appointed Region and/or State officials, and invited guests. Region and/or State conferences are to be funded primarily by the individual members. A registration fee may be charged to help defray conference costs (military are not exempt). When a registration fee is charged, it shall be computed to cover only the costs of conference facilities, refreshments, and other incidentals, without making a profit. Excess funds shall be returned to the members in a form determined by the conference committee and the appropriate RMD or SMD.

8.3. State Meetings. State MARS Directors may hold periodic meetings. State meetings held in cities where it is not practical for the SMD to attend must be coordinated with the SMD to ensure current information is obtained. Members are responsible for any expenses.

8.4. General Conferences. General items to be considered for conducting a successful conference are as follows:

8.4.1. Planning. Conferences and meetings should be well planned. The number of attendees should be determined far enough in advance to find a suitable facility. The RMD, or SMD may appoint a conference committee to work out the details for the conference. An agenda should be prepared so the proceedings will be effectively conducted. All such conferences are conducted at no cost to the government.

8.4.2. Committee. A conference committee may be established to handle all conference administrative details. The conference committee may consist of a conference chairperson, treasurer, recorder, and publicity manager.

Chapter 8.0.

CONFERENCES AND MEETINGS

01 JUNE 2019

8.4.3. Scheduling. When practical, conferences should be scheduled to occur on weekends to maximize member participation. An officials meeting may be scheduled during the conference.

8.4.4. Discussion Items. Items for discussion should be solicited from the general membership through management channels. Selected subjects will be listed on the conference schedule with an assigned time limit. The conference schedule should begin with opening remarks and pertinent introductions by the convening authority, followed by reports from appropriate officials. Presentations should be scheduled to allow sufficient time for any questions and answers. The remainder of the schedule will consist of agenda items. If time permits, seminars or special presentations may be scheduled.

8.4.5. Social Events.

A social event, such as a banquet or dinner, may be incorporated, with expenses borne by attendees.

8.4.6. Agenda Coordination. Each Region conference agenda shall be coordinated with the CAFM. Each RMD should be informed of State conferences.

8.4.7. Chairperson Duties. The conference chairperson shall control conference events. If agenda items are covered well and kept within the allotted time, the conference will run smoothly. Appropriate recognition, such as certificates, plaques, and/or other awards, may be presented at the conference. Any costs associated with awards shall be borne by the membership.

8.4.8. Attendance Participation. Full quarter participation time shall be credited for Region or State conference attendees.

8.4.9. FOUO Restrictions. FOUO type information should not be presented nor discussed in meetings with non- MARS members. A separate closed session, of MARS only members; to discuss FOUO type information may be required.

8.5. General Meetings. General items to be considered for conducting a successful meeting are as follows:

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8.5.1. Meeting Outline. MARS meetings are conducted more informally than a conference, however, meetings should be planned with an outline for discussion.

8.5.2. Discussion Content. Current information should be obtained from the SMD or IMD for dissemination to members.

8.5.3. Award Presentation. Awards may be presented with the concurrence of the SMD or IMD, as appropriate.

17 Jan 2019

Chapter 9.0.

RESERVED FOR FUTURE USE

01 JUNE 2019

Chapter 10.0.

RESERVED FOR FUTURE USE

01 JUNE 2019

11.1. Scope. AFMARS call signs are issued from a block of internationally recognized call signs allocated to the AF by NTIA. The call sign block assigned to the Department of the Air Force is AFA through AKZ (FCC Regulation, Part 2, Title 47, §2:302). AFMARS member call sign issuance is delegated to the RMD. 11.2. Issuing Authority. Headquarters USAF MARS, issues all military unit MARS call signs. Military unit call signs are multi-operator MARS station call signs, and requests for a military unit call sign shall be submitted through appropriate military channels to Headquarters, USAF MARS. 11.3. Regions and States. Call signs contain a number, which denotes the region in which the station is located. The following table shows the Regions and the States located within them. Under the Region column, some customers to refer to the AFMARS numeric Region numbers as Roman numerals.

REGION STATES (2-Letter USPS abbreviation)

I - 1 CT, MA, ME, NH, RI, VT

II - 2 NJ, NY

III - 3 DE, MD (Including DC), PA, VA, WV

IV - 4 AL, FL (Including PR & VI), GA, KY, MS, NC, SC, TN

V - 5 IL, IN, MI, MN, OH, WI

VI - 6 AR, LA, NM, OK, TX

VII - 7 IA, KS, MO, NE

VIII - 8 CO, MT, ND, SD, WY, UT

IX - 9 AZ, CA, NV, HI, Guam, and Pacific Islands

X - 0 AK, ID, OR, WA

Table 11.3-1: Regions and States

11.4. MARS Call Sign Suffixes.

11.4.1. AFMARS call signs shall not be suffixed except as authorized in this MOI.

11.4.2. Military Unit MARS Base Stations may use the suffix Unit 1, Unit 2, etc., to denote deployed sub-unit MARS stations of the parent organization.

11.4.3. MARS member stations may use the terms “Mobile”, “Transportable”, “Remote”, or “Portable” as suffixes during MARS net check in to designate special operational status.

Chapter 11.0.

CALL SIGNS

01 JUNE 2019

11.5. MARS Call Sign Use Outside of Home Area. When stations check into the net that are outside of the member stations’ home areas, the Net Control Station may find it prudent to ask operational status: e.g., mobile, maritime-mobile, in transit, portable at a fixed location, on a military installation, or using emergency power. Most stations that are not at home stations check into nets from vehicles and are not normally able to receive traffic. Net logs shall be annotated as appropriate.

11.6. Military Base Station Call Signs Prefix “AGA”.

11.6.1. Military unit base station call signs consist of the letters “AGA”, followed by a number “0” through “9”, denoting the region where the base is located, followed by two alphabetic characters normally derived from the first two letters of the base name (e.g., “AGA4PA” -- Patrick AFB, FL).

11.6.2. Multiple Base MARS Stations where there is a military base with two MARS stations call signs are as follows:

11.6.2.1 The call sign suffix for the First MARS station will normally be the first two letters of the single word base name and the call sign suffix of the second MARS base station call sign will be two other letters associated with base name (e.g., “AGA6EL” - 447th Comm Squadron, Ellington AFB, Houston, TX and “AGA6EO” - 447th Comm Squadron, Ellington AFB, Houston, TX).

11.6.2.2 The first initial of each name in a dual-named base is normally used (e.g., “AGA1SP” -South Portland ANG Base, ME; “AGA9DM” -- Davis-Monthan AFB, AZ).

11.7. MARS Member Call Signs Prefix. “AFA”. MARS member station call sign assignments are delegated to the RMD. These are single-operator 6-character station call signs consisting of the letters “AFA”, a number “0” through “9” for the region in which the member is located, and finally, two letters “AA” through “ZZ”, except for the two-letter United States Postal Service (USPS) digraphs denoting states and territories. State and Territory digraph suffixes shall not be used for personal MARS call signs.

11.8. MARS Member Call Signs In Training Prefix “AFT”.

11.8.1. A call sign with “AFT” prefix indicates that the member is in training to become a fully qualified AFMARS operator. The “AFT” will be replaced with “AFA” upon successful completion of the initial training program.

11.8.2. Initial training of the MARS member trainee must be completed within one hundred eighty (180) days from the issuance of the AF Form 3661 by the RMD assigning the trainee call sign.

11.8.3. After the initial training status change to remove the “AFT” prefix for the “AFA” prefix, the member’s designated personal call sign suffix will not change unless the member moves to another AFMARS Region.

11.9. Billet Call Signs.

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Billet call signs are assigned in addition to a member’s generic call signs to indicate that the member is filling a specialized position.

11.9.1. National, TRANSGLOBAL, MSN, MARSRADIO, Region, and State billet call signs remain with the specific official billet position.

11.9.2. Members appointed to official Staff billet positions shall be appointed by AF Form 3661 Personnel Action.

11.9.3. Official Staff stations with billet calls may check into AFMARS HF and VHF nets using assigned billet call signs, when performing official dities.

11.10. National Level Billet Call Signs. The CAFM, issues all billet call signs for National Staff, Region MARS Directors, and State MARS Directors. Requests for additional or modified billet call signs may be submitted through appropriate channels to the CAFM. Table 11.10.-1 contains the National Billet Call Sign, the Abbreviated National Billet Call Sign in {} brackets, the Billet Title, and Issuing Authority.

Call Sign {CS Abbr} National Billet Title Issuing Authority

AFN#A {N#A} National Administrative Assistant (NAA) CAFM

AFN#G {N#G} National Director, TRANSGLOBAL Operations (NDTO)

CAFM

AFD#H {D#H} Deputy Director, TRANSGLOBAL Network

Operations (DDTNO)

National Director, TRANSGLOBAL HF

Operations

AFD#D {D#D} Deputy Director, TRANSGLOBAL Digital

Operations (DDTDO)


Operations

AFD#L {D#L} Deputy Director, Automatic Link

Establishment (ALE) Operations (DDALEO)


Operations

AFD#R {D#R} Deputy Director, TRANSGLOBAL Radio

Relay (DDTRRO)


Operations

AFN#E {N#E} National Emergency Coordinator (NEC)

Deputy CAFM

AFD#E {D#E} National Emergency Coordinator (DNEC)

National National Emergency

Coordinator

AFN#F {N#F} Military Liaison (NML) CAFM

AFN#O {N#O} National Director Operations (NDO) CAFM

AFN#I {N#I} National Public Information Officer (NPIO) CAFM

AFN#W {N#W} National Planning Coordinator (NPC) CAFM

AFN#P {N#P} National MARSRADIO Network Manager

(NMRM) CAFM

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AFD#P {D#P} Deputy National MARSRADIO Network

Manager (DNMRM) National MARSRADIO

Network Manager

AFN#N {N#N} National Records Manager (NRM) CAFM

AFN#T {N#T} National Training Manager (NTM) CAFM

AFD#T {D#T} Deputy National Training Manager (DNTM) National Training

Manager

AFN#S {N#S} National Military Support Network Manager

(NMSNM) CAFM

AFD#S {D#S} Deputy National Military Support Network

Manager (DNMSNM)

National Military Support Network

Manager AFN#M {N#M}

National Technical Services Manager (NTSM)

CAFM

AFN#V {N#V} National VHF Coordinator (NVC) CAFM

AFN#X {N#X} National Exercise Coordinator (NXC) CAFM

AFD#X {D#X} Deputy National Exercise Coordinator

(DNXC) National Exercise

Coordinator

AFN#B {N#B} National Telephone Support Manager

(NTSM) CAFM

Table 11.10-1: National Billet Appointments

11.10.1. “AFN” Prefix National officials, Region MARS Directors and National Managers shall have a 5- character call sign consisting of, the call sign prefix “AFN”, followed by the numeric designator for the Region where the person lives, followed by a single letter designating the specific appointment.

11.10.2. “AFD” Prefix Deputies of National Staff Directors, Managers or Coordinators, and Deputy Region MARS Directors, shall have a 5-character call sign, consisting of the call sign prefix “AFD”, followed by the numeric designator for the Region where the person lives, followed by a single letter designating the specific appointment.

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11.11. Region Level Billet Call Signs.

11.11.1. Region MARS Director, Deputy Region MARS Director, and Region Emergency Coordinator billet call signs are shown in the following table. Table 11.11.1 contains the Region Billet Call Sign, the Abbreviated Region Billet Call Sign in {} brackets, the Region Billet Title, and Issuing Authority.

Table 11.11-1: Region Staff Appointments

11.11.2. Region Staff members shall have a 5-character billet call sign consisting of the call sign prefix “AFR”, a Region number indicating the Region of residence, and a single-letter suffix for the Staff position held.

11.12. State Level Billet Call Signs. State MARS Director and Deputy State MARS Director Billet call signs are shown in the following table. Table 11.12.1 contains the State Billet Call Sign, the Abbreviated State Billet Call Sign in {} brackets, the State Billet Title, and Approval Officer.

Call Sign {CS Abbr} State Billet Title Issuing Authority

AFS#ss {Sss} State MARS Director (SMD) CAFM

AFD#ss {Dss} Deputy State MARS Director (DSMD) State MARS Director

Table 11.12-1: State Staff Appointments State Staff members shall have billet call signs consisting of a 6-character call sign, consisting of, the call sign prefix (i.e., SMD prefix is “AFS”; DSMD prefix is “AFD”) indicating the position held, a number indicating the Region of residence, and a two- letter suffix for the USPS state digraph abbreviation.

Call Sign {CS

Abbr} Region Billet Title Issuing Authority

AFR#C {R#C} Region MARS Director (RMD) (Regions

1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,0) CAFM

AFD#C {D#C} Deputy Region MARS Director (DRMD) Region MARS Director

AFR#E {R#E} Region Emergency Coordinator (REC) Region MARS Director

AFR#N {R#N} Region Records Manager (RRM) Region MARS Director

AFR#T {R#T} Region Training Manager (RTM) Region MARS Director

AFR#X {R#X} Region Exercise Coordinator (RXC) Region MARS Director

AFR#D {R#D} Region Digital Networks Manager (RDM) Region MARS Director

AFR#H {R#H} Region Voice Networks Manager (RVM) Region MARS Director

AFR#V {R#V} Region VHF Coordinator (RVC) Region MARS Director

AFR#M {R#M} Region Technical Services Manager (RTS) Region MARS Director

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11.13. Digital Station Call Signs. Special call signs for the TRANSGLOBAL PACTOR Network Primary Message Center (PMC) are described in the following paragraph.

11.13.1. TRANSGLOBAL Digital Network PMC Stations.

11.13.1.1. Call signs for stations of the TRANSGLOBAL Digital Network Primary Message Center Stations consist of the prefix “AFB” for the first Primary Message Center in a given Region, or “AFC” for the second Primary Message Center in the same Region, or “AFG” for the third Primary Message Center in the same Region; a number from “0” to “9” and the suffix letters “MC”.

11.13.1.2. Additional Primary Message Center Stations will use the stations generic MARS call signs or a call sign approved by CAFM or his designee. Local and/or Regional BBS Stations will use the stations generic MARS call signs.

Call Sign ASSIGNMENT

AFB#MC 1ST TRANSGLOBAL DIGITAL NETWORK PMC IN REGION

AFC#MC 2ND TRANSGLOBAL DIGITAL NETWORK PMC IN REGION

AFG#MC 3RD TRANSGLOBAL DIGITAL NETWORK PMC IN REGION

AFB@SS 1ST TRANSGLOBAL DIGITAL NETWORK RMC/LMC IN STATE

AFC@SS 2ND TRANSGLOBAL DIGITAL NETWORK RMC/LMC IN STATE

AFG@SS 3RD TRANSGLOBAL DIGITAL NETWORK RMC/LMC IN STATE

Table 11.13.1.2-1: PMC/RMC/LMC Station Call Sign Assignment

01 JUNE 2019

11.13.2. VHF Secondary Station Identifiers (SSID).

11.13.2.1 All VHF Packet BBS Stations, VHF Digital Repeaters, and VHF Digital Nodes shall broadcast the call sign and SSID used to connect to and the location of the transmitter.

11.13.2.2. The Table contains a listing of the current Secondary Station Identifiers (SSID) as applicable to VHF Packet Stations.

Table 11.13.2-1: Secondary Station Identifiers (SSID)

11.13.2.3. Changes regarding packet may be made upon approval from the National TRANSGLOBAL Digital Operations Manager. These changes shall also be coordinated with the National VHF Coordinator.

11.14. Special Event Station Call Signs.

11.14.1. Requesting Special Event Call Signs.

11.14.1.1. Special Event Station call signs shall be requested through the AFMARS chain-of-command to the CAFM, for approval and those AFMARS Special Event Stations approved by the CAFM shall be registered with the National Records Manager.

11.14.1.2. The CAFM or designee, shall appoint Trustees for any Annual Special Event Station call signs. These appointments shall be made by AF Form 3661 and registered with the National Records Manager with courtesy copies to the CAFM, AFMARS; the National Director TRANSGLOBAL Operations; the Trustee’s RMD; SMD; and the individual Special Event call sign Trustee.

11.14.2. “AFM” Prefix. Call signs for AFMARS Special Event Stations may consist of the call sign prefix “AFM”, a Region digit where the AFMARS Special Event Station or Trustee is located, and a one, two, or three-letter call sign suffix that signifies and/or identifies the Special Event.

11.15. Civil Agency and AFMARS Club Station Call Signs.

SSID: To Be Used By

None Standard Keyboard Operation from a MARS Member’s Home Station Location.

-1, -2, -3 Authorized Unattended Digipeaters (Simplex Digital Repeaters) and Packet Nodes.

-4 Authorized TRANSGLOBAL Digital Operations Network HF BBS Stations with VHF Packet Ports and Authorized VHF Packet BBS Stations with Interlinking to the TRANSGLOBAL Digital Operations Network via VHF. NOT TO BE USED BY PERSONAL TNC BASED MAILBOXES! SEE “-15” BELOW.

-15 Personal BBS, such as those within a Terminal Node Controller (TNC) that do not immediately store incoming messages on hard disk media. Third party or record traffic shall not be auto-forwarded to this type of Mailbox System due to message volatility.

01 JUNE 2019

Civil Agency and MARS club stations currently licensed may participate on any open AFMARS net.

11.15.1. Club Station Association with AFMARS. Civil club stations wishing to associate themselves as AFMARS stations may do so by applying to Headquarters AFMARS. The station trustee must possess a current FCC amateur radio license. Qualification for AFMARS licensing will be on a case- by-case basis and determined by the CAFM.

11.15.2. Approval of AFMARS Club Stations. The following criteria shall be utilized for approval of AFMARS Club Stations:

11.15.2.1. CAFM will issue all Club Station call signs.

11.15.2.2. Club Stations will be assigned geographically.

11.15.2.3. The Club Station AFMARS license will expire on the same date as the trustee's FCC amateur radio call sign.

11.15.2.4. Changes in trustee for Club Station requires the entity be relicensed. If or when a trustee departs, the AFMARS the license is cancelled and must be renewed by submission of an application showing the new trustee information.

11.15.3. “AFK” Prefix. The call sign convention for Club Stations will be the letters “AFK” followed by the region number and two letters.

01 JUNE 2019

11.16. Net Nomenclature.

11.16.1. AFMARS Nomenclature. Figure 11.16.1-1 presents an example of the new nomenclature for AFMARS Nets (Region 5, Traffic Net, Mixed Mode, and First Net of the Day).

Figure 11.16.1-1: AFMARS Network Nomenclature Example

All AFMARS nets shall be designated as follows. The naming conventions to be used for Net Designators are shown in the following table.

Net Type Mode Day Increment

M = Military Support A - Administrative C - CW 1 = First Net of the Day

P = Phone Patch E - Emergency D - Digital 2 = Second Net of the Day

T = TRANSGLOBAL I - Instructional S - USB 3 = Third Net of the Day

1 = Region 1 J - Joint X - Mixed

Mode 4 = Fourth Net of the Day

2 = Region 2 S - Special F - FM 5 = Fifth Net of the Day

3 = Region 3 T - Traffic 6 = Sixth Net of the Day

4 = Region 4 7 = Seventh Net of the Day

5 = Region 5 8 = Eighth Net of the Day

6 = Region 6 9 = Ninth Net of the Day

7 = Region 7

8 = Region 8

9 = Region 9

0 = Region 10

### = Multi-Region

ss = State Nets

(See Note 1) (See Note 2) (See Note 3) (See Note 4)

Table 11.16.1-1: AFMARS NET Designator Construction Codes

Net Type Mode Day Increment

5 T X 1

NOTE 1: Net: When a net serves more than one region multiple numbers can be used. ‘ss’ denotes State USPS 2 letter digraph. NOTE 2: Type: Joint Nets involve other services such as SHARES or Army may be set up on a temporary basis for events / operations. NOTE 3: Mode: Most nets are “X”. When another designation is specified the entire net is conducted in the specified mode unless otherwise directed by the NCS. NOTE 4: Increment: Nets with the same designation, which are held multiple times per Zulu day, are incremented one step per occurrence beginning at 0001Z Radio Day (RADAY).

01 JUNE 2019

Special Nets and Circumstances.

Under special circumstances and demonstrated needs, either USAF MARS Headquarters or the cognizant RMD may authorize deviations from the standard nomenclature specified above. Such deviations will normally be authorized for specified short periods of time, not exceeding 90 days. Either USAF MARS HQ or RMD shall issue such authorization and the specific operational terms and limitations in writing with the authorized designator, start and end times. If there is one, and only one, net the Increment Number may be dropped from the net designator. For example, FLAX1 is superfluous as there is only one FLAX net.

11.16.2. Exceptions. The following nets are exempt from this naming convention: Joint TRANSGLOBAL Network (J0G), TRANSGLOBAL Radio Relay Network (TRR), Military Support Network (MSN), and MARSRADIO (NMRNM).

11.17. Special Recognition Status Prefix “AFZ”. AFMARS Emeritus Status shall be granted to those members who have been faithful long-standing members of AFMARS who wish to continue to support AFMARS in a reduced capacity. Members should refer to Section 18.0 of this document for further details on the Emeritus Program. Members may request Emeritus Status through their SMD and have their call sign changed from “AFA#xx” to “AFZ#xx”, keeping their original two letter suffix. This will allow those stations to remain active and enable their continued participation to the extent possible in AFMARS nets. The AFMARS organization appreciates members achieving Emeritus Status through their dedication and service to the Mission of AFMARS and the experience they bring to the membership.

NOTE: AFMARS Members who have reached a point where their stations are no longer fully capable under current AFMARS policy, for example, digitally equipped, are potential candidates for Emeritus Status.

17 Jan 2019

12.1. Scope.

Each MARS message must meet certain administrative requirements as well as satisfy the rules established by international, national, and service agreements. All AFMARS radio and message procedures shall comply with the requirements of all applicable Allied Communications Procedures (ACPs). All MARS stations shall follow messaging directives from CAFM, Region MARS Directors, and Net Managers.

12.2. Message Creation and Handling.

Message preparation and handling shall be consistent with current version of the AFMARS Messaging Manual.

Chapter 12.0.

MESSAGES

01 JUNE 2019

13.1. Scope. To establish and provide for the operation of HF networks for the provision of contingency radio communications support to U.S. Government operations, in accordance with DoD Instruction 4650.02. All AFMARS HF net procedures shall comply with the relevant ACPs as instantiated by, in order of precedence; CAFM directives, the AFMARS Training and Messaging Manuals, the cognizant RMD directives, and the cognizant Net Manager directives.

13.2. HF Purpose. The purpose of all HF Networks is to pass traffic. All nets shall make the passage of traffic the first priority. NCS upon beginning net operations shall call for traffic and accept any listed traffic. National and Region Officials have a responsibility to ensure the applicable Major Relay, Minor Relay, and Tributary stations are available to accept traffic.

13.2.1. TRANSGLOBAL HF Network. The TRANSGLOBAL HF network is a joint network with AMARS that covers the 48 contiguous states, plus Alaska, Hawaii, Guam, the Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, Europe and the Pacific. TRANSGLOBAL HF network forms the backbone of the MARS HF radio system into which traffic enters and is forwarded between Regions. Digital Traffic handled on the TRANSGLOBAL network primary frequency shall use “M110A” only.

13.2.2. Region and State Networks. Region and State networks serve the respective states and military installations within specified geographic boundaries. Each AFMARS Region has separate traffic nets. These nets provide intra-regional HF radio communications support.

13.2.3. Training Nets. Net training shall be conducted in accordance with the current AFMARS National Training Manual. In the event there is a discrepancy between the MOI and the NTM, the MOI shall be the prevailing document.

13.3. General Traffic. To expedite the flow of traffic, all messages shall be passed on a frequency designated by the NCS. Traffic handling shall be done by the joint precedence system.

13.4. Net Control Station (NCS). The NCS controls traffic flow and enforces circuit discipline. The NCS has full operational authority for net operations during the period they are acting as NCS.

13.4.1. The NCS shall open the net each day and shall keep a record of each station checking in and out of the net. When traffic is listed, the NCS shall designate stations to receive the messages. Traffic shall be handled ahead of any other business, when possible

Chapter 13.0. HF NETWORK

01 JUNE 2019

13.4.2. All station desiring to participate in the net shall contact the NCS to check into/out of the net. If the NCS does not respond, other stations already checked into the net shall relay the request.

13.4.3. All stations that have checked in and are active participants in the net shall comply with operational instructions provided by the NCS whether in voice or digital operations. Stations unable to comply with such operational instructions shall notify the NCS.

13.5. Alternate Net Control Station(S). Duties and Responsibilities of Alternate Net Control Stations (ANCS). They are to support and serve as backup to the Net Control Station by maintaining a duplicate log for the Net and, assist the NCS, as required.

13.6. MARS Broadcast Messages. Any recent MARS broadcast messages shall be transmitted by the NCS or another designated station on TRANSGLOBAL and Region frequencies at least once per week per net session.

13.7. Encryption of Message Traffic. Unless otherwise directed, message traffic shall be encrypted on all ad-hoc, state and regional nets, including training. Additionally, message traffic on TRANSGLOBAL nets shall be encrypted for transmission.

13.7.1. Training operations. Training operations may be relieved of this requirement for the duration of the training when necessary at the discretion of the training manager.

13.7.2. Encryption. All MARS traffic will be encrypted

13.8. Authentication/Tactical Encryption Only systems for Authentication and/or Encryption provided by HQ AFMARS or HQ AMARS may be used on AFMARS radio networks. See the AFMARS Training Manual and Messaging Manual for additional details.

13.9. Use of AFMARS Frequencies for Support. MARS frequencies are government / military frequencies and those entities are the primary users. Consequently, all MARS stations must provide any assistance requested by a military or federal agency station on an AFMARS frequency, even if the identity of the requesting station cannot be authenticated.

13.10. Verification.

01 JUNE 2019

AFMARS frequencies and circuits support SHARES, DoD and other federal agencies. All stations should reasonably presume stations checking into a net or requesting assistance to be authorized users.

13.11. Reporting Suspicious Use. All Net Control Stations should be aware of the possibility that unfamiliar though legitimate stations may transmit on AFMARS frequencies at any time and should report any such activity that appears suspicious or improper to National Director of Operations (NDO) through their chain of command.

13.12. Shared Resources High Frequency Radio Program (Dept. of Homeland Security). Federal/Military SHARES stations are also authorized entry into the TRANSGLOBAL and MSN nets. The SHAred RESources (SHARES) High Frequency (HF) Radio Program uses existing HF radio resources to coordinate communications supporting a network of Federal, State and industry organizations worldwide to pass emergency messages when normal telecommunications communications systems are destroyed or unavailable. Participation in SHARES is open to Federal departments and agencies and MARS members on a voluntary basis and provides the Federal emergency response community, as an Emergency Support Function Two (ESF 2, Communications) component, with a single interagency emergency message handling and frequency spectrum management system. Additionally, the SHARES HF Radio Program promotes interoperability between HF radio systems used by Federal departments and agencies and monitors applicable regulatory, procedural, and technical issues. Any AFMARS member (except trainees) in good standing may, at their option, become a SHARES member. An AFMARS member who desires to become a SHARES member should download and complete the SHARES Form 1 and submit it directly to the email or mailing address listed at https://www.dhs.gov/contact-shares . To download a copy of the SHARES Form 1, use the search box on the resulting web page to access a copy of the SHARES Form 1 “On DHS.gov”. If you have questions, contact your SMD.

13.13. Authorized Modes of Operation. Mixed modes of communications are authorized to move traffic efficiently. The NCS of a net may grant permission for traffic to be sent in various modes regardless of net designation. All participants in any given net are required to comply with NCS operating instructions for that net. Stations who are unable to comply due to operational limitations should notify the NCS.

13.13.1. Voice Modes.

Single sideband transmission shall be utilized for AFMARS operations. Upper sideband (USB) shall be utilized unless otherwise directed by operating order or NCS.

13.13.2. Data Modes.

The following digital modes of operation are authorized on AFMARS frequencies: CW, M110A, Olivia, MT-63, MFSK-16, FT-8 or RTTY. Or any data mode negotiated between the sending and receiving stations. Other digital modes may be authorized on an interim basis upon written request stating justification by either CAFM or National Director of Operations

https://www.dhs.gov/contact-shares

01 JUNE 2019

13.13.3. Primary Data Mode.

M110A shall be the primary mode of data operation when AFMARS stations are participating in actual or exercise operations with Army, DoD, and other U.S. Government stations. It is highly encouraged that M110A (encrypted) be utilized as the default primary mode of data communication on state and regional nets as well, to encourage operator proficiency and identify operational issues.

13.13.4. ALE Operations. Automatic Link Establishment (ALE) is authorized for use by AFMARS stations.

13.14. Required Capability and Proficiency. All stations, unless exempted by “grandfathering” are required to have the operational capability and maintain operator proficiency in at least the voice mode and the primary data mode as defined above. A MARS member is considered “grandfathered” if they have been an active member of AFMARS prior to CY 2009 and remain voice only.

13.15. Tactical Phone Patch. If a MARS station is requested to provide a phone patch outside the MARSRADIO network, the station shall follow the procedures listed in the MARSRADIO Procedures Manual.

13.16. Inappropriate Transmissions.

13.16.1. Inappropriate transmissions. Inappropriate transmissions on MARS frequencies shall not be tolerated and are grounds for termination from the MARS program. Inappropriate transmissions include:

13.16.1.1. Statements of a political nature.

13.16.1.2. Use of derogatory or profane language.

13.16.1.3. Statements detrimental to the MARS program.

13.16.1.4. Language that brings discredit upon the member or the MARS program.

13.16.1.5. Use of voice break in operation i.e., voice operated transmission (VOX), is NOT authorized.

13.16.1.6. Speech compression is NOT authorized.

13.16.1.7. Inappropriate background noise, such as music, TV, and/or commercial radio station audio, and computer “event sounds”.

01 JUNE 2019

13.16.2. Business Conversations Only. Conversations on MARS frequencies shall always be limited to MARS business. Informal discussions on personal issues or events unrelated to MARS are not appropriate on frequencies, which have been made available for MARS use by military authorities.

13.16.3. Military Rules. It is important to remember that MARS frequencies are ALWAYS military frequencies and transmissions on those frequencies must be in accordance with military rules, regulations, and procedures and consistent with acceptable military practice.

13.17. HF Frequency Assignments, Special Stations and Interference. Frequency assignments for HF operations are coordinated and authorized by the AFMARS Spectrum Management Group (AFM-SMG) in accordance with prevailing DoD policy and authority. This is a headquarters-operating group, under the auspices of AFMARS National Operations and is responsible for the assignment of HF frequencies within the AFMARS system. Additionally, this group is charged with resolving interference complaints to/from AFMARS HF operations, investigation of suspicious operations and coordination with other agencies and services.

13.17.1. Spectrum Action Focal Point. The AFM-SMG is the focal point for spectrum actions that require support from the DoD, AF or AFMARS Mission Partners. Requests for HF Frequency Usage and Approval Criteria;

13.17.1.1. Requests for changes in HF frequency assignments, modifications and related matters shall be originated by an RMD.

13.17.1.2. The AFM-SMG will coordinate and assign all operating frequencies in accordance with AFM authorized frequencies lists, operational and geographical considerations

13.17.1.3. Most HF operations on assigned frequencies are on a secondary basis

13.17.1.4. All authorized HF frequencies are a shared resource with authorization to use same, automatically extended to other authorized military / government users.

13.17.1.5. Every effort will be made to accommodate legitimate requests, however there are limited frequency resources available.

13.17.1.6. Requests outside of the scope of authority defined here may require CAFM approval.

NOTE: FOUO Statement - All frequency assignments, station locations and technical details are considered FOUO material and could cause system wide harm if disclosed. Any distribution of this data shall be encrypted IAW prevailing policy.

1.3.4.1.

01 JUNE 2019

13.17.2. Special Temporary Station Authority. Upon written request, on the prescribed form, by an SMD or RMD, the AFM-SMG may issue a license for “special temporary operating authority” (STA) for periods of up to 120 calendar days to facilitate special circumstances, emergency operations and special events. Such license will contain a call sign, operational limitations and expiration date. Call sign sequences beginning with “AFX” will be used for this purpose.

13.17.3. Master Record Required, Updates / Changes. The AFM-SMG shall keep an accurate record of authorized frequency assignments in the form of an HF Frequency Matrix detailing the frequency assignments, operational modes, RF power levels and limitations (if any). Updates will be issued as required basis.

13.17.4. Technical Requirements. All equipment placed into service must be of sufficient technical capability to meet customary spectral purity requirements and other good technical practices as to not cause interference to other operations. Further it must not exceed RF power output authorizations for any given frequency as further detailed in the frequency matrix.

13.17.5. Interference Reports/Technical Deficiencies/Suspicious Operations/Jamming. Membership is urged to report interference, specific call sign technical issues, suspicious operation and jamming to operations to the AFM-SMG so they may be cataloged and addressed. Any supporting information should be included.

13.18. Remote Operations and Station Remote Control

Participation in any authorized AFMARS operations by means of remote station access or remote station operation is authorized unless otherwise directed by CAFM or National Director of Operations.

13.18.1. Definitions:

13.18.1.1. Remote Station Access is defined as access to a station not owned or normally under direct control of the operator.

13.18.1.1. Remote Station Operation is defined as access and use of a station under the

direct control of the operator (example: the operator is also the owner of remote station)

13.18.2. Station Security and Technical Standards

13.18.2.1. The owner and/or control operator of a remote station must install methods to limit access to and operation of the station to authorized AFMARS members only when the station is operated on MARS frequencies.

NOTE: During exercise operations, signal degradation techniques, jamming and similar methodology may be utilized as part of the exercise. These are not reportable observations.

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13.18.2.2. Security. Remote access and operation introduce cyber security and CUI

protection risks. Therefore, AF MARS members may remotely access or operate a station that:1) is physically located within the U.S.; 2) is controlled by a MARS member, an agency of the U.S. Government, or a contractor to an agency of the U.S. Government; AND, - full complies with paragraph 6.5.2 cyber security requirements. In other cases, and for operations outside of the U.S., the member’s AFMARS Region Director must grant per-event permission in advance of the remote operations.

13.18.2.3. The owner and/or control operator of a remote station must install methods to

limit operation of the station in the event of failure of access circuits or technical malfunctions whereby the station may be shut down as to not create harmful interference.

13.18.3. Rights of the Remote Station Owner.

The remote station owner is the sole controlling authority of use of their station and who has access to said station. The owner is under no obligation to make the station available to any third party or other MARS licensee.

13.18.4. Hours of Operation.

The remote station owner is the sole controlling authority concerning schedules and hours of operation. Station operation hours by this policy are unlimited.

13.18.5. Operations During Exercises. Remote control or access is not permitted in exercises where internet outages are simulated or use of internet is not authorized under the terms of exercise.

13.18.6. Logging of Operator Time. For the purposes of this policy, operators shall log time IAW normal policy for time logging found elsewhere in this MOI. Simply being connected to a remote station does not constitute “operation” for the purposes of logging operator time.

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14.1. MARSRADIO MEMBERS The AFMARS MARSRADIO Network, provides a service under the Department of Defense, for Military, designated Federal units in flight or on the ground to make official business phone patches, morale phone patches and radio checks via an authorized MARSRADIO station.

14.1.1. Membership Encouraged. AFMARS strongly encourages all persons interested in becoming a MARSRADIO member to apply and join AFMARS as a regular individual member by completing the regular member training program.

14.1.2. Regular Individual Members.

Regular individual MARS members may apply to participate in MARSRADIO operations. These members shall continue to satisfy all individual members requirements and the specialized requirements in section 2.3.4.9.3.

14.1.3. MARSRADIO-only Members.

MARSRADIO-only members shall comply with membership requirement specified in section 2.3.4.9.3. This member class shall participate only in the MARSRADIO operations described in this chapter, and they shall not participate in any other MARS, SHARES, or similar operations.

14.2. Closed Net.

The AFMARS MARSRADIO Network is a closed net requiring specific assignment by AF Form 3661 action. Member assignment to this network shall be made by the National MARSRADIO Network Manager (NMRM), in response to a member's MARSRADIO network application, or forwarded from the member’s SMD. The member's SMD shall coordinate the member's acceptance to the net with NMRM. Assignment will be based on the needs of the net as determined by the NMRM. Air Force and AMARS Members may be assigned to this net.

14.3. Base Support Team MARSRADIO Participation. Individual certified Base Support Team (BST) members, meeting the special requirements, can participate in the MARSRADIO net.

14.3.1. BST Members. A BST station may be a member of the MARSRADIO network if the MARSRADIO network manager has assigned the individual operators to the MARSRADIO network with the concurrence of the BST manager while operating the BST station.

14.3.2. BST Member Training.

Chapter 14.0.

MARSRADIO NETWORK (MRN)

01 JUNE 2019

The individual BST operators must have completed MARSRADIO training and are the only operators of the BST authorized to participate in the MARSRADIO network.

14.3.3. Network Procedures manual. The MARSRADIO Network Procedures Manual shall determine operation.

14.4. MARSRADIO Network Participation. MARSRADIO Network has special reporting requirements:

14.4.1. Weekly MARSRADIO Participation Reporting.

All MARSRADIO Network members shall forward a report by Tuesday of their activity for the previous week including number of official patches, morale patches and other activity (i.e., radio checks. etc.) to the NMRM.

14.4.2. Monthly MARSRADIO Participation Reporting.

MARSRADIO Network participation shall be self-reported monthly to the individual member’s SMD on or prior to the 5th of each month. The MARSRADIO network member shall copy all monthly reports to the NMRNM noting how many hours were spent on the MARSRADIO net.

14.5. MARSRADIO Network Procedures. The MARS operator is responsible for proper operation and procedures of the MARSRADIO net. Specific procedures and operation instructions are contained in the MARSRADIO Network Procedures Manual.

14.6. MARSRADIO Discussions. Discussion of classified information within MARSRADIO on the air is not authorized. MARS operators are not expected to determine the classified nature of MARSRADIO conversations and shall not terminate patches when suspected violations occur. The operator should bring the information to the attention of the NCS. To preclude occurrences of this nature, the initiating and receiving parties shall be briefed on the insecurity of AFMARS MARSRADIO circuits prior to the patch being initiated.

14.7. MARSRADIO Frequency Discussion MARSRADIO is authorized to provide operational frequencies in the open without reference to designators. Frequencies may be provided over the air and within correspondence with users of MARSRADIO.

17 Jan 2019

15.1. Scope The mission of the Military Support Network (MSN) is to provide contingency radio communications support to the DoD Components. The MSN is an authorized 24 hour, 7 days a week HF Emergency communications on-the-air point-of-contact for MSN Users, who are unable to make contact on other frequencies, telephone, etc. due to propagation, or other reasons. MSN is open to all Air Force and AMARS members.

The MSN provides common operating frequencies, knowledgeable Net Control and member stations ready to assist with training, exercises and actual events with assets available to the U.S. military.

15.2. MSN National Network. The MSN is a national network and shall not be merged or combined with the TRANSGLOBAL or any Region or State MARS nets. The MSN shall not be assigned shared frequencies with these, ALE, PACTOR or any other digital nets. ALE is NOT authorized nor approved for use on MSN frequencies.

15.2.1. National MSN Manager (NMSNM). The National MSN Manager is the Primary Net Control on MSN frequencies.

15.2.2. MSN Net Control Station. The scheduled MSN Net Control Station (NCS), or if none is scheduled, the MSN NCS on any MSN calling frequency in use oversees and coordinates on-the-air assignment of all assigned MSN frequencies for stations calling into the net. No station shall use any MSN frequency without requesting permission from the MSN NCS.

15.2.2.1. The MSN NCS knows when the other assigned frequencies are being used and therefore will not send other stations to those frequencies to pass traffic.

15.2.2.2. The MSN NCS is not required to monitor any MSN frequency other than the calling frequency currently being used.

15.2.2.3. The MSN NCS may assign another station as NCS on another MSN frequency to conduct additional nets. The additional NCS is secondary to the MSN NCS who always maintains full control over all assigned MSN frequencies.

Chapter 15.0.

MILITARY SUPPORT NETWORK (MSN)

NOTE: For purposes of this Section, the term “MSN User(s)” is defined as any U.S. Military,

Active duty; Reserve, National Guard Units or SHARES.

01 JUNE 2019

15.3. MSN Frequency Management.

15.3.1. Approve Required Frequencies Uses. Although not a normal use of MSN frequencies, usage can be requested if it is determined that additional frequencies are required.

15.3.1.1. Exercise nets, training nets, etc.

15.3.1.2. One-time use or duration of a multi-day exercise or training net.

15.3.1.3. Required to cover multiple Regions and frequencies are not available elsewhere.

15.3.2. MSN Frequency Use Authorization Requests. Under normal circumstances, the SMD shall coordinate with the Region MARS Director, who shall request approval and coordinate usage of MSN frequencies and nets with the NMSNM at least 5 days in advance of the projected activity. Requests for usage of MSN frequencies and nets shall be evaluated by the NMSNM on a case-by-case and non-interference basis (NIB). Approval is based on the known and projected operational and mission requirements of the MSN. This authorization can be revoked at any time by the NMSNM based on the changing MSN operational and mission requirements. Authorization for frequency usage is limited and shall not exceed 30 days, unless required for actual incident.

15.3.3. MSN Emergency Frequency Coordination. In times of emergency or disaster (earthquake, tornado, hurricane, flood, wild fire, etc.) the NEC, Region, or State MARS Director(s) shall contact the NMSNM directly to request and coordinate usage of MSN frequencies and net support for a one-time use, or duration of the emergency or disaster.

15.3.4. Prior Use Coordination/Notification. Operations on MSN frequencies when approved by the NMSNM, the authorized station, or designated representative shall do the following:

15.3.4.1. Contact the MSN NCS on the calling frequency in use immediately prior to commencing operations. If unable to contact the NCS, send the NMSNM an email advising operation commencing.

15.3.4.2. Advise the authorized frequency designator, start and projected ending time and date.

15.3.4.3. Advise the MSN NCS when operations are completed. If unable to contact the NCS, send the NMSNM an email advising operation terminated.

01 JUNE 2019

15.3.5. Report of Activities. After operations of MSN frequencies by non-MSN stations, or additional operations by MSN stations, a report of activities occurring on said frequencies shall be sent to the NMSNM within ten (10) days. At a minimum, the report shall contain the following:

15.3.5.1. Designator(s) of the MSN frequencies used.

15.3.5.2. Date, start and end times.

15.3.5.3. Nature of net activity (training, EMCOM, exercise, communications support of… etc.)

15.3.5.4. Number of stations checked into the net.

15.3.5.5. Total amount (i.e., number messages) of traffic passed.

15.3.5.6. Point of Contact (POC) information.

15.3.5.7. Any comments or information deemed necessary by the POC.

15.4. MSN Administrative Net. The MSN Administrative Net is the only MSN net that is open to all stations except “AFT” prefix stations to check in for the duration of that net.

15.5. MSN Phone Patch. Requests from MSN Users for phone patches shall be referred to the AFMARS MARSRADIO Network, except when providing communications support when handling emergency traffic. Any MSN station providing phone patches shall follow the phone patch procedures as specified in the MARSRADIO Network Procedures Manual.

15.6. MSN Assignment. The MSN is a closed network and requires specific assignment by AF Form 3661.

15.6.1. Assignment Authority. Assignment to the MSN shall be made by the National Military Support Network Manager based on a member’s MSN application with specific recommendation from the applicant’s SMD for acceptance into the MSN.

15.6.2. SMD Recommendation. The SMD’s personal recommendation should be based on the applicant’s demonstrated communications net discipline, professional conduct, ability to properly maintain personally owned equipment to produce strong and distortion-free signals, and the ability to maintain composure in emergency situations when communicating with U.S. military, SHARES, and government officials.

01 JUNE 2019

15.6.3. Military Support Network Designation. Shall be designated as an applicant’s primary net assignment if the applicant requests it; otherwise it is a secondary assignment.

15.6.4. Member’s Agreement. When assigned to the MSN, each member shall certify (by signing and returning the designated page of the MSN Procedures Manual) signifying that the member has read, understands and agrees to follow the contents of the MSN Procedures Manual. An email response is acceptable. This is a prerequisite for new members prior to participation in MSN operations.

15.6.5. MSN Procedures Manual. All MSN members shall comply with the MSN Procedures Manual.

15.7. Station MSN Requirements. There are essential requirements that each member station must meet prior to being assigned to the Military Support Network. These include: 15.7.1. Ability to operate on assigned network frequencies.

15.7.2. RF output and antennas capable of reliable communications with the Military Support Network NCS, ANCS and MSN User stations.

15.7.3. Willingness to dedicate time in excess of the minimum MARS activity requirement when special training or actual event operations require prolonged support of MSN User stations.

15.7.4. MSN Participation. Military Support Network participation shall be self-reported monthly to the individual members SMD. MSN NCS shall submit the net participation report to the NMSNM at the end of each month, but not later than (NLT) the 5th of the following month.

15.8. MSN Station Logs. Military Support Network stations shall maintain a log of all on-air time and activities in support of MSN User stations as specified in the MSN Procedures Manual. MSN stations shall also maintain a log of any Phone Patch activity IAW the MARSRADIO Network Procedures Manual.

17 Jan 2019

16.1. Scope. AFMARS uses VHF voice or digital networks to augment HF networks and facilitate the passing of traffic. Each AFMARS VHF operator must possess the capability to operate on HF region nets. VHF may be used for local MARS training, local traffic handling, local area emergency support, and to complement HF operations. All VHF frequency assignments to AFMARS are subject to US Government bandwidth requirements. All AFMARS VHF net procedures shall comply with the relevant ACPs as instantiated by, in order of precedence; CAFM directives, the AFMARS Training and Messaging Manuals, the cognizant RMD directives, and the cognizant Net Manager directives.

16.2. VHF Operations. VHF operations are under the purview of the SMD. On military installations where government equipment is installed, the IMD shall control VHF operations. Linked and interstate repeaters and digital network stations are managed by cooperation of each SMD involved. Inter- state VHF operations for AFMARS are authorized where terrain and equipment permit. VHF Net Operations:

16.2.1. The SMD shall provide a net designator prior to establishing a VHF voice net.

16.2.2. Each VHF voice net shall have a Net Manager, appointed by the SMD. The SMD shall certify the appointment on an AF Form 3661.

16.2.3. VHF Voice Net Managers shall ensure a NCS is designated for each net session.

16.2.4. Members who are already checked into the HF net may relay members operating on MARS VHF nets into an HF net for participation credit.

16.3. VHF Network Equipment Operations Requests / Frequency Management. Requests for installation, fixed operation and temporary installations are made utilizing the prescribed application form. Completed applications shall be forwarded to the AFMARS Spectrum Management Group (AFM-SMG) for processing. Follow the instructions contained on the form. For coordinating purposes, the AFM-SMG is the sole point of contact with the Air Force Spectrum Management Office. Members are not authorized and shall not contact that office directly.

16.3.1. Application Processing and Approval Criteria.

The following procedure shall be used:

16.3.1.1. Applications shall be made on the prescribed form, available through the AFM-SMG. Electronic forms / applications and responses are encouraged.

16.3.1.2. Applications are handled on a first come first serve basis.

Chapter 16.0.

VHF NETWORK

01 JUNE 2019

16.3.1.3. Endorsement by the cognizant SMD and RMD is required to process an application.

16.3.1.4. Requestor, as part of the process, must establish a need for the request.

16.3.1.5. The AFM-SMG will coordinate and assign all operating frequencies in accordance with AFSMO authorized frequencies and geographical considerations.

16.3.1.6. Most VHF operations on assigned frequencies is on a secondary basis.

16.3.1.7. Once approved, a station operating license and call sign will be issued to the owner.

16.3.1.8. All licensed VHF stations are a shared resource with authorization to use same, automatically extended to all authorized MARS stations or other authorized military / government users.

16.3.2. Station Call Signs Prefix “AFV”. The call sign format assigned shall be “AFV” for Repeater or Digital device (aka - digipeater) or “AFX” in the case of a Temporary station, followed by the single digit Region number <0-9>, then the assigned sequential license number <00-99>.

16.3.3. Station Identification.

16.3.3.1. A CW or voice announcement containing the call sign of the station must be transmitted manually or automatically every 10 minutes of operation. Station identification during idle times is not required.

16.3.3.2. In the case of a digital device, the appropriate identification methodology shall be utilized. See MOI Sections 11.13 for guidance on digital station identification.

16.3.4. License Required.

16.3.4.1. Each AFMARS VHF repeater shall be licensed, with call sign, by the AFM-SMG. Licenses are normally issued for 5 years and require annual re-verification of station / operator information.

16.3.4.2. All licenses are subject to cancelation for technical reason, at the request of other primary government users, failure to construct the station or repetitive noncompliance with this section of the MOI.

16.3.5. Special Temporary Authority Prefix “AFX”.

NOTE: Example - “AFV202” = Air Force Repeater, Region 2, Second repeater in the

region.

NOTE: For COMSEC considerations, references to station location, i.e., state, are no

longer used in call sign or station identification.

01 JUNE 2019

Upon written request, on the prescribed form, by an SMD or RMD, the AFM-SMG may issue a license for “special temporary operating authority” (STA) for periods of up to 120 calendar days to facilitate special circumstances, emergency operations and special events. Such license will contain a call sign, operational limitations and expiration date. Call sign sequences beginning with “AFX” will be used for this purpose.

16.3.6. Applications and Operations on Active Military Installations. Applications for coordination on military facilities require additional coordination. The request shall be initially to the Installation Spectrum Manager and the appropriate MAJCOM Spectrum Manager prior to processing by AFM-SMG.

16.3.7. Master Record Required, Updates / Changes. The AFM-SMG shall keep an accurate record in the form of a system-wide database of all licensed VHF voice repeater operations. Accordingly, any material changes shall be forwarded to the AFM-SMG on the prescribed form at the time of update/change. This clause does not apply to digital repeating devices. An annual update is required and will be sent in December of each calendar year to registered repeater operators. Failure to update the master record shall be cause for de-coordination and removal from service.

16.3.8. Technical Requirements. All equipment placed into service after January 1, 2013 must meet NTIA narrowband requirements (12.5 kHz or less). Additionally, equipment must be FCC type approved or accepted.

16.3.9. Interference Reports / Technical Deficiencies. Repeater operators and membership are urged to report interference to repeater or digital operations to the AFM-SMG so they may be addressed. Any supporting information should be included.

16.4. VHF Network Equipment Owners. VHF Network Equipment owners shall draft and execute a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the VHF Network Equipment owner and the facilities manager (and/or other designated individuals), if required. A MOA shall include (but not be limited to):

16.4.1. Written coordination with the appropriate personnel to ensure the proposed VHF Network Equipment will not impact other operations within the area of the facility.

16.4.2. Identification of the party responsible for the maintenance, procurement, and cost associated with the VHF Network Equipment and the facility. This also includes any cost that could be incurred from the facilities manager.

16.4.3. Identification of who is responsible for the cost of any insurance or utility bills as required by the facilities manager.

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16.4.4. Applicant shall forward the application and MOA (if required) to the SMD, who shall endorse and send application to the RMD who shall endorse the application and forward it to HQ USAF MARS for approval. Forms requiring additional information or corrections will be returned to the originator.

16.4.5. Approval to operate on AFMARS frequencies, by HQ USAF MARS, prior to using the station.

16.4.6. A way of contacting the VHF Network Equipment owner in case of problems.

16.5. Terminating VHF Network Operation. When a VHF Network Equipment requirement no longer exists, the repeater manager shall send a request for termination of registration to HQ USAF MARS.

16.6. VHF Network Equipment Sharing. AMARS are authorized to share AF VHF MARS resources under any of the following conditions:

16.6.1. For the express purpose of expediting delivery of MARS messages traffic when normal in-service means are not readily available.

16.6.2. Where prior mutual agreements and coordination exist between Army, Air Force, State MARS Directors and coordinators, as appropriate.

16.6.3. Shared use of other services' repeaters shall be on a non-interference basis (NIB).

16.7. VHF Network Equipment Identification. See Chapter 11 regarding sending the identifying call sign for a digipeater.

16.8. VHF Network Equipment POC. The responsible party for the VHF Network Equipment is the point of contact (POC) and is responsible to the SMD. The SMD is responsible for users accessing the voice and digital repeaters.

16.8.1. The SMD shall provide the above information to the RMD, who shall forward it to the Region VHF Coordinator (RVC).

16.8.2. The RVC shall forward the information to the NVC who shall maintain a database of all VHF stations.

16.8.3. The POC shall also include input information, frequencies, and modes. If the VHF Network Equipment is linked, then information about all linking(s) shall be included. If the VHF Network Equipment is networked, then all ports in and out shall be defined and included.

NOTE: Recommend obtaining legal assistance when drafting an MOA.

01 JUNE 2019

16.8.4. If VHF ports to Internet e-mail (such as, but not limited to, marsale.org), indicate these ports and any HF porting.

16.8.5. The POC is responsible to inform the NVC of all port networks from the assimilated information provided and questions, conflicts, or complaints should be resolved at the lowest level possible.

17 Jan 2019

17.1. Scope. To establish policy, technical standards, and procedures for use of digital radio modes to access automatic computer-based Bulletin Board Systems (BBS) arranged in a network. Automatic message storage and forwarding are already developed to facilitate error-free automated message handling without human operator intervention.

17.2. TRANSGLOBAL Digital Network (TDN).

17.2.1. Digital Networks Call Sign Assignments. The Deputy Director for TRANSGLOBAL Digital Operations (DDTDO) is responsible for net assignment of all Digital Network call signs.

17.2.2. TDN Spectrum Utilization. Digital networks shall be primarily utilized on AFMARS HF Frequencies to support the AFMARS mission. VHF digital networks may be utilized to enhance the HF digital networks. The TRANSGLOBAL Digital Network is an open network, and available to all Service MARS members and all military units. The DDTDO supervises TDN operations.

17.2.3. TDN Station Requirements. A member of the TRANSGLOBAL Digital Network must be capable of operating and maintaining the required stability on designated MARS frequencies. The member’s station must be prepared to refile messages with other Region mixed-mode Networks in order to expeditiously move incoming traffic toward its destination.

17.2.4. TRANSGLOBAL Digital Network Station. TRANSGLOBAL Digital Network stations shall consist of the following categories: Primary Message Centers (PMC), Region Message Centers (RMC), and Local Message Centers (LMC). All Message Centers are established through the DDTDO. The stations shall be geographically located throughout the CONUS and/or territories to provide optimum coverage.

17.2.4.1. Primary Message Center (PMC). The principal function of the PMC is to provide fast and efficient forwarding, storage, and distribution of traffic to destinations within the respective Regions; to other “out-of-area” PMC for forwarding, etc.; and to provide a gateway to other services in compliance with the interoperability agreement.

17.2.4.2. Hours of Operation. Each PMC shall be required to be operational and functional 24 hours per day 7 days a week (24x7).

17.2.4.3. PMC Monitoring. Each PMC shall be capable of scanning or monitoring two or more of the designated TRANSGLOBAL Digital Network frequencies.

Chapter 17.0.

DIGITAL NETWORKS

01 JUNE 2019

17.2.4.4. Region and Local Message Centers (RMC/LMC). The principal function of the RMC and the LMC is to provide the “Last Mile” and “First Mile” forwarding, storage, and distribution of traffic to/from Network Users (MARS members and/or clients, such as non-Governmental organizations, etc.).

17.2.4.4.1 The RMC shall forward to LMC stations within the respective Regions.

17.2.4.4.2 The RMC shall provide an Alternate Traffic Routing Path for the PMC, as needed or required.

17.2.4.4.3 Each RMC and LMC Station shall be required to be operational on a 24 hour per day basis seven (7) days a week (24x7).

17.2.4.4.4 Each RMC and LMC shall be capable of scanning or monitoring one or more of the designated network frequencies.

17.2.4.4.5 Each LMC is required to have the ability to link via RF to other LMC, RMC, or PMC station(s).

17.2.5. Frequency Utilization. Under the direction of and in coordination with the NDTO, the DDTDO shall allocate and assign frequencies as equitably and efficiently as possible to optimize use within the TDN. The frequency-sharing plan shall make use of one or more of the following methods:

17.2.5.1. Geographical Sharing. Use of the same frequency in more than one geographical area.

17.2.5.2. Time Sharing. Require that stations operate on a forwarding schedule.

17.2.6. VHF/UHF Frequencies. VHF/UHF Packet BBS stations, and Nodes may be employed and established by the Region Digital Networks Managers (RDNM) to provide support and to interface with the TRANSGLOBAL Digital Network. When advantageous for reasons of geography, distance, and propagation, VHF/UHF links may operate across Region or State lines with no special permission required beyond that of the relevant RMD and/or SMD. All VHF/UHF Linking BBS stations must also provide some type of connection to the HF TDN.

17.2.7. Terminal Software. Several types of terminal software are available to AFMARS operators. There is no prescribed software for the individual member, and no single program that universally suits every member.

17.2.8. Network Integrity.

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In order to preserve network integrity and afford network users appropriate routing information, all Bulletin Board Systems must be registered with the DDTDO. The DDTDO shall forward a list of registered BBS stations and Nodes to HQ USAF MARS. Stand-alone VHF stations are to be properly licensed through HQ USAF MARS (see Section 16). There is no special registration required for stations that merely connect to the BBS stations.

17.2.9. System Operators (SysOps). Each System Operator (SysOp) shall be expected to check the BBS system, at least daily, to ensure that traffic is flowing in an expeditious manner. Each SysOp shall be responsible for readdressing any traffic not being so forwarded. The time for traffic to remain in-station shall not exceed 24 hours, including the time required to re-file and retransmit on an alternate mode. Traffic, which is not forwarded promptly, shall be removed from the BBS and re-filed into a HF Voice or Manned Digital Net, or other network as applicable to that message's final destination.

17.2.10. Operator and Call Sign Assignment. Due to the commitment needed to operate a Primary Message Center on a 24-hour per day basis seven days a week (24x7) operators can be assigned to the TPN as the primary net assignment; such assignment action would be made by AF Form 3661 personnel action by the individual member’s SMD.

17.3. TRANSGLOBAL Radio Relay Network (TRR). This Section establishes policy for keyboard-to-keyboard digital operations using software designed for sound cards on AFMARS frequencies. The Deputy Director TRANSGLOBAL Radio Relay Operations (DDTRRO) manages this net.

17.3.1. TRR Digital Mode Software. TRR operators shall use software, which is designed for use with sound cards, and which is readily available for download from the Internet and may be used by MARS members for sending message traffic. The various digital modes created for use with sound cards allows the TRR to determine the best mode and frequency to enable the transfer of traffic under the most adverse conditions.

17.3.2. TRR Special Net. The TRR is a special net within the AFMARS program open to all military unit stations and MARS members. The scheduling of TRR frequencies and operations shall be determined by the DDTRRO and coordinated with the DDTDO.

17.3.3. TRR Structure. The TRANSGLOBAL Radio Relay Network is operated with a group of Net Control Station operators structured with a DDTRRO who directs the day-to-day operations of the TRR Net.

17.3.4. TRR Assignment.

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Due to the complexities of the software it is essential that the DDTRRO the Net Control Station operators can be assigned to the TRANSGLOBAL Radio Relay Network as the primary net assignment; such assignment action would be made by AF Form 3661 personnel action by the individual member’s SMD or DDTDO as required.

17.4. TRANSGLOBAL CW Telegraphy Network (TCN). This Section is intended to establish policy, standards, and procedures for use of the Radiotelegraph communications mode (known as continuous wave, or CW) on AFMARS frequencies.

17.4.1. CW Use. CW may be used on AFMARS frequencies to support the primary MARS mission of emergency/contingency communications.

17.4.2. CW Network. Within the AFMARS program, a special net, the TRANSGLOBAL CW Network (TCN), may be established solely for CW use.

17.4.2.1. TCN shall be an open CW Net.

17.4.2.2. All military unit stations and MARS members shall be allowed to participate.

17.4.2.3. The TCN frequencies and schedule of operations shall be determined and coordinated through both the Deputy Director TRANSGLOBAL Digital Operations, and the National Director TRANSGLOBAL HF Operations.

17.5. TRANSGLOBAL Automatic Link Establishment (ALE) Network. This Section establishes policy, standards, and procedures for operating on the TRANSGLOBAL ALE Network.

17.5.1. ALE General. The TRANSGLOBAL Automatic Link Establishment Network is an HF Net where participating stations have radio equipment designed to ascertain automatically the highest quality reliability of linking together two or more stations operating on the same frequency, given a group of frequencies customarily in different bands, therefore accommodating changes in day, night, and solar cycle propagation, and other propagation anomalies. The ALE function is limited to this, and then the station operators select a mode of communication, voice Single Side Band (SSB), or from various authorized data/digital modes, and communicate either automatically or manually with each other and to send and receive messages.

17.5.2. ALE Special Net.

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The Deputy Director for ALE Operations (DDALEO) determines the particular modes of data protocol. Modes may be singular point to point, or grouped data or digital modes with interactive automated functions. Grouped data may be networked automatically for message forwarding and reverse forwarding. A dedicated routing backbone may be used, or a randomized routing based upon active connections, where stations may manually or automatically relay in a source origin to target delivery or posting configuration.

17.5.3. ALE Software. ALE is available in either firmware manufactured radios, or ALE in software to function add-on to other Computer Aided Tuning (CAT) capable manufactured radios. A special version of this software was developed by the Joint MARS ALE Software Development Team (SDT), which conforms to MIL-STD-188-141. The primary mode of ALE communications is data/digital. The secondary communication mode is SSB.

17.5.4. ALE Identifier. Each AFMARS member participating on ALE nets, shall use a callsign in conformance with the current ALE naming convention.

17.6. AFMARS HF WinLink Operations.

All AFMARS HF WinLink operations have switched over to SHARES frequencies and service code.

17 Jan 2019

18.1. Scope. The purpose of this section is to provide guidance to members who wish to remain in the AFMARS program, however, are no longer able to meet regular membership requirements Definition – An “Emeritus Member” (EM) is a member of the AFMARS program who shall be considered a member in good standing. For census purposes an EM is classified as inactive.

18.2. Duties. An EM shall continue to use their best efforts to support and promote the AFMARS program to the best of their abilities.

18.3. Participation requirements. An EM is relieved of traditional participation requirements defined elsewhere in the MOI. There is no specific HF air time or reporting required for the EM, however, the EM may check into any net or participate otherwise as they are able.

18.3.1. An EM is relieved of the following requirements: 12 hours primary on-air-time quarterly participation and yearly COMEX participation. Members who have more than 12 hours on-air participation in a quarter are urged to report this to their SMD so that AFMARS can get the credit for this participation.

18.3.2. An EM is required to complete the biennial Cyber and PII training. This requirement may be waived by the cognizant RMD, a copy of which shall be maintained in the member’s file. Application should be made via the normal CoC. Waivers are intended for stations who do not wish to or are not able to get on the air.

18.3.3. An EM may participate in the quarterly COMEX but is then required to complete the steps described in Section 1.6.4.5. This time will be reported in a monthly MPR to the cognizant SMD.

18.4. Requirements for conversion from regular member to emeritus member. Applicant must have been a member in good standing of any MARS program for a combined period of at least 15 years. The purpose of this program is to recognize members with the above qualifications whose circumstances no longer allow them to participate as a full member and are not expected to change for the foreseeable future. This program is not intended to relieve regular members of their participation in the program for the purpose of convenience. The AFMARS Office Form EM-1, dated 01 JAN 2019 will be used for EM application.

Chapter 18.0.

EMERITUS MEMBERSHIP

01 JUNE 2019

18.5. Nomination Process.

18.5.1. Nomination Source. Any AFMARS member may nominate another member for EM status.

18.5.2. Nomination Method. An email or letter shall be generated by the nominator and sent to the nominators Region MARS Director. The nomination statement shall include information about the nominee in sufficient detail to allow authentication and adjudication of the member for EM status.

18.5.3. Processing.

18.5.3.1. The receiving RMD shall forward the application to the RMD of the nominee’s region of residence, if it is different.

18.5.3.2. Cognizant RMD Actions.

18.5.3.2.1. Pre-Authorization RMD Actions. The cognizant RMD shall review the facts, verify the information to the best extent possible and conduct necessary research to insure the nominee is eligible pursuant to 18.4 to be afforded EM status. At such time, the RMD is satisfied that the nominee meets EM requirements; a letter shall be transmitted to the NDO requesting that the nominee be reclassified as an EM.

18.5.3.2.2. Post-Authorization RMD Actions. Following the approval of CAFM the cognizant RMD shall, IAW standard process, generate an AF3661 changing the members call sign to AFZ#XX. The “AFZ” designation is reserved only for EM.

18.5.3.3. National Operations Officer Actions. The NDO will review and endorse the nomination and forward it to CAFM for approval.

18.5.3.4. CAFM Actions. Upon approval by CAFM the individual, RMD, SMD and NRM are notified.

18.5.3.5. National Records Manager Actions. The NRM shall update the national records database accordingly and generate a new license for the member reflecting the change in call sign. For census purposes an EM shall be classified as inactive.

18.6. Emeritus Member Status Duration. As long as AFMARS membership is maintained, the EM designation is a lifetime appointment, unless return to full membership or resignation by appointee is requested.

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Attachment 1

REFERENCED DOCUMENTS

Table A1.1: US, USAF, and DoD Documents

Document Version Title

5 United States Code, 522a Privacy Act of 1974

5 United States Code, 552 Freedom of Information Act

8, United States Code, Chapter 12 2011 Edition Title 8 - Aliens and Nationality Chapter 12 - Immigration and Nationality

AFI 33-332 12 JAN 2015 Communications and Information AF Privacy and Civil Liberties Program

AFI 17-220 16 MAR 2017 Spectrum Management

AFI 17-210 26 MAY 2016 Radio Management

DoD Directive 3025.18Incorporating Change 1

29 DEC 2010 C1 21 SEP 12

Defense Support of Civil Authorities (DSCA)

DoD Directive 5111.13 16 JAN 2009 Assistant Secretary of Defense for Homeland Defense and Americas’ Security Affairs (ASD

(HD&ASA))

DoD Directive 5400.11 29 OCT 2014 DoD Privacy Program

DoD Manual 5200.1 24 FEB 2012 Volume 4, DoD Information Security Program: Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI)

DoD Instruction 1015.10 Change 1 06 MAY 2011 Military Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) Programs

DoD Instruction 1215.07 Change 1 24 JAN 2013 Service Credit for Non-Regular Retirement

DoD Instruction 4650.02 23 DEC 2009 Military Auxiliary Radio System (MARS)

DoD Instruction 8582.01 6 JUN 2012 Security of Unclassified DoD Information on Non-DoD Information Systems

Executive Order 13556 NOV 2010 Controlled Unclassified Information

MIL-STD-188 Series of DoD Interface Standards

Table A1.2: Allied Communications Procedures

Document Version Title ACP 121 (I) OCT 2010 Communication Instructions General

ACP 125 (G) NOV 2016 Communication Instructions Radiotelephone Procedures

ACP 126 (C) MAY 1989 Communications Instructions Teletypewriter (Teleprinter) Procedures

ACP 127 (G) NOV 1988 Procedures

Communications Instructions Tape Relay

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Table A1.3: AFMARS Documents

Document Version Title AFMARS National ECOM Plan FEB 2013 AFMARS National Emergency Communications

Plan

AFMARS National Training Manual MAR 2016

AFMARS National Training Manual

AFMARS Messaging Manual & Annex

22 SEP 2016 Rev A

AFMARS National Training Manual

AFMARS MSN Procedures Manual 15 AUG 2015 Rev C

Military Support Network Procedures Manual

MARSRADIO Operational Procedures

1 NOV 2018 or current release

MARSRADIO Network Operational Procedures

AFMARS Digital Network Procedures Manual

TBS AFMARS Digital Network Procedures Manual

AFMARS ALE Procedures Manual TBS AFMARS TRANSGLOBAL ALE Procedures Manual

AFMARS TRR Procedures Manual TBS AFMARS TRANSGLOBAL TRR Procedures Manual

Table A1.4: Forms

Document Version Title AF Form 3661 JUN 09 Military Auxiliary Radio System (MARS)

Personnel Action Notification AF Form 3665 JAN 10 Certificate of Appointment

AFMARS Form 3666 JAN 09 Military Auxiliary Radio System (MARS) Station License and Identification Card

DD Form 2350 OCT 2015 Military Auxiliary Radio System (MARS)

MARS Repeater/Designator Application Form

MARS application for VHF repeater

NOTE: In all cases, current release versions will supersede referenced documents.

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Attachment 2

ACRONYMS

Acronym Meaning

a.k.a. also known as

AAR After Action Report

ACP Allied Communications Publication

AFMARS Air Force Military Auxiliary Radio System (the program)

AFB Air Force Base

AFB Prefix of call sign for AFMARS 1st in Region PMC/RMS Station

AFC Prefix of call sign for AFMARS 2nd in Region PMC/RMS Station

AFG Prefix of call sign for AFMARS 3rd in Region PMC/RMS Station

AFI Air Force Instruction

AFM Air Force Manual

AFM Prefix of call sign for AFMARS Special Event Station

AFM-SMG AFMARS Spectrum Management Group

AFSMO Air Force Spectrum Management Office

AFSPC Air Force Space Command

ALE Automatic Link Establishment

AMARS Army Military Auxiliary Radio System (the program)

ANCS Alternate Net Control Station

ANG Air National Guard

ARC American Red Cross

ARES Amateur Radio Emergency Service

ARRL Amateur Radio Relay League

ASD Assistant Secretary of Defense

BBS (Electronic) Bulletin Board System

BST Base Support Team (consists of volunteer MARS members)

CAC Common Access Card

CAFM Chief, AFMARS

CAT Computer Aided Tuning

CERT Community Emergency Readiness Team

COMEX Communications Exercise

CONUS Continental United States - The contiguous states, e.g., not including Alaska, Hawaii and territories (See OCONUS)

CUI Controlled Unclassified Information

CY Calendar Year

dB decibel

DDALEO Deputy Director Automatic Link Establishment (ALE) Operations

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Acronym Meaning

DDTDO Deputy Director TRANSGLOBAL Digital Operations

DDTNO Deputy Director TRANSGLOBAL Network Operations

DDTRRO Deputy Director TRANSGLOBAL Radio Relay Operations

DHS Department of Homeland Security

DMRM Deputy MARSRADIO Network Manager

DNEC Deputy National Emergency Coordinator

DNMSNM Deputy National Military Support Network Manager

DNTM Deputy National Training Manager

DNXC Deputy National Exercise Coordinator

DoD Department of Defense

DoDD Department of Defense Directive

DoDI Department of Defense Instruction

DRMD Deputy Region MARS Director

DSCA Defense Support of Civil Authority

DSMD Deputy State MARS Director

DTG Date Time Group (DDMMMYYYY HHHHZ)

ECOM Emergency Communications

EOC Emergency Operations Center

ESF Emergency Support Function

FCC Federal Communications Commission

FEMA Federal Emergency Management Agency

FOUO For Official Use Only

HD&ASA Homeland Defense and America’s Security Affairs

HF High Frequency, e.g., 3.0 MHz through 30.0 MHz

HQ Headquarters

Hz Hertz

IAW in accordance with

ICE Immigration and Customs Enforcement

ICS Incident Command System

ID Identification

IMD Installation MARS Director, (POC for military base MARS activity)

individual member

a.k.a. volunteer member; member

JSIN Joint Service Interoperability Net

kHz kilo Hertz (1000 Hertz)

MAJCOM Major Command (Military Element)

MARS Military Auxiliary Radio System

member a.k.a. volunteer member; individual member

MHz Mega Hertz

MOA Memorandum of Agreement

MOI MARS Operating Instruction

MRN MARSRADIO Network

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Acronym Meaning

MTS MARS Technical Services MRS Major Relay Station

MSCA Military Support to Civil Authorities

MSN Military Support Network

NCS Net Control Station

NDO National Director Operations

NDTO National Director TRANSGLOBAL Operations

NEC National Emergency Coordinator

NECN National Emergency Communications Network

NET Not Earlier Than

NGO Non-Governmental Organizations

NIB Non-interference basis

NLT Not Later Than

NML National Military Liaison

NMRM MARSRADIO Network Manager

NMSNM National Military Support Network Manager

NOA Not on Air

NPC National Planning Coordinator

NPIO National Public Information Officer

NRM National Records Manager

NTIA National Telecommunications and Information Administration

NTM National Training Manager

NTM AFMARS National Training Manual

NTSM National Technical Services Manger

NVC National VHF Coordinator

NXC National Exercise Coordinator

OCONUS Outside the Continental United States, e.g., Alaska, Hawaii, Guam, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands OPR Office of Primary Responsibility

OSD Office of the Secretary of Defense

PA Privacy Act

PCS Permanent Change of Station

PII Personally Identifiable Information PMC Primary Message Center

POA Primary On-Air Time

POC Point Of Contact

RACES Radio Amateur Emergency Services

RADAY Radio Day

RDNM Region Digital Network Manager

REC Region Emergency Coordinator

Rm Room

RMD Region MARS Director

RMS Radio Message Server

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RRM Region Records Manager

RTM Region Training Manager

RTSM Region Technical Services Manager

RVC Region VHF Coordinator

RVNM Region Voice Network Manager

RXC Region Exercise Coordinator

SATERN Salvation Army Team Emergency Radio Net

SBU Sensitive But Unclassified

SDT Software Development Team

SHARES SHAred RESources HF Radio Program

SMD State MARS Director

SME Subject Matter Expert

SNM Special Net Manager

SOA Secondary On-Air Time

SPOC Single Point of Contact

SSB Single Side Band

SSID Secondary Station Identifier

St Street

STA Special Temporary operating Authority

SysOp Systems Operator, e.g., individual operating electronic (radio) bulletin board systems

TBS To Be Supplied at a later date

TCN TRANSGLOBAL CW Network

TDN TRANSGLOBAL Digital Network

TNC Terminal Node Controller

TRR TRANSGLOBAL Radio Relay Network

TSA Transportation Security Agency

U.S. United States

USAF United States Air Force

USPS United States Postal Service

VHF Very High Frequency, e.g., 30 MHz through 300 MHz

Volunteer a.k.a. member; individual member

END OF MOI REVSION C DOCUMENT