Language and Messaging Guide for United States Northern Command (USNORTHCOM)

Introduction

This guide outlines key aspects of how to communicate effectively with United States Northern Command (USNORTHCOM). It provides instructions on referring to the command, understanding their preferred phrases and terminology, and adapting our communication style to resonate with their unique culture and priorities.

Command Overview

USNORTHCOM is a Unified Combatant Command of the United States with a mission to defend the homeland, support civil authorities, and improve security cooperation with allies and partners within its area of responsibility. Its strategic significance lies in its dual role with NORAD, focusing on aerospace warning, aerospace control, and maritime warning for North America.

Communication Style

• Tone: Formal and Technical – USNORTHCOM communications often employ a formal and technical tone, reflecting the command’s focus on defense, security, and cooperation. Examples include official statements, press releases, and operational briefings.
• Perspective: Third-person – Communications typically utilize a third-person perspective to maintain professionalism and objectivity.
• Language Precision: High – Given the operational and strategic nature of USNORTHCOM, language precision is paramount. Communications should be clear, accurate, and devoid of ambiguity.
• Visual Representation: Imagery and visuals should accurately represent military operations, personnel, and partnerships, respecting the dignity and operational security of the command’s activities.

Preferred Terminology and Phrases

• Homeland Defense: The primary mission of protecting the United States from external threats.
• Civil Support: Assistance to U.S. civil authorities for domestic emergencies and designated law enforcement.
• Aerospace Control: Operations to detect, validate, and engage threats to North American airspace.
• Security Cooperation: Activities undertaken with allies and partners to strengthen defense relationships.
• All-domain Awareness: The comprehensive understanding of anything associated with the command’s mission space across all operational domains.

Key Snippets from Official Documents

• 2023 Posture Statement: “USNORTHCOM conducts homeland defense, civil support, and security cooperation to defend and secure the United States and its interests.”
• About USNORTHCOM: “USNORTHCOM’s civil support mission includes domestic disaster relief operations during fires, hurricanes, floods, and earthquakes.”

Leadership Language

• Commander General Gregory M. Guillot: Often emphasizes the importance of readiness, partnership, and innovation in defense and security operations.
• Deputy Commander Lieutenant General A.C. Roper: Focuses on the integration of civil and military efforts in support of homeland defense and disaster response.
• Chief of Staff Major General Allan “Al” Pepin: Highlights the significance of joint operations and interagency cooperation.
• Senior Enlisted Leader Sergeant Major James K. Porterfield: Advocates for the professional development and well-being of enlisted personnel.

Adapting Your Communication

• When referring to the command: Use the full name “United States Northern Command (USNORTHCOM)” in initial references, followed by “USNORTHCOM” in subsequent mentions.
• Incorporating preferred terminology: Utilize key terms accurately, ensuring they align with the context and message of the communication.

• Emulating the command’s tone: Adopt a formal and technical tone, particularly when discussing operations, strategies, and partnerships.

• Contextual Messaging: Develop messages that underscore the command’s role in homeland defense and support to civil authorities, tailored to the audience’s interest and understanding.
• Engagement Techniques: Employ respectful and informative tactics when engaging with media, ensuring USNORTHCOM’s missions and activities are accurately represented.
• Conflict-Sensitive Communication: Exercise caution and sensitivity, prioritizing operational security and diplomatic tact during sensitive operations or geopolitical events.

Conclusion

Effective communication with and about United States Northern Command (USNORTHCOM) necessitates an understanding of its mission, culture, and strategic priorities. By adopting the guidelines provided in this document, communicators can enhance the effectiveness of their engagement and contribute to the command’s overarching goals of defense and security.

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This guide is a dynamic document and may be updated as USNORTHCOM’s strategic priorities and leadership evolve. Always refer to the latest version for the most current guidance.