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AIR FORCE MARS OPERATING INSTRUCTION
2 August 2017
Communications and Information
MILITARY AUXILIARY RADIO SYSTEM
OPERATIONS
COMPLIANCE WITH THIS PUBLICATION IS MANDATORY
ACCESSIBILITY: This publication is available through the MARS Program Office
AFMARS@US.AF.MIL .
RELEASABILITY: There are no releasability 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) 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 technical 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 in writing, detailing such
observations. SMD’s shall forward such comments to the Region MARS Director for additional
handling.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 2
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.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 3
Table of Contents
Chapter 1.0. MISSION AND ORGNAIZATION ............................................................................. 10 1.1. MARS Mission ............................................................................................................................................... 10
1.1.1. DoD Instruction 4650.02 Military Auxiliary Radio System (MARS). ....................................................................................... 10 1.1.2. MARS Mission Supplement. ......................................................................................................................................................... 10
1.2. MARS Tasking ............................................................................................................................................... 10 1.2.1. Per DoD Instruction (DoDI) 4650.02. ........................................................................................................................................... 10 1.2.2. MARS Mission Responsibilities. ................................................................................................................................................... 11
1.3. Duties and Responsibilities. ............................................................................................................................ 11 1.3.1. Office of the Secretary of the Air Force (SAF). ........................................................................................................................... 11 1.3.2. Chief, USAF MARS. ..................................................................................................................................................................... 12 1.3.3. MAJCOM, Guard, & Reserve Communications Systems Offices. ............................................................................................ 13 1.3.4. Installation MARS Director (IMD). ............................................................................................................................................. 13 1.3.5. Base Support Team (BST). ........................................................................................................................................................... 14
1.4. National Appointments ................................................................................................................................... 15 1.4.1. National Director TRANSGLOBAL Operations (NDTO). ........................................................................................................ 15 1.4.2. Deputy Director TRANSGLOBAL Network Operations (DDTNO). ........................................................................................ 16 1.4.3. Deputy Director TRANSGLOBAL Digital Operations (DDTDO). ........................................................................................... 16 1.4.4. Deputy Director Automatic Link Establishment (ALE) Operations (DDALEO). .................................................................... 17 1.4.5. Deputy Director TRANSGLOBAL Radio Relay Operations (DDTRRO). ............................................................................... 18 1.4.6. National Phone Patch Net Manager (NPPNM). .......................................................................................................................... 19 1.4.7. Deputy National Phone Patch Net Manager (DNPPNM). .......................................................................................................... 19 1.4.8. National Mission Support Network Manager (NMSNM)........................................................................................................... 20 1.4.9. Deputy National Mission Support Network Manager (DNMSNM)........................................................................................... 20 1.4.10. National Planning Coordinator (NPC). ..................................................................................................................................... 20 1.4.11. National Emergency Coordinator (NEC). ................................................................................................................................. 21 1.4.12. Deputy National Emergency Coordinator (DNEC). ................................................................................................................. 22 1.4.13. National Exercise Coordinator (NXC). ...................................................................................................................................... 22 1.4.14. Deputy National Exercise Coordinator (DNXC). ...................................................................................................................... 23 1.4.15. National Operations Director (NOD). ........................................................................................................................................ 24 1.4.16. National VHF Coordinator (NVC). ............................................................................................................................................ 24 1.4.17. National Military Liaison (NML). .............................................................................................................................................. 25 1.4.18. National Training Manager (NTM). .......................................................................................................................................... 26 1.4.19. Deputy National Training Manager (DNTM). .......................................................................................................................... 26 1.4.20. National Records Manage (NRM). ............................................................................................................................................. 26 1.4.21. National Public Information Officer (NPIO). ........................................................................................................................... 27 1.4.22. National Technical Services Manager (NTSM). ........................................................................................................................ 27 1.4.23. National Administrative Assistant (NAA). ................................................................................................................................ 28
1.5. Region Appointees. ......................................................................................................................................... 29 1.5.1. Region MARS Director (RMD). ................................................................................................................................................... 29 1.5.2. Deputy Region MARS Director (DRMD). ................................................................................................................................... 30 1.5.3. Region Emergency Coordinator (REC). ...................................................................................................................................... 30 1.5.4. Region Records Manager (RRM). ................................................................................................................................................ 31 1.5.5. Region Training Manager (RTM). ............................................................................................................................................... 31 1.5.6. Region Exercise Coordinator (RXC). .......................................................................................................................................... 32 1.5.7. Region Digital Networks Manager (RDNM). .............................................................................................................................. 33 1.5.8. Region Voice Network Manager (RVNM). .................................................................................................................................. 33 1.5.9. Region VHF Coordinator (RVC). The Region ............................................................................................................................ 34 1.5.10. Region Technical Services Manager (RTSM). .......................................................................................................................... 34
1.6. State Appointments. ........................................................................................................................................ 35 1.6.1. State MARS Director (SMD). ....................................................................................................................................................... 35 1.6.2. Deputy State MARS Director (DSMD). ....................................................................................................................................... 37 1.6.3. State Emergency Coordinator (SEC). .......................................................................................................................................... 37 1.6.4. Individual Volunteer Members. ................................................................................................................................................... 37
1.7. Member Official Appointments. ..................................................................................................................... 38 1.7.1. Appointment Process. ................................................................................................................................................................... 38 1.7.2. Position Applications. .................................................................................................................................................................... 39 1.7.3. Selection and Appointment Process. ............................................................................................................................................ 39 1.7.4. Special Net Manager (SNM) Appointments. ............................................................................................................................... 39 1.7.5. Outgoing Officials.......................................................................................................................................................................... 39 1.7.6. Staff Positions. ............................................................................................................................................................................... 39 1.7.7. Billet Expectations. ........................................................................................................................................................................ 39
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1.7.8. National Billets............................................................................................................................................................................... 40 1.7.9. Region Billets. ................................................................................................................................................................................ 40 1.7.10. State Billets. ................................................................................................................................................................................. 40 1.7.11. Non-Billeted Assignments. .......................................................................................................................................................... 40 1.7.12. Non-Billeted AF Form 3661. ....................................................................................................................................................... 41 1.7.13. Non-Billeted Duties and Responsibilities. .................................................................................................................................. 41
Chapter 2.0. MEMBER APPLICATION, ASSIGNMENTS AND TRAINING ......................... 42 2.1. Scope. .............................................................................................................................................................. 42 2.2. MARS Station Categories. .............................................................................................................................. 42
2.2.1. IAW DoDI 4650.02. ....................................................................................................................................................................... 42 2.2.2. Station Association. ....................................................................................................................................................................... 42 2.2.3. Civilian Volunteer Minimum Eligibility. ..................................................................................................................................... 42 2.2.4. Eligibility Requirements Grandfathering. ................................................................................................................................... 42
2.3. Eligibility Criteria. .......................................................................................................................................... 43 2.3.1. Age. ................................................................................................................................................................................................. 43 2.3.2. Citizenship. .................................................................................................................................................................................... 43 2.3.3. FCC License Class. ........................................................................................................................................................................ 43 2.3.4. Station Requirements. ................................................................................................................................................................... 43 2.3.5. VHF Requirements. See Section 16.0 for more information on VHF operations. .................................................................... 43 2.3.6. Contact Information. ..................................................................................................................................................................... 44
2.4. Net Control Station. ........................................................................................................................................ 44 2.5. Deployment Requirements. ............................................................................................................................. 44
2.5.1. Willing and Able. ........................................................................................................................................................................... 44 2.5.2. Course Completion AF Form 3661. ............................................................................................................................................. 44
2.6. Individual Responsibilities. ............................................................................................................................. 45 2.7. Training Material. ........................................................................................................................................... 46 2.8. FCC License Renewal Procedures. ................................................................................................................. 47
Chapter 3.0. PARTICIPATION, REPORTING, AND LOGGING .............................................. 48 3.1. Scope. .............................................................................................................................................................. 48 3.2. Member Activity Time. .................................................................................................................................. 48
3.2.1. Total Active MARS Service Date. ................................................................................................................................................ 48 3.2.2. Self-Reporting. ............................................................................................................................................................................... 48 3.2.3. Time Reporting. ............................................................................................................................................................................. 48 3.2.4. Members Inactive Status............................................................................................................................................................... 48 3.2.5. Members Return To Active Status. .............................................................................................................................................. 48
3.3. Participation Time Requirements. ................................................................................................................... 49 3.3.1. Minimum Time Requirement. ...................................................................................................................................................... 49 3.3.2. Accuracy and Timeliness. ............................................................................................................................................................. 49 3.3.3. Right to Audit. ............................................................................................................................................................................... 50
3.4. Failure to Keep Records or Fraudulent Activity. ............................................................................................ 50 3.5. Member Participation Time. ........................................................................................................................... 50
3.5.1. On-Air Participation Time. .......................................................................................................................................................... 50 3.5.2. Non On-Air Participation Time. .................................................................................................................................................. 51
3.6. Reporting Procedure and Methodology. ......................................................................................................... 51 3.6.1. Member Monthly Report. ............................................................................................................................................................. 52 3.6.2. Member Base Support Team (BST). ............................................................................................................................................ 53 3.6.3. State MARS Directors Quarterly Report Content. ..................................................................................................................... 53 3.6.4. Region MARS Directors Quarterly Feedback Report. ............................................................................................................... 53 3.6.5. RMD Quarterly Feedback Report Content. ................................................................................................................................ 53 3.6.6. National Records Manager Quarterly Report. ........................................................................................................................... 54 3.6.7. Additional Reporting. ................................................................................................................................................................... 54 3.6.8. Member Station Logs. ................................................................................................................................................................... 54
Chapter 4.0. PERSONNEL ACTIONS............................................................................................... 56 4.1. Scope. .............................................................................................................................................................. 56 4.2. Releasing Officials. ......................................................................................................................................... 56 4.3. Resignations. ................................................................................................................................................... 56 4.4. Member Terminations. .................................................................................................................................... 56 4.5. Member Transfers. .......................................................................................................................................... 57 4.6. Reinstatement Waiting Periods. ...................................................................................................................... 57 4.7. Extenuating Circumstances. ............................................................................................................................ 57 4.8. Assignment Actions Requiring AF Form 3661 Preparation. .......................................................................... 59
4.8.1. AFMARS Personnel Action Notification (AF FORM 3661)....................................................................................................... 59
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4.8.2. AF Form 3661 Content. ................................................................................................................................................................ 59 4.8.3. AF Form 3661 Preparation Instructions. .................................................................................................................................... 60
4.9. Maintenance of Records.................................................................................................................................. 61 4.10. Public Records Information. ......................................................................................................................... 61 4.11. DoD Benefits Procedure. .............................................................................................................................. 61 4.12. Reserve Points Procedure.............................................................................................................................. 61
Chapter 5.0. INTEROPERABILITY .................................................................................................. 62 5.1. Scope. .............................................................................................................................................................. 62 5.2. Interoperability - Army MARS. ...................................................................................................................... 62 5.3. Interoperability other Government Organizations. ......................................................................................... 62
5.3.1. Active duty/Reserve military stations/units. ................................................................................................................................ 62 5.3.2. National Guard stations/units. ...................................................................................................................................................... 63 5.3.3. Stations authorized by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). ..................................................................................... 63 5.3.4. Civil Air Patrol stations/units, regardless of location, to include: .............................................................................................. 63 5.3.5. National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). ......................................................................................................... 64 5.3.6. US Department of Agriculture. .................................................................................................................................................... 64 5.3.7. US Department of Interior. ........................................................................................................................................................... 64 5.3.8. US Department of Energy. ............................................................................................................................................................ 64 5.3.9. US Department of Transportation. .............................................................................................................................................. 64 5.3.10. US Department of Defense. ......................................................................................................................................................... 64 5.3.11. US Veterans Administration. ...................................................................................................................................................... 64
5.4. Interoperability - Non-Government Organizations (Ngo). .............................................................................. 64 5.5. Special Authorizations. ................................................................................................................................... 64 5.6. Joint-Service Interoperability Net (JSIN). ...................................................................................................... 65
5.6.1. The JSIN. ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 65 5.6.2. Net Control Stations. ..................................................................................................................................................................... 65
5.7. Policy Guidance for Message Traffic. ............................................................................................................ 65 5.7.1. Precedence. .................................................................................................................................................................................... 65 5.7.2. Service’s Policy. ............................................................................................................................................................................. 65 5.7.3. Encryption. .................................................................................................................................................................................... 66 5.7.4. Policy Compliance. ........................................................................................................................................................................ 66
5.8. Phone Patch Network. ...................................................................................................................................... 66
Chapter 6.0. PROTECTION OF SENSITIVE INFORMATION.................................................. 67 6.1. Scope. MARS Communication Protection Guidance. .................................................................................... 67 6.2. For Official Use Only (FOUO). ...................................................................................................................... 67
6.2.1. MARS Communication Protection Guidance. ............................................................................................................................ 67 6.2.2. FOUO Documents. ........................................................................................................................................................................ 68 6.2.3. FOUO Transmittal. ....................................................................................................................................................................... 68
6.3. Personally Identifiable Information (PII). ....................................................................................................... 68 6.4. Amateur Call Sign........................................................................................................................................... 68 6.5. Safeguarding Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). ............................................................................. 69
6.5.1. Access to CUI. ................................................................................................................................................................................ 69 6.5.2. Securing CUI. ................................................................................................................................................................................ 69
6.6. Security Training. ........................................................................................................................................... 69 6.6.1. CUI Training. ................................................................................................................................................................................ 69 6.6.2. PII Training. .................................................................................................................................................................................. 69 6.6.3. Cyber Training. ............................................................................................................................................................................. 69
Chapter 7.0. CORRESPONDENCE ................................................................................................... 71 7.1. General. ........................................................................................................................................................... 71 7.2. Proper Channels. ............................................................................................................................................. 71
7.2.1. Criticality. ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 71 7.2.2. Personal or sensitive nature. ......................................................................................................................................................... 71
7.3. Written Correspondence. ................................................................................................................................ 71 7.3.1. Endorsement. ................................................................................................................................................................................. 71 7.3.2. Concurrence................................................................................................................................................................................... 71 7.3.3. Responses. ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 71 7.3.4. Application. .................................................................................................................................................................................... 72
7.4. On The Air or Email. ...................................................................................................................................... 72 7.5. U.S. MAIL. ..................................................................................................................................................... 72
Chapter 8.0. CONFERENCES AND MEETINGS ............................................................................. 73
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8.1. Scope. .............................................................................................................................................................. 73 8.2. Annual Conference. ........................................................................................................................................ 73 8.3. State Meetings. ................................................................................................................................................ 73 8.4. General Conferences. ...................................................................................................................................... 73
8.4.1. Planning. ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 73 8.4.2. Committee. ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 73 8.4.3. Scheduling. ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 74 8.4.4. Discussion Items. ........................................................................................................................................................................... 74 8.4.5. Social Events. ................................................................................................................................................................................. 74 8.4.6. Agenda Coordination. ................................................................................................................................................................... 74 8.4.7. Chairperson Duties........................................................................................................................................................................ 74 8.4.8. Attendance Participation. ............................................................................................................................................................. 74 8.4.9. FOUO Restrictions. ....................................................................................................................................................................... 74
8.5. General Meetings. ........................................................................................................................................... 74 8.5.1. Meeting Outline. ............................................................................................................................................................................ 75 8.5.2. Discussion Content. ....................................................................................................................................................................... 75 8.5.3. Award Presentation. ...................................................................................................................................................................... 75 8.5.4. Attendance Participation. ............................................................................................................................................................. 75
Chapter 9.0. MARS IDENTIFICATION CARDS ............................................................................. 76 9.1. Scope. .............................................................................................................................................................. 76 9.2. DD Form 2350 Issue and Control. .................................................................................................................. 76 9.3. ID Control Log. ............................................................................................................................................... 76
9.3.1. Numbering. .................................................................................................................................................................................... 76 9.3.2. Log Data. ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 76 9.3.3. Log Retention. ............................................................................................................................................................................... 76
9.4. ID Recovery. ................................................................................................................................................... 76 9.5. ID Security. ..................................................................................................................................................... 76 9.6. ID Processing. ................................................................................................................................................. 77 9.7. ID Expiration. ................................................................................................................................................. 77 9.8. Limited Issuance. ............................................................................................................................................ 77
Chapter 10.0. MILITARY MORALE, WELFARE, AND RECREATION PROGRAM ........... 79 10.1. Scope. ............................................................................................................................................................ 79 10.2. Eligible Members. ......................................................................................................................................... 79 10.3. Eligibility. ..................................................................................................................................................... 79 10.4. Additional Benefits. ...................................................................................................................................... 79
Chapter 11.0. CALL SIGNS .................................................................................................................. 80 11.1. Scope. ............................................................................................................................................................ 80 11.2. Issuing Authority. ......................................................................................................................................... 80 11.3. Regions and States. ....................................................................................................................................... 80 11.4. MARS Call Sign Suffixes. ............................................................................................................................ 80 11.5. MARS Call Sign Use Outside Of Home Area. ............................................................................................. 81 11.6. Military Base Station Call Signs Prefix “AGA”. .......................................................................................... 81 11.7. MARS Member Call Signs Prefix. “AFA”. .................................................................................................. 81 11.8. MARS Member Call Signs In Training Prefix “AFT”.................................................................................. 81 11.9. Billet Call Signs. ........................................................................................................................................... 82 11.10. National Level Billet Call Signs. ................................................................................................................ 82 11.11. Region Level Billet Call Signs. ................................................................................................................... 83 11.12. State Level Billet Call Signs. ...................................................................................................................... 84 11.13. Digital Station Call Signs. ........................................................................................................................... 85
11.13.1. TRANSGLOBAL Digital Network PMC Stations. ................................................................................................................. 85 11.13.2. TRANSGLOBAL Digital Network RMS Stations. ................................................................................................................. 85 11.13.3. VHF Secondary Station Identifiers (SSID). ............................................................................................................................. 85
11.14. Special Event Station Call Signs. ................................................................................................................ 86 11.14.1. Requesting Special Event Call Signs. ....................................................................................................................................... 86 11.14.2. “AFM” Prefix. ........................................................................................................................................................................... 86
11.15. Civil Agency And Air Force MARS Club Station Call Signs. ................................................................... 86 11.15.1. Club Station Association with AFMARS. ................................................................................................................................ 87 11.15.2. Approval of AFMARS Club Stations. ...................................................................................................................................... 87
11.16. Net Nomenclature. ...................................................................................................................................... 87
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11.16.1. AFMARS Nomenclature. .......................................................................................................................................................... 87 11.16.2. Special Nets and Circumstances. .............................................................................................................................................. 88 11.16.3. Exceptions. ................................................................................................................................................................................. 88
11.17. Special Recognition Status Prefix “AFZ”. .................................................................................................. 89
Chapter 12.0. MESSAGES ................................................................................................................... 90 12.1. Scope. ............................................................................................................................................................ 90 12.2. Message Acceptance. .................................................................................................................................... 90 12.3. Message Preparation. .................................................................................................................................... 90 12.4. Unacceptable Message Categories. ............................................................................................................... 90 12.5. Message Refusal. .......................................................................................................................................... 91
Chapter 13.0. HF NETWORK ............................................................................................................... 92 13.1. Scope. ............................................................................................................................................................ 92 13.2. HF Purpose. .................................................................................................................................................. 92
13.2.1. TRANSGLOBAL HF Network. ................................................................................................................................................. 92 13.2.2. Region and State Networks. ........................................................................................................................................................ 92 13.2.3. Training Nets. .............................................................................................................................................................................. 92
13.3. General Traffic. ............................................................................................................................................. 92 13.4. Net Control Station (NCS). ........................................................................................................................... 92 13.5. Alternate Net Control Station(S). .................................................................................................................. 93 13.6. MARS Broadcast Messages. ......................................................................................................................... 93 13.7. Encryption of Message Traffic...................................................................................................................... 93 13.8. Frequency Use. ............................................................................................................................................. 93 13.9. Verification. .................................................................................................................................................. 94 13.10. Reporting Suspicious Use. .......................................................................................................................... 94 13.11. Shared Resources High Frequency Radio Program. ................................................................................... 94 13.12. Authorized Modes Of Operation. ................................................................................................................ 94
13.12.1. Voice Modes. .............................................................................................................................................................................. 94 13.12.2. Data Modes. ............................................................................................................................................................................... 94 13.12.3. Primary Data Mode. .................................................................................................................................................................. 94
13.13. Required Capability and Proficiency. ......................................................................................................... 95 13.14. Tactical Phone Patch. .................................................................................................................................. 95 13.15. Inappropriate Transmissions. ...................................................................................................................... 95 13.16. HF Frequency Assignments, Special Stations and Interference. ................................................................. 96
13.16.1. Spectrum Action Focal Point. ................................................................................................................................................... 96 13.16.2. Special Temporary Station Authority. ..................................................................................................................................... 96 13.16.3. Master Record Required, Updates / Changes. ........................................................................................................................ 97 13.16.4. Technical Requirements. ........................................................................................................................................................... 97 13.16.5. Interference Reports/Technical Deficiencies/Suspicious Operations/Jamming. ................................................................... 97
Chapter 14.0. PHONE PATCH NETWORK (PPN) .......................................................................... 98 14.1. Scope. ............................................................................................................................................................ 98 14.2. Closed Net. .................................................................................................................................................... 98 14.3. Special Requirements. ................................................................................................................................... 98 14.4. Base Support Team PPN Participation. ........................................................................................................ 99 14.5. Phone Patch Network Participation. ............................................................................................................. 99
14.5.1. Weekly PPN Participation Reporting. ....................................................................................................................................... 99 14.5.2. Monthly PPN Participation Reporting. ..................................................................................................................................... 99 14.5.3. Phone Patch Network Procedures. ............................................................................................................................................. 99 14.5.4. Phone Patch Discussions. ............................................................................................................................................................ 99
Chapter 15.0. MISSION SUPPORT NETWORK (MSN) ............................................................... 100 15.1. Scope ........................................................................................................................................................... 100 15.2. MSN National Network. ............................................................................................................................. 100
15.2.1. National MSN Manager (NMSNM). ........................................................................................................................................ 100 15.2.2. MSN Net Control Station. ......................................................................................................................................................... 100
15.3. MSN Frequency Management. ................................................................................................................... 101 15.3.1. Approve Required Frequencies Uses. ...................................................................................................................................... 101 15.3.2. MSN Frequency Use Authorization Requests. ........................................................................................................................ 101 15.3.3. MSN Emergency Frequency Coordination. ............................................................................................................................ 101 15.3.4. Prior Use Coordination/Notification. ....................................................................................................................................... 101 15.3.5. Report of Activities. ................................................................................................................................................................... 102
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15.4. MSN Administrative Net. ........................................................................................................................... 102 15.5. MSN Phone Patch. ...................................................................................................................................... 102 15.6. MSN Assignment. ....................................................................................................................................... 102
15.6.1. Assignment Authority. .............................................................................................................................................................. 102 15.6.2. SMD Recommendation. ............................................................................................................................................................ 103 15.6.3. Mission Support Network Designation. ................................................................................................................................... 103 15.6.4. Member’s Agreement. ............................................................................................................................................................... 103 15.6.5. MSM Procedures Manual. ........................................................................................................................................................ 103
15.7. Station MSN Requirements. ....................................................................................................................... 103 15.8. MSN Participation. ..................................................................................................................................... 104 15.9. MSN Station Logs. ...................................................................................................................................... 104
Chapter 16.0. VHF NETWORK ......................................................................................................... 105 16.1. Scope. .......................................................................................................................................................... 105 16.2. VHF Operations. ......................................................................................................................................... 105 16.3. VHF Network Equipment Operations Requests / Frequency Management. ............................................... 105
16.3.1. Application Processing and Approval Criteria. ...................................................................................................................... 105 16.3.2. Station Call Signs Prefix “AFV”. ............................................................................................................................................. 106 16.3.3. Station Identification. ................................................................................................................................................................ 106 16.3.4. License Required. ...................................................................................................................................................................... 106 16.3.5. Special Temporary Authority Prefix “AFX”........................................................................................................................... 107 16.3.6. Applications and Operations on Active Military Installations. .............................................................................................. 107 16.3.7. Master Record Required, Updates / Changes. ........................................................................................................................ 107 16.3.8. Technical Requirements............................................................................................................................................................ 107 16.3.9. Grandfather and Sunset Clause. .............................................................................................................................................. 107 16.3.10. Interference Reports / Technical Deficiencies. ...................................................................................................................... 107
16.4. VHF Network Equipment Owners. ............................................................................................................. 108 16.5. Terminating VHF Network Operation. ....................................................................................................... 108 16.6. VHF Network Equipment Sharing. ............................................................................................................. 108 16.7. VHF Network Equipment Identification. .................................................................................................... 109 16.8. VHF Network Equipment POC. ................................................................................................................. 109
Chapter 17.0. DIGITAL NETWORKS .............................................................................................. 110 17.1. Scope. .......................................................................................................................................................... 110 17.2. TRANSGLOBAL Digital Network (TDN)................................................................................................. 110
17.2.1. Digital Networks Call Sign Assignments. ................................................................................................................................ 110 17.2.2. TDN Spectrum Utilization. ....................................................................................................................................................... 110 17.2.3. TDN Station Requirements. ...................................................................................................................................................... 110 17.2.4. TRANSGLOBAL Digital Network Station. ............................................................................................................................ 110 17.2.5. Frequency Utilization. ............................................................................................................................................................... 111 17.2.6. VHF/UHF Frequencies. ............................................................................................................................................................ 111 17.2.7. Terminal Software. .................................................................................................................................................................... 112 17.2.8. Network Integrity. ..................................................................................................................................................................... 112 17.2.9. System Operators (SysOps). ..................................................................................................................................................... 112 17.2.10. Operator and Call Sign Assignment. ..................................................................................................................................... 112
17.3. TRANSGLOBAL Radio Relay Network (TRR). ....................................................................................... 112 17.3.1. TRR Digital Mode Software. .................................................................................................................................................... 112 17.3.2. TRR Special Net. ....................................................................................................................................................................... 113 17.3.3. TRR Structure. .......................................................................................................................................................................... 113 17.3.4. TRR Assignment. ...................................................................................................................................................................... 113
17.4. Joint MARS Service HF RMS/Winlink Network. ...................................................................................... 113 17.4.1. Winlink Requirements. ............................................................................................................................................................. 113 17.4.2. RMS Station Capabilities. ......................................................................................................................................................... 113 17.4.3. RMS HF Application. ................................................................................................................................................................ 113 17.4.4. RMS HF Assignment. ................................................................................................................................................................ 114 17.4.5. VHF Packet Station. .................................................................................................................................................................. 114 17.4.6. VHF Station Coordination POC. ............................................................................................................................................. 115
17.5. TRANSGLOBAL CW Telegraphy Network (TCN). ................................................................................. 115 17.5.1. CW Use....................................................................................................................................................................................... 115 17.5.2. CW Network. ............................................................................................................................................................................. 115
17.6. TRANSGLOBAL Automatic Link Establishment (ALE) Network. .......................................................... 115 17.6.1. ALE General. ............................................................................................................................................................................. 115 17.6.2. ALE Special Net. ....................................................................................................................................................................... 116 17.6.3. ALE Software. ........................................................................................................................................................................... 116 17.6.4. ALE Identifier. .......................................................................................................................................................................... 116
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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. ................................................................................................................................... 117
18.5.1. Nomination Source. ................................................................................................................................................................... 117 18.5.2. Nomination Method. ................................................................................................................................................................. 117 18.5.3. Processing................................................................................................................................................................................... 117
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 ......................................................... 11
Figure 1.5-1: Region MARS Organization ................................................................................... 29 Figure 1.6-1: State MARS Organization ...................................................................................... 35 Figure 3.6-1: Participation Summary Reports Roll-up Due Dates ............................................... 51
Figure 3.6.1-1: Member Monthly Participation Report version 2 ................................................ 52 Figure 11.16.1-1: AFMARS Network Nomenclature Example ................................................... 87
List of Tables
Table 3.3.1-1: Activity Participation Times ................................................................................. 49
Table 3.6.1-1: Member Monthly Participation Report version 1 ................................................. 52 Table 3.6.1-2: Member Monthly Participation Report version 1 example ................................... 53
Table 3.6.3-1: State MARS Directors Quarterly State Participation Report ................................ 53 Table 3.6.5-1: Region MARS Directors Quarterly Region Participation Report ......................... 54
Table 4.8-1: AF Form 3661 Actions and Responsibilities ............................................................. 58
Table 4.8.2.3-1: AF Form 3661 Comments Section Required Elements ..................................... 60 Table 11.3-1: Regions and States .................................................................................................. 80
Table 11.10-1: National Billet Appointments ............................................................................... 83 Table 11.11-1: Region Staff Appointments .................................................................................. 84 Table 11.12-1: State Staff Appointments...................................................................................... 84
Table 11.13.1.2-1: PMC Station Call Sign Assignment ............................................................... 85 Table 11.13.2-1: RMS Station Call Sign Assignment .................................................................. 85
Table 11.13.3-1: Secondary Station Identifiers (SSID) ................................................................ 86 Table 11.16.1-1: AFMARS NET Designator Construction Codes............................................... 88 Table A1.1: US, USAF, and DoD Documents ............................................................................. 119 Table A1.2: Allied Communications Procedures ....................................................................... 119 Table A1.3: AFMARS Documents ............................................................................................. 119
Table A1-4: Forms ...................................................................................................................... 120
1.1. MARS Mission
1.1.1. DoD Instruction 4650.02 Military Auxiliary Radio System (MARS).
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.
In addition to the above, MARS 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 MARS use and through MARS nets.
1.2. MARS Tasking
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.
Chapter 1.0.
MISSION AND ORGNAIZATION
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 11
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.
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.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 12
1.3.2. Chief, USAF MARS.
IAW Air Force Instruction (AFI) 17-210, Radio Management, the Chief of USAF MARS 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.
1.3.2.4. Coordinates with Army MARS 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 member’s 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 Military Auxiliary MARS station
operators.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 13
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.
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 Chief of USAF MARS 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.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 14
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 provide assistance 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 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.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 15
1.4. National Appointments
Figure 1.4-1: National Organization
1.4.1. National Director TRANSGLOBAL Operations (NDTO).
This is a position appointed on an as needed basis by the Chief, USAF MARS. 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
Operations Director (NOD). Works with the NOD 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.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 16
1.4.1.5. Integrates TRANSGLOBAL Network, Radio Relay, BBS/Winlink and ALE
Operations.
1.4.1.6. Investigates and resolves technical, personal 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 Chief, USAF
MARS. 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.
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 Chief, USAF
MARS. The duties and responsibilities of the DDTDO are as follows:
1.4.3.1. Responsible for the management of TRANSGLOBAL Digital Operations
(BBS/Winlink) with the exception of 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.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 17
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.
1.4.3.7. Must have necessary computer skills, including hardware and software applications,
for various duties that are associated with the position.
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.
1.4.3.12. Ensures proper operating procedures, circuit discipline, and integrity.
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. Coordinate frequencies and operations with the National Director
TRANSGLOBAL Operations (NDTO).
1.4.3.16. Manages the AFMARS portion of the joint-service Radio Message Server (RMS)
/ Winlink network.
1.4.3.17. Coordinates Operations with interfacing SHARES and Army MARS services.
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 Chief, USAF MARS. 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.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 18
1.4.4.3. Maintains a list of ALE stations.
1.4.4.4. Maintains a list and schedule of NCS stations.
1.4.4.5. Ensures proper operating procedures, circuit discipline, and integrity.
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 Chief, USAF
MARS. 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.
1.4.5.8. Configure the net as a backup communications link between Regions and with
TRANSGLOBAL when radio conditions are poor.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 19
1.4.6. National Phone Patch Net Manager (NPPNM).
This is a position appointed on an as needed basis by the Chief, USAF MARS. The duties and
responsibilities of the NPPNM are as follows:
1.4.6.1. Responsible for the day-to-day management of the Phone Patch Network (PPN).
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 Phone Patch frequencies.
1.4.6.6. Must have necessary computer skills, including hardware and software applications,
for various duties that are associated with the position.
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 AFM-SMG.
1.4.6.10. Ensures proper operating procedures, circuit discipline, and integrity.
1.4.6.11. Fills out AF Form 3661 appointing qualified members to be authorized phone patch
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 AFMARS Phone
Patch Network Procedures Manual for all AFMARS PPN members.
1.4.7. Deputy National Phone Patch Net Manager (DNPPNM).
The National Phone Patch Network Manager appoints the Deputy National Phone Patch
Network Manager (DNPPNM) position on an as needed basis. This appointment is with the
concurrence of the Chief, USAF MARS. The DNPPNM shall assist in the NPPNM in all PPN
activities as directed by the NPPNM.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 20
1.4.8. National Mission Support Network Manager (NMSNM).
This is a position appointed on an as needed basis by the Chief, USAF MARS. The duties and
responsibilities of the NMSNM are as follows:
1.4.8.1. Responsible for the day-to-day management of the Mission 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 Mission
Support Network operators.
1.4.8.9. Responsible for development, maintenance and publishing of the AFMARS Mission
Support Network Procedures Manual for all AFMARS MSN members.
1.4.9. Deputy National Mission Support Network Manager (DNMSNM).
The National Mission Support Network Manager appoints the Deputy National Mission
Support Network Manager (DNMSNM) position on an as needed basis. This appointment is
with the concurrence of the Chief, USAF MARS. 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 Chief, USAF MARS 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 Chief, USAF MARS on matters affecting
the AFMARS program. Advice and recommendations may include matters affecting
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 21
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.
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 Chief, USAF
MARS.
1.4.10.5. Works with Public Information Officers, as appropriate, to facilitate public
information efforts.
1.4.10.6. Acts as liaison with Army MARS 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 Chief, USAF MARS to serve as
manager for all AFMARS activities involving Emergency Communications. Additionally the
NEC is appointed as the Deputy National Exercise Coordinator (DNXC). The duties and
responsibilities of the NEC are as follows:
1.4.11.1. Works closely with TRANSGLOBAL, Mission Support Network (MSN), and
Phone Patch Net (PPN) Managers to ensure that all MARS functions are available to support
ECOM operations as needed.
1.4.11.2. Serves as primary liaison with Army MARS leadership for coordinating ECOM
exercises and actual operations.
1.4.11.3. Promotes Joint Service operations during all ECOM exercises and operations.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 22
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.
1.4.11.8. Must have the capability to operate throughout the HF spectrum and in various
operating modes.
1.4.11.9. Must have necessary computer skills, including hardware and software
applications, for various duties that are associated with the position.
1.4.11.10. Coordinates use of AFMARS frequencies with the NOD and other officials
during ECOM events.
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 Chief, USAF MARS to serve as
coordinator for AFMARS Communications Exercises (COMEX) that support the AFMARS
Emergency Communications program and any military communications unit training as
needed. Additionally the NXC is appointed as the Deputy National Emergency Coordinator
(DNEC).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 Army MARS and other agencies to ensure joint exercises are
coordinated within AFMARS and participation opportunities are disseminated to AFMARS
membership in a timely manner.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 23
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.
1.4.13.5. Coordinates the availability of networks and systems with the NDTO, NMSNM,
and NPPNM, 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.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 24
1.4.15. National Operations Director (NOD).
This is a position appointed on an as needed basis by the Chief, USAF MARS to advise,
coordinate and assist with AFMARS operations. The duties and responsibilities of the NOD 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 with the CAFM on the
objectives and their eventual outcome.
1.4.15.2. Serves as the AF MARS functional lead for operational activities, and coordinates
with the CAFM.
1.4.15.3. 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.
1.4.15.4. 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 AF MARS mission.
1.4.15.5. Coordinates with the National Training Manger to ensure training activities support
mission objectives.
1.4.15.6. Coordinates with the National VHF Operations Manager to administer MARS
operations on authorized VHF spectrum.
1.4.15.7. Coordinates with the NEC and NXC to develop realistic and appropriate ECOM
exercise objectives.
1.4.15.8. Coordinates with the NEC to provide resources (frequencies, nets, personnel) and
assists with operational and administrative tasks in response to ECOM incidents.
1.4.15.9. Leads the AFMARS Spectrum Working Group (AFM-SMG). Through the CAFM,
coordinates with the AFMARS mission partners and the 24th AF Spectrum Management
Office and higher Headquarters on frequency requests, licensing assignments, and related
spectrum issues as necessary.
1.4.15.10. 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 Chief, USAF MARS and works
directly with the NOD to support AFMARS VHF operations. The duties and responsibilities
of the NVC are as follows:
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 25
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
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 NOD 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 NOD 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 Chief, USAF MARS 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 Army MARS (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
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 26
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 Chief, USAF MARS and directly
coordinates with the NOD 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.
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.
1.4.18.4. Must have necessary computer skills, including hardware and software
applications, for various duties that are associated with the position.
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 Chief, USAF
MARS. 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 Chief, USAF MARS. 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 Chief, USAF MARS 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
Chief, USAF MARS as needed to maintain national records database(s) and disseminate
information.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 27
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 Chief, USAF MARS. 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.
1.4.21.2. Serves as a staff adviser on matters of journalism and publications to the Chief,
USAF MARS, 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 Chief, USAF MARS. The duties and
responsibilities of the NTSM are as follows:
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 28
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 Chief, USAF
MARS, NOD and Region Directors for technical resource support.
1.4.22.4. Responds to requests from the Chief, USAF MARS, NOD and Region Directors
to oversee technical projects that can support the AFMARS program. All request are
coordinated with the NOD.
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).
This is a position appointed on an as needed basis by the Chief, USAF MARS. The duties and
responsibilities of the NAA are generally as follows:
1.4.23.1. Provide administrative support in any task assigned by the Chief, USAF MARS.
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.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 29
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 Chief, USAF MARS 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 NOD and other RMD, SMD and Army MARS 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.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 30
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, RMD, and SEC appointees. Reports should identify areas for
improvement and highlight best practices.
1.5.3.3. Provides the RMD, RRM, and SEC 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 and SEC 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.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 31
1.5.3.10. Maintains a roster of each SEC in the Region.
1.5.4. Region Records Manager (RRM).
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.
1.5.4.3. Computer skills, including hardware and software applications that are necessary
for various administrative duties that are associated with the position.
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.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 32
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.
1.5.5.10. Computer skills, including hardware and software applications that are necessary
for various administrative duties that are associated with the position.
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, working with the State Emergency
Coordinator.
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, each REC, and each SEC 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, SMD and SEC to establish and coordinate the ECOM
programs.
1.5.6.7. Promotes Joint Service operations during all ECOM exercises and operations
throughout the Region.
1.5.6.8. Computer skills, including hardware and software applications that are necessary
for various administrative duties that are associated with the position.
1.5.6.9. Maintains a roster of each SEC in the Region.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 33
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.
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.
1.5.8.5. Ensures proper operating procedures, circuit discipline, and integrity.
1.5.8.6. Provides additional training for NCS members.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 34
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 NOD on
frequency matters.
1.5.8.9. Requires ability to operate on all MARS voice frequencies.
1.5.8.10. Computer skills, including hardware and software applications that are necessary
for various duties that are associated with the position.
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
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 NOD 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.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 35
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.
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 Chief, USAF MARS. 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, Deputy SMD,
and State Emergency Coordinator (SEC), are the only state positions provided official call
signs. The duties and responsibilities of the SMD are as follows:
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 36
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. Appoints and oversees a State Emergency Coordinator (SEC), and a Deputy State
MARS Director (DSMD) may be appointed, 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 sponsors to new members to assist in developing familiarity with program
mission and requirements.
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.
1.6.1.15. Computer skills, including hardware and software applications that are necessary
for various duties that are associated with the position.
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.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 37
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. State Emergency Coordinator (SEC).
The State Emergency Coordinator position appointment and tenure are determined by the SMD.
The duties and responsibilities of the SEC are as follows:
1.6.3.1. Organizes and coordinates all state ECOM activities to include planning for
exercises, contingencies and support for actual emergencies. A minimum of two exercises
should be performed per calendar year.
1.6.3.2. Reports exercise results in the form of After Action Reports and Lessons Learned
to the Region Emergency Coordinator and the SMD. Reports should identify areas for
improvement and highlight best practices.
1.6.3.3. Provides appropriate Emergency Coordinator, Region, with activity reports and
status of ECOM programs in the state.
1.6.3.4. Possesses sufficient communications capabilities to operate throughout the HF
spectrum and various operating modes.
1.6.3.5. Works closely with the Region Emergency Coordinator, as appropriate, and the
SMD to develop and/or update a State Emergency Communications Plan to supplement the
Region ECOM Plan. This plan shall provide guidance for all State members to follow.
1.6.3.6. Promote Joint Service operations during all ECOM exercises and operations
throughout the state.
1.6.3.7. Computer skills, including hardware and software applications that are necessary
for various administrative duties that are associated with the position.
1.6.4. 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
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 38
“Member(s)”, “Individual Member(s)”, “Auxiliary Member(s)”, and “Individual Volunteer
Member(s)” shall have the same meaning for the purpose of 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. If required per Section 2.3.4(d), maintain an operational National
Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) compliant HF (or per Section
2.3.5(b) VHF radio, if used) radio station and actively support AFMARS HF
communications requirements.
1.6.4.5. At a minimum, participate twelve (12) hours on the air each calendar quarter.
1.6.4.6. 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).
1.6.4.7. Provide technical advice, assistance, general support, and guidance to the extent
possible, to other MARS members and especially trainee stations.
1.6.4.8. Provide operations, maintenance, or administrative support to Installation
MARS Directors, when requested and to the extent possible.
1.6.4.9. Avoid, while operating on any MARS or DoD frequencies, any deliberate action, or
conduct that would reflect unfavorably on the individual member or AFMARS.
1.6.4.10. Attend and contribute to MARS meetings and conferences, time and finances
permitting.
1.6.4.11. Maintain a station log in accordance with this MOI.
1.6.4.12. 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 Chief, USAF MARS. Newly
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 39
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.
1.7.3. Selection and Appointment Process.
Selection and appointment process shall begin in October each year by the Chief, USAF MARS
(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 Manager positions are direct appointments by the Chief, USAF MARS, 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:
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 40
1.7.7.1. AFMARS managers must be conversant with the MOI in regards to 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.
1.7.8. National Billets.
1.7.8.1. The Chief, USAF MARS appoints all National billets per the MOI. The Chief,
USAF MARS, assigns these positions on an “as needed” basis. The Chief, USAF MARS,
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 Chief, USAF MARS, makes RMD appointments.
1.7.9.2. The Region MARS Director assigns 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 Chief, USAF MARS.
1.7.10.2. The SMD is authorized two staff billets, a Deputy SMD and a State Emergency
Coordinator (SEC).
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.
1.7.10.4. The SEC 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
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 41
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.
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 Mission Support
Net, and TRANSGLOBAL HF voice and digital traffic systems are the backbone of the
AFMARS HF communication network. With the exception of the National Phone Patch
Net and the Mission 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, and individual MARS 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 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.
2.2.4. Eligibility Requirements Grandfathering.
Except for adjustments to minimum participation requirements, any additional membership
requirements imposed on AFMARS members that go beyond what is contained in this MOI
shall be applied to new members entering the AFMARS program and shall not be imposed
retroactively on active members in good standing.
Chapter 2.0.
MEMBER APPLICATION, ASSIGNMENTS AND TRAINING
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 43
2.3. Eligibility Criteria.
2.3.1. Age.
2.3.1.1. Minimum age of members is 18 years.
2.3.1.2. In order 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.
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/or current members must have an operational HF radio station prior
to acceptance into the AFMARS program.
2.3.4.2. HF stations must be capable of operating on MARS frequencies, assigned by Region
AFMARS officials.
2.3.4.3. 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).
2.3.4.4. 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.
2.3.5. 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.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 44
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 is 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 Requirements.
2.5.1. Willing and Able.
AFMARS members willing and able to deploy on-site to provide communications support in
the event of an emergency or incident where such support is requested must be certified as
knowledgeable in the Incident Command System (ICS). This requires successful completion of
FEMA courses IS-100b, IS-200b, IS-700a, and IS-800b. Successful completion of FEMA
course IS-802 is also encouraged but is not mandatory. Whether or not members volunteer for
deployment all 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-100b, IS-200b, IS-700a, and IS-800b 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.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 45
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. Individual membership applications shall be made using the membership application
form.
2.6.2. 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. 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. 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. The RMD shall distribute AF Form 3661 to the applicant, RMD, RTM, RRM, SMD, and
the NRM.
2.6.6. 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.
2.6.7. 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 Phone Patch, Mission Support, TRANSGLOBAL networks, or a Base Support
Team, as their primary assignment.
2.6.8. 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 Chief USAF
MARS shall issue AF Form 3666. These documents shall be distributed to Chief, USAF MARS,
NRM, RMD, RTM, RRM, SMD, and individual.
2.6.9. 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 for transmission only (EFTO), else
the use of the individual’s generic call sign is sufficient and does not need to be EFTO.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 46
2.6.10. 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 attend the training course.
2.6.11. 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. No waivers for the training requirement shall be allowed with the exception of active
duty or Reserve personnel. 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. Trainees shall be provided Initial Net Control Station training in conformance with the
AFMARS National Training Manual.
2.6.14. For new members in training a certificate of completion of security web training listed
in Section 6.4 is required prior to issuance of the individual “AFA#xx” call sign.
2.6.15. The establishment of a BBS, ALE, MSN, or a Phone Patch 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) Allied Communications Publication “Communications Instructions
General” (October, 2010)
2.7.2. ACP-125 (G) Allied Communications Publication “Communications Instructions
Radiotelephone Procedures” (November 2016)
2.7.3. ACP-126 (C) Allied Communications Publication “Communications Instructions
Teletypewriter (Teleprinter) Procedures” (May, 1989)
2.7.4. ACP-127 (G) Allied Communications Publication “Communications Instructions Tape
Relay Procedures” (November, 1988)
2.7.5. ACP-127 (G) U. S. Supp-1 (K) supplement to ACP-127 (G) (November, 2007)
2.7.6. ACP-131 (F) Allied Communications Publication “Communications Instructions -
Operating Signals” (April, 2009)
2.7.7. Message Nr. 014, Chief AFMARS, 082025 Sep 2014 (“AFMARS Way Ahead”)
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 47
2.7.8. Message Nr. 014, Chief AFMARS, 132100Z Oct 2015 (rescinding joint MARS SOP)
2.7.9. Message Nr. 001, Chief AFMARS, 151800Z Jan 2015 (authorizing abbreviated call
signs)
2.7.10. Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Instruction (CJCSI) 6241.04C “Policy and Procedures
for Management and Use of USMTF” (20 APR 2012)
2.7.11. Department of Defense Instruction (DoDI) 4650-02 (23 DEC 2009)
2.7.12. MOI, 2016
2.7.13. Air Force MARS National Training Manual, (NTM)
2.7.14. Air Force MARS Messaging Manual, (MMM)
2.7.15. Air Force MARS Messaging Manual Annex I, (FOUO)
2.7.16. Additional material as deemed appropriate by the Chief, USAF MARS, and the NTM.
2.7.17. 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.
2.8. FCC License Renewal Procedures.
2.8.1. 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. Upon receiving the renewed FCC license the member shall notify the SMD. This
provides the SMD with current member contact information along with 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. Chief, USAF MARS, 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.
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 on a monthly basis 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 a number of 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
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 49
3.3. Participation Time Requirements.
3.3.1. Minimum Time Requirement.
A minimum of twelve (12) hours of on-air participation is required from each member per
calendar quarter. Logging for different activities are shown in the following table.
ACTIVITY TIME TO BE LOGGED
ALE Members shall log 1 hour of On-Air participation credit for each 24-hour period
their station scanned ALE channels. Figured to the nearest whole hour.
VHF Members shall log 1 hour of On-Air participation credit for each 24-hour period
their VHF station is operational. Figured to the nearest whole hour.
RMS Station Members shall log 1 hour of On-Air participation credit for each 24-hour period
their RMS station is operational. Figured to the nearest whole hour.
PPN See Phone Patch Procedures Manual.
NCS Members fulfilling the role of NCS on any net shall log double time for On-Air
participation credit for the time of that net.
ANCS Members fulfilling the role of ANCS on any net shall log double time for On-
Air participation credit for the time of that net.
MSN
Refer to the Mission Support Network Procedures Manual.
Members shall log On-Air participation credit for the actual time spent on each
net.
SHARES Members shall log On-Air participation credit for the actual time spent on each
net.
Joint Nets Members shall log On-Air participation credit for the actual time spent on each
net.
Message
Preparation
& Handling
Members shall log [an extra hour or half hour] of On-Air participation credit
for sending formal traffic during a scheduled net. Credit for this activity should
be 0.5 hr.
Message via
RMS/Winlink
RF only
Members are allowed to claim an additional 15 minutes of ON-AIR time for
each message sent via a MARS radio gateway (HF or VHF) to the WinLink
system.
BST Members shall receive On-Air participation credit for the actual time spent
supporting the BST.
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.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 50
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, 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.
On-Air Participation time is defined as all actual on-air time spent supporting the MARS
mission (includes AFMARS, Army MARS, 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. Members’ participation time shall be computed as the actual time checked in to the
net.
3.5.1.2. Participation credit shall be given to member stations that have full transmitting and
receiving capabilities.
3.5.1.3. Participation credit for stations acting as NCS or ANCS shall be twice the scheduled
time for that net.
NOTE: Monitoring only shall not count for participation credit, with the exception noted
for ECOM events.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 51
3.5.2. Non On-Air Participation Time.
Non on-air Participation time is defined as all off-air time spent supporting the MARS mission.
Questions regarding what constitutes non on-air participation should be directed to individual
SMD. Some examples of non-On-Air participation are listed below.
3.5.2.1. Billeted members count time spent on the off-air aspects of billet duties as “non-On-
Air”.
3.5.2.2. Work on MARS special projects assigned by the Technical Services Manager,
RMD, or SMD shall be credited as “non-On-Air” by the member based on the actual time
spent.
3.5.2.3. Support of actual or training emergency and/or contingency operations shall be
credited as “non-On-Air” based on the actual time spent.
3.5.2.4. Attendance at a formally organized MARS meeting or conference, travel hours and
actual attendance time shall be credited as “non-On-Air”.
3.5.2.5. Members attending a formally organized Region, or State conference are entitled to
full participation credit for one quarter. The member may choose which quarter to apply the
credit to up to one year after the conference.
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.
Figure 3.6-1: Participation Summary Reports
Roll-up Due Dates
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 52
3.6.1. Member Monthly Report.
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.
3.6.1.1. Member Monthly Report Content.
Each Member station shall provide the following information to their respective SMD prior to the
5th of each month.
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Call Sign All On-Air
Hours
All Non On-Air
Hours
BST
Hours
All
Messages
Month
(##)
Year
(##)
Table 3.6.1-1: Member Monthly Participation Report version 1
Figure 3.6.1-1: Member Monthly Participation Report version 2
3.6.1.2. Message and Report Formant.
There are two recommended ways to email you reports to the SMD. They are as follows:
3.6.1.2.1 Copy-Paste Table 3.5.1-1 into the body of a word processor (e.g. MS word),
complete and save a copy for your records, attach the document to an email and send it
to your SMD.
3.6.1.2.2 Or alternatively, type the information in Table 3.5.1-2 into the body of an email
message and send to your SMD.
3.6.1.2.3 Email message should be addressed as follows:
3.6.1.2.2.1 TO: [SMD email address]
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 53
3.6.1.2.2.2 SUBJECT: [Member’s Call Sign: Member Participation Report mm/yyyy]
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Call Sign All On-Air
Hours
All Non On-Air
Hours
BST
Hours
All
Messages
Month
(##)
Year
(##)
AGA5C 20 15 5 10 06 17
Table 3.6.1-2: Member Monthly Participation Report version 1 example
3.6.2. Member Base Support Team (BST).
Time. BST time is included as a category on the member's report, and will be included as part
of the Non On-Air Time summary in the SMD roll up. The BST time is available per member
at the SMD level and reported in the Non On-Air 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.
1 2 3 4 5 6
Call Sign State Name All On-Air
Hours All Non-Air
hours All
Messages Quarter
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 SMD. 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, three
number report. The SMD is going to send a single line, three number report for the state to the
region. The Region in turn submits a single line, three number report to NRM, consisting of the
totals for all of 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.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 54
1 2 3 4 5 6
Call Sign Region All On-Air
Hours All Non-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.
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 silent key
from the AFMARS Program.
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. 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.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 55
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: 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. Enquire of your SMD if your Region has a preferred format.
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.
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 Chief, USAF MARS) 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.
Chapter 4.0.
PERSONNEL ACTIONS
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 57
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:
4.5.1. Member notifies their SMD of the pending relocation and requests their membership be
transferred to the gaining Region. The loosing 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.
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 Chief, USAF MARS 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 Chief, USAF MARS may wave reinstatement time lines on a case-by-case basis.
4.7. Extenuating Circumstances.
The Chief, USAF MARS:
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 58
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, in excess of 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.
Table 4.8-1: AF Form 3661 Actions and Responsibilities
Required Action Requester
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
Phone Patch Network Assignment SMD NPPNM CAFM, NRM, DRM, RMD, SMD, Individual
Mission 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
HF RMS / Winlink Station 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, Individual
FCC License Renewal SMD SMD NRM, RMD, RRM, SMD, Individual
Transfer Region SMD SMD NRM, RMD, RRM, Gaining SMD, Loosing
SMD, Individual
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 59
4.8. Assignment Actions Requiring AF Form 3661 Preparation.
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.
AF Form 3661 must contain certain specific information in each element.
4.8.2.1. The “TO” block must contain the members name and address including the postal
ZIP+4 postal ZIP Code. In addition 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.”
AF Form 3661
(Required Information)
Generic
Call
Billet
Call
AFT
Call
FCC
Call
Date FCC
Expiration
AF 3661
Start Date
AF 3661 End
Date
Primary Assignment
Training Assignment
Post Training
BST Assignment
FCC License Renewal
Billet Assignment
Billet Termination
Member Resignation
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.”
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 60
Table 4.8.2.3-1: AF Form 3661 Comments Section Required Elements
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 4.2.-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 member successfully completes the required training, the RTM shall notify
the RMD, and the respective SMD. The RMD shall complete the process transitioning the
member in training Section 2.6(f). 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 Chief, USAF MARS. The SMD shall forward a copy of AF Form 3661
to the Chief, USAF MARS and the RMD for distribution. Only the Chief, USAF MARS
shall sign AF Form 3661 terminating a member for cause. Any terminated member may
appeal to the Chief, USAF MARS for reinstatement.
4.8.3.3. All RMD, SMD, and Special Net Managers (NPPNM, 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.
4.8.3.4. Computer generated substitutes for AF Form 3661 as authorized are encouraged,
but must include all required data.
4.8.3.5. 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). A RMD may grant an additional six-months, upon request and based on special
Member Termination
Member Inactive
Member Return From
Inactive
Member Deceased
Change of Location
MARS Call Change
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 61
consideration with full justification, such as nursing home resident, 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 Chief,
USAF MARS, may grant waivers beyond one year.
4.8.3.6. The SMD shall initiate all AF Form 3661 actions for terminations, resignations, and
“Silent Keys”. The SMD shall sign all of the foregoing actions except terminations for cause,
which must be forwarded to the Chief, USAF MARS 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
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 are addressed
in Section 10. These procedures do not require an AF Form 3661 action.
4.12. Reserve Points Procedure.
Procedures for granting military members Reserve points based on service in MARS and, in certain
cases, weight exemptions for transportation of MARS communication equipment are also
addressed in Section 10 and do not require an AF Form 3661 action.
5.1. Scope.
The purpose of this Section is to establish uniform procedures, policy, and standards for operation
between AFMARS and Army MARS at the National, Regional and State levels, as well as other
authorized agencies and organizations. MARS is effectively a single contingency communications
system, with two cooperating branches. Organizational differences shall not impede the providing
communications services when and where needed.
5.2. Interoperability - Army MARS.
AFMARS, both as an organization and individual stations shall facilitate and participate in all
authorized communications, unless otherwise restricted in this Section. AFMARS
interoperability is authorized on a global basis subject to the following:
5.2.1. AFMARS station shall comply with any operational restriction placed on such operations
when not conducted on AFMARS frequencies by the frequency owner.
5.2.2. AFMARS stations are authorized to use any MARS VHF circuits for digital and voice
communications within the frequency owners established guidelines.
5.2.3. The provisions of interoperability, do not apply to AFMARS HF Phone Patch Nets and
Mission Support Nets.
5.2.4. AFMARS stations with a prefix of “AFT” designation are not authorized as NCS stations
on jointly operated nets between AFMARS and any other entity.
5.3. Interoperability other Government Organizations.
AFMARS, both as an organization and as individual stations, shall facilitate and participate in
all authorized communications, unless otherwise restricted in this Section with the following
Government Organizations.
5.3.1. Active duty/Reserve military stations/units.
Regardless of branch or location, to include:
5.3.1.1. Fixed assets.
Chapter 5.0.
INTEROPERABILITY
NOTE: The list provided herewith is not intended to be an exhaustive list, rather
a compendium of common example stations.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 63
5.3.1.2. Airborne assets.
5.3.1.3. Mobile assets.
5.3.1.4. Seaborne assets.
5.3.2. National Guard stations/units.
Regardless of branch or location, to include:
5.3.2.1. Fixed assets.
5.3.2.2. Airborne assets
5.3.2.3. Mobile assets.
5.3.2.4. Seaborne assets.
5.3.3. Stations authorized by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
To include:
5.3.3.1. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
5.3.3.2. FEMA Disaster Assistance.
5.3.3.3. Transportation Security Administration (TSA).
5.3.3.4. U.S. Coast Guard & Auxiliary.
5.3.3.5. Community Emergency Readiness Team (CERT).
5.3.3.6. Federal Law Enforcement Training Center.
5.3.3.7. Secret Service.
5.3.3.8. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
5.3.3.9. SHARES HF Interoperability Working Group stations.
5.3.4. Civil Air Patrol stations/units, regardless of location, to include:
5.3.7.1. Fixed assets.
5.3.7.2. Airborne assets.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 64
5.3.7.3. Mobile assets.
5.3.5. National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).
5.3.6. US Department of Agriculture.
5.3.7. US Department of Interior.
5.3.8. US Department of Energy.
5.3.9. US Department of Transportation.
5.3.10. US Department of Defense.
5.3.11. US Veterans Administration.
5.4. Interoperability - Non-Government Organizations (Ngo).
AFMARS, both as an organization and individual stations shall facilitate and participate in all
authorized communications, unless otherwise restricted in this Section with the following Non-
Governmental Organizations.
5.4.1. The American Red Cross (ARC).
5.4.2. American Radio Relay League (ARRL).
5.4.3. Salvation Army Team Emergency Radio Net (SATERN).
5.4.4. Any state or state sponsored emergency operations center (EOC).
5.4.5. State sponsored Militia.
5.5. Special Authorizations.
In the case of special circumstances or exercise purposes the CAFM may from time authorize
operations with other stations or groups other that those listed herein. Such authorizations shall be
issued in writing or other electronic means to the Region MARS Director(s) of the affected
region(s).
NOTE: The list provided herewith is not intended to be an exhaustive list, rather a
compendium of common example stations.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 65
5.6. Joint-Service Interoperability Net (JSIN).
To promote and facilitate enhanced interoperability between MARS branches, each Region MARS
Director may authorize Joint Service Interoperability Net (JSIN) on an “as needed” basis without
further authority.
5.6.1. The JSIN.
5.6.1.1. JSIN shall operate on a schedule and frequency agreed upon by the MARS Directors
of the two MARS branches.
5.6.1.2. JSIN NCS duties shall be mutually shared between Army and Air Force MARS
branches.
5.6.1.3. JSIN nets may be established on HF and/or VHF and may operate utilizing all
approved operational modes (i.e., multi-mode).
5.6.1.4. JSIN procedures shall be established by the Region MARS Directors to ensure
proper participation credit is granted to participating MARS stations by their respective
MARS branch.
5.6.2. Net Control Stations.
The host Net Control Station is the governing authority on all procedures during the operation
of the net. Participants should be cognizant of the fact that individual net control stations may
not necessarily operate any given net exactly alike. Participating AFMARS stations are required
to be flexible in order to accommodate such individual differences.
5.7. Policy Guidance for Message Traffic.
Unless otherwise directed, the following policy is provided concerning voice or digital message
traffic:
5.7.1. Precedence.
Message precedence shall not be changed.
5.7.2. Service’s Policy.
Messages entered into another service’s network must comply with that Service’s policies.
Under no circumstances shall the text of any message be altered, except by the originator.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 66
5.7.3. Encryption.
Encrypted messages shall be handled in accordance with encryption policies found elsewhere
in this document.
5.7.4. Policy Compliance.
All other message traffic policies shall be complied in accordance with relevant controlling
documents in use.
5.8. Phone Patch Network.
The AFMARS Phone Patch Network shall honor phone patch requests from units of any military
branches and any other such authorized users. The AFMARS Phone Patch Network shall be
operated in a manner transparent to any particular authorized user, regardless of service origin.
NOTE: The Allied Communications Publications provide the foundation for MARS
radio operations, however minor procedural variations are authorized to meet
customer/mission requirements.
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.
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.
6.1.4. Whenever possible, messages or information requiring protection from disclosure will be
encrypted for transmission on open radio circuits on unsecured electronic media. AFMARS
stations will use the best level of privacy available, e.g., Encryption Wizard software
(EWPublic) or Off-Line TRANSEC 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.
Chapter 6.0.
PROTECTION OF SENSITIVE INFORMATION
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 68
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."
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.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 69
6.5. Safeguarding Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI).
6.5.1. Access to CUI.
Reasonable steps shall be taken at all times 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.
All AFMARS members shall familiarize themselves with the requirements for protecting CUI as
outlined in the aforementioned DoD Manual, DoD Directive, and DoD Instruction.
AFMARS members are required to complete the following training courses at least once.
Refresher training will be accomplished on a 24 month training cycle. Forward the completion
certificate to your SMD.
6.6.2. PII Training.
Identifying and Safeguarding Personally Identifiable Information (PII) Version 2.0 or latest,
available via: http://iatraining.disa.mil/eta/piiv2/launchPage.htm
6.6.3. Cyber Training.
Cyber Awareness Challenge, Federal version, available via:
http://iatraining.disa.mil/eta/cyberchallenge/launchpage.htm
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)”.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 70
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.)
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
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 72
Likewise, responses prepared by the AFMARS staff shall be returned 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 member’s call sign shall be
included on the first line of the return address.
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
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 74
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 Chief, USAF MARS. 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:
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 75
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.
8.5.4. Attendance Participation.
At least three (3) hours of participation time shall be given for local and/or state meetings,
taking into account the length of the meeting and the travel time required by attending members.
In no case shall participation credit exceed the length of the meeting. This participation credit
shall be recorded as Non On-Air Time.
9.1. Scope.
The DoD MARS Disaster Support ID card (DD form 2350) is to identify that the bearer is a MARS
operator and upon authorization from a competent on-scene authority may be granted access to
provide communications for the situation at hand. This identification card does not grant
permission to access any military installation. The USAF MARS Chief or a designated
representative shall accomplish the following:
9.2. DD Form 2350 Issue and Control.
Control, safeguard, and account for all issued and non-issued DoD MARS Disaster Support
Identification Cards for all AFMARS members.
9.3. ID Control Log.
Establish a control log containing at minimum:
9.3.1. Numbering.
The inclusive numbers of the initial supply of ID cards and the date received, i.e., “ID Card
Numbers A04000 through A04100 received 15 Nov 1994.”
9.3.2. Log Data.
Subsequent issue of ID cards shall be logged in Microsoft Excel in sequential order (lowest
number first) with the following information: Recipient Name, AFMARS Call Sign, Date of
Issue, Date of Expiration, and AFMARS ID Control Number.
9.3.3. Log Retention.
The DoD MARS Disaster Support Identification Card (DD 2350) Issue and Control Log shall
be retained for a minimum five (5) years.
9.4. ID Recovery.
Recover all the expired and cancelled DD2350 ID cards. Expired and cancelled DD2350 ID cards
will be returned to HQ USAF MARS for destruction.
9.5. ID Security.
Safeguard all ID cards not yet issued in a secure container.
Chapter 9.0.
MARS IDENTIFICATION CARDS
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 77
9.6. ID Processing.
In order to ensure proper handling the following procedures shall be followed:
9.6.1. Prepare ID card transmittal letter.
9.6.2. Mail (e-mail) transmittal letter to the member.
9.6.3. The member shall sign the transmittal letter and return via mail or scanned as an Adobe
.pdf and send to Chief, USAF MARS via e-mail (e-mail address listed on transmittal letter).
The member will provide the Chief, USAF MARS with a high quality digital head/shoulders
photograph against a neutral background in .jpg/.jpeg file format for the ID photo.
9.6.4. Upon receipt of the transmittal letter and digital photo from the member, the Chief, USAF
MARS shall match the member’s signature on the transmittal letter to the signature found on
the AFMARS Application Form.
9.6.5. The Chief, USAF MARS shall generate the ID card and send the ID card to the member.
9.6.6. The transmittal letter shall be filed in the member’s personnel file.
9.7. ID Expiration.
The ID card is valid for the term of MARS members FCC license. The DD Form 2350 ID card is
valid only, while the member issued the card is still active in the capacity requiring the ID card.
Once the member is no longer active in AF AMRS, or upon termination/resignation of the member,
the member shall send the ID card back to the HQ USAF MARS.
9.8. Limited Issuance.
The issuance of the DD Form 2350 shall be limited to personnel who have successfully completed
FEMA courses ICS-100b, ICS-200b, ICS-700a, and ICS-800b. Members shall submit a narrative
justification with their request for a MARS ID to Chief, USAF MARS.
NOTE: If an AFMARS Application Form is not on file at HQ USAF MARS, the member
requesting the ID card shall fill out an application and forward it to the Chief, USAF MARS.
A digital signature is not acceptable.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 78
DEPARTMENT OF THE AIR FORCE 38TH CYBERSPACE READINESS SQUADRON (AFSPC) SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE ILLINOIS
DD/MM/YYYY
MEMORANDUM FOR
FROM: 38 CYRS/SCM
203 W. Losey St Scott AFB,
IL 62225
SUBJECT: US DoD MARS ID Card, DD2350 Transmittal
1. The DD Form 2350, MARS Disaster Support ID Card, Control Number: XXXXXX will be
forwarded to: Name Here upon signature of this transmittal letter. This card expires on:
DD/MM/YYYY.
2. Verify the accuracy of the information in the first endorsement section of this letter.
3. Sign and date the first endorsement section of this letter then return this letter to: 38 CYRS/SCM
(AF MARS).
1st Endorsement
TO: 38 CYRS/SCM (AF MARS)
1. I acknowledge receipt of the transmittal letter, Control Number: XXXXXX.
2. I understand the DD Form 2350 will not guarantee me access to any emergency or disaster area.
I further understand the DD Form 2350 will not allow access to any military installation, unless
approved by the Installation Commander under provisions set by the Installation Commander.
3. I will not duplicate the DD Form 2350 in any form.
4. Upon termination/resignation of my MARS membership or expiration of the DD Form 2350,
whichever comes first, I will return DD Form 2350 to: 38 CYRS/SCM (AF MARS)
Signature: Date signed:
______________________________________________________________________________
Figure 9.8-1: DD Form 2350 MARS ID card Transmittal Sheet
XD A V ID J . S T A P C H U K , C IV , D A F
C H IE F , A F M A R S
10.1. Scope.
In accordance with DoDI 4650.02, all AFMARS members are entitled to a number of benefits
associated with DoD civilian service that accrue as a direct result of that members MARS
membership.
10.2. Eligible Members.
AFMARS member participation in military morale, welfare, and recreation programs shall be
governed by DoD Instruction 1015.10, “Military Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR)
Programs,” and the associated DoD Issuances it references.
10.3. Eligibility.
Members of the Air Force Guard and Reserve Components are eligible to receive Service credit
toward retirement as a result of membership in the AFMARS program. Credit shall be granted in
accordance with DoD Instruction 1215.07, “Service Credit for Reserve Retirement.”
10.4. Additional Benefits.
Additional benefits, as applicable, shall be determined on the basis of other DoD documentation
and guidance.
10.4.1. MARS members seeking specific benefits or information on specific benefits not
covered by the above references shall contact the members’ SMD for further information or to
request clarification of procedures necessary to obtain such benefits.
10.4.2. Each SMD is encouraged to engage the normal chain of command for assistance in
answering inquiries regarding additional benefits or procedures not addressed above or in the
above-referenced documentation.
Chapter 10.0.
MILITARY MORALE, WELFARE, AND RECREATION PROGRAM
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
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 81
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.
NOTE: Members already issued the “/T” shall continue to use “AFA#xx/T” until the
training is completed.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 82
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.
Billet call signs are assigned in addition to a member’s generic call signs to indicate that the
members is filling a specialized position.
11.9.1. National, TRANSGLOBAL, MSN, PPN, 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.
11.10. National Level Billet Call Signs.
The Chief, USAF MARS, 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 Chief, USAF MARS. Table 11.10.-1contains 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) Chief, USAF MARS
AFN#G {N#G} National Director, TRANSGLOBAL Operations
(NDTO) Chief, USAF MARS
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)
National Director,
TRANSGLOBAL HF
Operations
AFD#L {D#L} Deputy Director, Automatic Link Establishment
(ALE) Operations (DDALEO)
National Director,
TRANSGLOBAL HF
Operations
AFD#R {D#R} Deputy Director, TRANSGLOBAL Radio Relay
(DDTRRO)
National Director,
TRANSGLOBAL HF
Operations
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 83
AFN#E {N#E} National Emergency Coordinator (NEC) Deputy Chief, USAF MARS
AFD#E {D#E} National Emergency Coordinator(DNEC)
National
National Emergency
Coordinator
AFN#F {N#F} Military Liaison (NML) Chief, USAF MARS
AFN#O {N#O} National Operations Director (NOD) Chief, USAF MARS
AFN#I {N#I} National Public Information Officer(NPIO) Chief, USAF MARS
AFN#W {N#W} National Planning Coordinator (NPC) Chief, USAF MARS
AFN#P {N#P} National Phone Patch Network Manager
(NPPNM) Chief, USAF MARS
AFD#P {D#P} Deputy National Phone Patch Network Manager
(DNPPNM)
National Phone Patch
Network Manager
AFN#N {N#N} National Records Manager (NRM) Chief, USAF MARS
AFN#T {N#T} National Training Manager (NTM) Chief, USAF MARS
AFD#T {D#T} Deputy National Training Manager (DNTM) National Training
Manager
AFN#S {N#S} National Mission Support Network Manager
(NMSNM) Chief, USAF MARS
AFD#S {D#S} Deputy National Mission Support Network
Manager (DNMSNM)
National Mission Support
Network Manager
AFN#M {N#M} National Technical Services Manager (NTSM) Chief, USAF MARS
AFN#V {N#V} National VHF Coordinator (NVC) Chief, USAF MARS
AFN#X {N#X} National Exercise Coordinator (NXC) Chief, USAF MARS
AFD#X {D#X} Deputy National Exercise Coordinator (DNXC) National Exercise
Coordinator
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.
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.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 84
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, Deputy State MARS Director, and State Emergency Coordinator 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) Chief, USAF MARS
AFD#ss {Dss} Deputy State MARS Director (DSMD) State MARS Director
AFE#ss {Ess} State Emergency Coordinator (SEC) 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”, and SEC prefix is “AFE”)
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) Chief, USAF MARS
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
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 85
11.13. Digital Station Call Signs.
Special call signs for the TRANSGLOBAL PACTOR Network Primary Message Center (PMC)
stations and the USAF MARS Winlink Radio Message Server (RMS) Network stations are
described in the following subparagraphs.
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 “1” to “9” and “0”;
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 the Chief USAF MARS or his designee. Local and/or
Regional BBS Stations will use the stations generic MARS call signs.
Call Sign PMC Assignment
AFB#MC 1st National TRANSGLOBAL Digital Network PMC in a given region
AFC#MC 2nd National TRANSGLOBAL Digital Network PMC in a given
region AFG#MC 3rd National TRANSGLOBAL Digital Network PMC in a given
region Table 11.13.1.2-1: PMC Station Call Sign Assignment
11.13.2. TRANSGLOBAL Digital Network RMS Stations.
Call signs for the AFMARS Radio Message Server (RMS) Stations in the Joint- MARS
WinLink Network consist of the prefix “AFB” for the first RMS in a given State, or “AFC” for
the second RMS in the same State, or “AFG” for the third RMS in the same State; a number
from “1” to “9” and “0”; and the two-letter USPS Digraph for the state where the RMS Stations
is located.
Call Sign RMS Assignment AFB#ss 1st RMS Station in a given state (ss denotes two-letter State abbreviation)
AFC#ss 2nd RMS Station in a given state (ss denotes two-letter State abbreviation)
AFG#ss 3rd RMS Station in a given state (ss denotes two-letter State abbreviation)
Table 11.13.2-1: RMS Station Call Sign Assignment
11.13.3. VHF Secondary Station Identifiers (SSID).
11.13.3.1. 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.
11.13.3.2. The Table contains a listing of the current Secondary Station Identifiers (SSID)
as applicable to VHF Packet Stations.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 86
Table 11.13.3-1: Secondary Station Identifiers (SSID)
11.13.3.3. 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 Chief, USAF MARS, for approval and those AFMARS Special Event
Stations approved by the Chief shall be registered with the National Records Manager.
11.14.1.2. The Chief, USAF MARS 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 Chief, 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 Air Force MARS Club Station Call Signs.
Civil Agency and MARS club stations currently licensed as Army MARS may participate on any
open Air Force MARS net utilizing their Army MARS call sign.
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.
-10 RMS Packet Stations and RMS HF Sound card mode stations (optional).
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.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 87
11.15.1. Club Station Association with AFMARS.
Civil club stations wishing to associate themselves as Air Force MARS stations may do so by
submitting an application to Headquarters Air Force MARS. The station trustee must possess
a current FCC amateur radio license. Qualification for Air Force MARS licensing will be on a
case- by-case basis and determined by the Chief Air Force MARS.
11.15.2. Approval of AFMARS Club Stations.
The following criteria shall be utilized for approval of AFMARS Club Stations:
11.16.2.1. Chief Air Force MARS will issue all Club Station call sign.
11.16.2.2. Club Stations will be assigned geographically.
11.16.2.3. The Club Station Air Force MARS license will expire on the same date as the
trustee's FCC amateur radio call sign.
11.16.2.4. Changes in trustee for Club Station requires the entity be relicensed. If or when a
trustee departs, the Air Force MARS the license is cancelled and must be renewed by
submission of an application showing the new trustee information.
11.16.1. “AFK” Prefix. The call sign convention for Club Stations will be the letters “AFK”
followed by the region number and two letters.
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 = Mission 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
Net Type Mode Day Increment
5 T X 1
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 88
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
11.16.2. 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 exceed 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.
11.16.3. Exceptions.
The following nets are exempt from this naming convention: Joint TRANSGLOBAL Network
(J0G), TRANSGLOBAL Radio Relay Network (TRR), Mission Support Network (MSN), and
Phone Patch Network (PPN).
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).
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 89
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”<Region#>xx to “AFZ”<Region#>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.
12.1. Scope.
Each message sent by MARS 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 the directives from the Chief, USAF MARS,
Region MARS Directors, and Net Managers. Message preparation and handling shall be consistent
with the AFMARS Messaging Manual and Annex.
12.2. Message Acceptance.
Acceptance of messages for transmission over the MARS network is a responsibility that should
not be taken lightly. The operator receiving traffic for injection into the MARS system bears certain
responsibilities relative to that action. Foremost is the in-station 24-hour handling time limit. Once
a message is accepted into the system, it must continue to flow until it reaches its destination or
after a sufficient number of attempts have failed, whereby it is determined to be undeliverable. The
originating station operator is the individual who must utilize good judgment and the guidelines
presented herein relative to acceptance of messages.
Unclassified, For Official Use Only (FOUO) information and Personally Identifiable Information
(PII) may be sent by MARS but must be encrypted for transmission only (EFTO). Refer to Section
6, Protection of Sensitive Information for more detailed information.
12.3. Message Preparation.
For message preparation instructions and formats see the AFMARS Messaging Manual and Annex.
12.4. Unacceptable Message Categories.
The following categories of messages shall not be accepted for transmission via the MARS
network:
12.4.1. Initial notification of death. Unless specifically addressed to the Red Cross, the Chaplain
Service, or Commander, First Sergeant, etc. initial notifications of death are NOT accepted.
12.4.2. Messages in a foreign language. Otherwise, only individual words are allowed if
commonly used and understood. For example, a message shall not be refused because the sender
ends it with “Adios”.
12.4.3. Nonsensical or whimsical messages.
12.4.4. Obscene, derogatory, or demeaning messages.
Chapter 12.0.
MESSAGES
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 91
12.4.5. Messages bearing precedence higher than “Immediate (O)” (Exception: Military
stations).
12.4.6. Business transactions (messages to mail order houses, banks, or to business firms
requesting a product or service).
12.4.7. Official traffic, regardless of the mode used, shall not be entered into amateur nets for
further transmission or relay, except as directed by Chief USAF MARS.
12.4.8. Classified, Controlled but Unclassified Information (CUI), or Sensitive But
Unclassified (SBU) information. Refer to Section 6, Protection of Sensitive Information for
more detailed information.
12.5. Message Refusal.
Refusal to accept a message must be accomplished in a tactful and courteous manner. The offer must
be made to help the originator rewrite the message so it still conveys the writer's thoughts but
satisfies the guidelines established in this MOI. If the sender is displeased and wishes to address
this problem to a higher authority, the sender shall be advised to contact the USAF MARS
Headquarters in writing, outlining in detail the grievance.
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.
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 ARMY MARS 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.
Chapter 13.0. HF NETWORK
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 93
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.
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 only (EFTO).
13.7.1. 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. All message traffic, unless otherwise directed which is destined to outside nets / stations,
to include Army, and DOD shall be encrypted utilizing the current TRANSEC program and
appropriate keys.
13.7.3. Any traffic, which poses an operational security violation if sent in the clear, shall also
be encrypted.
13.8. Frequency Use.
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 Air Force MARS frequency, even if the identity of the requesting station
cannot be authenticated.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 94
13.9. Verification.
AFMARS frequencies and circuits support SHARES, DoD and other federal agencies. All stations
should presume stations checking into a net or requesting assistance to be authorized users.
13.10. Reporting Suspicious Use.
All Net Control Stations should be aware of the possibility that unfamiliar though legitimate
stations may transmit on Air Force MARS frequencies at any time and should report any such
activity that appears suspicious or improper to National Operations Director (NOD) through their
chain of command.
13.11. Shared Resources High Frequency Radio Program.
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.
13.12. 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.
13.12.1. 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.
13.12.2. Data Modes.
The following digital modes of operation are authorized on AFMARS frequencies: CW,
M110A, Olivia, MT-63, MFSK-16, or RTTY. Or any data mode negotiated between the
sending and receiving stations.
13.12.3. Primary Data Mode.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 95
The most current released version of M110A shall be the primary mode of data operation when
AFMARS stations are participating in actual or exercise operations with Army, 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. 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.
13.14. Tactical Phone Patch.
If a MARS station is requested to provide a phone patch outside the Phone Patch network, the
station shall follow the procedures listed in the Phone Patch Procedures Manual.
13.15. Inappropriate Transmissions.
13.15.1. Inappropriate transmissions on MARS frequencies shall not be tolerated and are
grounds for termination from the MARS program. Inappropriate transmissions include:
13.15.1.1. Statements of a political nature.
13.15.1.2. Use of derogatory or profane language.
13.15.1.3. Statements detrimental to the MARS program.
13.15.1.4. Language that brings discredit upon the member or the MARS program.
13.15.1.5. Use of voice break in operation i.e., voice operated transmission (VOX), is NOT
authorized.
13.15.1.6. Speech compression is NOT authorized.
13.15.1.7. Inappropriate background noise, such as music, TV, and/or commercial radio
station audio, and computer “event sounds”.
13.15.2. Conversations on MARS frequencies shall be limited to MARS business at all times.
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.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 96
13.15.3. 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.
13.16. 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.
13.16.1. 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
13.16.1.1. Requests for changes in HF frequency assignments, modifications and related
matters shall be originated by an RMD.
13.16.1.2. The AFM-SMG will coordinate and assign all operating frequencies in
accordance with AFM authorized frequencies lists, operational and geographical
considerations
13.16.1.3. Most HF operations on assigned frequencies are on a secondary basis
13.16.1.4. All authorized HF frequencies are a shared resource with authorization to use
same, automatically extended to other authorized military / government users.
13.16.1.5. Every effort will be made to accommodate legitimate requests, however there are
limited frequency resources available.
13.16.1.6. Requests outside of the scope of authority defined here may require CAFM
approval.
13.16.2. 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
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.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 97
will contain a call sign, operational limitations and expiration date. Call sign sequences
beginning with “AFX” will be used for this purpose.
13.16.3. 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.
13.16.4. 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.
13.16.5. 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.
NOTE: During exercise operations, signal degradation techniques, jamming and similar
methodology may be utilized as part of the exercise. These are not reportable observations.
14.1. Scope.
The AFMARS Phone Patch Network, provides a service under the Department of Defense, for
Military, designated Federal or State agency units in flight or on the ground to make official
business patches, morale phone patches and radio checks via an authorized MARS phone patch
station.
14.2. Closed Net.
The AFMARS Phone Patch Network is a closed net requiring specific assignment by AF Form
3661 action. Member assignment to this network shall be made by the National Phone Patch
Network Manager (NPPNM), in response to a member's phone patch network application, or
forwarded from the member’s SMD. The member's SMD shall coordinate the member's
acceptance to the net with NPPNM. Assignment will be based on the needs of the net as determined
by the NPPNM. Air Force and Army MARS Members may be assigned to this net. Additionally
on a limited and as needed basis new applicants who meet membership requirements and the
special requirements detailed in section 14.3 of this MOI may apply for direct assignment to the
PPN. These applicants are vetted and approved by the NPPNM and coordinated through CAFM.
14.3. Special Requirements.
There are special requirements, which each individual member must meet prior to being assigned
to the Phone Patch Network.
14.3.1. Comply with the Phone Patch Network Procedures Manual.
14.3.2. Capability to operate on assigned network frequencies as designated by the NPPNM.
14.3.3. RF output power of at least 600 watts.
14.3.4. Rotatable directional antenna on primary and higher frequencies.
14.3.5. Minimum of 36 On-Air net hours per quarter participation is required.
14.3.6. Nationwide telephone (toll-free) capability.
14.3.7. Internet (email/browser) capability for internal communications and operation.
Chapter 14.0.
PHONE PATCH NETWORK (PPN)
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 99
14.4. Base Support Team PPN Participation.
Individual certified Base Support Team (BST) members, meeting the special requirements, can
participate in the phone patch net.
14.4.8. A BST station may be a member of the phone patch network as long as the phone patch
network manager has assigned the individual operators to the phone patch network with the
concurrence of the BST manager while operating the BST station.
14.4.9. The individual BST operators must have completed PPN training and are the only
operators of the BST authorized to participate in the phone patch network.
14.4.10. The Phone Patch Network Procedures Manual shall determine operation.
14.5. Phone Patch Network Participation.
Phone Patch Network has special reporting requirements:
14.5.1. Weekly PPN Participation Reporting.
All Phone Patch 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 NPPNM.
14.5.2. Monthly PPN Participation Reporting.
Phone Patch Network participation shall be self-reported monthly to the individual member’s
SMD prior to the 5th of each month. The phone patch network member shall copy all monthly
reports to the NPPNM noting how many hours were spent on the phone patch net.
14.5.3. Phone Patch Network Procedures.
The MARS operator is responsible for proper operation and procedures of the phone patch net.
Specific procedures and operation instructions are contained in the Phone Patch Network
Procedures Manual.
14.5.4. Phone Patch Discussions.
Discussion of classified information during a MARS phone patch is not authorized. MARS
operators are not expected to determine the classified nature of phone patch 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 phone patch circuits prior
to the patch being initiated.
15.1. Scope
The mission of the Mission Support Network (MSN) is to provide contingency radio
communications support to the DoD Components and to support civil authorities in fulfillment of
DoD responsibilities under DoDI 4650.02 and DoDD 5111.13. 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.
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 and civilian government agencies (under the Defense Support to Civilian Authorities
protocol).
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 is in charge of 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.
Chapter 15.0.
MISSION 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, SHARES, or other authorized civilian Government
agency station(s).
1.3.4.2.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 101
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 maintains
full control over all assigned MSN frequencies at all times.
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 determine 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.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 102
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.
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 Phone Patch
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
Phone Patch Network Procedures Manual.
15.6. MSN Assignment.
The MSN requires specific assignment by AF Form 3661.
15.6.1. Assignment Authority.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 103
Assignment to the MSN shall be made by the National Mission 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
civilian government officials.
15.6.3. Mission 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. MSM 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 Mission Support Network. These include:
15.7.2. Ability to operate on assigned network frequencies.
15.7.3. RF output and antennas capable of reliable communications with the Mission Support
Network NCS, ANCS and MSN User stations.
15.7.4. 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.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 104
15.8. MSN Participation.
Mission 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.
15.9. MSN Station Logs.
Mission 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 Phone Patch Network Procedures Manual.
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.
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.
Chapter 16.0.
VHF NETWORK
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 106
16.3.1.2. Applications are handled on a first come first serve basis.
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 11.12 and 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.
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.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 107
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”.
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). Additionally equipment must be FCC type approved or accepted.
16.3.9. Grandfather and Sunset Clause.
Wideband VHF systems (25 kHz) that were in service prior to January 1, 2013 may continue
to operate until December 31, 2018. After this date, all non-compliant equipment must be
removed from service.
16.3.10. 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.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 108
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. An 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.
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.
Army MARS 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).
NOTE: Recommend obtaining legal assistance when drafting an MOA.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 109
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.
16.8.4. If VHF ports to Internet e-mail (such as, but not limited to, Winlink.org, or 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.
17.1. 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.
Chapter 17.0.
DIGITAL NETWORKS
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 111
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.
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.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 112
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.
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.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 113
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.
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. Joint MARS Service HF RMS/Winlink Network.
The primary purpose of the Winlink radio e-mail system is to provide inter-agency and inter-
service support for broken internet e-mail links; to provide command and control messaging
between MARS chains-of-command; to provide emergency communications (ECOM); to provide
morale and welfare messages on behalf of military personnel and their families; and to provide a
means of passing messages between individual MARS members.
17.4.1. Winlink Requirements.
The Winlink requirements include computer software compatible with the Winlink network. A
MARS member connecting to the RMS/Winlink network by any method shall trigger a
background process that registers the call sign and creates an e-mail address on the
RMS/Winlink system and the Winlink website (www.winlink.org). Specific software for
Winlink is available on the website or from DDTDO.
17.4.2. RMS Station Capabilities.
MARS members (end-users) are encouraged to assemble and operate stations capable of
connecting to existing RMS HF stations. A portable and/or deployable Winlink/RMS-capable
station is also desirable.
17.4.3. RMS HF Application.
Application to operate a Radio Message Server (RMS) is processed through the DDTDO.
Preference will be given to RMS Tri-Mode stations with PACTOR 2, or better, capability set
up for RF only backup operation (Hybrid stations). Only full time RMS HF stations capable of
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 114
at least PACTOR 2, will be issued RMS call signs (Section 11.12). All others will use generic
call signs or TDN message center call signs, if part of the TDN.
17.4.3.1. SysOps are always responsible for the lawful operation of their stations. RMS
gateways that remain off-line or do not report to Winlink Servers for extended periods, or
fail to operate with current software are automatically removed from the network first, and
then issues are worked out. Portable or temporary stations should be tested on a regular basis
to maintain readiness; otherwise inactive stations are automatically purged.
17.4.3.2. The DDTDO shall coordinate with the MARS RMS/Winlink System
Administrator. The proposed geographic location is then reviewed with the MARS
RMS/Winlink System Administrator to determine if the applicant’s location fits the needs
of the system.
17.4.3.3. The SysOps shall agree to the following guidelines:
17.4.3.3.1. Maintain stations both online and on-the-air 24x7x365.
17.4.3.3.2. Provide dedicated gateway equipment, preferably with emergency power.
Keep the gateway software current.
17.4.3.3.3. Report SysOp, station, service code, software version and frequency
information to Winlink servers through proper configuration of gateway software and
local network routers.
17.4.3.3.4. Subscribe to and stay current with the Winlink E-mail Reflectors For SysOps.
17.4.4. RMS HF Assignment.
Due to the commitment needed to operate an RMS HF on a 24 hour per day seven days a week
(24x7) basis, operators can be assigned to the RMS/Winlink as the primary net assignment;
such assignment action is made by AF Form 3661 personnel action by the individual member’s
SMD IAW Section 4.
17.4.5. VHF Packet Station.
VHF RMS Packet station operation is at the discretion of the MARS member; however,
coordination with SMD and RDNM is required, since operation of the station shall be on a VHF
Frequency under MARS members’ control. The setup of a VHF RMS Packet station also
requires registration and configuration through the MARS RMS/Winlink System
Administrator. A VHF RMS Packet station co-located with a RMS HF station is automatically
approved when the RMS HF station operation is approved.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 115
17.4.6. VHF Station Coordination POC.
The DDTDO coordinates with the MARS Radio Message Server (RMS)/Winlink System
Administrator and the NDTO to:
17.4.6.1. Provide frequencies that are shared as part of the Joint MARS Service HF
RMS/Winlink Network.
17.4.6.2. Assign the correct call signs to AFMARS Stations in the Joint MARS Service HF
RMS/Winlink Network.
17.5. 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.
17.5.1. CW Use.
CW may be used on AFMARS frequencies to support the primary MARS mission of
emergency/contingency communications.
17.5.2. CW Network.
Within the AFMARS program, a special net, the TRANSGLOBAL CW Network (TCN), may
be established solely for CW use.
17.5.1.1. TCN shall be an open CW Net.
17.5.1.2. All military unit stations and MARS members shall be allowed to participate.
17.5.1.3. 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.
17.6. TRANSGLOBAL Automatic Link Establishment (ALE) Network.
This Section establishes policy, standards, and procedures for operating on the
TRANSGLOBAL ALE Network.
17.6.1. 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,
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 116
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.
17.6.2. ALE Special Net.
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.
17.6.3. 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.
17.6.4. ALE Identifier.
Each AFMARS member participating on ALE nets must submit a request for an ALE identifier
with the DDALEO prior to transmitting on the ALE nets.
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 18.1 Definition –
An “Emeritus Member” (EM) is a member of the AFMARS program who shall be considered a
full member in good standing.
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.
18.4. Requirements for conversion from regular member to emeritus member.
Membership Period applicant must have been a member in good standing of any MARS program
for a combined period of at least 15 years.
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.
Chapter 18.0.
EMERITUS MEMBERSHIP
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 118
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 18.3 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
NOD 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 NOD will review and endorse the
nomination and forward it to CAFM for approval.
18.5.3.4. Chief AF MARS Actions. Upon approval by CAFM the RMD 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.
The EM designation is a lifetime appointment.
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
Table A1.3: AFMARS Documents
Document Version Title
AFMARS National ECOM Plan FEB 2013 AFMARS National Emergency Communications Plan
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 120
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 Mission Support Network Procedures Manual
AFMARS PPN Operational Procedures 1 MAR 2016
Rev 2.2b
AFMARS Phone Patch 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) Disaster
Support Identification Card
MARS Repeater/Digipeater
Application Form MARS application for VHF repeater
NOTE: In all cases, current release versions will supersede referenced documents.
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 121
Attachment 2
ACRONYMS
Acronym Meaning
a.k.a. also known as
AAR After Action Report
ACP Allied Communications Publication
AF Form
3661
MARS Personnel Actions Form
AF Form
3666
MARS Station License and Identification Card
AFMARS Air Force Military Auxiliary Radio System (the program)
AFB Air Force Base
AFB Prefix of call sign for Air Force MARS 1st in Region PMC/RMS Station
AFC Prefix of call sign for Air Force MARS 2nd in Region PMC/RMS Station
AFG Prefix of call sign for Air Force MARS 3rd in Region PMC/RMS Station
AFI Air Force Instruction
AFM Air Force Manual
AFM Prefix of call sign for Air Force MARS 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, Air Force MARS
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
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 122
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
DNEC Deputy National Emergency Coordinator
DNMSNM Deputy National Mission Support Network Manager
DNPPNM Deputy National Phone Patch 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
MRS Major Relay Station
MSCA Military Support to Civil Authorities
MSN Mission Support Network
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 123
Acronym Meaning
MTS MARS Technical Services
MWR Military Morale, Welfare and Recreation
NAA National Administrative Assistant
NASA National Aeronautics and Space Administration
NCS Net Control Station
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
NMSNM National Mission Support Network Manager
NOD National Operations Director
NPC National Planning Coordinator
NPIO National Public Information Officer
NPPNM National Phone Patch Network Manager
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
POC Point Of Contact
PPN Phone Patch Network
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
RRM Region Records Manager
RTM Region Training Manager
AFMARS MOI 2 August 2017 124
Acronym Meaning
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
SEC State Emergency Coordinator
SHARES SHAred RESources HF Radio Program
SMD State MARS Director
SME Subject Matter Expert
SNM Special Net Manager
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