The SECNAV M-5216.5 DON Correspondence Manual provides a comprehensive framework for effective communication within the Department of the Navy (DON). This authoritative guide establishes clear principles, formatting guidelines, and security protocols to ensure the timely, accurate, and professional delivery of official correspondence.
Through its detailed explanations, illustrative examples, and practical advice, the manual empowers DON personnel to craft impactful and compliant communications that enhance mission success and foster seamless collaboration.
1. SECNAV M-5216.5 DON Correspondence Manual Overview
The SECNAV M-5216.5 DON Correspondence Manual provides comprehensive guidance on the preparation, formatting, and management of official correspondence within the Department of the Navy (DON).
The manual is intended for all DON personnel responsible for creating and managing official correspondence, including commanding officers, staff officers, and administrative personnel.
The manual has undergone several revisions since its initial publication, with the latest revision being issued in 2019.
2. Structure and Organization of the Manual
The manual is organized into sections, chapters, and appendices.
Section 1 provides an overview of the manual and its purpose.
Section 2 covers the general principles of DON correspondence.
Section 3 provides detailed guidance on the formatting and style of DON correspondence.
Section 4 discusses the different types of DON correspondence.
Section 5 covers the management and tracking of correspondence.
Section 6 addresses security and confidentiality requirements for DON correspondence.
The appendices provide additional resources, such as sample correspondence templates and a glossary of terms.
Table of Contents
- Section 1: Overview
- Section 2: General Principles
- Section 3: Formatting and Style
- Section 4: Types of Correspondence
- Section 5: Management and Tracking
- Section 6: Security and Confidentiality
- Appendices
3. Key Principles of DON Correspondence: Secnav M-5216.5 Don Correspondence Manual
The key principles of DON correspondence include:
- Clarity
- Conciseness
- Accuracy
- Timeliness
Claritymeans that correspondence should be easy to understand and free from ambiguity.
Concisenessmeans that correspondence should be as brief as possible while still conveying all necessary information.
Accuracymeans that correspondence should be free from errors and should accurately reflect the intended message.
Timelinessmeans that correspondence should be sent and received in a timely manner.
4. Formatting and Style Guidelines
The manual provides detailed formatting and style guidelines for DON correspondence.
These guidelines include:
- Font
- Margins
- Spacing
- Headings
- Paragraphs
- Lists
Font
The preferred font for DON correspondence is Times New Roman, 12 point.
Margins
The margins for DON correspondence are 1 inch on all sides.
Spacing
The spacing for DON correspondence is single-spaced.
Headings
Headings should be used to organize the content of correspondence and to make it easier to read.
Paragraphs
Paragraphs should be concise and should contain only one main idea.
Lists
Lists can be used to present information in a clear and organized way.
5. Types of DON Correspondence
The manual identifies and describes the different types of DON correspondence, including:
- Letters
- Memorandums
- Emails
Letters
Letters are used for formal communication between DON organizations and external entities.
Memorandums
Memorandums are used for informal communication within DON organizations.
Emails
Emails are used for both formal and informal communication within and outside of DON organizations.
6. Correspondence Management and Tracking
The manual explains the procedures for managing and tracking correspondence within the DON.
These procedures include:
- Creating and maintaining a correspondence control system
- Tracking the status of correspondence
- Ensuring the timely and accurate delivery of correspondence
Creating and maintaining a correspondence control system
A correspondence control system is a system for tracking the status of correspondence.
Tracking the status of correspondence
The status of correspondence can be tracked using a variety of methods, such as a database or a spreadsheet.
Ensuring the timely and accurate delivery of correspondence
There are a number of steps that can be taken to ensure the timely and accurate delivery of correspondence, such as using a reliable mail service and tracking the status of correspondence.
7. Security and Confidentiality
The manual elaborates on the security and confidentiality requirements for DON correspondence.
These requirements include:
- Using appropriate classification markings
- Protecting sensitive information
- Handling and transmitting classified information
Using appropriate classification markings
Classification markings are used to indicate the level of sensitivity of information.
Protecting sensitive information
Sensitive information should be protected from unauthorized disclosure.
Handling and transmitting classified information
Classified information must be handled and transmitted in accordance with applicable regulations.
FAQ Resource
What is the primary purpose of the SECNAV M-5216.5 DON Correspondence Manual?
The primary purpose of the SECNAV M-5216.5 DON Correspondence Manual is to provide a comprehensive set of guidelines and standards for the creation, formatting, and handling of official correspondence within the Department of the Navy (DON).
Who is the target audience for the SECNAV M-5216.5 DON Correspondence Manual?
The target audience for the SECNAV M-5216.5 DON Correspondence Manual includes all DON personnel involved in official communication, such as commanding officers, administrative staff, and public affairs officers.
What are the key principles of DON correspondence Artikeld in the manual?
The key principles of DON correspondence Artikeld in the manual include clarity, conciseness, accuracy, timeliness, and adherence to established formatting and style guidelines.
