This May, the U.S. Army Security Assistance Command observes OPSEC Awareness Month, shining a spotlight on the critical need to protect sensitive information from adversaries to ensure the success of the USASAC mission and the safety of personnel across the globe.
“OPSEC awareness should not be limited to a month; it is a year-round security process that safeguards our organization and people from harm and ensures mission success by reducing risk and promoting a culture of security,” said David DeSantis, USASAC deputy chief of staff.
At USASAC, OPSEC holds great significance. As the Army’s lead organization for managing Foreign Military Sales, USASAC must protect not only advanced military technologies but also the sensitive details surrounding cases with allies and partners.
“Being in the FMS business, vigilant OPSEC awareness is critical for the protection of sensitive information and preventing nefarious entities from gaining an advantage,” said DeSantis. “Of equal importance, is safeguarding information from being exploited, such as project details, timelines, and vulnerabilities.”
Engagement in OPSEC observances is crucial because it helps participants understand the consequences of security lapses and how to prevent them.
“Exercises and observances will reveal potential weaknesses that enemies may identify, ultimately reducing the risk of breaches and security incidents,” said DeSantis. “These are necessary preventative measures.”
The relevance of OPSEC is even more urgent in light of evolving threats. As George Lawrence, USASAC security manager, points out, the 2025 Annual Threat Assessment highlights how adversaries are using disruptive technologies like artificial intelligence and advanced cyber capabilities to target sensitive information.
“USASAC has a unique mission, and I would assess that our employees are targets of foreign intelligence services,” said Lawrence. “The three weapons we have in our arsenal to combat this are education, vigilance, and reporting.”
OPSEC Awareness Month serves as an opportunity to refresh best practices and address common pitfalls. According to Lawrence, among the most frequent violations are complacency-driven mistakes: ignoring the "Need-to-Know" rule, neglecting physical security measures, and failing to properly protect critical information.
Personnel are encouraged to report suspected violations to their security office, supervisors, or covering counterintelligence agents. Immediate reporting ensures vulnerabilities are addressed before they can be exploited.
It’s natural for members of the workforce to feel fatigued by the steady drumbeat of security observances throughout the year—whether it’s Cybersecurity Awareness Month in October, Insider Threat Awareness in September, or Antiterrorism Awareness in August. However, OPSEC is different.
“OPSEC is an integral part of the protection landscape and not only complements but is the foundation of the other security disciplines,” said Lawrence. “Without strong OPSEC, efforts in cybersecurity, insider threat prevention, and antiterrorism would be weakened.”
Creative outreach strategies during OPSEC Awareness Month help keep the workforce engaged without overwhelming them. Lawrence and the rest of the Command Security Programs Division hold interactive and engaging events throughout the month to promote OPSEC awareness and keep the workforce abreast of the evolving threats and best practices.
Beyond the office, it is important to recognize that OPSEC is not just a professional obligation—it extends into everyday life. Originally developed for military application, OPSEC practices now help protect families and individuals at home. Vigilance in both personal and professional contexts creates a security culture that is essential to defending the nation’s interests.
As OPSEC Awareness Month reminds us, security is a collective responsibility. Every member of the Army team plays a vital role in protecting critical information. By maintaining vigilance, promptly reporting concerns, and fostering a strong culture of security, we can ensure the continued success of our missions and the safety of those who serve.
Security isn’t complete without “U.” Stay alert, stay engaged, and help protect the mission.
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