Language and Messaging Guide for United States Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM)

Introduction

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

Command Overview

United States Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM) is a vital component of the Department of Defense, tasked with global logistics. Its mission encompasses projecting and sustaining military power globally, assuring allies, deterring adversaries, and swiftly responding to national security challenges.

Communication Style

• Tone: Formal and Inspiring – Reflects USTRANSCOM’s commitment to excellence, resilience, and the critical nature of their missions.
• Perspective: Third-person when discussing operations and achievements to maintain professionalism; first-person may be used in direct communications or messages from leadership.
• Language Precision: High precision is critical, reflecting the complexity and importance of logistics and global mobility in national security contexts.
• Visual Representation: Utilize imagery that showcases the global scope and strategic importance of USTRANSCOM operations, including assets in transit (airlift, sealift, and land transport), and maps indicating global reach.

Preferred Terminology and Phrases

• Joint Deployment and Distribution Enterprise (JDDE): Refers to the integrated set of capabilities and processes to move and sustain U.S. forces globally.
• Rapid Global Mobility: The ability to quickly position forces anywhere in the world, underscoring the strategic advantage provided by USTRANSCOM.
• Strategic Sealift: Ocean transport of military forces and their equipment, critical for operational readiness and response.
• Global Posture: The command’s strategic placement of resources globally to ensure rapid response capabilities.
• Power Projection: The capacity of U.S. military forces to rapidly and effectively deploy and sustain forces across the globe.

Key Snippets from Official Documents

• 2023 Posture Statement: “USTRANSCOM delivers global mobility… the lifeline for national security.”
• Security Assistance to Ukraine: Demonstrates “our nation’s resolve to our allies and adversaries alike.”
• Civil Reserve Air Fleet (CRAF): “A unique and critical component… emphasizing our integration with commercial capabilities.”
• Strategic Deterrence: “Our ability to project power is fundamental to deterring aggression and maintaining peace.”
• Logistics Excellence: “Seamlessly integrating with partners across the spectrum… to ensure mission success.”

Leadership Language

• Gen. Jacqueline D. Van Ovost: Emphasizes “dedication,” “innovation,” and “partnership” in articulating USTRANSCOM’s vision and strategic direction.
• Lieutenant General John P. Sullivan: Advocates for “strategic foresight,” “joint interoperability,” and “logistical readiness.”
• Major General Susan E. Henderson: Prioritizes “efficiency,” “integration,” and “collaboration” across commands and with commercial partners.
• Chief Master Sergeant Brian P. Kruzelnick: Focuses on “warfighter support,” “readiness,” and the “importance of the total force” in maintaining operational superiority.

Adapting Your Communication

• When referring to the command: Always use the full title “United States Transportation Command” in formal communications, with “USTRANSCOM” as acceptable shorthand thereafter.
• Incorporating preferred terminology: Utilize USTRANSCOM’s unique lexicon to accurately communicate the strategic and operational nuances of their work.
• Emulating the command’s tone: Adopt a respectful and formal tone, especially in public or official communications, to mirror USTRANSCOM’s professionalism.

Conclusion

Effectively engaging with USTRANSCOM through targeted language and messaging strategies enhances communication clarity and fosters an environment of mutual respect and understanding. By adopting these guidelines, stakeholders can ensure their messaging aligns with USTRANSCOM’s mission and strategic priorities, promoting a cohesive and collaborative effort in supporting national security objectives.

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