[PAO] September Disaster Preparedness Month

[Thomtra]

I agree, Karen, that a PAO can NOT automatically become a PIO. I think the idea was to have a PAO EARN the PIO credentials as part of their required qualifications rather than have two separate individuals.

Tom

Sent from my iPad

On Sep 7, 2013, at 6:03 AM, Karen Copenhaver <karenc at smyth.net> wrote:

> 
> With respect, I do not agree..... mainly because being a PIO is more specialized and focused on emergency services.  The responsibility of a PAO is different in that he/she is responsible for the image of CAP in general.  When first joining CAP, usually the PAO  is focused on learning more about the organization, how it works or functions within the community, impacts the future of our leaders (cadets) and just what CAP is and does as part of our congressionaly mandated missions.  The PIO must be experienced and have gained the confidence to work emergency / training missions.  There is a significant difference as my personal professional training taught me, and all those professional practioners will agree.  Let's not forget, that all PAOs do not want to serve as PIOs.  I can't imagine a new PAO automatically being considered a PIO, it's akin to telling a new CAP member is automatically certified to fly as an observer, or field operative.  NO WAY.  There must be a specified dedicated training program to instruct a PAO in how a mission is initiated, who initiates, learning the responsibilities of fellow mission members, what should and should not be released, how to interact with fellow mission members, the public and any members of a family involved.  The list goes on... however, once the PAO gains the knowledge and training in emergency services, then.... then he/she should be evaluated before being certified to served as a PIO, but must serve as a PAO first, at least for a year...... hope this helps.
> 
> 
> Karen L. Copenhaver, Lt Col, CAP
> Deputy Director, Public Affairs
> MER
> 
> 
> 
> On 9/6/2013 4:10 PM, Cianciolo, Lt Col, Paul wrote:
>> That makes me even more convinced that CAP should not be separating PAO and PIO responsibilities as is now. We are one organization and can't compartmentalize it so much. SAR, HLS, and DR missions are part of the whole mission. Without them, would CAP be here? At times its like being in two different organizations depending on what the activity is.
>> 
>> Paul 
>> 
>> 
>> v/r
>> --
>> PAUL S. CIANCIOLO, Lt Col, CAP
>> Public Affairs Officer
>> National Capital Wing
>> 
>> Cell: 301-751-2011
>> Work: 202-385-9599 (@FAA)
>> 
>> 
> 
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