JP 3-0, page 168

Chapter V V-62 JP 3-0 (c) PA operations provide command information programs, communication with internal audiences, media and community relations support, and international information programs. e. During stability operations in the stabilize phase, protection from virtually any person, element, or group hostile to US interests must be considered. These could include activists, a group opposed to the operation, looters, and terrorists. Forces will have to be even more alert to force protection and security matters after a CBRNE incident. JFCs also should be constantly ready to counter activity that could bring significant harm to units or jeopardize mission accomplishment. Protection may involve the security of HN authorities and OGA, IGO, and NGO members if authorized by higher authority. For contractors, the GCC must evaluate the need for force protection support following the guidelines of DODI 3020.41, Contractor Personnel Authorized to Accompany the US Armed Forces. f. Personnel should stay alert even in an operation with little or no perceived risk. JFCs must take measures to prevent complacency and be ready to counter activity that could bring harm to units or jeopardize the operation. However, security requirements should be balanced with the military operation’s nature and objectives. In some stability operations, the use of certain security measures, such as carrying arms, wearing helmets and protective vests, or using secure communications may cause military forces to appear more threatening than intended, which may degrade the force’s legitimacy and hurt relations with the local population. g. Restraint. During the stabilize phase, military capability must be applied even more prudently since the support of the local population is essential for success. The actions of military personnel and units are framed by the disciplined application of force, including specific ROE. These ROE often will be more restrictive and detailed when compared to those for sustained combat operations due to national policy concerns. Moreover, these rules may change frequently during operations. Restraints on weaponry, tactics, and levels of violence characterize the environment. The use of excessive force could adversely affect efforts to gain or maintain legitimacy and impede the attainment of both short- and long-term goals. The use of nonlethal capabilities should be considered to fill the gap between verbal warnings and deadly force when dealing with unarmed hostile elements and to avoid raising the level of conflict unnecessarily. The JFC must determine early in the planning stage what nonlethal technology is available, how well the force is trained to use it, and how the established ROE authorize its employment. The principle of restraint does not preclude the application of overwhelming force, when appropriate, to display US resolve and commitment. The reasons for the restraint often need to be understood by the individual Service member, because a single act could cause adverse political consequences. h. Perseverance. Some operations may move quickly through the stabilize phase and transition smoothly to the enable civil authority phase. Other situations may require years of stabilization activities before this transition occurs. Therefore, the patient, resolute, and persistent pursuit of national strategic end state conditions for as long as necessary to achieve them often is the requirement for success.