Who is responsible for properly marking a classified document?

The responsibility for properly marking a classified document falls to the Original Classification Authority (OCA). The OCA is an individual within a government agency who has the authority to create or classify documents based on sensitive information. This person is also responsible for ensuring that the appropriate classification markings are applied according to established guidelines.

The OCA's role includes determining the level of classification (such as confidential, secret, or top secret) and applying the correct markings that indicate the level of sensitivity and handling instructions for the information contained in the document. Proper marking is critical for protecting national security information and ensuring that individuals who may access the document understand how to handle it appropriately.

While others, such as a unit commander or various high-ranking officials, may have oversight responsibilities regarding security and compliance, it is the OCA who specifically holds the authority and responsibility for classification decisions and markings on documents.