How to Write a Military Warning Order

The military uses WARNOs to help accomplish each mission.

A military warning order, commonly referred to as a WARNO, is issued by commanders and other leaders to inform subordinates about upcoming situations. WARNOs can be issued several months, weeks or days in advance of an event to allow service members time to prepare, or immediately before an emergency event. The main purpose of a WARNO is to disseminate information to appropriate parties so that correct action can be taken.

Instructions

1. Type the words "Warning Order" or "WARNO" at the top of the document. As WARNOs are issued under emergency conditions, they do not have a required format.

2. Add the names of personnel or the offices to which the WARNO pertains on the second line of text. Use the appropriate ranks and military abbreviations for clarity. For example, if the WARNO applies to Command Sgt. Maj. Jones and the battalion public affairs officer, type "CSM Jones and BN PAO" as your second line of text.

3. Describe the situation that made the WARNO necessary in a short, concise paragraph. If a general is coming to visit your battalion on short notice, for example, include the date, time and nature of his visit, as well as any special preparations that must be made.

4. Add the time frame in which all included tasks must be completed. For example, if you are issuing an emergency WARNO to tell troops the enemy will reach their area within an hour, explain that emergency tasks must be completed within that time frame.

5. Include a sentence like "More to follow in OPORD" if you will be issuing an operational order as a supplement to the WARNO. An operational order, commonly referred to as an OPORD, can be issued after emergency WARNOs to provide more information as it becomes available. However, there may not be sufficient time or information to issue an OPORD.

6. Type any additional instructions, such as how, when or where the troops will receive your OPORD. Digitally sign the WARNO if time permits.

Tips & Warnings

• Include as much information as possible, so your subordinates are adequately prepared to handle upcoming situations.

• Do not say "More to follow in OPORD" if you do not intend to provide more detailed information to your troops, because waiting for your guidance can prevent them from making mission-critical decisions.

References

• Global Security: Army Field Manual 44-43
• U.S. Army: FM 5-19