When the exercise name is classified as Secret in one source and unclassified in another, which document should be used for derivative classification?

When faced with conflicting classification statuses between two sources for the same exercise name—one being classified as Secret and the other as unclassified—the appropriate reference for derivative classification is the Source Classification Guide (SCG). The SCG provides definitive guidance on how to interpret and apply classification levels based on established criteria.

Using the SCG ensures that individuals are adhering to standardized procedures and guidelines that govern classification. It is a primary resource that outlines how to properly derive classification from various sources and will indicate whether the exercise name should remain classified or can be unclassified based on the criteria it contains. This approach mitigates potential misinterpretations that could arise from using conflicting source documents, thus ensuring compliance with security protocols.

In scenarios like this, relying solely on the source documents or attempting to use both may lead to inconsistencies or violations of classification policy. Hence, the SCG is the most reliable reference for making this determination.