After discovering a loss of classified material, how long does a command have to initiate a preliminary investigation?

When a command discovers a loss of classified material, it is critically important to act quickly to uphold the integrity of national security and ensure proper protocols are followed. The directive to initiate a preliminary investigation within 72 hours is established in Navy regulations. This timeframe allows the command to gather pertinent information swiftly while minimizing further risks associated with the loss.

The requirement for a 72-hour window reflects the importance of timeliness in the investigative process, ensuring that evidence and recollections are fresh, which contributes to a more effective resolution of the incident. This period is set to strike a balance between allowing sufficient time to ascertain the details and maintaining urgency in addressing potential vulnerabilities associated with the loss of classified materials.