According to guidelines for unofficial posts on social media, what must you follow?

The requirement to follow federal law and Department of Defense policies when making unofficial posts on social media is crucial for maintaining the integrity and security of the organization. This means that any information shared, even in a personal capacity, must not violate any legal or regulatory mandates that govern the behavior of service members. Adhering to these laws and policies helps prevent the dissemination of sensitive information and protects the reputation of the military unit and its personnel.

By ensuring compliance with these regulations, individuals help uphold the standards of conduct expected from members of the armed forces. This also fosters a culture of responsibility and professionalism online, where the line between personal expression and official representation can often become blurred.

While having your own code of conduct might seem valuable, it typically cannot supersede federal and Department of Defense guidelines. Similarly, opinions of fellow Marines and Department of State guidelines do not directly address the requirements for social media conduct specific to the military context, making them less relevant in this situation.