National Security-Can I contact the applicant

[DSANN]

I know I will get the right advice here! Three summers ago and two summers ago I had a HS student intern work for me. She was FANTASTIC. A real go-getter. Last week I was contacted by the DOD to confirm her internship and give a brief statement about her. I agreed and they faxed me an authorization for release of information. On the form was her name and address. She now lives in Parris Island, SC. Two+two and I quickly realized she enlisted in the Marines. I so badly want to write her and give her words of encouragement and tell her how proud I am of her. May I do so? Is that an OK thing to do? Am I violating any rule? Clearly she graduated this past June and joined the Marines. I know how important a letter is for these young kids. TIA for any and all advice.

 

[Dad_2024]

I know I will get the right advice here! Three summers ago and two summers ago I had a HS student intern work for me. She was FANTASTIC. A real go-getter. Last week I was contacted by the DOD to confirm her internship and give a brief statement about her. I agreed and they faxed me an authorization for release of information. On the form was her name and address. She now lives in Parris Island, SC. Two+two and I quickly realized she enlisted in the Marines. I so badly want to write her and give her words of encouragement and tell her how proud I am of her. May I do so? Is that an OK thing to do? Am I violating any rule? Clearly she graduated this past June and joined the Marines. I know how important a letter is for these young kids. TIA for any and all advice.

Was the authorization form for release of information that was provided to you signed by her? If so, she is aware you're being asked to provide the info. I don't see how a personal communication would be an issue. You could also try reaching out through family contacts back home, they might have more current contact info or even an email address or cell #.

 

[sanman]

I would say no. I completely understand why you want to do so but the information was supplied for a particular reason. @Dad_2024 makes a good point about this young lady acknowledging the release of her details. However I am pretty sure that it was for the specific purpose of receiving your confirmation of her internship and brief statement. It would not have been to receive communication directly from you. It is a tricky one but my advice would be to not send the letter.

 

[Impulsive]

I know I will get the right advice here! Three summers ago and two summers ago I had a HS student intern work for me. She was FANTASTIC. A real go-getter. Last week I was contacted by the DOD to confirm her internship and give a brief statement about her. I agreed and they faxed me an authorization for release of information. On the form was her name and address. She now lives in Parris Island, SC. Two+two and I quickly realized she enlisted in the Marines. I so badly want to write her and give her words of encouragement and tell her how proud I am of her. May I do so? Is that an OK thing to do? Am I violating any rule? Clearly she graduated this past June and joined the Marines. I know how important a letter is for these young kids. TIA for any and all advice.

+1 to @sanman, IF this involves a security clearance or OCS application you communicating with her and not disclosing it could cause her problems with any Background Investigation. IMHO, better to do the recommendation/certification and if you have family contacts, reach out AFTER everything is submitted.

 

[DSANN]

Duly noted all! I sat on the letter for a week and went back and forth on sending it. I will try to reach out to her mom to reach out to her to get permission. I feel so glad I asked. Thank you!