The CO's signature is required for EOM destruction.

The requirement for the commanding officer's signature for end-of-month (EOM) destruction procedures is not universally applicable. The protocols surrounding document destruction can vary significantly based on the specific policies of the organization or branch of military service. In many cases, routine destruction of sensitive materials, such as classified documents, may not require a commanding officer's explicit approval unless it is aligned with specific regulations or circumstances that dictate otherwise.

Generally, operations relating to the destruction of materials are governed by established COMSEC policies which outline the procedures and authorized personnel who can carry out such tasks. If the procedures fall within standard practices that do not necessitate higher-level authorization, the commanding officer's signature would not be necessary.

Ultimately, the procedures surrounding data and material destruction aim to ensure compliance with security policies, while also making sure that operational efficiency is maintained. This distinction emphasizes that while some actions may require formal approval, others can be executed under more straightforward guidelines without the need for additional clearance.