Military Community and Family Policy Websites

When developing content for MC&FP websites and applications, there is an additional set of guidelines to follow. Web writers should follow style guidelines for general MC&FP writing. They should also note the following suggestions for using hyperlinks and URLs and writing appropriately for the web.

It is important to be aware of the standards and guidelines for URL approval. Not all URLs are acceptable. Follow the guidelines below:

• If a URL ends in .gov or .mil, you can use it in your writing.
• If a URL does not end in one of the approved endings above, ask yourself: Is this link required to fulfill the mission and intended purpose of this document? 
  • If the answer is no, do not use the link.
  • If the answer is yes, check to see if the link has been previously approved. If not, you must submit the link for approval via the Link Vetting Application before using it. 
• Please note when using URLs that do not end in .gov or .mil, MC&FP is prohibited by War Department policy from actions which would be perceived as the War Department offering endorsement of or preferential treatment to a non-government organization, agency or program.
• If the URL does not end in the .gov or .mil approved endings, consider providing the necessary information without directly linking to the site.