This is an unofficial guide based on student experiences. For the most authoritative, up-to-date information, see the official orientation website.
After you receive your first assignment, you will begin to hear a lot about TM cables. Both orientation staff and your CDO will talk about this after Flag Day as well. Here is a brief overview of the Travel Message (TM) cable sequence:
• TMONE (TM1) – “Assignment Notification” (GTM/CDA generates)
• TMTWO (TM2) – “Proposed Itinerary” (Employee generates)
• TMTHREE (TM3) – “Welcome to Post” (Post generates)
• TMFOUR (TM4) – “Travel Authorization” (GTM/EX/IDSD generates)
• TMFIVE (TM5) – “Departure from Post” (Post generates)
• TMSIX (TM6) and TMSEVEN (TM7) – no longer used
• TMEIGHT (TM8) – “Arrival at Post” (Post generates)