USNA Third-Class Midshipman (3/C) Professional Competency Assessment (PCA) Practice Test 2026 - Free PCA Practice Questions and Study Guide

The correct answer is C, as the S5 section within the U.S. Marine Corps is primarily responsible for planning and coordinating civil-military operations. This section plays a crucial role in ensuring effective communication and collaboration between military forces and civilian authorities, as well as the local population. Their responsibilities often include community engagement, humanitarian assistance, and the integration of military capabilities in support of civil authorities during operations.

The S5 focuses on the strategic planning aspect of civil-military relations, emphasizing the importance of connectivity and relationship-building to facilitate operations and enhance stability in areas where Marines are deployed. This function is vital in ensuring that military actions align with the needs and circumstances of the civilian population.

In contrast, the other sections serve different functional areas: S2 deals with intelligence, S4 is focused on logistics, and S6 is responsible for communications. Each of these sections fulfills specific roles essential to the overall mission of the Marine Corps, but they do not have the primary focus on civil-military operations that the S5 section does.