What is the primary responsibility of a Commanding Officer regarding OPTAR?

The primary responsibility of a Commanding Officer regarding OPTAR (Operating Target Allotment Request) is to oversee and approve all OPTAR transactions and expenditures. This entails ensuring that funds are allocated effectively to meet the operational needs of the command while adhering to regulations and guidelines set forth by the Navy.

By taking charge of these transactions, the Commanding Officer plays a crucial role in maintaining financial accountability and ensuring that the resources are used efficiently. This oversight includes monitoring spending patterns and making judgments about budget requests, all of which are vital to sustain operations and mission readiness. Such responsibility is critical, as the effective management of resources directly impacts the operational capabilities of the unit.

The other options, while they touch on aspects that may be influenced by the Commanding Officer’s decisions or priorities (such as minimizing expenditures or focusing solely on operational efficiency), do not capture the full scope of the Officer's responsibilities regarding OPTAR. Administering payroll, for example, is an important task but falls outside the specific remit of overseeing OPTAR transactions.