What should be the last element included in a distress message?

In a distress message, the last element to be included is the call sign of the station in distress. This final element serves as a critical confirmation of the identity of the aircraft or vessel that is in distress, ensuring that the receiving stations clearly understand who is in need of assistance. Providing the call sign last helps to reinforce the urgency of the situation, emphasizing that the message pertains to the station identified, allowing rescuers to focus their response effectively.

The inclusion of the call sign at the end of the message can enhance clarity during potentially chaotic communication situations, ensuring that the distress call is recognized as legitimate and that the appropriate response teams can take action without confusion. Prioritizing this information ensures that rescue operations can be directed to the precise source of the emergency.