What does the signature of a person on a hand receipt directly establish?

The signature of a person on a hand receipt directly establishes responsibility for the property listed on that receipt. When an individual signs a hand receipt, they are acknowledging that they have received the items listed and are now accountable for their care and custody. This concept is paramount in military logistics and property management, as it ensures that there is a clear line of accountability for all government property.

By signing, the individual assumes full responsibility for the items, meaning they must maintain, protect, and ultimately return them in the same condition, minus normal wear and tear, when they are no longer needed. This responsibility is a fundamental principle in military property accountability, as it ensures that personnel understand their obligations regarding property management.

While the other options relate to various aspects of property management, such as ownership or transfer of property, the act of signing a hand receipt specifically connects to the assumption of responsibility rather than establishing ownership or detailing the process of transfer or conducting an inventory.