i

Authority: Title 5 USC, Chapter 45

Regulation: Title 5 CFR, Part 451

Air Force: AFI 36-1004

AFI 36-2803

Civilian

 Recognition Guide

Air Force Pamphlet 36–2861

1 June 2000

OPR: AF/DPDFC

(Major R. A. Rennicker)

Supersedes: AFPAM 36-2861, 30 November 1994

Certified by: AF/DPD

(Ms. Elizabeth T. Corliss)
ii

Introduction

When the Air Force was

established in 1947, the Army

Exceptional Civilian Service

Award was adopted and used to

recognize civilians who exhibited

clearly exceptional performance of

duties, exceptional achievements

of major significance, great

courage, or provided powerful

leadership. In 1948, the Secretary

of the Air Force established the Air

Force Exceptional Civilian Service

Award with similar criteria. This

was the only civilian Air Force

award until approximately 1954.

Since 1948, many awards have

been established with the

purpose of recognizing civilian

personnel for their outstanding

accomplishments and

achievements. This guide is

meant to be used by the Civilian

Personnel Flights and supervisors

as a reference tool to promote

understanding of the program

and individual recognition

requirements. This booklet does

not intend to be all inclusive,

nor replace regulatory guidance,

but provide information on

available recognition that is most

frequently used.

The recognition program is

designed to improve government

operations by motivating and

rewarding excellence by members

of the workforce. Recognizing

outstanding performance and

achievement is an essential

management responsibility critical

to stimulating and sustaining

high levels of proficiency and

productivity. Historically, whether

in honorary or monetary form,

recognition has three basic

components: individual or

group exceptional achievement,

individuals who are sensitive

to the value of recognition, and

observers who acknowledge

achievement and the merit of

recognition.
iii

Contents

Introduction................................................................................... iii

Order of Precedence ............................................................................ 1

Department of Defense .................................................................. 1

Air Force Civilian Awards .............................................................. 2

Army Civilian Awards .................................................................... 3

Navy Civilian Awards ..................................................................... 3

Determining Award Eligibility .......................................................... 4

Presidential Awards ............................................................................ 5

President's Award for Distinguished

Federal Civilian Service ........................................................... 5

Presidential Medal of Freedom ...................................................... 6

Presidential Citizens Medal ........................................................... 6

Air Force Honorary Awards ................................................................ 7

Decoration for Exceptional Civilian Service ................................. 7

Air Force Valor Award ..................................................................... 8

Outstanding Civilian Career Service Award ................................. 9

Meritorious Civilian Service Award ............................................ 10

Air Force Command Valor Award ................................................ 11

Exemplary Civilian Service Award .............................................. 12

Length of Service Award ............................................................... 13

Lapel Buttons ................................................................................ 14

Air Force Incentive Awards .............................................................. 15

Special Act or Service Award ........................................................ 15

Notable Achievement Award........................................................ 16

Time Off Award ............................................................................. 17
iv

Air Force Letters of Recognition ....................................................... 18

Letter of Commendation .............................................................. 18

Letter of Appreciation ................................................................... 19

Air Force Military Awards ................................................................ 20

Air Force Cross Award................................................................... 20

Distinguished Service Medal ....................................................... 21

Silver Star Award .......................................................................... 21

Major Awards Sponsored by External Organizations ................... 22

Arthur S. Flemming Award .......................................................... 22

William A. Jump Memorial Foundation Award ......................... 23

Department of Defense

Distinguished Civilian Service Award .................................. 24

The Secretary of Defense

Meritorious Civilian Service Award ...................................... 24

Air Force Association

Outstanding Civilian of the Year ........................................... 25

William T. Pecora Award .............................................................. 25

Government Employees Insurance Company (GEICO)

Public Service Awards ............................................................ 26

National Public Service Award .................................................... 26

Public Service Excellence Award .................................................. 27

Armed Forces Civilian Service Medal .......................................... 28

Awards for Non-Government Employees ........................................ 30

Air Force Scroll of Appreciation ................................................... 31

Exceptional Service Award ........................................................... 31

Secretary of Defense Award for Outstanding

Public Service.......................................................................... 32

Department of Defense

Distinguished Public Service Award ..................................... 32

Air Force Form, 1768 Sample ........................................................... 34
1

Order of

Precedence

Department of Defense

Order of Precedence

First: Department of Defense

Distinguished Civilian Service Award.

Second: Secretary of Defense

Meritorious Civilian Service Award.
2

First: Decoration for Exceptional

Civilian Service. This is similar

to the Military Distinguished

Service Medal.

Order of Precedence

Air Force Civilian Awards

Second: Air Force Valor Award.

This is similar to the Airman's Medal.

Third: Air Force Outstanding

Civilian Career Service Award.

This award is similar to the military

Legion of Merit.

Fourth: Air Force Meritorious

Civilian Service Award. This is

similar to the military Meritorious

Service Medal.

Fifth: Air Force Command Award

for Valor. This is similar to the

military Meritorious Service Medal

when awarded for heroism.

Sixth: Air Force Exemplary

Civilian Service Award. This is

similar to the military Air Force

Commendation Medal.
3

First: Army Exceptional Civilian

Service Award.

Order of Precedence

Army Civilian Awards

Second: Army Meritorious Civilian

Service Award.

Third: Army Superior Civilian

Service Award.

First: Navy Distinguished Civilian

Service Award.

Second: Navy Superior Civilian

Service Award.

Navy Civilian Awards

Third: Navy Meritorious Civilian

Service Award.
4

Monetary and honorary awards

should be granted when merited

regardless of the employee's

grade, level of responsibility,

or type of responsibility.

It is important that awards

be granted for job-related

contributions only if the

contribution is clearly beyond

performance requirements.

If the recognition is within job

responsibilities, it must be so

superior or meritorious that it

warrants special recognition.

If the award eligibility is too

liberal or stringent, it will lead

to a lack of employee confidence

in the program and management.

The following questions may

assist in determining award

eligibility:

Is the subject of the contribution

within the scope of the

employee's work?

Does the employee's job

description cover the subject of

the contribution?

Is the employee expected or

required to make contributions

of the type under consideration?

Is the nature of the contribution

such that the employee's

performance would be judged

Determining Award Eligibility

Determining

Award Eligibility

less than satisfactory if this

contribution had not been made?

Is the contribution one

pertaining to the immediate

work area which the employee

can put into operation without

consulting higher authority?

If the contribution pertains

to the employee's immediate

work area, as well as having

application elsewhere in the

organization, is the employee

expected to make contributions

that have impact beyond his or

her immediate area?

If the answers to the above

questions are “no,” the

contribution is outside of

the employee's normal job

responsibilities and should

be considered for monetary

or honorary recognition.

If the answers are “yes,”

the contribution is within job

responsibilities and to receive

recognition, a determination

must be made that it is so

superior that it merits an award.

Is the contribution of particular

importance or significance to

the organization?

Was there a great amount

of independent thought, or

unusual insight, imagination

or effort involved?

Will there be substantial impact

or benefits derived from the

contribution?

If the answer to any of these

questions is yes, consider

granting monetary or honorary

recognition.
5

ESTABLISHED

Executive Order 12014 signed

by President Eisenhower, 1957.

Highest purely honorary award

granted to a member of the

federal career service.

PURPOSE

The highest honor that the

Federal Government can grant to

a career employee in recognition

of exceptional achievements

that are of unusual benefit to the

Nation. To recognize individuals

whose outstanding achievements

have current impact on improved

government or public interest,

and exemplify to an exceptional

degree, imagination, courage,

and high ability in carrying out

the mission of the government.

AWARD

A gold medal, a citation signed

by the President, and a lapel

rosette made from the ribbon on

which the medal is suspended.

CRITERIA

Achievements having current

impact in improving government

operations or serving the public

interest, and so outstanding that

the employee deserves greater

public recognition than can be

granted by the head of the agency

in which employed. These

Presidential Awards

Presidential Awards

President's Award for

Distinguished Federal Civilian Service

achievements exemplify one

or more of the following:

imagination in developing

creative solutions to problems

in government; courage in

persevering against great odds

and difficulties; high ability in

accomplishing extraordinary

scientific or technological

achievement, providing

outstanding leadership in

planning, organizing, or

directing a major program

of unusual importance and

complexity, or performing an

extraordinary act of credit to

the government and the country;

or long and distinguished career

service.

ELIGIBILITY

Heads of agencies may nominate

career employees of their own

agency, or employees of other

agencies when they have

knowledge of their exceptional

achievements. All grade levels

are eligible except individuals

appointed by the President or

non-career members of the

Senior Executive Service unless

their work might be considered

to be within the federal career

service. Greater consideration

will be given to individuals who

have previously been awarded

the Department of Defense

Distinguished Civilian Service

Award.

PROCEDURE

No fixed due date; the award may

be granted at any time with the

recommendation of the agency

head, concurrence of the Director,

Office of Personnel Management

and approval of the President.

The Office of the Assistant

Secretary of Defense (Force

Management Policy) is

responsible for processing

nominations originating from a

component. The OASD (FMP)

will recommend eligible

nominations to the Secretary

of Defense for subsequent

endorsement to the Office of

Personnel Management.
6

ESTABLISHED

By President John F. Kennedy,

February 22, 1963.

CRITERIA

Executive Order 11085.

ELIGIBILITY

Awarded to any person who has

made an especially meritorious

contribution to the security or

national interests of the United

States, world peace, or cultural

or other significant public or

private endeavors. Among

those who have received this

prestigious award are Ansel

Adams (photographer),

Mohammed Anwar el-Sadat

(former president of Egypt),

Bob Hope (entertainer), and

Dr. Jonas Salk (medical scientist).

PROCEDURE

Heads of DoD Components

or OSD officials at the level of

Assistant Secretary or above shall

submit nominations for either

Presidential award, with full

justification, to the Office of

Secretary of Defense ASD(FM&P),

who will recommend to the

Secretary whether the nomination

should be referred to the President.

RECORDS

The ASD(FM&P) shall maintain

records on all recommendations

and their disposition.

Presidential Awards

Presidential Medal of Freedom

ESTABLISHED

13 November 1969.

CRITERIA

Set forth in Executive Order

11494 reference (h).

ELIGIBILITY

Bestowed upon any citizen of the

United States who has performed

exemplary deeds of service for his

or her country or fellow citizens.

Among those who have received

this award Brooke Russell Astor

(author, philanthropist), Ezra

Taft Benson (Mormon Church

leader, public servant), and

William H. Natcher (Member

of Congress).

Presidential Citizens Medal

PROCEDURE

Heads of DoD Components

or OSD officials at the level of

Assistant Secretary or above

shall submit nominations for

either Presidential award, with

full justification, to the Office of

Secretary of Defense ASD(FM&P),

who will recommend to the

Secretary whether the nomination

should be referred to the President.

RECORDS

The ASD(FM&P) shall maintain

records on all recommendations

and their disposition.
7

PURPOSE

To recognize exceptionally

meritorious service of major

significance to the Air Force in

the performance of duties in a

manner clearly exceptional to

others. This award is the highest

recognition granted an individual

or group within the Air Force

and serves as an incentive. It is

not appropriate for employees

about to retire.

AWARD

Gold-colored medal bearing the

Air Force coat of arms with a

wreath of laurel leaves.

Air Force Honorary Awards

Air Force

Honorary Awards

Decoration for Exceptional Civilian Service

Ribbon is dark blue silk with

three dotted golden-orange

lines in the center. Emblem with

a ruby indicates receipt of both

the Decoration for Exceptional

Civilian Service and Meritorious

Civilian Service Award. Emblem

with a diamond indicates receipt

of more than one Exceptional

Award.

ELIGIBILITY

All Air Force civilian employees

who have performed their

assigned duties for at least one

year which result in profound

Air Force-wide impact to programs

Sample AF Form 1310, Department of the Air Force

Exceptional Civilian Service Award Certificate.
8

or projects as documented by

development of improved

methods or procedures, initiation

of revolutionary ideas, or

unprecedented achievements

or benefits to the government.

Nominees may be recommended

for this award, if they previously

received the Meritorious Civilian

Service Award. Exceptions to

this policy will be considered

only if justified by the MAJCOM

Commander or equivalent.

PROCEDURE

Supervisor submits AF Form

1768, Staff Summary Sheet

with six legible copies of the

recommendation (in a narrative

format), which describes specific

accomplishments, and a draft

citation. The citation should be

in third person and include job

designation or organization,

period for which recommended,

and statement of achievement,

not to exceed 90 words. There is

no specific format.

Package presented through the

installation incentive awards

committee within three months

after act or achievement, to

the MAJCOM. MAJCOM will

forward to HQ USAF/DPDFC

for review and boarding by the

Incentive Awards Committee.

FINAL APPROVING AUTHORITY

Secretary of the Air Force.

MONETARY AMOUNT

None. Award consists of a

certificate and medal.

No limit on the number that may

be awarded. Award documented

in civilian system, a copy of the AF

Form 1768 and justification filed in

the Employee Performance File.

FORMS REQUIRED

AF Force 1768, Staff Summary

Sheet, and AF Form 1310,

Department of the Air Force

Exceptional Civilian Service

Award Certificate.

FOR PERSONNEL OFFICES

Medal Stock #: 8455-00-965-4763

(mini): 8455-00-456-6108.

Lapel button with diamond

(for subsequent ECSAs):

8455-00-985-7372

PURPOSE

To recognize an act of heroism,

with voluntary risk of personal

safety in the face of danger either

on or off the job.

AWARD

Gold-colored medal design

bearing the Air Force thunderbolt

on an equilateral triangle

surmounted by the Air Force

eagle perched on a scroll inscribed

“Valor” within an olive wreath.

Ribbon is light blue with four

yellow stripes, two dark blue

stripes, and one red stripe in

the center.

ELIGIBILITY

Employee exhibits great courage

and voluntarily risks personal

Air Force Valor Award

safety beyond the call of duty

such as approaching or entering

Sample AF Form 1306, Department of the Air Force Civilian Award for Valor Certificate.

a burning aircraft in an attempt

to rescue trapped victims.

Air Force Honorary Awards
9

Outstanding Civilian Career Service Award

Sample AF Form 2856, Department of the Air Force Outstanding Civilian Career Service

Award Certificate.

Air Force Honorary Awards

PROCEDURE

Supervisor submits Air Force

Form 1768, six legible copies of

specific accomplishments, and

draft citation. Proposed citation

should be written in third person

and include job designation or

organization, period for which

recommended, and statement of

achievement. Citation should not

exceed 90 words.

Package presented through the

installation Incentive Awards

Committee, to the MAJCOM.

MAJCOM will forward to HQ

USAF/DPDFC for boarding

by the Incentive Awards

Committee. No required time

frame for submission.

FINAL APPROVING AUTHORITY

Secretary of the Air Force.

MONETARY AMOUNT

The inclusion of a monetary

honorarium up to $ 1,000 is

optional at the discretion of the

MAJCOM Commander or

equivalent. No limit on the

number that may be awarded.

Award documented in the

civilian data system, the SF-50

Notification of Personnel Action

filed in the Official Personnel

Folder, a copy of the AF Form

1768 and justification filed in the

Employee Performance File.

FORMS REQUIRED

AF Form 1768 and AF Form 1306

Department of the Air Force

Civilian Award for Valor.

FOR PERSONNEL OFFICES

Medal Stock #: 8455-00-965-4717

PURPOSE

Outstanding career service

meriting recognition. Given at

time of retirement.

AWARD

Bronze medal bearing the Air

Force coat of arms with a wreath

of laurel leaves. Ribbon is white

trimmed in maroon with three

maroon stripes in the center.

ELIGIBILITY

Employee demonstrated

significant accomplishments,

leadership, unusual competence,

and significant impact upon the

Air Force mission throughout

the employee's career.
10

Air Force Honorary Awards

PROCEDURE

Supervisor submits AF Form -

1768 and six legible copies of the

narrative describing employee's

achievements through proper

channels to MAJCOM- or

Installation- level Incentive

Awards Committee no later than

30 days before the date of desired

presentation. Citation should not

exceed 90 words.

FINAL APPROVING AUTHORITY

Approved by the Secretary of the

FORMS REQUIRED

AF Form 1768, Staff Summary

Sheet, and AF Form 2856,

Department of the Air Force

Outstanding Civilian Career

Service Award Certificate.

FOR PERSONNEL OFFICES

Medal Stock #: 8455-01-187-0127

PURPOSE

To recognize an individual for

outstanding service to the Air

Force in the performance of duties

in an exemplary manner. Since

this type of recognition serves as

an incentive, it is not appropriate

for employees about to retire.

Meritorious Civilian Service Award

Sample AF Form 1166, Department of the Air Force

Meritorious Civilian Service Award Certificate.

Air Force for the Secretariat; Chief

of Staff, or designated member of

his staff, for HQ USAF; otherwise,

MAJCOM or comparable

organizational CC/CV

commander. MAJCOM may

delegate approval authority

to MAJCOM director or Wing

or comparable organizational

commander.

MONETARY AMOUNT

None. Award consists of a

certificate and medal.

AWARD

Sterling silver medal and lapel

emblem bearing the Air Force

coat of arms with a wreath of

laurel leaves (Emblem with ruby

indicates receipt of more than

one Meritorious Award).
11

ELIGIBILITY

All Air Force civilian employees

who have performed their

assigned duties for at least one

year in an exemplary manner,

with a reasonable degree of

command-wide mission impact,

setting a record of individual

achievement and serving as an

incentive to others to improve

the quality and quantity of their

work performance; exercise

unusual initiative in devising

new and improved work

methods and procedures that

resulted in a substantial savings

in manpower, time, materials,

or other items of expense;

improving safety or health of

employees; improving morale of

workers in a unit which resulted in

improvement of work performance

and esprit de corps.

PROCEDURE

Supervisor submits AF Form

Air Force Honorary Awards

1768 and six legible copies of

recommendation which describes

specific accomplishments, with a

draft citation. Proposed citation

should be written in third person

and include job designation or

organization, period for which

recommended, and statement of

achievement. Must not exceed 90

words. No specific format required

other than narrative form.

Package presented through the

installation incentive awards

committee within three months

after act or achievement to the

MAJCOM.

FINAL APPROVING AUTHORITY

Approved by the Secretary of

the Air Force for the Secretariat.

Approved by the Chief of Staff,

for HQ USAF. Otherwise,

MAJCOM or comparable

organization commander.

MONETARY AMOUNT

None. Award consists of a

certificate and medal.

There is no limit on the number

that may be awarded. Award

documented in civilian data

system, a copy of the AF Form

1768 and justification filed in the

Employee Performance File.

FORMS REQUIRED

AF Form 1768, Staff Summary

Sheet, and AF Form 1166,

Department of the Air Force

Meritorious Civilian Service

Award Certificate.

FOR PERSONNEL OFFICES

Medal Stock #: 8455-00-571-8782

(mini) 8455-00-914-1851

with ruby (for subsequent

awards); 8455-01-122-2125

PURPOSE

To recognize unusual courage

or competence in an emergency,

either on or off the job, unrelated

to performance of official duties.

AWARD

Sterling silver metal of same design

as Air Force Civilian Award for

Valor. Ribbon is light blue silk

with four yellow stripes and one

red stripe in the center.

ELIGIBILITY

Any Air Force civilian employee

who demonstrates courage or

Air Force Command Valor Award

competence in assisting others

in an emergency, such as

supervising orderly exit from a

building during a fire, keeping

others calm, or executing proper

course of action in emergency.

PROCEDURE

Supervisor submits AF Form

1768 and six legible copies of

recommendation describing

specific accomplishments through

proper channels to MAJCOMor Installation- level Incentive

Awards Committee no later

than 3 months after the act or
12

Air Force Honorary Awards

Package presented through the

installation incentive awards

committee to the MAJCOM.

FINAL APPROVING AUTHORITY

Approved by the Secretary of

the Air Force for the Secretariat;

Chief of Staff for HQ USAF, or

Sample AF Form 1307, Department of the Air Force Command Civilian Award for Valor Certificate.

Exemplary Civilian Service Award

PURPOSE

To recognize an individual or

group for clearly outstanding

service in support of the

command mission or goals.

AWARD

A bronze-colored medal bearing

the Air Force coat of arms within

a wreath of laurel leaves. Ribbon

is edged with green and has three

red stripes in the middle bordered

by light blue and white.

ELIGIBILITY

Performing assigned duties

for at least one year in an

outstanding manner or

performing a single service

that significantly contributes

to the accomplishment of the

command mission. Service must

clearly demonstrate specific

examples of how the employee

exceeded service expected of

an individual with similar

responsibilities.

MAJCOM or comparable

organization commander.

MAJCOM may delegate approval

authority to Wing or comparable

organizational commander.

MONETARY AMOUNT

Inclusion of a monetary

honorarium up to $500 is optional

at the discretion of the award

approving authority.

No limit on the number that may

be awarded. Award documented

in the civilian data system, the

SF-50 filed in the Official Personnel

Folder, a copy of the AF Form

1768 and justification filed in the

Employee Performance File.

FORMS REQUIRED

AF Form 1768, Staff Summary Sheet,

and AF Form 1307, Department

of the Air Force Command Civilian

Award for Valor Certificate.

FOR PERSONNEL OFFICES

Medal Stock #: 8455-00-965 -4714

PROCEDURE

Supervisor submits an AF Form

1768 with four legible copies of

the narrative justification that

includes specific examples of

the employee's accomplishment,

with a draft of proposed citation.

The citation must be written

in third person and include

job designation or organization,

period for which recommended,

statement of achievement.

achievement , and a draft citation.

The proposed citation should

be written in third person and

include job designation or

organization, period for which

recommended, and statement of

achievement. The citation must not

exceed 90 words.
13

Air Force Honorary Awards

The citation should not exceed

90 words.

FINAL APPROVING AUTHORITY

For employees assigned to

MAJCOMs, FOAs, DRUs and

other staff organizations, approval

may be one level below the

approval authority for the

Meritorious Civilian Service

Award (Wing or comparable

organization commander). Wing

may delegate approval authority

to Group or comparable

organizational commander.

MONETARY AMOUNT

None. Award consists of a

certificate and medal. No limit on

the number that may be awarded.

Award documented in the civilian

data system, a copy of the AF Form

1768 and justification filed in the

Employee Performance File.

FORMS USED

AF Form 1768, Staff Summary

Sheet, and AF Form 3517,

Department of the Air Force

Exemplary Civilian Service

Certificate.

FOR PERSONNEL OFFICES

Medal Stock #: 8455-01-344-8740

PURPOSE

To recognize 10, 20, 30, 40, and 50

years of creditable Federal service.

AWARD

A lapel pin with the appropriate

years of service and a certificate.

ELIGIBILITY

Any employee who has the

“years” of creditable Federal

service, providing that a

minimum of five years is civilian

service. Creditable Federal

service includes both civilian

Sample AF Form 3517, Department of the Air Force Exemplary Civilian Service Certificate.

Length of Service Award

service and all honorable military

service creditable for leave.

Normally, Federal service which

was served as a military member

and led to formal military

retirement is considered to have

been appropriately recognized

at the time of that retirement.

However, if an employee desires

recognition of both civilian and

all military service, a certificate

may be issued for the combined

service, at his/her request. In

such a case, the employee must
14

submit a request in writing to

the Civilian Personnel Flight.

PROCEDURE

Automatically identified

through the civilian data

system based on the service

computation date-leave.

FINAL APPROVING AUTHORITY

For 10 years, the Division Chief

or comparable official unless

employee works for a higher level

official who will sign. For 20 years,

the Director in Departmental

Service, unless employee works

for a higher level official. For

30 years, Deputy Chief of Staff

or comparable official in

Departmental Service unless

employee works for a higher

level official. For 40 years,

Secretary of Air Force for the

Secretariat, Chief of Staff for

HQ USAF, otherwise MAJCOM

or comparable level. For 50

years, the Secretary of the

Air Force.

MONETARY AMOUNT

None. Award consists of lapel

pin and certificate.

FORMS USED

10-Year Certificate of Service

AF Form 3589;

pin #8455-01-338-5616

20-Year Certificate of Service

AF Form 3590;

pin #8455-01-389-7401

30-Year Certificate of Service

AF Form 3591;

pin #8455-01-389-4393

40-Year Certificate of Service

AF Form 3592;

pin #8455-01-389-0856

50-Year Certificate of Service

AF Form 3593;

pin #8455-01-388-5615

Note: The 50-Year Certificate is

controlled by AF/DP. MAJCOMs

request a 50-year certificate by

sending a cover letter, biography,

and certification of the service

computation date to HQ USAF/

DPDFC, 1040 Air Force Pentagon,

Washington DC 20330-1040.

The 50-year certificate is signed

by the Secretary of the Air Force.

Air Force Honorary Awards

Retirement, Civilian Air Force.

Awarded to civilian personnel

at time of retirement from the

Federal service.

Stock #8455-01-345-2768

– Air Force Recognition Award.

Awarded to civilian personnel

who are recipients of awards

governed by AFI 36-2819/

AFI 36-2805.

Stock #8455-01-127-4186

– Air Force Outstanding Unit

Award. Awarded to civilian

personnel who were serving

with a cited unit, organization, or

LAPEL BUTTONS

activity, during a period for which

it was awarded the Air Force

Outstanding Unit Award and

contributed to the achievements.

Stock #8455-00-891-8529

–Air Force Organizational

Excellence Award. Awarded

to civilian personnel who

were serving with a cited unit,

organization, or activity, during

a period for which it was awarded

the Air Force Organizational

Excellence Award and

contributed to the achievements.

Stock #8455-00-488-5513
15

PURPOSE

To recognize an individual or group

for a special act or service which

resulted in significant tangible

or intangible benefits to the

government which can be verified.

AWARD

Certificate with a cash award of

$300 to $50,000.

ELIGIBILITY

Air Force civilian employee who

has significantly exceeded job

requirements as a one-time

occurrence. (An SES member

may receive this award for

achievements outside of his/her

job responsibility). Examples

of achievements for non-SES

employees: a particular project

or assignment which involved

overcoming unusual difficulties;

performance of assigned duties

with special effort or innovation

that resulted in significant

economies or other highly

desirable benefits; creative

efforts that made important

contributions to science

or research; exemplary or

courageous handling of an

emergency situation related to

official employment; a superior

Air Force Incentive Awards

Air Force

Incentive Awards

Special Act or Service Award

accomplishment or scientific

achievement which results

in significant savings of time,

manpower, or money to the

government.

PROCEDURE

Supervisor submits an AF Form

1768 with a justification which

describes the achievement and

proposed citation.

Sample AF Form 2860, Department of the Air Force Special Act or Service Award Certificate.
16

Air Force Incentive Awards

Submission should be no later

than 60 days after completion of

the special act or service.

Package presented through chain

of command to the incentive

awards committee.

FINAL APPROVING AUTHORITY

Up to $10,000 installation

commander or designee. Over

$10,000, not to exceed $25,000,

Air Force Incentives Award

Board to Office of Personnel

Management. Over $25,000,

the President.

MONETARY AMOUNT

The amount is in proportion

to the benefits realized by the

government. No limit on the

number that may be awarded.

FORMS REQUIRED

AF Form 1768, Staff Summary

Sheet, and AF Form 2860,

Department of the Air Force

Special Act or Service Award

Certificate.

PURPOSE

To recognize an individual or

group for a special act or service

which resulted in a noteworthy

contribution to the Air Force.

AWARD

Certificate (AF Form 3032) with

a cash award of $25 to $300.

ELIGIBILITY

Civilian employee (excludes SES)

who has made personal effort

resulting in the elimination of

a wasteful or inefficient practice,

or the enhancement of mission

effectiveness as a one-time

occurrence.

PROCEDURE

Supervisor submits an AF Form

1768 with a justification which

describes in writing the

contribution. Should be

submitted no later than one

month after completion of the

contribution.

Notable Achievement Award

Sample AF Form 3032, Department of the Air Force Notable Achievement Award Certificate.
17

Air Force Incentive Awards

FINAL APPROVING AUTHORITY

Second level supervisor.

MONETARY AMOUNT

Based on the benefits received by

the government, $25 to $300.

No limit on the number of awards

received. Award must not be

granted for a contribution of

a previously granted award.

Award documented in the

civilian personnel data system,

the SF-50 filed in the employee's

Official Personnel Folder, a

copy of the AF Form 1768

and justification filed in the

Employee Performance File.

FORMS REQUIRED

AF Form 1768, Staff Summary

Sheet, and AF Form 3032,

Department of the Air Force

Notable Achievement Award

Certificate.

Time Off Award

PURPOSE

To recognize an individual for

superior accomplishment or

personal effort that contributes to

the quality, efficiency, or economy

of government operations.

AWARD

Time off from duty without

charge to leave.

ELIGIBILITY

May be granted to any federal

employee (including SES)

to recognize a one-time event

such as: making a high quality

contribution to a project or

assignment; displaying special

initiative and skill in completing

an assignment or project; using

initiative and creativity in

making improvements in a

product, activity, program

or service; ensuring mission

accomplished during a difficult

period by taking on additional

workload; participation in a

Quality Circle or Process Action/

Improvement Team that resulted

in the implementation of

an improved work process

or product; submitting a

suggestion that was adopted

but since it was within normal

job responsibilities, the employee

was ineligible for a cash award.

PROCEDURE

Supervisor submits an AF Form

1768 with justification and a

signed certification.

FINAL APPROVING AUTHORITY

If one day or under, the first

level supervisor; over one day,

the civilian appointing authority

or appropriate delegated

authority.

MONETARY AMOUNT

None.

Limit of 80 hours per leave year

for full-time employees; 40 hours

for any single contribution. For

part-time employees, the time

allotted is the average number of

hours of work in the employee's

biweekly scheduled tour of duty;

for a single contribution, one-half

the maximum amount for the

leave year. Time-off awards may

not be converted to cash awards.

The award will be coded in

the civilian data system.

FORMS REQUIRED

AF Form 1768, Staff Summary

Sheet.
18

Air Force Letters of Recognition

Air Force

Letters of Recognition

PURPOSE

To commend an employee for

unusual work performance, or

for an act or service that clearly

exceeds duty performance.

AWARD

Personalized letter.

ELIGIBILITY

Any civilian employee.

PROCEDURE

Submit at anytime. Letter

is prepared, signed by the

commander or the director of a

major organizational component

and presented to the employee.

Letter should be on official

letterhead stationery with the

subject: “Letter of Commendation.”

It should be addressed to the

employee through supervisory

channels. Terminology such as

“I commend,” or “achievement

was commendable,” must be

used in the letter with specific

information on the achievement.

Do not use “I appreciate,” “thanks

for a good job,” or “sincere

gratitude,” as this terminology

does not meet the criteria.

Letter of Commendation

FINAL APPROVING AUTHORITY

Commander or Director of major

organizational component.

MONETARY AMOUNT

None.

No limit on the number that may

be awarded. Award documented

in the civilian data system, a

copy filed in the Employee

Performance File.

FORM REQUIRED

AF Form 3034 (optional),

Department of the Air Force

Certificate of Commendation.

Sample AF Form 3034, Department of the Air Force Certificate of Commendation.
19

PURPOSE

To express appreciation to an

employee for work performance,

act, or service that is better than

normally expected.

AWARD

Personalized letter.

ELIGIBILITY

Any Air Force civilian employee.

PROCEDURE

Submitted at anytime through

supervisory channels. The letter

is signed by the immediate

supervisor, higher level

supervisor, or any person having

knowledge of the service rendered.

The letter is presented through

supervisory channels.

FORMAT

Letter on plain or letterhead

stationery.

FINAL APPROVING AUTHORITY

Anyone having knowledge of

accomplishment being recognized.

MONETARY AMOUNT

None.

Air Force Letters of Recognition

Letter of Appreciation

No limit on the number that

may be awarded. Award

maybe recorded on or a copy

attached to the AF Form 971,

Supervisor’s Employee Brief.

 It is not coded in the civilian

data system, nor filed in the

employee's Official Personnel

Folder or Performance Folder.

FORM REQUIRED

AF Form 3033 (optional),

Supervisor’s Employee Brief.

Sample AF Form 3033, Supervisor’s Employee Brief.
20

ESTABLISHED

10 USC 8742; AM 36-2803

(AFI 36-2803)

AWARD

A bronze cross with an oxidized

satin finish. Entered on the cross

is a gold-plated American bald

eagle, wings displayed against

a cloud formation encircled by a

laurel wreath finished in green

enamel. The ribbon is britany

blue, edged with Old Glory red,

and bears a narrow white vertical

stripe inside the red edges.

CRITERIA

Awarded for extraordinary

heroism while engaged in an

action against an enemy of the US,

a military operation involving

conflict with an opposing foreign

force, or while serving with

friendly foreign forces engaged

in an armed conflict against an

opposing force which the US is

not a belligerent party.

ELIGIBILITY

Civilian Personnel are eligible

for military award recognition

under AFI 36-2803.

Air Force Military Awards

Air Force

Military Awards

Air Force Cross Award

PROCEDURE

Submit cover memorandum

signed by the commander with

a justification and citation. The

justification must contain the

name, grade, and social security

number of the recommended

individual, the name of the

decoration, and specific description

of the act or service. The request

should be forwarded through

the MAJCOM or comparable

organization to HQ AFPC/DPPPR,

550 C Street West, Suite 12,

Randolph AFB, Texas 78150-4714.

(DSN 665-2516)

FINAL APPROVING AUTHORITY

The Secretary of the Air Force.
21

Air Force Military Awards

ESTABLISHED

Act of Congress, July 9, 1918;

10 USC 8743; AFI 36-2803.

AWARD

At the center of a sunburst of

13 gold rays separated by 13

white enamel stars a blue stone

representing the firmament. The

ribbon is predominantly white,

and banded in old gold, with

ultramarine stripes and smaller

old-gold stripes.

CRITERIA

Awarded for exceptionally

meritorious service to the US

in a duty of great responsibility,

while serving in any capacity

with the Air Force. In wartime, a

duty of great responsibility is the

exercise of authority or judgment

which results in the successful

operation of a major command,

Distinguished Service Medal

activity, installation, or program.

The discharge of such duty must

involve the acceptance and

fulfillment of the obligation to

greatly benefit the interests of

the US.

ELIGIBILITY

Civilian personnel are eligible

for military award recognition

under AFI 36-2803.

PROCEDURE

Submit a cover memorandum

signed by the commander with

a justification and citation. The

justification must contain the

name, grade, and social security

number of the recommended

individual, the name of the

decoration, and specific description

of the act or service. The request

should be forwarded through

the MAJCOM or comparable

organization to HQ AFPC/DPPPR,

550 C Street West, Suite 12,

Randolph AFB, Texas 78150-4714.

(DSN 665-2516)

FINAL APPROVING AUTHORITY

Secretary of the Air Force.

Silver Star Award

ESTABLISHED

Act of Congress, July 9, 1918;

10 USC 8746; AFI 36-2803.

AWARD

A small silver star within a wreath

centered on a larger star of goldcolored metal. The ribbon has

a center band of red flanked by

equal bands of white; the white

bands are flanked by equal blue

bands having borders of white

lines with blue edgings.

CRITERIA

Awarded for gallantry (heroism of

high degree involving risk of life)

in action that does not warrant a

Medal of Honor or Air Force Cross,

while serving in any capacity

with the Air Force while engaged

in an action against an enemy

of the US; military operations

involving conflict with an

opposing foreign force; or while

serving with friendly foreign

forces engaged in an armed
22

conflict against an opposing

armed force which the US is

not a belligerent party.

ELIGIBILITY

Civilian personnel are eligible

for military award recognition

under AFI 36-2803.

PROCEDURE

Submit a cover memorandum

signed by the commander with

a justification and citation. The

justification must contain the

name, grade, and social security

number of the recommended

individual, the name of

the decoration, and specific

description of the act or service.

The request should be

forwarded through the MAJCOM

or comparable organization to HQ

AFPC/DPPPR, 550 C Street West,

Suite 12, Randolph AFB, Texas

78150-4714. (DSN 665-2516).

FINAL APPROVING AUTHORITY

Secretary of the Air Force.

Other Air Force military awards for which civilians may be eligible

include the Bronze Star Medal, Air Medal and Aerial Achievement

Medal. Please refer to AFI 36-2803 for criteria and eligibility.

Arthur S. Flemming Award

ESTABLISHED

By Washington D.C. Jaycees in

1948. Named for Dr. Arthur S.

Flemming.

PURPOSE

To recognize those who have

performed outstanding and

meritorious work for the federal

government, to attract outstanding

persons to the federal government,

to encourage high standards of

performance in the federal service,

to acknowledge individuals who

are able to transfer their skills

with the federal government to

service within their community.

Also, to enhance appreciation of

our form of government and the

opportunities and responsibilities

it represents.

AWARD

Engraved plaque.

CRITERIA

Career employees must have at

least 36 months of government

service, but no more than 15 years

of service to be eligible. A specific

accomplishment for which the

nominee is primarily responsible,

resulting in service or substantial

financial savings to the

government; significant social

or technological progress;

outstanding executive,

scientific, or technical ability

or outstanding performance

displayed by nominee during

preceding fiscal year, but not

necessarily connected with

Air Force Military Awards

Major Awards Sponsored

by External Organizations
23

or related to a specific

accomplishment or project.

The award consists of three

categories: administrative,

scientific, and applied science.

Nominations must be submitted

in one category, although

duties may overlap other areas.

Administrative nominees should

have demonstrated exceptional

ability in administration; for

example, personnel, finance,

labor or law. Scientific nominees

should have demonstrated

exceptional ability and

performance in their field

either by carrying out research,

applying technical skills, or

active participation in projects.

In the applied science category,

nominees should have

demonstrated exceptional ability

and performance in their field,

either by carrying out research,

by applying technical skill, or

by active participation in projects

when using the information

system, and in information

technology. In all categories,

a nominee should have

significant community service

activities (whether within or

outside of their professional

field) which have had an

important impact on the

community.

ELIGIBILITY

Nominee must be a career

federal employee or member

of the uniformed services, as of

31 December, who has no more

than 15 years of government

service. Awards will be made

principally for outstanding and

meritorious achievements

having current impact on

federal programs or operations

and for participation in

community service.

DATE DUE

Award solicited by HQ USAF/

DPDFC and due to HQ USAF/

DPDFC by the first Friday

in December. Nominations

submitted by MAJCOM or

MAJCOM equivalent. (Due

date subject to change by

award sponsor.)

William A. Jump Memorial Foundation Award

ESTABLISHED

1950.

SPONSORED BY

U.S. Department of Agriculture.

PURPOSE

To recognize and encourage

outstanding and deserving

young government employees for

sustained growth, development,

integrity, and interest in the field

of public administration.

AWARD

Gold key and certificate of merit.

CRITERIA

Federal civilian career

employees who have not

reached their 37th birthday as of

31 December of the current year,

and whose performance, over

a period of at least five years in

either a line or staff position,

demonstrates unusual

competence and interest in any

area of public administration,

endowment for leadership in

the direction or development

of programs, creativity and

resourcefulness, close adherence

to the basic principles of

enlightened public service,

integrity, and dedication to duty.

ELIGIBILITY

Federal civilian career employees

who have not reached their 37th

birthday by December 31 of the

year in which the nomination

was submitted.

DATE DUE

Award solicited by HQ USAF/

DPDFC, and due to HQ USAF/

DPDFC by the fourth Friday

in January. Nominations

submitted by MAJCOM or

MAJCOM equivalent. (Due

date subject to change by

award sponsor.)

Major Awards Sponsored by External Organizations
24

PURPOSE

The Office of the Assistant

Secretary of Defense provides an

opportunity to recognize civilian

appropriated fund employees

whose careers reflect exceptional

devotion to duty and extremely

significant contributions of a

broad scope to the efficiency and

economy of DoD operations.

AWARD

It is the highest award given by

the Secretary of Defense to career

employees. Winners receive

a medal.

Major Awards Sponsored by External Organizations

Department of Defense

Distinguished Civilian Service Award

ELIGIBILITY

Any career employee who

has made a truly outstanding

contribution to the DoD-wide

mission in the year of nomination.

As this is the highest and most

prestigious award that the

Secretary of Defense may present

to career service civilians for DoD

contributions, the DoD-level

Incentive Awards Board strongly

encourages that nominees have

received the highest Air Force

career service award.

Nominations require endorsement

by the Secretary of the Air Force.

DATE DUE

Award solicited by HQ USAF/

DPDFC and due to HQ USAF/

DPDFC on the third Friday in

February. Additional information

may be obtained from the Office

of the Secretary of Defense,

Washington Headquarters

Services, Directorate of Personnel

Security, Labor Management

and Employee Relations Branch.

The Secretary of Defense

Meritorious Civilian Service Award

PURPOSE

To recognize career civilian

employees of the Department of

Defense and other Government

agencies who have distinguished

themselves by exceptionally

meritorious service of major

significance to the Department

of Defense. This is DoD’s second

highest award granted to career

civilian employees.

AWARD

Citation, medal, and lapel pin.

ELIGIBILITY

Any career employee who has

made a truly outstanding

contribution to the DoD-wide

mission in the year of nomination.

The DoD-level Incentive Awards

Board suggests that greater

consideration will be given to

nominations that are based upon

substantial contributions to the

Department beyond those which

are limited to the Air Force.

Nominations require endorsement

by the Secretary of the Air Force.

DATE DUE

Award nominations may

 be submitted at any time.

Additional information may

be obtained from the Office

of the Secretary of Defense,

Washington Headquarters

Services, Directorate of

Personnel Security, Labor

Management and Employee

Relations Branch.
25

Major Awards Sponsored by External Organizations

PURPOSE

To recognize the outstanding

achievements by Air Force civilian

appropriated fund employees

for the period of 1 January

through 31 December each year.

AWARD

Engraved plaque. Honored at

the annual AFA convention in

Washington, DC, normally in

September, or at state/local-level

AFA functions.

CRITERIA

There are four categories:

Air Force Association

Outstanding Civilian of the Year

Civilian Wage Employee of the

Year (all FWS)

Civilian Program Specialist of

the Year (GS 1 – GS 11)

Civilian Program Manager of

the Year (GS 12 – GS 13)

Civilian Senior Manager of the

Year (GS 14 – GS 15)

ELIGIBILITY

All appropriated fund employees

in the grade levels specified are

eligible for awards. Nominations

are evaluated on the criteria such

as nature of the achievement,

development of techniques or

procedures which significantly

increased mission effectiveness,

and the breadth of impact.

DATE DUE

Award solicited by HQ USAF/

DPDFC, and due to HQ USAF/

DPDFC AF on the third Friday

in March.

ESTABLISHED

1974.

SPONSORED BY

NASA and Department of

the Interior.

PURPOSE

To recognize outstanding

contributions of individuals or

groups toward understanding the

earth by means of remote sensing.

AWARD

Plaque and citation.

William T. Pecora Award

CRITERIA

Sustained or single contributions

of major importance to the art or

science of understanding the earth

through observations made from

space. All individuals or groups,

military or civilian, working in

the field of earth resource sensing,

including those from the scientific

and technical community and

those involved in the practical

application of remote sensing.

ELIGIBILITY

All individuals or groups working

in the field of earth resource

sensing, including those from both

the scientific and non-scientific

community.

DATE DUE

Award solicited by HQ USAF/

DPDFC normally in March.

Due to HQ USAF/DPDFC

during the fourth week in April.

Nominations submitted by

MAJCOM or MAJCOM

equivalent. (Due date subject to

change by award sponsor.)
26

PURPOSE

The National Public Service

Award is presented annually

to as many as five outstanding

individuals in government

service by the National Academy

of Public Administration (NAPA)

and the American Society for

Public Administration. This

award is to pay tribute to public

service practitioners whose

careers exhibit the highest

standard of excellence,

dedication, and accomplishment

over a sustained period of time

and to underscore the need to

have creative and highly skilled

Major Awards Sponsored by External Organizations

individuals as managers of

complex and demanding

government functions.

AWARD

A lead crystal American eagle at

the ASPA National Conference.

CRITERIA

Outstanding contributions on a

sustained basis. Responsibility

for accomplishing or causing

to be accomplished significant

programs or projects within

his/ her area of responsibility,

to the ultimate benefit of the

general public.

ELIGIBILITY

Awards are presented to public

service employees who:

currently work, or have spent

the primary part of their

careers working in public

service organizations;

have made outstanding

contributions on a sustained

basis rather than having

performed a single

exceptional deed;

and have managed, created, or

facilitated significant programs

National Public Service Award

SPONSORED BY

GEICO Philanthropic Foundation.

PURPOSE

To recognize four federal

employees and one retiree for

their special achievements,

contributions, and outstanding

service to the public good.

AWARD

Honors four employees with a

plaque and $2,500, and a separate

award presented to a retired

federal employee.

CRITERIA

Nominees are judged on the

impact of their work related or

non-work related contributions

and extent to which they have

served as an inspiration to others

and brought credit to the federal

service in each of the four areas:

Substance Abuse Prevention

and Treatment

Fire Prevention and Safety

Physical Rehabilitation

Traffic Safety and Accident

Prevention

ELIGIBILITY

All federal career civilian

employees.

DATE DUE

Award solicited by HQ USAF/

DPDFC, and due to HQ USAF/

DPDFC on the second Friday

in June. Nominations submitted

by MAJCOM or MAJCOM

equivalent. (Due date subject

to change by award sponsor.)

Government Employees

Insurance Company (GEICO)

Public Service Awards
27

PURPOSE

To pay tribute to public

service organizations whose

achievements exhibit the

highest standard of excellence,

innovation and accomplishment.

A separate award is given to

a unit of government that has

successfully implemented a

program to employ the speciallyabled (handicapped).

CRITERIA

Selection criteria will include

such factors as measurable

productivity improvement,

Public Service Excellence Award

accomplishments that improve

the quality of life of Americans,

and programs or projects that

have increased cost effectiveness

of government services.

ELIGIBILITY

Government organizations

(federal, state, local) that have

made outstanding contributions

to public service on either a

sustained basis or through a

single exceptional deed during

the past two years. Awards are

directed to the organization as

a whole and not to individuals.

Special emphasis will be given

for the scope of the activity, such

as number benefited.

DATE DUE

Solicited by HQ USAF/DPDFC

and due to HQ USAF/DPDFC

the first Friday in December.

(Due date subject to change by

award sponsor.)

Major Awards Sponsored by External Organizations

or projects within their areas

of responsibility to the ultimate

benefit of the general public.

PROCEDURES

Award winners are selected

from all levels of public

service-local, state, and federal

governments, international

and nonprofit organizationsbut awards are not made by

category. A committee will

review nominations and select

award recipients.

DATE DUE

Solicited by HQ USAF/DPDFC

and due to HQ USAF/DPDFC

on the third Friday in November.

(Due date subject to change by

award sponsor.)
28

Major Awards Sponsored by External Organizations

PURPOSE

To recognize the contributions and

accomplishments of the civilian

work force of the Department of

Defense in directly supporting

the armed forces, whose members

are engaged in designated military

operations of a peacekeeping or

prolonged humanitarian nature.

The medal symbolizes the

importance the Department of

Defense places on the service of

its civilian work force to military

operations and the value of its

contribution in accomplishing the

Nation's objectives.

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

a. General: The eligibility criteria

for the AFCSM is aligned as

closely as practicable with that of

the Armed Forces Service Medal

(AFSM). President William J.

Clinton established the AFCSM by

Executive Order 12985 dated 11

January 1996. The AFCSM may be

awarded to civilian employees of

the Department of Defense who,

after I June 1992, to a date to

be determined, participate in

direct support of a U.S. military

operation for which military

personnel have been awarded

the AFSM.

b. Specific: Employees must be

engaged in direct support for 30

consecutive days in the area of

eligibility (or for the full period

if the operation is for less than

30 days) in a military operation

awarded the AFSM or for 60

nonconsecutive days in an

operation, provided this support

Armed Forces Civilian Service Medal (AFCSM)

involves the employee entering

the area(s) of eligibility.

(1) Civilian employee is an

individual meeting the definition

of "employee" under 5 U.S.C.

2105 and who would be eligible

for awards under DoD 1400.25-M,

Subchapter 45 1, "Awards,"

including employees of

nonappropriated activities.

Direct hire foreign nationals

are eligible to receive the medal.

(2) Direct support is defined as

services provided to participating

military activities or armed forces

in a military operation awarded

the AFSM, only if the employee

actually enters the designated

area of eligibility.

(3) Areas of eligibility are

the same as designated for

approved AFSM military

operations, i.e., the foreign

territory on which military

troops have actually landed

or are present and specifically

deployed for the operation;

adjacent water areas in which

ships are operating, patrolling,

or providing direct support

of the operation, and the air

space above and adjacent to the

area in which operations are

being conducted. The Chairman,

Joint Chiefs of Staff will

determine U.S. military

operations that qualify for

the AFSM. Military Personnel

Flights can provide a current list

of military operations for which

the AFSM is authorized.

c. Limitations on Awarding

the Medal: The medal may

be awarded only to civilian

employees of the Department of

Defense and only for operations

authorized the AFSM for military

personnel. No more than

one medal may be awarded

to any one civilian employee.

Participation in subsequent

military operations may be

acknowledged with a Certificate

of Commendation, AF Form 3034

and/or a 3/16 Bronze Service

Star (NSN # 8455-00-082-6136).

A contribution to or support of

an AFSM military operation by

employees assigned to remotely

located activities, e.g., outside

the areas of eligibility, is not

justification for award of the

AFCSM. Such performance or

contribution, if merited, may

 be acknowledged by other

appropriate recognition. Award

of the AFCSM does not preclude

granting other awards if the

employee's contribution to the

designated operation is so

significant or extraordinary as

to merit additional recognition.

d. Posthumous Awards: The

AFCSM may be awarded

posthumously and, when so

awarded, may be presented to a

representative of the deceased as

deemed appropriate.

PROCEDURE

Medals will be supported by

appropriate written justification,

not to exceed one page, explaining

how the employee meets the
29

criteria. Installations may accept

other documents as proof of

eligibility, i.e., official orders,

travel vouchers, etc., as

justification. The medal will not

be documented in the official

personnel folder. However, a

code has been established in the

Defense Civilian Personnel Data

System (DCPDS) to document

receipt of the medal in the

employee's record (HAF Table

388, Code 87).

FINAL APPROVING AUTHORITY

Approval for the AFCSM is

delegated to the major command

or comparable organization

commander, who may further

delegate the approval authority.

MONETARY AMOUNT

None. The Institute of Heraldry

developed the AFCSM. It is a

bronze medal bearing on the

obverse a torch (as on the Statue of

Liberty) on a burst of rays encircled

at the top by a scroll inscribed

“SUPPORTING FREEDOM” and

all enclosed by a laurel wreath. On

the reverse, three crossed arrows

point up with the inscription

“ARMED FORCES CIVILIAN

SERVICE MEDAL. ”The medal

is suspended from a ribbon of

green, medium blue, and gold.

There is a corresponding lapel

pin. The medal set, consisting

of the large medal and lapel pin,

is currently available through

the Defense Supply System

(NSN 8455-01-452-5330).

Major Awards Sponsored by External Organizations
30

Awards for Non-Government Employees

PURPOSE

To recognize significant

contribution to the Department

of Defense performed as a

public service.

ELIGIBILITY

Personnel, group or organization

may be considered for recognition

except DoD military and civilian

personnel eligible for recognition

under AFI 36-1004 or the military

decorations program, or

persons or organizations having

commercial or profit-making

relationships with DoD or DoD

component, unless it is shown

the contributions are substantially

beyond that specified or implied

within the contract terms

establishing the relationship, and

is clearly in the public interest.

Recommendations for nongovernment employee awards

are forwarded through command

channels to HQ AFPC/DPPPR ,

Randolph AFB, Texas 78150-4714.

The recommendation must

include the individual's social

security number, birth date,

permanent home address,

previous US decoration(s), if

Awards for

Non-Government

Employees

any, authority for the decorations,

and inclusive service dates. In

addition, for the Exceptional

Service Award and the Air Force

Scroll of Appreciation, the letter

must state that the service cited

was voluntary; was performed

as a public service or motivated by

patriotism, with no implication for

remuneration; and the individual

being recommended had no

commercial or profitmaking

relationship with the Air Force.

For the Department of Defense

Medal for Distinguished Public

Service, the letter must indicate

whether any form of remuneration,

such as consultant fees, were

received for the services cited.

If so, specific comments must be

included to clarify the personnel's

status with the US government.

In all cases nominating officials

should find out if the presentation

of the award would embarrass the

Department of Defense, before

submitting a nomination.

Sample Contributions:

Exemplary service in an advisory

or technical capacity to a DoD

committee, program or project;

direct assistance to a DoD

component through actions or

useful ideas that are beneficial

in eliminating or minimizing

problems or otherwise contributing

to mission accomplishment;

assistance through the cooperative

use of facilities, equipment, or

manpower; courageous or heroic

actions in support of a DoD

activity or mission; or other

actions resulting in significant

benefits to DoD.

Note: Awards are listed in AFI

36-2803.
31

ESTABLISHED

By the Secretary of the Air Force,

August 30,1948.

PURPOSE

Meritorious achievement or service

rendered to any activity of the

Department of the Air Force. Acts

of courage that do not meet the

risk of life requirements for award

of the Exceptional Service Award.

AWARD

A scroll, signed by the Secretary

of the Air Force and Chief of Staff

that describes the act or service

being recognized.

ELIGIBILITY

Service must be completely

Air Force Scroll of Appreciation

voluntary and performed as a

public service or by patriotic

motivation with no implication

of financial or other remuneration.

PROCEDURE

May be submitted at any time,

but at least 30 calendar days

before presentation. A cover

letter signed by the commander

requesting the award with an

attached biographical sketch

which explains in detail the service

rendered. The cover letter must

contain comments that the services

cited were voluntary, performed

as a public service, or motivated

by patriotism with no implication

of remuneration, and that the

person recommended had no

commercial or profit-making

relationship with the Air Force.

It must contain the individual's

social security number, birth

date, permanent home address,

previous US decorations, if any,

authority for the decoration

(AFI-36-2803), and inclusive

service dates.

The request must be sent to HQ

AFPC/DPPPR, 550 C Street West,

Suite 12, Randolph AFB, Texas

78150-4714. (DSN 665-2516).

FINAL APPROVING AUTHORITY

Secretary of the Air Force.

MONETARY AMOUNT

None.

PURPOSE

Exceptional services to the

Department of the Air Force by

U.S. or foreign civilians, not

employed by the U.S. Government;

or an act of heroism, involving

voluntary risk of life. ESA is

comparable to the Distinguished

Service Medal awarded to U.S.

Armed Forces members.

AWARD

Gold-colored medal bearing the

Air Force coat of arms with a

wreath of laurel leaves. Ribbon is

dark-blue silk with three dotted

golden-orange lines in the center.

ELIGIBILITY

This award is presented to U.S.

Exceptional Service Award

or foreign civilians, not employed

by the U.S. Government.

PROCEDURE

May be submitted at any time, but

at least 30 calendar days before

presentation. A cover letter signed

by the commander requesting

the award with an attached

biographical sketch which explains

in detail the service rendered.

The cover letter must contain

comments that the services cited

were voluntary, performed as a

public service, or motivated by

patriotism with no implication of

remuneration, and that the person

recommended had no commercial

or profit-making relationship with

the Air Force. It must contain the

individual's social security number,

permanent home address, previous

U.S. decorations, if any, authority

for the decoration (AFI 36-2803),

and inclusive service dates.

The request must be sent to HQ

AFPC/DPPPR, 550 C Street West,

Suite 12, Randolph AFB, Texas,

78150-4714. (DSN 665-2516)

FINAL APPROVAL AUTHORITY

Secretary of the Air Force

MONETARY AMOUNT

None.

Awards for Non-Government Employees
32

Secretary of Defense Award

for Outstanding Public Service

PURPOSE

Exceptionally meritorious civilian

service since the date of the

National Security Act (1947)

to the Department of Defense as

a whole.

AWARD

This is the second highest award.

A silver medal similar in design to

the DoD Medal for Distinguished

Public Service, a rosette, and a

citation signed by the Secretary

of Defense.

ELIGIBILITY

This award is presented to private

citizens, US and foreign civilian

personnel, whose contributions,

assistance, or support to DoD

functions are extensive enough

to warrant recognition beyond

the DoD component level but of

a more limited scope or impact

than that required for award of

the Department of Defense Medal

for Distinguished Public Service.

PROCEDURE

May be submitted at any time, but

at least 30 calendar days before

presentation. A memorandum

signed by the Secretary of the

Air Force requesting the award

with an attached biographical

sketch which explains in

detail the service rendered. The

memorandum must contain

comments that the services cited

were voluntary, performed as a

public service, or motivated by

patriotism with no implication

of remuneration, and that the

person recommended had no

commercial or profit-making

relationship with the Air Force.

It must contain the individual's

social security number, birth date,

permanent home address, previous

US decorations, if any, authority

for the decoration (AFI 36-2803),

and inclusive service dates.

The request must be sent through

MAJCOM to HQ AFPC/DPPPR,

550 C Street West, Suite 12,

Randolph AFB, Texas 78150-4714.

(DSN 665-2516)

FINAL APPROVING AUTHORITY

Secretary of Defense. DoD

1400.25-M, Subchapter 451,

“Awards,” Appendix B.

Additional information may be

obtained from the Office of the

Secretary of Defense, Washington

Headquarters Services, Directorate

of Personnel Security, Labor

Management and Employees

Relations Branch. Nominations

require endorsement by the

Secretary of the Air Force.

MONETARY AMOUNT

None.

PURPOSE

Exceptionally meritorious civilian

service since the date of the

National Security Act (1947) to the

Department of Defense as a whole.

AWARD

This is the highest honorary

award. A gold-colored medal

bearing the Seal of the

Department of Defense within

a wreath of laurel leaves. The

ribbon is edged with white and

has a wide garnet red stripe

bordered by two stripes of white,

and two stripes of lustre blue. A

rosette and a citation signed by the

Secretary of Defense accompanies

the award.

ELIGIBILITY

The civilian nominee must

not derive his or her principal

livelihood from government

employment; and have served at

considerable personal sacrifice

and inconvenience, motivated by

patriotism, good citizenship, and

a sense of public responsibility.

It will not be awarded to groups,

organizations, or employees

of other government agencies.

May be awarded to US and

Department of Defense

Distinguished Public Service Award

Awards for Non-Government Employees
33

foreign civilian personnel. To be

considered, individuals

normally should have received

the highest public service award

offered by the Air Force.

PROCEDURE

May be submitted at any time,

but at least 30 calendar days

before presentation. A cover

letter signed by the commander

requesting the award with an

attached biographical sketch

which explains in detail the

service rendered. The cover

letter must contain comments

that the services cited were

voluntary, performed as a

public service, or motivated by

patriotism with no implication

of remuneration, and that the

person recommended had no

commercial or profit-making

relationship with the Air Force.

It must contain the individual's

social security number, birth

date, permanent home address,

previous US decorations, if any,

authority for the decoration

(AFI 36-2803), and inclusive

service dates.

The request must be sent to

HQ AFPC/DPPPR, 550 C Street

West, Suite 12, Randolph AFB,

Texas 78150-4714.

(DSN 665-2516)

Awards for Non-Government Employees

FINAL APPROVING AUTHORITY

Secretary of Defense

DoD Directive 1400.25-M

Subchapter 451, “Awards,”

Appendix B. Nominations

require endorsement by the

Secretary of the Air Force.

MONETARY AMOUNT

None.

DONALD L. PETERSON, Lt. Gen, USAF

Deputy Chief of Staff, Personnel
34

Air Force Form, 1768 Sample

Air Force Form, 1768 Sample

AF FORM 1768, SEP 84 (EF-V3) (PerFORM PRO) PREVIOUS EDITION WILL BE USED.

Staff Summary Sheet

To Action Signature (Surname), Grade, Date To Action Signature (Surname), Grade, Date

1 4

2 5

3 6

Grade and Surname of Action Officer Symbol Suspense Date

Subject SSS Date

Decoration for Exceptional Civilian Service - (Name)

Summary

1. The attached recommendation for (full name) for the Decoration for Exceptional Civilian Service was

submitted by (Rank or Title, Full Name), (Organization). The nomination is submitted for review/approval.

2. This award recognizes employees with continuous exceptional performance that resulted in extraordinary

accomplishments with significant Air Force-wide scope and impact and whose service is expected to

continue. (Name) has no immediate plans for retirement.

3. Justification: (list accomplishments) (justification may exceed one page, depending upon award criteria)

4. Other data: Social Security Number:

Grade:

Duty Title:

Period Covered:

(For Exceptional Only): Received Meritorious Civilian Service Award (date(s))

5. Proposed Citation: (not to exceed 90 words)

Recommendation. Approval.