Board members are all civilians, GS-15 and above. According to DoD , case examiners prepare a record of proceedings including a statement of requested relief, a summary of the facts, Air Force staff advisory opinions, the applicant's comments to the opinions, and supporting documents for presentation to the board. The examiner's summary does not include a draft decision or recommendation. Advisory opinions are provided to the Board to enable it to reach informed decisions. Panel members review the application and supporting documentation and deliberate in executive session.
Examiners are usually present during panel meetings to take notes and answer questions.
They do not, however, present a briefing, recommend a course of action, or participate in the decision making process. The panel's decision is based on an independent assessment of facts and reached by majority vote. After the panel's decision, the examiner prepared a decisional document containing the panel's decision and rationale. The document is sent to the panel chairman for concurrence and signature. Action After Final Decision.