5 U.S.C. 552.
This part makes this guidance an Air Force supplement to the DoD regulation at 32 CFR part 286. It transfers responsibility for the Air Force Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Program from the Office of the Secretary of the Air Force (SAF/AAI) to Headquarters United States Air Force (HQ USAF/SC) and Headquarters Air Force Communications and Information Center/Corporate Information Division (HQ AFCIC/ITC); contains significant changes and additions to implement the Electronic Freedom of Information Act (EFOIA) Amendments of 1996; addresses electronic records; increases time limits to 20 working days; adds procedures for multiple tracking and expedited processing of requests; changes annual report date and content; adds major command (MAJCOM) inspectors general (IG), MAJCOM Directors of Inquiries (IGQ), and wing commanders as initial denial authorities (IDAs).
A list of Air Force MAJCOMs, field operating agencies (FOAs), and Direct Reporting Units (DRUs) is at § 806.26.
(a)
(b) HQ AFCIC/ITC will make the Air Force handbook and guide for requesting records available on the World Wide Web (WWW) from Air ForceLINK, at
(a)
(b)
(1) Simple requests can be processed quickly with limited impact on the responding units. The request clearly identifies the records with no (or few) complicating factors involved. There are few or no responsive records. Only one installation is involved and there are no outside Office of Primary Responsibility (OPRs). There are no classified or nongovernment records. No deliberative process/privileged materials are involved. The responsive records contain no (or limited) personal privacy information and do not come from a Privacy Act system of records. No time extensions are anticipated.
(2) Complex requests take substantial time and cause significant impact on responding units. Complications and delays are likely. Records sought are massive in volume. Multiple organizations must review/coordinate on requested records. Records are classified; originated with a nongovernment source; are part of the Air Force's decision-making process; or are privileged.
(c)
(d)
(e)
(f)
(g)
(h)
(a) The Director, Communications and Information (HQ USAF/SC) has overall responsibility for the Air Force FOIA Program. The Corporate Information Division (HQ AFCIC/ITC) administers the procedures necessary to implement the Air Force FOIA Program, submits reports to the Director, Freedom of Information and Security Review (DFOISR), and provides guidance and instructions to MAJCOMs. Responsibilities of other Air Force elements follow.
(b) SAF/GCA makes final decisions on FOIA administrative appeals.
(c) Installation commanders will: Comply with FOIA electronic reading room (ERR) requirements by establishing a FOIA site on their installation public web page and making frequently requested records (FOIA-processed (a)(2)(D)) records available through links from that site, with a link to the Air Force FOIA web page at
(d) MAJCOM commanders implement this instruction and appoint a FOIA manager, in writing. Send the name, phone number, office symbol, and e-mail address to HQ AFCIC/ITC, 1250 Air Force Pentagon, Washington, DC 20330-1250.
(e) Air Force attorneys review FOIA responses for legal sufficiency, provide legal advice to OPRs, disclosure authorities, IDAs, and FOIA managers, and provide written legal opinions when responsive records (or portions of responsive records) are withheld. Air Force attorneys ensure factual and legal issues raised by appellants are considered by IDAs prior to sending the FOIA appeal files to the Secretary of the Air Force's designee for final action.
(f) Disclosure authorities and IDAs apply the policies and guidance in this instruction, along with the written recommendations provided by staff elements, when considering what decisions to make on pending FOIA actions. Where any responsive records are denied, the IDA tells the requesters the nature of records or information denied, the FOIA exemption supporting the denial, the reasons the records were not released, and gives the requester the appeal procedures. In addition, on partial releases, IDAs must ensure requesters can see the placement and general length of redactions with the applicable exemption indicated. This procedure applies to all media, including electronic records. Providing placement and general length of redacted information is not required if doing so would harm an interest protected by a FOIA exemption. When working FOIA appeal actions for the appellate authority review:
(1) IDAs grant or recommend continued denial (in full or in part) of the requester's appeal of the earlier withholding of responsive records, or adverse determination (for example, IDAs may release some or all of the previously denied documents).
(2) IDAs reassess a request for expedited processing due to demonstrated compelling need, overturning or confirming the initial determination made by the FOIA manager.
(3) When an IDA denies any appellate action sought by a FOIA requester, the IDA, or MAJCOM FOIA manager (for no record, fee, fee estimates, or fee category appeals) will indicate in writing that the issues raised in the FOIA appeal were considered and rejected (in full or in part). Include this written statement in the file you send to the Secretary of the Air Force in the course of a FOIA appeal action. Send all appeal actions through the MAJCOM FOIA office.
(g) OPRs:
(1) Coordinate the release or denial of records requested under the FOIA with OCRs, FOIA offices, and with Air Force attorneys on proposed denials.
(2) Provide requested records. Indicate withheld parts of records annotated with FOIA exemption. Ensure requesters can see the placement and general length of redactions. This procedure applies to all media, including
(3) Provide written recommendations to the disclosure authority to determine whether or not to release records, and act as declassification authority when appropriate.
(4) Make frequently requested records (FOIA-processed (a)(2)(D)) available to the public in the FOIA ERR via the Internet. As required by AFIs 33-129, Transmission of Information Via the Internet, and 35-205, Air Force Security and Policy Review Program, OPRs request clearance of these records with the PAO before posting on the WWW, and coordinate with JA and FOIA office prior to posting. The FOIA manager, in coordination with the functional OPR or the owner of the records, will determine qualifying records, after coordination with any interested OCRs.
(5) Complete the required GILS core record for each FOIA-processed (a)(2)(D) record.
(6) Manage ERR records posted to the installation public web page by updating or removing them when no longer needed. Software for tracking number of hits may assist in this effort.
(h) FOIA managers:
(1) Ensure administrative correctness of all FOIA actions processed.
(2) Control and process FOIA requests.
(3) Obtain recommendations from the OPR for records.
(4) Prepare or coordinate on all proposed replies to the requester. FOIA managers may sign replies to requesters when disclosure authorities approve the total release of records. If the MAJCOM part directs the OPR to prepare the reply, the OPR will coordinate their reply with the FOIA office.
(5) Make determinations as to whether or not the nature of requests are simple or complex where multitrack FOIA request processing queues exist.
(6) Approve or initially deny any requests for expedited processing.
(7) Provide interim responses to requesters, as required.
(8) Provide a reading room for inspecting and copying records.
(9) Provide training.
(10) Review publications for compliance with this part.
(11) Conduct periodic program reviews.
(12) Approve or deny initial fee waiver requests.
(13) Make the initial decision on chargeable fees.
(14) Collect fees.
(15) Send extension notices.
(16) Submit reports.
(17) Sign “no record” responses.
(18) Provide the requester the basis for any adverse determination (i.e., no records, fee denials, fee category determinations, etc.) in enough detail to permit the requester to make a decision whether or not to appeal the actions taken, and provide the requester with appeal procedures.
(i) On appeals, FOIA managers:
(1) Reassess a fee category claim by a requester, overturning or confirming the initial determination.
(2) Reassess a request for expedited processing due to demonstrated compelling need, overturning or confirming the initial determination.
(3) Reassess a request for a waiver or reduction of fees, overturning or confirming the initial determination.
(4) Review a fee estimate, overturning or confirming the initial determination.
(5) Confirm that no records were located in response to a request.
(j) The base FOIA manager acts as the FOIA focal point for the FOIA site on the installation web page.
(k) When any appellate action sought by a FOIA requester is denied by an IDA or FOIA manager for authorized actions, the IDA or FOIA manager will indicate, in writing, that the issues raised in the FOIA appeal were considered and rejected (in full or in part). Include this written statement in the file you send to the Secretary of the Air Force in the course of a FOIA appeal action. Send all appeal actions through the MAJCOM FOIA office.
(a) Examples of letters to FOIA requesters (e.g., response determinations and interim responses) are included in § 806.27.
(b) Multitrack processing. (1) Examples of letters to FOIA requesters (e.g.,
(2) Simple requests can be processed quickly, with limited impact on the responding units. The request clearly identifies the records with no (or few) complicating factors involved. There are few or no responsive records, only one installation is involved, there are no outside OPRs, no classified or nongovernment records, no deliberative process/privileged materials are involved, records contain no (or limited) personal privacy information/did not come from Privacy Act systems of records concerning other individuals, or time extensions not anticipated.
(c) Complex requests will take substantial time, will cause significant impact on responding units. Complications and delays are likely. Records sought are massive in volume, multiple organizations must review/coordinate on records, records are classified, records originated with a nongovernment source, records were part of the Air Force's decision-making process or are privileged.
(d) Expedited processing. Examples of letters to individuals whose FOIA requests and/or appeals were not expedited are included in § 806.27.
(a) A listing of some AFIs that provide guidance on special disclosure procedures for certain types of records is provided in § 806.28. Refer to those instructions for specific disclosure procedures. Remember, the only reason to deny a request is a FOIA exemption.
(b) Refer requests from foreign government officials that do not cite the FOIA to your foreign disclosure office and notify the requester.
(c) If you have a non-U.S. Government record, determine if you need to consult with the record's originator before releasing it (see § 806.9 and § 806.15(c)). This includes records created by foreign governments and organizations such as North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and North American Aerospace Defense (NORAD). You may need to coordinate release of foreign government records with either the U.S. Department of State or with the specific foreign embassy, directly through the MAJCOM FOIA office. Coordinate release or denial of letters of offer and acceptance (LOA) with SAF/IA through 11 CS/SCSR (FOIA), 1000 Air Force Pentagon, Washington DC 20330-1000.
Air Force elements must make reasonable efforts to find the records described in FOIA requests. Reasonable efforts means searching all activities and locations most likely to have the records, and includes staged or retired records, as well as complete and thorough searches of relevant electronic records, such as databases, word processing, and electronic mail files.
(a) Send all referrals through the FOIA office. The receiving FOIA office must agree to accept the referral before transfer. The FOIA office will provide the name, phone number, mailing address, and e-mail address of both the FOIA office point of contact and the record OPR point of contact in their referral letter. Include the requested record. If the requested records are massive, then provide a description of them. Referrals to, or consultations with, DFOISR are accomplished from the MAJCOM level. Section 806.27 has an example of a referral memo.
(b) In some cases, requested records are available from the GPO and NTIS, 5285 Port Royal Road, Springfield VA 22161. These organizations offer certain records for sale to the public. Current standard releasable Air Force publications are available electronically on the WWW at
Keep records that were fully released for 2 years and denied records for 6
Each FOIA office will arrange for a reading room where the public may inspect releasable records. You do not need to co-locate the reading room with the FOIA office. The FOIA does not require creation of a reading room dedicated exclusively to this purpose. A “reading room” is any location where a requester may review records. For FOIA-processed (a)(3) records, if requesters meet the criteria for search and review costs, they must be paid before inspecting records. Assess reproduction costs at the time of inspection, if appropriate.
(a) HQ AFCIC/ITC will make the traditional FOIA-processed (a)(2) materials (5 U.S.C. 552(a)(2)(A), (B), and (C)) available to the public. Each Air Force activity must make 5 U.S.C. 552(a)(2)(D) records (“FOIA-processed (a)(2)(D) records”—records which they determine will, or have become, the subject of frequent or subsequent requests) available to the public in a reading room in hard copy and electronically by posting it to their appropriate web site. There is no requirement to make all FOIA-released records available electronically. The FOIA manager, in coordination with the functional OPR, or the owner of the records, determines qualifying records, after coordination with any interested OCRs. As required by AFIs 33-129 and 35-205, OPRs request clearance of these records with the PAO before posting on the WWW.
(b) Normally, if the FOIA office or OPR receives, or anticipates receiving, five or more requests for the same record in a quarter, they will consider it a frequently requested record (FOIA-processed (a)(2)(D) record) and make it publicly available in hard copy and electronically as outlined in § 806.12(a). OPRs may elect to make other records publicly available if they receive, or expect to receive, less than five requests a quarter. The purpose is to make records available in an ERR to potential future FOIA requesters instead of waiting to receive a FOIA request, and reduce the number of multiple FOIA requests for the same records requiring separate responses. In making these determinations, recognize there are some situations in which a certain type of record becomes the subject of simultaneous FOIA requests from all interested parties and then ceases to be of interest. Activities may typically receive a “flurry” of FOIA requests for contract records immediately after a contract is awarded, but do not receive any subsequent requests for such bulky records after that point. In some cases, activities may decide that placing records in the ERR would not serve the statutory purpose of “diverting some potential FOIA requests for previously released records.” The following types of records should be considered for inclusion in the ERR (excluding individuals assigned to overseas, sensitive, and routinely deployable units): organizational charts and limited staff directories; lists of personnel reassigned with gaining base; MAJCOM FOIA supplements; lists of International Merchant Purchase Authority Card (IMPAC) card holders. Do not post lists of e-mail addresses.
(c) GILS. Each activity that posts FOIA-processed (a)(2)(D) records (records which they determine will, or
(d) In addition, installations will post a list, or index, of locally produced FOIA-processed (a)(2)(D) records on their web page at their FOIA site. Each listing will point or link to the particular record. In addition, MAJCOMs may choose to post their own index of MAJCOM specific FOIA-processed (a)(2)(D) records to their appropriate web site. Installation web pages will include the following phrase (or similar words) on their FOIA site if they do not have any frequently requested FOIA records: “There are no frequently requested FOIA records to post at this time.” Include the following statement, or a similar one, on the installation web page with the records: “Some records are released to the public under the FOIA, and may therefore reflect deletion of some information in accordance with the FOIA's nine statutory exemptions. A consolidated list of such records is on DefenseLINK.” Link the word “DefenseLINK” to
(e) FOIA web pages should be clearly accessed from the main installation page, either by a direct link to “FOIA” or “Freedom of Information Act” from the main page, or found under a logical heading such as “Library” or “Sites.”
The GILS records on DefenseLINK will serve as the index for 5 U.S.C. 552(a)(2)(D) materials.
HQ AFCIC/ITC makes the appropriate FOIA-processed (a)(1) materials available for the Air Force.
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(2) Based on court decisions in FOIA litigation, which led to the release of results of personnel surveys, FOIA managers and IDAs should get advice from an Air Force attorney before withholding survey results under FOIA exemption (b)(5).
(e)
(2) Personal information may not be posted at publicly accessible DoD web sites unless to do so is clearly authorized by law and implementing regulation and policy. Personal information should not be posted at nonpublicly accessible web sites unless it is mission essential and appropriate safeguards have been established. See also AFIs 33-129 and 35-205.
(3) Withhold names and duty addresses of personnel serving overseas or in sensitive or routinely deployable units. Routinely deployable units normally leave their permanent home stations on a periodic or rotating basis for peacetime operations or for scheduled training exercises conducted outside the United States or United States territories. Units based in the United States for a long time, such as those in extensive training or maintenance activities, do not qualify during that period. Units designated for deployment on contingency plans not yet executed and units that seldom leave the United States or United States territories (
(i) Each MAJCOM and FOA will establish a system and assign OPRs to identify United States-based units in their command qualifying for the “sensitive or routinely deployable unit” designation, under this exemption. Appropriate OPRs could include directors of operations, plans and programs, and personnel.
(ii) MAJCOM FOIA managers will ensure the list of sensitive and routinely deployable units is reviewed in January and July, and will follow that review with a memo to the Air Force Personnel Center (HQ AFPC/MSIMD), 550 C Street West, Suite 48, Randolph AFB, TX 78150-4750, either validating the current list or providing a revised listing based on the current status of deployed units at that time. This listing is in American Standard Code for Information Interchange (ASCII) format on a 3
(f)
(a) Markings. Record owners may also add the following sentence to the statement above: “(Further distribution is prohibited without the approval of (owner's organization, office symbol, phone).)”
(b) Dissemination and transmission. (1) When deciding whether to send FOUO records over facsimile equipment, balance the sensitivity of the records against the risk of disclosure. When faxing, use cover sheets to indicate FOUO attachments (
(2) For Privacy Act records, refer to AFI 33-332 for specific disclosure rules. For releases to GAO and Congress, refer to AFI 90-401, Air Force Relations With Congress and AFI 65-401, Relations With the General Accounting Office. See § 806.9(b) for availability.
(c) Termination, disposal and unauthorized disclosures. You may recycle FOUO material. Safeguard the FOUO documents or information to prevent unauthorized disclosure until recycling. Recycling contracts must include specific responsibilities and requirements on protecting and destroying FOUO and Privacy Act materials.
(a) Individuals seeking Air Force information should address requests to an address listed in § 806.26. MAJCOM FOIA office phone numbers and mailing addresses are available on the Air Force FOIA Web Page at
(1) A list of Air Force FOIA processing steps, from receipt of the request through the final disposition of an administrative appeal is at § 806.29, which also includes guidance on preparing and processing an Air Force FOIA appeal package.
(2) Air Force host tenant relationships. The Air Force host base FOIA manager may log, process, and report FOIA requests for Air Force tenant units. In such cases, the host base FOIA office refers all recommended denials and “no records” appeals to the Air Force tenant MAJCOM FOIA manager. This does not apply to the Air National Guard (ANG), Air Force Reserves, or to disclosure authorities for specialized records.
(b) Use FOIA procedures in this part to process any congressional request citing FOIA, or covering a constituent
(a) Disclosure authorities make final decisions on providing releasable records within the time limits and provide recommendations to the IDA on proposed denials and partial denials after coordination with the appropriate FOIA and JA office. Normally, disclosure authorities are division chiefs or higher at Air Staff level. MAJCOMs will designate their disclosure authority levels. The level should be high enough so a responsible authority makes the disclosure according to the policies outlined in this part. At out sourced units or functions, the disclosure authority must be a government official. Contractors who are functional OPRs for official government records are not authorized to make the decision to disclose government records.
(b) On receipt, Air Force FOIA offices will promptly inform Air Force PAOs of all FOIA requests that are potentially newsworthy, or that are submitted by news media requesters. FOIA offices will coordinate final replies for such cases with public affairs.
Delete information exempt from release under the FOIA from copies of otherwise releasable records. Do not release copies that would permit the requester to “read through the marking.” Examples of records with deletions of exempted data are in § 806.30.
(a) The Air Force, in compliance with Executive Order 12600, will advise submitters of contractor-submitted records when a FOIA requester seeks the release of such records, regardless of any initial determination as to whether FOIA exemption (b)(4) applies. See § 806.15(c) and § 806.31. Due to a change to 48 CFR, submitter notification is not required prior to release of unit prices contained in contracts awarded based upon solicitations issued after January 1, 1998. For solicitations issued before January 1, 1998, conduct a normal submitter notice. Unit prices contained in proposals provided prior to contract award are protected from release, as are all portions of unsuccessful proposals (before and after contract award) (10 U.S.C. 2305(g)).
(b) Department of State involvement. Air Force FOIA managers will notify their MAJCOM (or equivalent) FOIA office, in writing, via fax or e-mail when the Department of State becomes involved in any Air Force FOIA actions. The MAJCOM FOIA office will provide 11 CS/SCSR, via fax or e-mail, a summary of the issues involved, and the name, phone number, mailing address and e-mail address of: their own FOIA office point of contact; the Air Force record OPR point of contact, the DoD component FOIA office point of contact (if any), and the Department of State point of contact. 11 CS/SCSR will inform SAF/IA of any State Department involvement in Air Force FOIA actions. (See § 806.7(b).) An example of a memo advising 11 CS/SCSR of State Department involvement in an Air Force FOIA action is provided in § 806.27.
(a) FOIA requesters seeking Air Force records must address appeals to the Office of the Secretary of the Air Force, through the FOIA office of the IDA that denied the request. Requesters should attach a copy of the denial letter to their appeal and give reasons for appealing. Air Force IDAs may reconsider any prior denials and may grant all or part of a requester's appeal. When any appellate action sought by a FOIA requester is denied by an IDA, the IDA will include a statement that the issues raised in the appeal were considered and rejected (in full or in part) in any file sent to the Secretary of the Air Force in the course of a FOIA appeal action. Send all appeals to IDA decisions at the wing level through the MAJCOM FOIA office for sending to the Secretary of the Air Force's designated appellate authority, SAF/GCA (and Air Force Legal Services Agency (AFLSA/JACL)). (See
(1) MAJCOM FOIA offices and record OPRs are responsible for ensuring adequate preparation of the FOIA appeal package for reconsideration by the IDA. FOIA offices and records OPRs will coordinate with Air Force attorneys, who will provide written opinions on substantive issues raised in the appeal.
(2) If a requester appeals an Air Force “no records” determination, Air Force elements must search again or verify the adequacy of their first search. The package must include documents that show the Air Force element systematically tried to find responsive records. Tell, for example, what areas or offices were searched and how the search was conducted—manually, by computer, by telephone, and so forth. In the event a requester sues the Air Force to contest a determination that no responsive records exist, formal affidavits are required to support the adequacy of any searches conducted.
(3) FOIA requesters seeking to appeal denials involving Office of Personnel Management's controlled civilian personnel records must appeal to the Office of the General Counsel, Office of Personnel Management, 1900 E Street NW, Washington, DC 20415.
(4) If a requester appeals a denial of a fee waiver, fee estimate, or fee reduction request, FOIA offices and record OPRs must account for actual and estimated costs of processing a request, and will include copies of the DD Forms 2086 or 2086-1 in the appeal package.
(5) When any appellate action sought by a FOIA requester is denied by an IDA, prepare the FOIA appeal package as specified in § 806.29, and then the MAJCOM FOIA office forwards the appeal file to the Secretary of the Air Force's designated appellate authority, SAF/GCA (through AFLSA/JACL), for a final administrative determination.
(b) Air Force activities will process appeal actions expeditiously to ensure they reach the Office of the Secretary of the Air Force in a timely manner.
Any FOIA appeals received after the 60-day time limit are not processed, unless the requester provides adequate justification for failing to comply with the time limit. If a late appeal is received, and there is no adequate justification for failing to comply with the time limit, the FOIA office will advise the FOIA requester their appeal has been closed. An example of a closure letter is included in § 806.27.
For an appeal in process and not yet forwarded to AFLSA/JACL, the MAJCOM FOIA office is responsible for advising the requester of the status of the appeal. For an appeal in process at AFLSA/JACL, that office will advise the requester regarding status of the appeal.
For FOIA purposes, Air Force activities will consider the cost of collecting a fee to be $15 and will not assess requesters' fees for any amount less than $15.
(a) MAJCOM FOIA managers and AFLSA/JACL send a consolidated report for the fiscal year on DD Form 2564, Annual Report Freedom of Information Act, to HQ AFCIC/ITC by October 30 via regular mail, e-mail, or facsimile. AFLSA/JACL will prepare the appeals and litigation costs sections of the report. HQ AFCIC/ITC will make the Air Force report available on the WWW.
(b) Total requests processed. “Processed” includes responses that give an estimated cost for providing the records, even if the requester has not paid.
(c) Denied in full. Do not report “no record” responses as denials.
(d) Other reasons.
(1)
(2)
(e) Other. The “Other (Specify)” block must contain the reason with the total number for the reason. For example: “FOIA request had no return address-4.”
(f) 5 U.S.C. 552(b)(3) statutes invoked on initial determinations. A corresponding statute is required for each instance entered in the Exemption 3 block. List the statute by number, not title. For any statute on the report that is not on DoD's list of commonly used 5 U.S.C. 552(b)(3) statutes, attach a copy of the pertinent page of the statute that states information must be withheld from public disclosure. HQ AFCIC/ITC makes the DoD list available to FOIA managers electronically. Statutes on the DoD list with an asterisk indicate they are valid 5 U.S.C. 552(b)(3) statutes from litigation. Do not enter any of the following as 5 U.S.C. 552(b)(3) statutes:
(g) Appeal determinations. Enter the total number of FOIA appeals received and total number of FOIA appeals completed during the fiscal year.
(h) Average. Air Force will use the “median age” and will not collect or report averages.
(i) Number of initial requests received during the fiscal year. This number includes open and closed cases.
(j) Total number of initial requests. “Processed” includes responses which give an estimated cost for providing the records, even if the requester has not paid.
(k) Total program cost. This figure includes all costs from the DD Forms 2086 and 2086-1, as well as personnel costs for individuals primarily involved in administering the FOIA program. To figure personnel costs, multiply the annual salary of each person by the percentage of time spent on FOIA.
(l) MAJCOMs and bases do not include the 25 percent. HQ AFCIC/ITC will add to the final Air Force report to DoD.
(m) Authentication. MAJCOM SCs will sign as approving official (or two-letter functional equivalent for FOIA offices in other functional areas).
(a) FOIA requests concerning Air National Guard Inspector General records should be sent to 11 CS/SCSR (FOIA), 1000 Air Force Pentagon, Washington, DC 20330-1000.
(b) Addressing Air Force Freedom of Information Act requests. The Department of the Air Force, a component of the DoD, includes the Office of the Secretary of the Air Force, the Chief of Staff of the Air Force (who is supported by Headquarters Air Force or “Air Staff” elements), the MAJCOMs, the FOAs, and DRUs. This section lists the FOIA office addresses. A selected subordinate unit is also included in this section. Realignment of Air Force elements is frequent; addresses listed below are subject to change.
(c) The Department of the Air Force does not have a central repository for Air Force records. FOIA requests are addressed to the Air Force element that has custody of the record desired. In answering inquiries regarding FOIA requests, Air Force personnel will assist requesters in determining the correct Air Force element to address their requests. If there is uncertainty as to the ownership of the record desired, refer the requester to the Air Force element that is most likely to have the record. Two organizations that include Air Force elements, and hold some Air Force-related records, are also included in the addresses listed below.
(d) MAJCOMs:
(1) Air Combat Command (ACC): HQ ACC/SCTC, 230 East Flight Line Road, Langley AFB VA 23665-2781.
(2) Air Education and Training Command (AETC): HQ AETC/SCTS, 61 Main Circle Suite 2, Randolph AFB TX 78150-4545.
(3) Air Force Materiel Command (AFMC): HQ AFMC/SCDP, 4225 Logistics Avenue, Suite 6, Wright-Patterson AFB, OH 45433-5745.
(4) Air Force Reserve Command (AFRC): HQ AFRC/SCSM, 155 2nd Street, Robins AFB, GA 31098-1635.
(5) Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC): HQ AFSOC/SCMN, 100 Bartley Street, Suite 201, Hurlburt Field, FL 32544-5273.
(6) Air Force Space Command (AFSPC): HQ AFSPC/SCMA, 150 Vandenberg Street, Suite 1105, Peterson AFB, CO 80914-4400.
(7) Air Mobility Command (AMC): HQ AMC/SCYNR, 203 West Losey Street, Room 3180, Scott AFB, IL 62225-5223.
(8) Pacific Air Forces (PACAF): HQ PACAF/SCT, 25 E Street, Suite C220, Hickam AFB, HI 96853-5409.
(9) United States Air Forces in Europe (USAFE): HQ USAFE/SCMI, Unit 3050, Box 125, APO AE 09094-0125.
(e) FOAs:
(1) Air Force Audit Agency (AFAA): HQ AFAA/IMP, 1126 Air Force Pentagon, Washington, DC 20330-1126.
(2) Air Force Base Conversion Agency (AFBCA): AFBCA/ESA, 1700 North Moore Street, Suite 2300, Arlington, VA 22209-2802.
(3) Air Force Center for Environmental Excellence (AFCEE): HQ AFCEE/MSI, 3207 North Road, Brooks AFB, TX 78235-5363.
(4) Air Force Civil Engineering Support Agency (AFCESA): HQ AFCESA/IMD, 139 Barnes Drive Suite 1, Tyndall AFB, FL 32403-5319.
(5) Air Force Historical Research Agency (AFHRA): AFHRA/RSA, 600 Chennault Circle, Maxwell AFB, AL 36112-6424.
(6) Air Force Inspection Agency (AFIA): (Shared FOIA office/function, AFIA and Air Force Safety Agency) AFSA/JAR, 9700 Avenue G SE, Suite 236B, Kirtland AFB, NM 87117-5670.
(7) Air Force Medical Support Agency (AFMSA): AFMSA/CCEA, 2510 Kennedy Circle, Suite 208, Brooks AFB, TX 78235-5121.
(8) Air Force News Agency (AFNEWS): HQ AFNEWS/SCB, 203 Norton Street, Kelly AFB, TX 78241-6105.
(9) Air Force Office of Special Investigations (AFOSI): HQ AFOSI/SCR, P. O. Box 2218, Waldorf, MD 20604-2218.
(10) Air Force Personnel Center (AFPC): HQ AFPC/MSIMD, 550 C Street West, Suite 48, Randolph AFB, TX 78150-4750.
(11) Air Force Center for Quality and Innovation (AFCQMI): AFCQMI/CSP, 550 E Street East, Randolph AFB, TX 78150-4451.
(12) Air Force Safety Agency (AFSA): (Shared FOIA office/function, AFIA, and AFSA) AFSA/JARF, 9700 Avenue G SE, Suite 236B, Kirtland AFB, NM 87117-5670.
(13) Air Force Security Forces Center (AFSFC): AFSFC/CCQ 1720 Patrick Street, Lackland AFB, TX 78236-5226.
(14) Air Force Services Agency (AFSVA): AFSVA/SVSR, 9504 1H-35 North, Suite 250, San Antonio, TX 78233-6635.
(15) Air Force Technical Applications Center (AFTAC): AFTAC/LSCS, 1030 South Highway, Suite A1A, Patrick AFB, FL 32925-6001.
(16) Air Intelligence Agency (AIA): AIA/DOOI, 102 Hall Boulevard, Suite 229, San Antonio, TX 78243-7029.
(17) Air Reserve Personnel Center (ARPC): ARPC/SCS, 6760 East Irvington Place, #6600, Denver, CO 80280-6600.
(18) Air Force Weather Agency (AFWA): HQ AFWA/SCI, 106 Peacekeeper Drive Suite 2N3, Offutt AFB, NE 68113-4039.
(19) Air Force History Support Office (AFHSO): AFHSO, 500 Duncan Avenue Box 94, Bolling AFB, DC 20332-1111.
(f) DRUs:
(1) Air Force Operational Test and Evaluation Center (AFOTEC): AFOTEC/SCM, 8500 Gibson Boulevard SE, Kirtland AFB, NM 87117-5558.
(2) 11th Wing: 11 CS/SCSR (FOIA), 1000 Air Force Pentagon, Washington, DC 20330-1000 (if a person is unsure where to send a FOIA request for Air Force records, or is seeking records from the Office of the Secretary of the Air Force, or other Headquarters Air Force records, use this address).
(3) United States Air Force Academy (USAFA): 10 CS/SCBD, 2304 Cadet Drive, Suite 232, USAFA, CO 80840-5060.
(g) Selected subordinate units: Air Force Communications Agency (AFCA): HQ AFCA/CCQI, 203 West Losey Street, Room 1022, Scott AFB, IL 62225-5203.
(h) Organizations which include air force elements:
(1) Army and Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES): HQ AAFES/GC-E, P.O. Box 660202, Dallas, TX 75266-0202.
(2) National Guard Bureau (NGB)/Air National Guard: NGB-AD, 2500 Army Pentagon, Washington, DC 20310-2500. (FOIA requests concerning Air National Guard IG records should be sent to 11 CS/SCSR (FOIA), 1000 Air Force Pentagon, Washington, DC 20330-1000)
(a) This section includes suggested language in paragraph format that tracks Air Force and DoD FOIA guidance. The rest of the body of letters and memorandums should comply with Air Force administrative guidance. Each MAJCOM may elect to prepare their own verbiage to meet their specific needs, so long as FOIA processing actions are consistent with guidance in DoD 5400.7-R and this part. In this section, language in parentheses is for explanatory purposes only. Do not include any of the parenthetical language of this section in your FOIA correspondence. When optional language must be selected, the optional language will be presented within parentheses. Use only the portions that apply to the specific request or response.
(b) Initial receipt of Freedom of Information Act request.
We received your Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request dated ## Month year, for (summarize the request) on ## Month year (date received). We will provide you our release determination by (enter date that is 20 workdays from date you received the request). (Based on our initial review, we believe we cannot process your request within 20 workdays.) (If “cannot” is used, add appropriate explanation; examples follow.) Please contact (name and commercial telephone number) if you have any questions and refer to case number #######.
(c) Interim response:
Your request will be delayed because: all or part of the responsive records are not located at this installation; (and/or) Processing this FOIA request will require us to collect and review a substantial number of records (and/or) Other Air Force activities or other agencies (if applicable) to include the submitter of the information, need to be involved in deciding whether or not to release the responsive records. We expect to reply to your request not later than (give a date that is not more than 30 workdays from the initial receipt of the request); (or) If processing the FOIA request will take more than the allowed time limits to respond). We find we are unable to meet the time limits imposed by the FOIA in this instance because (tell the requester the reason for the delay) (example: the records are classified and must be reviewed for possible declassification by other activities or agencies). We anticipate completing your request by (date).
(When charging fees is appropriate.) The FOIA provides for the collection of fees based on the costs of processing a FOIA request and your fee category. Based on the information in your request, we have determined your fee category is (commercial/educational or noncommercial scientific institution or news media/all others). As a result, you (if commercial category) are required to pay all document search, review and duplication costs over $15.00. (or) As a result, you (if educational or noncommercial scientific institution or news media) will be provided the first 100 pages free of charge; you are required to pay any duplication costs over and above those amounts. (or) As a result, you will be provided the first 2 hours of search time and the first 100 pages free of charge; you are required to pay any search and duplication costs over and above those amounts.
(d) Request for a more specific description:
Your request does not sufficiently describe the desired records. The FOIA applies to existing Air Force records; without more specific information from you, we cannot identify what documents might be responsive to your request. Please give us whatever additional details you may have on the Air Force records you want. Can you tell us when the records were created, and what Air Force element may have created the records? If this request involves an Air Force contract, do you know the contract number and dates it covered? Our address is (include name and complete mailing address), our fax number is (give fax number), our e-mail address is (optional—give complete e-mail address). Based on the original request you sent us, we are unable to respond.
(e) Single letter acknowledging receipt of request and giving final response. (If you can complete a FOIA request within the statutory 20-workday processing period, Air Force elements may elect to send a single letter to the requester, along with responsive records which are released to the requester in full).
We received your Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request dated ## Month year, for (summarize the request) on ## Month year (date received). A copy (or) Copies of (describe the record(s) being released) (is/are) releasable and (is/are) attached.
(f) Collection of fees:
The FOIA provides for the collection of fees based on the costs of processing a FOIA request and your fee category. We have placed you in the (enter the fee category) fee category. In your case, we have assessed a charge of $__ for processing your request. The fee was calculated in the following manner: (Give a detailed cost breakdown: for example, 15 pages of reproduction at $0.15 per page; 5 minutes of computer search time at $43.50 per minute, 2 hours of professional level search at $25 per hour.) Please make your check payable to (appropriate payee) and send it to (give your complete mailing address) by (date 30 days after the letter is signed). (or) The FOIA provides for the collection of fees based on the costs of processing a FOIA request and your fee category. We have placed you in the (enter the fee category); however, in this case, we have waived collecting fees.
(g) Multitrack processing letters to FOIA requesters. (When using the multitrack FOIA processing system, determine which of the following paragraphs to include in your letters to the requester. To the extent it may apply, include language from paragraph 2 of the sample. If a requester asks for expedited processing, answer carefully if you decide not to provide expedited processing, because requesters may appeal denial of their request for expedited processing. Advise requesters placed into the complex track in writing how they can simplify their request to qualify for the simple track.)
We received your Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request dated ## Month year, for (summarize the request) on ## Month year (date received). Because our organization has a significant number of pending FOIA requests, which prevents us from making a response determination within 20 workdays, we have instituted multitrack processing of requests. Based on the information you provided, we have placed your request in the (simple or complex) track. We have assigned number ##### to identify your request; should you need to contact us about your request, please write or call (name and telephone) and use this number to assist us in responding more promptly.
Based on our current backlog, we expect to respond to your request not later than (give an estimated date). Our policy is to process requests within their respective tracks in the order in which we receive them. We do process each FOIA request as quickly as we can.
(h) If the request is placed in the complex track:
In your case, processing your request is complex because (give basic reasons this is a complex case: request was vague or complicated; the records sought are voluminous; multiple organizations will have to work on this request; records are classified; responsive records came from another command/another service/a nongovernment source; responsive records were part of the Air Force's decision-making process, and the prerelease review will require policy determinations from different Air Force elements; records describe law enforcement activities; records involve foreign policy issues; due to the nature of your request and/or the nature of our computer system, responding to your request or providing a response in the electronic format you requested will be technically complex, etc.). Simplifying your request might permit quicker processing in the following ways: (describe ways the search could be narrowed to fewer records, or ways policy issues could be avoided, etc.) Can you tell us when the records were created, and what Air Force element may have created the records? If this request involves an Air Force contract, do you know the contract number? Please give us whatever additional details you may have on the Air Force records you are seeking, so we can attempt to streamline the processing of your request. Our address is (give complete mailing address), our fax number is (give fax number), our e-mail address is (optional—give complete e-mail address).
(i) If the requester asks that you expedite their request:
Because individuals receiving expedited processing may receive a response before other earlier requesters, there are administrative requirements you must meet before we can expedite a request. In your request, you asked that we expedite processing. In order for us to expedite a request, the requester must provide a statement certifying the reasons supporting their request are true and correct to the best of their knowledge.
In the second category, “urgently needed” means the information itself has a particular value that it will lose if it is not disseminated quickly. Ordinarily this means the information concerns a breaking news story of general public interest. Historic information, or information sought for litigation or commercial activities usually would not
In this case, we have determined your FOIA request (will/will not) receive expedited processing. We came to this conclusion because you (did/did not) demonstrate you need the information because failure to obtain the records on an expedited basis (could or could not) reasonably expect to pose an imminent threat to life or physical safety of an individual (or) the information (is or is not) urgently needed in order to inform the public about actual or alleged Federal Government activity (or) failure to obtain the records on an expedited basis (could or could not) reasonably expect to lead to an imminent loss of substantial due process rights, (or) release (would or would not) serve a humanitarian need by promoting the welfare and interests of mankind (and/or) your request for expedited processing did not meet the statutory requirements of the FOIA; you did not provide enough information to make a determination of compelling need for the information you requested (and/or) you did not properly certify your request.
(j) If you deny a request for expedited processing:
If you consider our decision not to expedite your request incorrect, you may appeal our decision. Include in your appeal letter the reasons for reconsidering your request for expedited processing, and attach a copy of this letter. Address your appeal to Secretary of the Air Force through (address of MAJCOM FOIA office). In the meantime, we will continue to process your request in the (simple/complex) processing track.
(k) Certification, computer systems manager (electronic records or format requested).
(When answering a request for electronic records, based on the configuration of your hardware and/or software, certain factors may make a particular request complex. Have your computer system manager advise you whether or not they can create the new record/format on a “business as usual” basis. If producing the record/format would entail a significant expenditure of resources in time and manpower that would cause significant interference with the operation of the information system and adversely affect mission accomplishment, you do not need to process the request. The FOIA office needs to get a certification from the computer systems manager to document this determination to support their response. Possible language for this certification is provided below.)
I, (rank/grade and name) am the computer systems manager for (organization with electronic records responsive to FOIA request). In consultation with (FOIA office), I have considered the FOIA request of (requester's name), our ##### (FOIA identifier), which asked for (describe electronic record or format). We (do/do not) have electronic records that are responsive to this request (or) data that we (can/cannot) configure into the requested format. (If there are electronic records) The existing electronic records (do/do not) contain nonreleasable data that we (can/cannot) remove from the electronic record. Because of the way our (computer system/database/software) (use all that apply, specify hardware and/or software nomenclature if possible; for example, IBM ###, Microsoft Excel) is configured, creating the electronic record (or) modifying the existing record/format would entail a significant expenditure of resources in time and manpower that would cause significant interference with the operation of the information system and adversely affect mission accomplishment (describe how responding would interfere and time/manpower resources required, give estimated reprogramming time, if possible). I have applied the DoD “standard of reasonableness” in considering this request. I understand that when the capability exists to respond to a FOIA request that would require only a “business as usual” approach to electronically extract the data and compile an electronic record or reformat data to satisfy a FOIA request, then creation of the electronic record or reformatting the data would be appropriate. In this case, a significant expenditure of resources and manpower would be required to compile the electronic record (or) reformat existing data. This activity would cause a significant interference with the operation of our automated information system. I certify creation of the electronic record (or) reformatting existing data in order to respond to this request would not be reasonable, under the circumstances.
Some electronic data requests may include a request for software. You may have to release government-developed software that is not otherwise exempt, if requested under the FOIA. Exemptions 1—classified software, 2—testing, evaluation, or similar software, 3—exempt by statute, 5—deliberative process/privileged software, and 7—law enforcement operations software may apply, based on the nature of the requested software. If the software is commercial off-the-shelf software, as opposed to software developed by the government, the software may
(l) “No (paper or electronic) records” or “requested format not available” letters.
This is in response to your Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request dated ## Month year, for (summarize the request) on ## Month year (date received), our number #####.
A thorough search by (identify the unit(s) that tried to locate responsive records) did not locate any records responsive to your request. (If the requester asked questions, and there are no responsive records that would provide the answers to those questions): The FOIA applies to existing Air Force records; the Air Force need not create a record in order to respond to a request.
(or) A thorough assessment by the OPR and the computer systems manager has determined we cannot provide the (electronic record data) in the format you requested. (If this can be done on a “business as usual basis):” (Paper copies American Standard Code for Information Interchange (ASCII) files) of the data you requested are attached.
If you interpret this “o records” response as an adverse action, you may appeal it in writing to the Secretary of the Air Force. Your appeal should be postmarked no later than 60 calendar days from the date of this letter. Address your letter as follows: Secretary of the Air Force, Thru: (MAJCOM FOIA Office), (mailing address).
The FOIA provides for the collection of fees based on the costs of processing a FOIA request and your fee category. We have placed you in the (enter category) fee category; however, in this case, we have waived fees. (If paper copies or ASCII files are provided:) The FOIA provides for the collection of fees based on the costs of processing a FOIA request and your fee category. In your case, as a requester in the fee category of (add appropriate category), we have assessed a charge of $__ for processing your request. The fee was calculated in the following manner: (Give a detailed cost breakdown: for example, 15 pages of reproduction at $0.15 per page; 5 minutes of computer search time at $43.50 per minute, 2 hours of professional level search at $25 per hour.) Please make your check payable to (appropriate payee) and send it to (give your complete mailing address) by (date 30 days after the letter is signed).
(m) Referral or coordination letters. (These letters are to tell the requester all or part of the request was referred to another Air Force organization, to refer or coordinate the request to another federal government organization, and to advise a nongovernment submitter a FOIA request was received for information they submitted.)G56
(1) Letter to requester.
(If all or part of a request has been referred, write to the requester:) Your Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request dated ## Month year, for (summarize the request) received on ## Month year (date received), our number #####, was referred (or) must be coordinated with (give mailing address of the FOIA office to which you are referring all or part of the request, the identity of the federal government organization you are either coordinating with or are referring all or part of the request to, or that you must coordinate with the nongovernment submitter of responsive information). (On referrals:) That office will process (all/part) of your request (describe which part is being referred if the entire request is not being referred) and they will respond directly to you. (On coordinations:) That organization has a significant interest in the records (or) created the records that may answer to your request. (Before notifying a requester of a referral to another DoD component or federal agency, consult with them to determine if their association with the material is exempt. If so, protect the association and any exempt information without revealing the identity of the protected activity.) (When a nongovernment submitter is involved:) The nongovernment submitter of information that may answer your request needs time to respond to the possible release of information under the FOIA.
Because we must refer (or) coordinate your request outside our organization, your request will be delayed. We will determine whether any records are available; as soon as is practicable, a decision will be made whether to release or to withhold from disclosure any responsive records under the FOIA, 5 U.S.C. 552. Your request will be processed as expeditiously as circumstances permit.
(2) Letter to another government agency.
(If all or part of a request was referred or requires coordination, write to the government entity): On ## Month year (date received), our organization received a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request from (identity of requester), Attachment 1, dated ## Month year, for (summarize the request). Based on our assessment of that request, our number #####, we need to (refer/coordinate) (all/part) of that request to you (describe which part is being referred or coordinated, if it was not the entire request). (Name and phone number of person who agreed to the referral or coordination) accepted this referral (or) coordination action was on (date).
We (do/do not) hold records responsive to this request. (If do hold is used:) Copies of responsive records located in our files are included at Attachment 3 to assist you in making your assessment on the releasability of (our/your) related records. If you need to contact us, our phone number and address is (give name, phone and complete mailing address), our fax number is (give fax number), our e-mail address is (give complete e-mail address).
(3) Letter to submitter of contract-related information.
(If contractor-submitted information is involved, write to the submitter:) On ## Month year (date received), our organization received a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request from (identity of requester), our number #####, dated ## Month year, for (summarize the request). Information you submitted to the Air Force was identified as responsive to this request, see copies attached.
To determine the releasability of the information contained in these documents and to give you the maximum protection under the law, please review the attached documents and give us the information outlined in § 806.31. If you feel the information is privileged or confidential, consists of proprietary commercial or financial information, and otherwise meets the statutory requirements for withholding the information from release under FOIA exemption 4, 5 U.S.C. 552(b)(4), respond to us in writing not later than ## working days from the date of this letter (usually 30 calendar days). If you object to release of this information under the FOIA, identify the items, lines, columns or portions you believe we should withhold from release.
You will also need to provide a written explanation of how release would adversely impact or cause harm to your competitive position, your commercial standing, or other legally protected interests. An assertion that “we should deny because all of the information was submitted in confidence” or “deny because all of the information was marked as proprietary in nature” would not justify withholding of the requested information under the FOIA. If you need to contact us, call or write (give name), phone number is (give commercial number), our address is (give complete mailing address), our fax number is (give fax number), our e-mail address is (give complete e-mail address).
(4) Letter requesting State Department coordination. (If the State Department is involved in coordinating on a request, fax or e-mail 11 CS/SCSR so they can inform SAF/IA if appropriate).
On ## Month year (date received), our organization received a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request from (identity of requester), our number #####, dated ## Month year, for (summarize the request). Because of the nature of this request, we were advised by (note the individual and organization who told you to coordinate the request with the State Department; this may be a MAJCOM or Combatant Command—give telephone and facsimile numbers if known) we need to coordinate this request with the Department of State. In accordance with DoD 5400.7-R, Air Force Supplement, we are informing you of their involvement in this FOIA request. (Provide any specifics available.) Air Force records are involved in this action. If you need to contact us, our phone number is (give commercial and DSN numbers), our address is (give complete mailing address), our fax number is (give fax number), our e-mail address is (give complete e-mail address).
(n) Certification of initial classification or declassification authority (When denying a FOIA request, in whole or in part, because the information requested is classified, the initial classification authority, his or her successor, or a declassification authority, needs to determine if the records are “properly and currently classified,” and therefore must be withheld from release under FOIA exemption (b)(1); also, you need to determine that you cannot release any reasonably segregable additional portions. Language that certifies such a determination was made on a FOIA request involving classified records follows).
(1) Sample certification format—all information remains classified.
I, (rank/grade and name) am the initial classification authority (or) the successor to the original initial classification authority (or) the declassification authority for (give an unclassified description of the records concerned). In consultation with (FOIA office), I have assessed the FOIA request of (requester's name), our ##### (FOIA identifier), for records that were properly classified at the time of their creation and currently remain properly classified in accordance with Executive Order (E.O.) 12958, National Security Information, (or) contain information that we have determined is classified in accordance with E.O. 12958 Section 1.5(_) (or) in accordance with E.O. 12958 Section 1.5(_) and is also exempt from declassification in accordance with Section 1.6(_) of the E. O. (or if the record is more than 25 years old) contain information that we have determined is exempt from declassification in accordance with E.O. 12958 Section
(2) Sample certification format—portions remain classified.
I, (rank/grade and name) am the initial classification authority (or) the successor to the original initial classification authority (or) the declassification authority for (give an unclassified description of the records concerned.) In consultation with (FOIA office), I have assessed the FOIA request of (requester's name), our ##### (FOIA identifier), that asked for records, (or) portions of which were properly classified at the time of their creation. Portions of the records currently remain properly classified in accordance with E.O. 12958. The bracketed information is currently and properly classified in accordance with Section 1.5 (add appropriate subparagraph), E.O. 12958, and is also exempt from declassification in accordance with Section 1.6(_) of the Executive Order (or if the record is more than 25 years old) contain information that we have determined is exempt from declassification in accordance with E.O. 12958 Section 3.4(b)(_). Unauthorized release could cause (for TOP SECRET use exceptionally grave; for SECRET use serious; for CONFIDENTIAL do not add language; should read cause damage) damage to national security. There are no other reasonably segregable portions that we can release. Consequently this information is denied pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552(b)(1).
(o) Letter to a requester who has withdrawn their request or appeal. (If a FOIA requester has withdrawn a FOIA request or appeal, sending a final letter to the requester to close the file may be wise. Suggested language to the requester follows):
We received your Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request (or) appeal dated ## Month year, on ## Month year (date received). After sending us your request (or) appeal, you indicated by (facsimile, letter) that you wished to withdraw your request (or) appeal. We have, therefore, closed your file without further action.
(p) Letter to a requester who has appealed after the 60-day deadline. (We will not process FOIA appeals received after the 60-day time limit, unless the requester provides adequate justification for failing to comply. If you receive a late appeal, and it gives inadequate justification for failing to comply, the FOIA office will advise the requester their appeal was closed; suggested language for a letter to an untimely requester follows.)
We received your Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) appeal dated ## Month year, on ## Month year (date received). You did not appeal within 60 days of the postmarked date of our denial letter as outlined in our agency regulation. Therefore, we are closing our file.
(q) Letter to a requester who has appealed. (There are occasions when, on reconsideration, an IDA grants all or part of an appeal. When sending their appeal to higher headquarters, notify the requester. Suggested language to a requester who has appealed follows):
We received your Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) appeal, our number #####, dated ## Month year, on ## Month year (date received). We considered the issues raised in your appeal carefully. We have decided to grant (or) partially grant your appeal.
(If you grant all or part of the appeal): Upon reconsideration, we are releasing the requested records (or) granting your request. (If the appeal is only partially granted, describe what portions remain in dispute). (If applicable): We are releasing and attaching all or portions of the responsive records. (If applicable): We will continue processing your appeal for the remaining withheld (records/information).
Certain records have special administrative procedures to follow before disclosure. Selected publications that contain such guidance are listed below.
(a) AFI 16-701, Special Access Programs.
(b) AFI 31-206, Security Police Investigations.
(c) AFI 31-501, Personnel Security Program Management.
(d) AFI 31-601, Industrial Security Program Management.
(e) AFI 36-2603, Air Force Board for Correction of Military Records.
(f) AFI 36-2706, Military Equal Opportunity and Treatment Program.
(g) AFI 36-2906, Personal Financial Responsibility.
(h) AFI 36-2907, Unfavorable Information File (UIF) Program.
(i) AFI 40-301, Family Advocacy.
(j) AFI 41-210, Patient Administration Functions.
(k) AFI 44-109, Mental Health and Military Law.
(l) AFI 51-201, Administration of Military Justice.
(m) AFI 51-301, Civil Litigation.
(n) AFI 51-303, Intellectual Property-Patents, Patent Related Matters, Trademarks, and Copyrights.
(o) AFI 51-501, Tort Claims.
(p) AFI 51-503, Aircraft, Missile, Nuclear and Space Accident Investigations.
(q) AFI 51-504, Legal Assistance, Notary and Preventive Law Programs.
(r) AFI 51-1102, Cooperation with the Office of the Special Counsel.
(s) AFI 61-204, Disseminating Scientific and Technical Information.
(t) AFI 61-303, Licensing Inventions Made Under Cooperative Research and Development Agreements.
(u) AFI 71-101, Volume 1, Criminal Investigations, and Volume 2, Protective Service Matters.
(v) AFI 84-101, Historical Products, Services, and Requirements.
(w) AFI 90-301, Inspector General Complaints.
(x) AFI 91-204, Safety Investigations and Reports.
(a) This section is a checklist format of processing steps and explanations of Air Force and DoD guidance. Each MAJCOM may elect to prepare its own checklists to tailor FOIA processing actions within its own organizations to meet their specific needs, so long as it remains consistent with guidance contained in DoD 5400.7-R, DoD Freedom of Information Act Program, and this part.
(b) Procedures: FOIA requests.
(1) Note the date the request was received, give the request a unique identifier/number, and log the request.
(2) Assess the request to determine initial processing requirements:
(3) Determine what Air Force elements may hold responsive records.
(i) Are responsive records kept at the same or different installations?
(ii) Is referral of (all/part) of the request required?
(4) Determine appropriate processing track (simple/complex/expedited). (Air Force FOIA offices without backlogs do not multitrack FOIA requests.)
Requesters have a right to appeal an adverse tracking decision (for example, when it is determined their request will not be expedited). Also, if their request qualifies for the complex track, tell requesters so they may limit the scope of their request in order to qualify for the simple track. FOIA managers must assess a request before placing it into a specific processing track, and must support their actions should the requester appeal. If a request is determined to be complex, or is not expedited when the requester sought expedited processing, you must advise the requester of the adverse tracking decision in writing. See § 806.27 for sample language for this kind of letter to a requester.
(i) Simple. Defines a request that can be processed quickly, with limited impact on the responding units. The request clearly identifies the records, involves no (or few) complicating factors (e.g., there are few or no responsive records, involves only one installation and there are no outside OPRs, involves no classified records (Exemption 1), a law exempts the responsive records from disclosure (Exemption 3), no contractor-submitted records (Exemption 4), no deliberative process/privileged materials (Exemption 5), records contain no (or limited) personal privacy information/did not come from Privacy Act systems of records concerning other individuals (Exemption 6), release of records would have minimal impact on law enforcement (Exemption 7); no time extensions expected, other than the additional 10-workdays allowed in situations outlined in the FOIA). If the requested data must come from electronic records, response can be completed on a “business-as-usual” basis; requires no (or limited) reprogramming of automated information systems and would cause no significant interference with operation of information systems by processing a simple request/providing a response in the electronic format requested.
(ii) Complex. Defines a request whose processing will take substantial time,
(iii) An expedited request is when a requester asks for expedited processing and explains the compelling need (imminent threat to life or physical safety; urgently needed by a person primarily engaged in disseminating information; due process; or humanitarian need) for the requested information. In order to receive expedited processing, requesters must provide a statement certifying their “demonstration” (description) of their specific “compelling need” or due process/humanitarian need is true and correct to the best of their knowledge. When a requester seeks expedited processing, FOIA offices must respond in writing to the requester within 10 calendar days after receipt of the request approving or denying their request for expedited processing. Requesters have a right to appeal an adverse decision (e.g., when it is determined their requests will not be expedited). There are four categories of FOIA requests that qualify for expedited processing:
(A) The requester asserts a “compelling need” for the records, because a failure to obtain records quickly could reasonably be expected to pose an imminent threat to the life or physical safety of an individual.
(B) The requester asserts a “compelling need” for the records, because the information is “urgently needed” by an individual engaged in disseminating information to inform the public (primarily news media requesters; and could also include other persons with the ability to disseminate information).
“Urgently needed,” in this case, means the information has a particular value that will be lost if it is not disseminated quickly. This normally would apply to a breaking news story of general public interest. Information of historical interest only, or sought for litigation or commercial activities would not qualify, nor would the fact a news media entity had an internal broadcast deadline of its own, which was unrelated to the “news breaking nature” of the information itself, cause the requested information to qualify as “urgently needed.”
(C) Failure to obtain records quickly could cause imminent loss of substantial due process rights or providing the information quickly would serve a “humanitarian need” (i.e., disclosing the information will promote the welfare and interests of mankind). While FOIA requests falling into these third and fourth categories can qualify for expedited processing, process them in the expedited track behind the requests qualifying for expedited processing based on “compelling need” (the first two types of expedited FOIA requests).
(5) Determine fee category of requester (commercial/educational-—noncommercial scientific institution—news media/all others) and assess fee issues. When all assessable costs are $15.00 or less, waive fees automatically for all categories of requesters. Assess other fee waiver or reduction requests on a case-by-case basis.
(6) Apply fee waiver/fee reduction criteria in appropriate cases (when requester asks for fee waiver/reduction).
(7) Find the responsive Air Force records (if any).
(i) Send the request to the appropriate OPRs to search for responsive records and to decide whether to recommend release of any responsive
(ii) If the OPRs find no responsive records, or if the OPRs desire to withhold any responsive records from release to the requester, the OPRs must provide a written certificate detailing either their unsuccessful search, or their reasons why the documents should be withheld from release under the FOIA; the written OPR statements must accompany the copies of the records the OPR desires to withhold as the FOIA action is processed (e.g., include it in any denial or appeal file).
If any part of a FOIA request is denied, and the requester appeals that denial, include all forms, certificates and documents prepared by the OPRs in the FOIA appeal package required in paragraph (d)(5) of this section.
(c) Contacts with FOIA requesters and non-Air Force submitters of data.
(1) Contacts with Air Force elements. A FOIA request is considered “received” (and therefore ready to process) when the FOIA office responsible for processing the request physically receives it, when the requester states a willingness to pay fees set for the appropriate fee category, or, if applicable, when the requester has paid any past FOIA debts and has reasonably described the requested records. Keep hard/paper copies of all memoranda documenting requester contacts with Air Force elements regarding a pending FOIA request in the requester's FOIA file. If the requester contacts Air Force elements telephonically about a pending FOIA request, the Air Force member participating in the conversation must prepare notes or memorandums for record (MFR), and keep those notes or MFRs in the requester's FOIA file. If any part of a FOIA request is denied, and the requester appeals that denial, submit documentation of requester contacts with Air Force elements in chronological order in the FOIA appeal package (see paragraph (d)(1) of this section).
(2) Contacts with the FOIA Requester. See § 806.27 for samples of language to use in various types of Air Force FOIA letters. If any part of a FOIA request is denied, and the requester appeals that denial, submit documents sent by Air Force elements to the requester in the FOIA appeal package in chronological order (see paragraph (d)(5) of this section). Letters that Air Force FOIA offices may need to send to a FOIA requester include:
(i) An initial notification letter that the FOIA request was received. This letter may advise the requester that processing of the FOIA request may be delayed because:
(A) All or part of the requested records are not located at the installation processing the FOIA request (see § 806.29(c)(2)(ii)).
(B) An enormous number of records must be collected and reviewed.
(C) Other Air Force activities or other agencies, to include (if applicable) the nongovernment submitter of information, need to be involved in deciding whether or not to release the records.
(D) If you cannot complete processing of a FOIA request within 20 workdays, advise the requester of the reasons for the delay and give a date (within 30 workdays after receiving the request) when the requester can expect a final decision.
(ii) The initial notification letter may advise the requester all/part of the request was referred to another Air Force element or government activity.
(iii) The initial notification letter may advise the requester of the appropriate fee category. In cases where fees are appropriate, and requesters have not agreed to pay for responsive records and fees are likely to be more than $15.00, seek assurances that the requester agrees to pay appropriate fees. If more information is needed to make a fee category determination, or to determine whether fees should be waived/reduced, inform the requester. FOIA offices may determine fee waiver/reduction requests before processing a FOIA request; if a fee waiver/reduction request is denied, the requester may
(iv) The initial notification letter may advise the requester the request does not sufficiently describe the desired records. If possible, help the requester identify the requested records by explaining what kind of information would make searching for responsive records easier.
(v) If Air Force elements can complete a FOIA request within the statutory 20-workday processing period, you may elect to send only a single letter to the requester, along with responsive records that are released to the requester in full.
(vi) A letter to the requester that the responding FOIA office uses multitrack processing due to a significant number of pending requests that prevents a response determination from being made within 20 workdays. This letter advises the FOIA requester that track the request is in (simple/complex); in this letter, if expedited processing was requested, the requester is advised if the request will be expedited or not. If the request is found to be complex, you must advise the requester he/she may alter the FOIA request to simplify processing. If it is determined the request will not be expedited, the requester must be told he/she can appeal. (This may be the initial letter to the requester, for Air Force elements with multitrack processing; if that is the case, this letter may include sections discussed in § 806.29(c)(2)(i)).
(vii) Subsequent letters to the requester on various subjects (for example, releasing requested records; advising reasons for delays; responding to the letters, facsimiles or calls; advising the requester of referrals to other Air Force units or government activities; involves a non-Air Force submitter, etc.).
(viii) A release letter to the requester, forwarding releasable responsive records with a bill (if appropriate).
(ix) A “no records” response letter to the requester if there are no responsive records, or, a denial letter, if any responsive records are withheld from release. FOIA managers may sign “no records” or “requested format not available” responses; they may also sign a letter that advises a requester the fee category sought was not determined to be appropriate, or that a fee waiver/fee reduction request was disapproved, or that a request for expedited processing has been denied. An IDA must sign any letter or document withholding responsive records. When denying records, you must tell the requester, in writing: the name and title or position of the official who made the denial determination, the basis for the denial in enough detail to permit the requester to make a decision concerning appeal, and the FOIA exemptions on which the denial is based. The denial letter must include a brief statement describing what the exemptions cover. When the initial denial is based (in whole or in part) on a security classification, this explanation should include a summary of the applicable executive order criteria for classification, as well as an explanation of how those criteria apply to the particular record in question. Estimate the volume of the records denied and provide this estimate to the requester, unless providing such an estimate would harm an interest protected by an exemption of the FOIA. This estimate should be in number of pages or, for records in other media, in some other reasonable form of estimation, unless the volume is otherwise indicated through deletions on records disclosed in part. Indicate the size and location of the redactions on the records released. You must also tell the requester how he/she can appeal the denial.
(3) Contacts with non-Air Force submitters of data. Before releasing data (information or records) submitted from outside the Air Force, determine whether you need to write to the submitter of the data for their views on releasability of their data. In many cases, this non-Air Force data may fall under FOIA Exemption 4. If it appears you must contact the submitter of the data, advise the requester in writing that you must give the submitter of the data the opportunity to comment before the Air Force decides whether to release the information. Give the submitter a reasonable period of time (30 calendar days) to object to release and
(i) The notice requirements of this section need not be followed if the Air Force determines that the information should not be disclosed, the information has been lawfully published or officially made available to the public, or disclosure of the information is required by law.
(ii) If the submitter objects to release of the records, but the Air Force disclosure authority considers the records releasable, tell the submitter before releasing the data. Include in the letter to the submitter a brief explanation and a specific release date at least 2 weeks from the date of the letter. Advise the submitter once a determination is made that release of the data is required under the FOIA, failure to oppose the proposed release will lead to release of submitted data. Also advise the requester such a release under the FOIA will result in the released information entering the public domain, and that subsequent requests for the same information will be answered without any formal coordination between the Air Force and the submitter, unless the information is later amended, changed, or modified. A person equal to, or higher in rank than, the denial authority makes the final decision to disclose responsive records over the submitter's objection.
(iii) When a previously released contract document has been modified, any contract documents not in existence at the time of an earlier FOIA request that are responsive to a later FOIA request for the same contract, will be processed as a first-time FOIA request for those newly created documents. Notify the nongovernment submitter of the pending FOIA action, and give them the same opportunity to respond as is detailed above. Passage of a significant period of time since the prior FOIA release can also require Air Force elements to comply with the notice requirements in this paragraph.
(d) Denying all or part of a request. When responsive records are withheld from release (denied), the appropriate offices must prepare a denial package for the IDA. Air Force elements must send the request, related documents, and responsive records through their IDA's FOIA office to the IDA for a decision. The denial package must include:
(1) The FOIA request and any modifications by the requester.
(2) A copy of the responsive records, including both records that may be released and records recommended for denial.
(3) Written recommendations from the OPRs and an Air Force attorney.
(4) The exemptions cited and a discussion of how the records qualify for withholding under the FOIA. This discussion should also include the reasons for denial: to deny release of responsive records requested under the FOIA, you must determine that disclosure of the records would result in a foreseeable harm to an interest protected by a FOIA exemption (or exemptions), that the record is exempt from release under one or more of the exemptions of the FOIA, and that a discretionary release is not appropriate.
(5) Any collateral documents that relate to the requested records. For example:
(i) If the requested records came from a non-Air Force or non-U.S. Federal Government submitter, include any documents from the submitter that relate to the release or denial of the requested records. If you are not sure whether or not the non-Air Force or non-U.S. Federal Government submitted information is potentially exempt from release under the FOIA, contact an Air Force attorney. FOIA Exemptions 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 may apply.
(ii) If the requested records came from Privacy Act systems of records,
(iii) If any requested records came from another Air Force element, or release of the requested records would affect another Air Force element, FOIA offices should coordinate with that other element. If the FOIA request is not completely referred to the other element, include documents from that element.
(iv) If any requested records are classified, include a written certification from a classification authority or declassification authority stating the data was properly classified originally, that it remains properly classified (per E.O. 12958), and, if applicable, that no reasonably segregable portions can be released.
(e) FOIA appeal actions.
(1) If an IDA, or a FOIA office responding on behalf of an IDA, withholds a record from release because they determine the record is exempt under one or more of the exemptions to the FOIA, the requester may appeal that decision, in writing, to the Secretary of the Air Force. The appeal should be accompanied by a copy of the denial letter. FOIA appeals should be postmarked within 60 calendar days after the date of the denial letter, and should contain the reasons the requester disagrees with the initial denial. Late appeals may be rejected, either by the element initially processing the FOIA appeal, or by subsequent denial authorities, if the requester does not provide adequate justification for the delay. Appeal procedures also apply to the denial of a fee category claim by a requester, denial of a request for waiver or reduction of fees, disputes regarding fee estimates, review on an expedited basis of a determination not to grant expedited access to agency records, and for “no record” or “requested format not available” determinations when the requester considers such responses adverse in nature.
(2) Coordinate appeals with an Air Force attorney (and the OPR, if appropriate) so they can consider factual and legal arguments raised in the appeal, and can prepare written assessments of issues raised in the appeal to assist the IDA in considering the appeal. MAJCOM FOIA offices and 11 CS/SCSR (for OPRs at HQ USAF and SAF), send all appeals to the Secretary of the Air Force through AFLSA/JACL for consideration, unless the IDA has reconsidered the initial denial action, and granted the appeal.
(3) If a requester appeals a “no records” determination, organizations must search again or verify the adequacy of their first search (for example, if a second search would be fruitless, the organization may include a signed statement from either the records OPR or the MAJCOM FOIA manager detailing why another search was not practical). The appeal package must include documents (to include a certification from the records OPR) that show how the organization tried to find responsive records. In the event a requester sues the Air Force to contest a determination that no responsive records exist, formal affidavits will be required to support the adequacy of any searches conducted.
(4) General administrative matters. FOIA requesters may ultimately sue the Air Force in federal court if they are dissatisfied with adverse determinations. In these suits, the contents of the administrative appeal file are evaluated to determine whether the Air Force complied with the FOIA and its own guidance. Improper or inadequate appeal files make defending these cases problematic. Include all the documents related to the requester's FOIA action in the appeal file. If appeal file documents are sensitive, or are classified up to the SECRET level, send them separately to AFLSA/JACL, 1501 Wilson Boulevard, 7th Floor, Arlington, VA 22209-2403. Make separate arrangements with AFLSA/JACL for processing classified appeal file documents TOP SECRET or higher. Cover letters on appeal packages need to list all attachments. If a FOIA action is complicated, a chronology of events helps reviewers understand what happened in the course of the request and appeal. If an appeal file does not include documentation described below, include a blank sheet in proper place and mark as “not applicable,” “N/A,” or “not used.” Do not renumber and move the other items up. If any part of
(i) The original appeal letter and envelope.
(ii) The initial FOIA request, any modifications of the request by the requester or any other communications from the requester, in chronological order.
(iii) The denial letter.
(iv) Copies of all records already released. (An index of released documents may be helpful, if there are a number of items. If the records released are “massive” (which means “several cubic feet”) and AFLSA/JACL agrees, an index or description of the records may be provided in place of the released records. Do not send appeal files without copies of released records without the express agreement of AFLSA/JACL. Usually AFLSA/JACL requires all the released records in appeal files. If you do not send the released records to AFLSA/JACL when a FOIA requester has appealed a partial denial, retain a copy of what was released for 6 years.)
(v) Copies of all administrative processing documents, including extension letters, search descriptions, and initial OPR recommendations about the request, in chronological order.
(vi) Copies of the denied records or portions marked to show what was withheld. If your organization uses a single set of highlighted records (to show items redacted from records released to the requester), ensure the records are legible and insert a page in the appropriate place stating where the records are located. (An index of denied documents may be helpful, if there are a number of items. If the records denied are “massive” (which means “several cubic feet”) and AFLSA/JACL agrees, an index or description of the records may be provided in place of the denied records. Do not send appeal files without copies of denied records without the express agreement of AFLSA/JACL. Usually AFLSA/JACL requires all the denied records in appeal files. If you do not send the denied records to AFLSA/JACL, when a FOIA requester has appealed a denial, retain a copy of what was denied for 6 years.)
(vii) All legal opinions in chronological order. Include a point-by-point discussion of factual and legal arguments in the requester's appeal (prepared by an Air Force attorney and/or the OPR). If the IDA does not state in the cover letter he/she signed, that he/she considered and rejected the requester's arguments, asserting the basis for that decision (e.g., the IDA concurs in the legal and/or OPR assessments of the requester's arguments) include a signed, written statement containing the same information from the IDA, either as a separate document or an endorsement to a legal or OPR assessment. Include any explanation of the decision-making process for intra-agency documents denied under the deliberative process privilege and how the denied material fits into that process (if applicable).
(a) Certain responsive records may contain parts that are releasable, along with other parts that the Air Force must withhold from release. Carefully delete information exempt from release under the FOIA from copies of otherwise releasable records. Do not release copies that would permit the requester to “read through the marking.” In order to assist FOIA managers in redacting records, selected items appropriate to withhold in commonly requested Air Force records are illustrated below. When providing releasable portions from classified paragraphs, line through and do not delete, the classification marking preceding the paragraph.
(b) Exemption 1. Example used is an extract from a “simulated” contingency plan (all information below is
(U) Air Force members will safeguard all FELLOW YELLOW data (NOTE: FELLOW YELLOW simulates an UNCLASSIFIED code name).
During the contingency deployment in Shambala, those members assigned to force element FELLOW YELLOW will cover their movements by employing specified camouflage and concealment activities while behind enemy lines. Only secure communications of limited duration as specified in the communications annex will be employed until FELLOW YELLOW personnel return to base. (Exemption 1)
(c) Exemption 2. Example used is an extract from a “simulated” test administration guide (all information below is fictional and is used for illustrative purposes only).
When administering the test to determine which technicians are ranked fully qualified, make sure to allow only the time specified in HQ AETC Pamphlet XYZ, which the technicians were permitted to review as part of their test preparation. For ease in scoring this exam, correct answers are A, A, B, B, A, B, C, C, A, B, D, D, C, C, C, D; the corresponding template for marking the standard answer sheet is kept locked up at all times when not in use to grade answer sheets. (Exemption “high” 2)
(d) Exemption 5. Example used is a simulated IG Report of Investigation (ROI) recommendation. All parenthetical information in this example is fictional and is used for illustrative purposes only:
Having interviewed the appropriate personnel and having reviewed the appropriate documents, I recommend additional training sessions for all branch personnel on accepted Air Force standards, and the Air Force pursue administrative or judicial disciplinary action with respect to Terry Hardcase. (Exemption 5)
(e) Exemption 6. Example used is a simulated personnel computer report on a military member selected for a special assignment (all information below is fictional; information and marking is used for illustrative purposes only.):
(f) Exemption 7. Example used is summary of a law enforcement report on a domestic disturbance at on-base family housing (all information below is fictional and all parenthetical information is used for illustrative purposes only):
At 2140, the law enforcement desk, extension 222-3456, took an anonymous call that reported a disturbance at 1234 Basestreet, quarters allegedly occupied by two military members. SrA Patrolman (names of law enforcement investigators usually are withheld under Exemptions 6 and 7(C)) arrived on the scene at 2155. SrA Patrolman met Nora Neighbor, (names of witnesses usually are withheld under Exemptions 6 and 7(C)) who was very agitated. Because she feared her neighbors would retaliate against her if they knew she reported their fight, she asked that her name not be released before she would talk. After she was promised her identity would remain anonymous, she stated: (Nora Neighbor became a confidential informant; data that could identify her, and in some cases, the information she related, should be withheld from release under Exemptions 6, 7(C) and (D).) “I heard cursing and heard furniture and dishes breaking. They fight all the time. I've seen Betty Battle (unless Betty is the requester, redact her name Exemptions 6 and 7(C)) with a black eye, and I also saw Bob Battle (unless Bob is the requester, redact his name Exemptions 6 and 7(C)) with bruises the day after they had their last fight, last Saturday night. This time, there was a tremendous crash; I heard a man scream “My Lord NO!” then I saw Betty Battle come out of the house with dark stains on her clothes—she got into her car and drove away. I could see this really well, because the streetlight is right between our houses; I'm the wife of their NCOIC. If only Nick, my husband, was here now, he'd know what to do! I haven't heard anything from Bob Battle.” (Exemptions 6 and 7)
(a) The FOIA requires federal agencies to provide their records, except those specifically exempted, for the public to inspect and copy. Section (b) of the Act lists nine exemptions that are the only basis for withholding records from the public.
(b) In this case, the fourth exemption, 5 U.S.C. 552(b)(4), may apply to records or information the Air Force maintains. Under this exemption, agencies must withhold trade secrets and commercial or financial information they obtained from a person or organization outside the government that is privileged or confidential. This generally includes information provided and received during the contracting process with the understanding that the Air Force will keep it privileged or confidential.
(c) Commercial or financial matter is “confidential” and exempt if its release will probably:
(1) Impair the government's ability to obtain necessary information in the future.
(2) Substantially harm the source's competitive position or impair some other legitimate government interest such as compliance and program effectiveness.
(d) Applicability of exemption. The exemption may be used to protect information provided by a nongovernment submitter when public disclosure will probably cause substantial harm to its competitive position. Examples of information that may qualify for this exemption include:
(1) Commercial or financial information received in confidence with loans, bids, contracts, or proposals, as well as other information received in confidence or privileged, such as trade secrets, inventions, discoveries, or other proprietary data.
Certain proprietary and source selection information may also fall under exemption (b)(3), under the provisions of 10 U.S.C. 2305(g) or 41 U.S.C. 423, if statutory requirements are met.
(2) Statistical data and commercial or financial information concerning contract performance, income, profits, losses, and expenditures, offered and received in confidence from a contractor or potential contractor.
(3) Personal statements given during inspections, investigations, or audits, received and kept in confidence because they reveal trade secrets or commercial or financial information, normally considered confidential or privileged.
(4) Financial data that private employers give in confidence for local wage surveys used to set and adjust pay schedules for the prevailing wage rate of DoD employees.
(5) Information about scientific and manufacturing processes or developments that is technical or scientific or other information submitted with a research grant application, or with a report while research is in progress.
(6) Technical or scientific data a contractor or subcontractor develops entirely at private expense, and technical or scientific data developed partly with Federal funds and partly with private funds, in which the contractor or subcontractor retains legitimate proprietary interests per 10 U.S.C. 2320 to 2321 and 48 CFR, Chapter 2, 227.71-227.72.
(7) Computer software copyrighted under the Copyright Act of 1976 (17 U.S.C. 106), the disclosure of which would adversely impact its potential market value.
(e) Submitter's Written Response. If release of the requested material would prejudice your commercial interests, give detailed written reasons that identify the specific information and the competitive harm public release will cause to you, your organization, or your business. The act requires the Air Force to provide any reasonably segregable part of a record after deleting exempt portions. If deleting key words or phrases would adequately protect your interests, advise us in writing which portions you believe we can safely release, and which portions you believe we need to withhold from release. If you do not provide details on the probability of substantial harm to your competitive position or other commercial interests, which would be caused by releasing your material to the requester, we may be required to release the information. Records qualify for protection on a case by case basis.
(f) Pricing Information. Generally, the prices a contractor charges the government for goods or services would be released under the FOIA. Examples of releasable data include: bids submitted in response to an invitation for bids (IFB), amounts actually paid by the government under a contract, and line item prices, contract award price, and modifications to a contract. Unit prices contained in a contract award are considered releasable as part of the post award notification procedure prescribed by 48 CFR 15.503, unless they are part of an unsuccessful proposal, then 10 U.S.C. 2305(g) protects everything including unit price.
Pub. L. 93-579, 88 Stat. 1896 (5 U.S.C. 552a).
This part moves responsibility for the Air Force Privacy Program from Air Force Communications and Information Center to the Air Force Chief Information Officer; prescribes Air Force Visual Aid 33-276, Privacy Act Label as optional; adds the
This part implements the
(a) Records that are retrieved by name or personal identifier are subject to Privacy Act requirements and are referred to as Privacy Act systems of records. The Air Force must publish notices in the
(b) An official system of records is:
(1) Authorized by law or Executive Order.
(2) Needed to carry out an Air Force mission or function.
(3) Published in the
(c) The Air Force will not:
(1) Keep records on how a person exercises First Amendment rights. Exceptions are when: The Air Force has the permission of that individual or is authorized by Federal statute; or the information pertains to, and is within the scope of, an authorized law enforcement activity. First Amendment rights include, but are not limited to, freedom of religion, freedom of political beliefs, freedom of speech, freedom of the press, the right to assemble, and the right to petition.
(2) Penalize or harass an individual for exercising rights guaranteed under the Privacy Act. We must reasonably help individuals exercise their rights under the Privacy Act.
(d) Air Force members will:
(1) Keep paper and electronic records that are retrieved by name or personal identifier only in approved Privacy Act systems published in the
(2) Collect, maintain, and use information in such systems, for purposes described in the published notice, to support programs authorized by law or Executive Order.
(3) Safeguard the records in the system and keep them the minimum time required.
(4) Ensure records are timely, accurate, complete, and relevant.
(5) Amend and correct records on request.
(6) Allow individuals to review and receive copies of their own records unless the Secretary of the Air Force approved an exemption for the system; or the Air Force created the records in anticipation of a civil action or proceeding (5 U.S.C. 552a(d)(5)).
(7) Provide a review of decisions that deny individuals access to or amendment of their records through appellate procedures.
An individual may file a civil law suit against the Air Force for failing to comply with the Privacy Act. The courts may find an individual offender guilty of a misdemeanor and fine that individual offender not more than $5,000 for:
(a) Willfully maintaining a system of records that doesn't meet the public notice requirements.
(b) Disclosing information from a system of records to someone not entitled to the information.
(c) Obtaining someone else's records under false pretenses.
(a) Process Privacy Act complaints or allegations of Privacy Act violations through the appropriate base or Major Command Privacy Act office, to the local systems manager. The base or Major Command Privacy Act officer directs the process and provides guidance to the system manager. The local systems manager will investigate complaints, or allegations of Privacy Act violations; will establish and review the facts when possible; interview individuals as needed; determine validity of the complaint; take appropriate corrective action; and ensure a response is sent to the complainant through the Privacy Act Officer. In cases where no system manager can be identified, the local Privacy Act officer will assume these duties. Issues that cannot be resolved at the local level will be elevated to the Major Command Privacy Office. When appropriate, local system managers will also: refer cases for more formal investigation, refer cases for
(b) For Privacy Act complaints filed in a U.S. District Court against the Air Force, an Air Force activity, or any Air Force employee, Air Force Legal Services Agency, General Litigation Division (JACL) will provide Air Force Chief Information Officer/P a litigation summary to include: The case number, requester name, the nature of the case (denial of access, refusal to amend, incorrect records, or specify the particular violation of the Privacy Act), date complaint filed, court, defendants, and any appropriate remarks, as well as updates during the litigation process. When the court renders a formal opinion or judgment, Air Force Legal Services Agency, General Litigation Division (JACL) sends Air Force Chief Information Officer/P a copy of the judgment and opinion.
The Privacy Act does not apply to personal notes on individuals used as memory aids. Personal notes may become Privacy Act records if they are retrieved by name or other personal identifier and at least one of the following three conditions apply: Keeping or destroying the records is not at the sole discretion of the author; the notes are required by oral or written directive, regulation, or command policy; or they are shown to other agency personnel.
Contractors who are required to operate or maintain a Privacy Act system of records by contract must follow this part for collecting, safeguarding, maintaining, using, accessing, amending and disseminating personal information. The record system affected is considered to be maintained by the Air Force and is subject to this part. Systems managers for offices who have contractors operating or maintaining such record systems must ensure the contract contains the proper Privacy Act clauses, and identify the record system number, as required by the Defense Acquisition Regulation and this part.
(a) Contracts for systems of records operated or maintained by a contractor will be reviewed annually by the appropriate Major Command Privacy Officer to ensure compliance with this part.
(b) Disclosure of personal records to a contractor for use in the performance of an Air Force contract is considered a disclosure within the agency under exception (b)(1) of the Privacy Act (
(a) The Air Force Chief Information Officer is the senior Air Force Privacy Official with overall responsibility for the Air Force Privacy Act Program.
(b) The Office of the General Counsel to the Secretary of the Air Force, Fiscal and Administrative Law Division (GCA) makes final decisions on appeals.
(c) The General Litigation Division, Air Force Legal Services Agency (JACL), receives Privacy Act appeals and provides recommendations to the appellate authority. Service unique appeals, from combatant commands, should go through the respective chain of command.
(d) The Plans and Policy Directorate, Office of the Chief Information Officer manages the program through the Air Force Privacy Act Officer who:
(1) Administers procedures outlined in this part.
(2) Reviews publications and forms for compliance with this part.
(3) Reviews and approves proposed new, altered, and amended systems of records; and submits system notices and required reports to the Defense Privacy Office.
(4) Serves as the Air Force member on the Defense Privacy Board and the Defense Data Integrity Board.
(5) Provides guidance and assistance to Major Commands, field operating agencies, direct reporting units and combatant commands for which AF is executive agent in their implementation and execution of the Air Force Privacy Program. Ensures availability of training and training tools for a variety of audiences.
(6) Provides advice and support to those commands to ensure that information requirements developed to collect or maintain personal data conform to Privacy Act standards; and that appropriate procedures and safeguards are developed, implemented, and maintained to protect the information.
(e) Major Command commanders, and Deputy Chiefs of Staff and comparable officials at Secretary of the Air Force and Headquarters United States Air Force offices implement this part.
(f) 11th Communications Squadron will provide Privacy Act training and submit Privacy Act reports for Headquarters United States Air Force and Secretary of the Air Force offices.
(g) Major Command Commanders: Appoint a command Privacy Act officer, and send the name, office symbol, phone number, and e-mail address to Air Force Chief Information Officer/P.
(h) Major Command and Headquarters Air Force Functional Chief Information Officers:
(1) Review and provide final approval on Privacy Impact Assessments (
(2) Send a copy of approved Privacy Impact Assessments to Air Force Chief Information Officer/P.
(i) Major Command Privacy Act Officers:
(1) Train base Privacy Act officers. May authorize appointment of unit Privacy Act monitors to assist with implementation of the program.
(2) Promote Privacy Act awareness throughout the organization.
(3) Review publications and forms for compliance with this part (do forms require a Privacy Act Statement; is Privacy Act Statement correct?).
(4) Submit reports as required.
(5) Review system notices to validate currency.
(6) Evaluate the health of the program at regular intervals using this part as guidance.
(7) Review and provide recommendations on completed Privacy Impact Assessments for information systems.
(8) Resolve complaints or allegations of Privacy Act violations.
(9) Review and process denial recommendations.
(10) Provide guidance as needed to functionals on implementing the Privacy Act.
(j) Base Privacy Act Officers:
(1) Provide guidance and training to base personnel.
(2) Submit reports as required.
(3) Review publications and forms for compliance with this part.
(4) Review system notices to validate currency.
(5) Direct investigations of complaints/violations.
(6) Evaluate the health of the program at regular intervals using this part as guidance.
(k) System Managers:
(1) Manage and safeguard the system.
(2) Train users on Privacy Act requirements.
(3) Protect records from unauthorized disclosure, alteration, or destruction.
(4) Prepare system notices and reports.
(5) Answer Privacy Act requests.
(6) Records of disclosures.
(7) Validate system notices annually.
(8) Investigate Privacy Act complaints.
(l) System owners and developers:
(1) Decide the need for, and content of systems.
(2) Evaluate Privacy Act requirements of information systems in early stages of development.
(3) Complete a Privacy Impact Assessment and submit to the Privacy Act Officer.
The Commander, Air Force Office of Special Investigation; the Commander, Air Force Security Forces Center; Major Command, Field Operating Agency, and base chiefs of security forces; Air Force Office of Special Investigations detachment commanders; and designees of those offices may ask another agency for records for law enforcement under 5 U.S.C. 552a(b)(7). The requesting office must indicate in writing the specific part of the record desired and identify the law enforcement activity asking for the record.
Promises of confidentiality must be prominently annotated in the record to protect from disclosure any “confidential” information under 5 United States Code 552a(k)(2), (k)(5), or (k)(7) of the Privacy Act.
Collect personal information directly from the subject of the record whenever possible. Only ask third parties when:
(a) You must verify information.
(b) You want opinions or evaluations.
(c) You can't contact the subject.
(d) You are doing so at the request of the subject individual.
(a) Give a PAS orally or in writing to the subject of the record when you are collecting information from them that will go in a system of records. Note: Do this regardless of how you collect or record the answers. You may display a sign in areas where people routinely furnish this kind of information. Give a copy of the Privacy Act Statement if asked. Do not ask the person to sign the Privacy Act Statement.
(b) A Privacy Act Statement must include four items:
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
When asking an individual for his or her Social Security Number, always give a Privacy Act Statement that tells the person: The legal authority for requesting it; the uses that will be made of the Social Security Number; and whether providing the Social Security Number is voluntary or mandatory. Do not deny anyone a legal right, benefit, or privilege for refusing to give their Social Security Number unless the law requires disclosure, or a law or regulation adopted before January 1, 1975 required the Social Security Number and the Air Force uses it to verify a person's identity in a system of records established before that date.
(a) The Air Force requests an individual's Social Security Number and provides the individual information required by law when anyone enters military service or becomes an Air Force civilian employee. The Air Force uses the Social Security Number as a service or employment number to reference the individual's official records. When you ask someone for a Social Security Number as identification to retrieve an existing record, you do not have to restate this information.
(b) Executive Order 9397,
Within DoD, do not disclose them to anyone without an official need to know. Outside DoD, they are not releasable without the person's consent,
Persons or their designated representatives may ask for a copy of their records in a system of records. Requesters need not state why they want access to their records. Verify the identity of the requester to avoid unauthorized disclosures. How you verify identity will depend on the sensitivity of the requested records. Persons may use a notary or an unsworn declaration in the following format: “I declare under penalty of perjury (if outside the United States, add “under the laws of the United States of America”) that the foregoing is true and correct. Executed on (date). (Signature).”
Consider a request from an individual for his or her own records in a system of records under both the Freedom of Information Act and the Privacy Act regardless of the Act cited. The requester does not need to cite either Act if the records they want are contained in a system of records. Process the request under whichever Act gives the most information. When necessary, tell the requester which Act you used and why.
(a) Requesters should describe the records they want. They do not have to name a system of records number, but they should at least name a type of record or functional area. For requests that ask for “all records about me,” ask for more information and tell the person how to review the Air Force systems of records published in the
(b) Requesters should not use government equipment, supplies, stationery, postage, telephones, or official mail channels for making Privacy Act requests. System managers will process such requests and tell requesters that using government resources to make Privacy Act requests is not authorized.
(c) Tell the requester if a record exists and how to review the record. If possible, respond to requests within 10 workdays of receipt. If you cannot answer the request in 10 workdays, send a letter explaining why and give an approximate completion date no more than 20 workdays after the first office received the request.
(d) Show or give a copy of the record to the requester within 30 workdays of receiving the request unless the system is exempt and the Air Force lists the exemption in appendix D to this part; or it is published in this section; or published as a final rule in the
(e) If the requester wants another person present during the record review, the system manager may ask for written consent to authorize discussing the record with another person present.
Give the first 100 pages free, and charge only reproduction costs for the remainder. Copies cost $.15 per page; microfiche costs $.25 per fiche. Charge fees for all pages for subsequent requests for the same records. Do not charge fees:
(a) When the requester can get the record without charge under another publication (for example, medical records).
(b) For search.
(c) For reproducing a document for the convenience of the Air Force.
(d) For reproducing a record so the requester can review it.
Fee waivers. Waive fees automatically if the direct cost of reproduction is less than $15, unless the individual is seeking an obvious extension or duplication of a previous request for which he or she was granted a waiver. Decisions to waive or reduce fees that exceed $15 are made on a case-by-case basis.
System managers process access denials within 5 workdays after you receive a request for access. When you may not release a record, send a copy of the request, the record, and why you recommend denying access (include the applicable exemption) to the denial authority through the legal office and the Privacy Act office. Judge Advocate offices will include a written legal opinion. The Privacy Act officer reviews the file, and makes a recommendation to the denial authority. The denial authority sends the requester a letter with the decision. If the denial authority grants access, release the record. If the denial authority refuses access, tell the requester why and explain pertinent appeal rights (
(a) The system has an exemption rule published in the
(b) The exemption covers each document. (All parts of a system are not automatically exempt.)
(c) Nonexempt parts are segregated.
If a physician believes that disclosing requested medical records could harm the person's mental or physical health, you should:
(a) Ask the requester to get a letter from a physician to whom you can send the records. Include a letter explaining to the physician that giving the records directly to the individual could be harmful.
(b) Offer the services of a military physician other than one who provided treatment if naming the physician poses a hardship on the individual.
(c) The Privacy Act requires that we ultimately insure that the subject receives the records.
Ordinarily a person is entitled to their entire record under the Privacy Act. However, the law is not uniform regarding whether a subject is entitled to information that is not “about” him or her (for example, the home address of a third party contained in the subject's records). Consult your servicing Staff Judge Advocate before disclosing third party information. Generally, if the requester will be denied a right, privilege or benefit, the requester must be given access to relevant portions of the file.
Withhold records compiled in connection with a civil action or other proceeding including any action where the Air Force expects judicial or administrative adjudicatory proceedings. This exemption does not cover criminal actions. Do not release attorney work products prepared before, during, or after the action or proceeding.
These officials or a designee may deny access or amendment of records as authorized by the Privacy Act. Send a letter to Air Force Chief Information Officer/P with the position titles of designees. Authorities are:
(a) Deputy Chief of Staffs and chiefs of comparable offices or higher level at Secretary of the Air Force or Headquarters United States Air Force or designees.
(b) Major Command, Field Operating Agency, or direct reporting unit commanders or designees.
(c) Director, Personnel Force Management, 1040 Air Force Pentagon, Washington, DC 20330-1040 (for civilian personnel records).
(d) Commander, Air Force Office of Special Investigations, Washington, DC 20332-6001 (for Air Force Office of Special Investigations records).
(e) Unified Commanders or designees.
Individuals may ask to have their records amended to make them accurate, timely, relevant, or complete. System managers will routinely correct a record if the requester can show that it is factually wrong (
(a) Anyone may request minor corrections orally. Requests for more serious modifications should be in writing.
(b) After verifying the identity of the requester, make the change, notify all known recipients of the record, and inform the individual.
(c) Acknowledge requests within 10 workdays of receipt. Give an expected completion date unless you complete the change within that time. Final decisions must take no longer than 30 workdays.
The Air Force does not usually amend a record when the change is based on opinion, interpretation, or subjective official judgment. Determinations not to amend such records constitutes a denial, and requesters may appeal (
(a) If the system manager decides not to amend the record, send a copy of the request, the record, and the recommended denial reasons to the denial authority through the legal office and the Privacy Act office. Legal offices will include a written legal opinion. The Privacy Act officer reviews the proposed denial and legal opinion and makes a recommendation to the denial authority.
(b) The denial authority sends the requester a letter with the decision. If the denial authority approves the request, amend the record and notify all previous recipients that it has been changed. If the authority denies the request, give the requester the statutory authority, reason, and pertinent appeal rights (see subpart F of this part).
Requesters should pursue record corrections of subjective matters and opinions through proper channels to the Civilian Personnel Office using grievance procedures or the Air Force Board for Correction of Military Records. Record correction requests denied by the Air Force Board for Correction of Military Records are not subject to further consideration under this part. Military personnel, other than U.S. Air Force personnel, should pursue service-unique record corrections through their component chain of command.
Do not keep copies of disputed records in this file. File disputed records in their appropriate series. Use the file solely for statistics and to process requests. Do not use the case files to make any kind of determination about an individual. Document reasons for untimely responses. These files include:
(a) Requests from and replies to individuals on whether a system has records about them.
(b) Requests for access or amendment.
(c) Approvals, denials, appeals, and final review actions.
(d) Coordination actions and related papers.
Individuals who receive a denial to their access or amendment request may request a denial review by writing to the Secretary of the Air Force, through the denial authority, within 60 calendar days after receiving a denial letter. The denial authority promptly sends a complete appeal package to Air Force Legal Services Agency, General Litigation Division (JACL). The package must include:
(1) The original appeal letter;
(2) The initial request;
(3) The initial denial;
(4) A copy of the record;
(5) Any internal records or coordination actions relating to the denial;
(6) The denial authority's comments on the appellant's arguments; and
(7) The legal reviews.
(a) If the denial authority reverses an earlier denial and grants access or amendment, notify the requester immediately.
(b) Air Force Legal Services Agency, General Litigation Division (JACL) reviews the denial and provides a final recommendation to Secretary of the Air Force, Fiscal and Administrative Law Division (GCA). Secretary of the
(c) The requester may file a concise statement of disagreement with the system manager if Secretary of the Air Force, Fiscal and Administrative Law Division (GCA) denies the request to amend the record. Secretary of the Air Force, Fiscal and Administrative Law Division (GCA) explains the requester's rights when they issue the final appeal decision.
(d) The records should clearly show that a statement of disagreement is filed with the record or separately.
(e) The disputed part of the record must show that the requester filed a statement of disagreement.
(f) Give copies of the statement of disagreement to the record's previous recipients. Inform subsequent record users about the dispute and give them a copy of the statement with the record.
(g) The system manager may include a brief summary of the reasons for not amending the record. Limit the summary to the reasons Secretary of the Air Force, Fiscal and Administrative Law Division (GCA) gave to the individual. The summary is part of the individual's record, but it is not subject to amendment procedures.
Include a Privacy Act Warning Statement in each Air Force publication that requires collecting or keeping information in a system of records. Also include the Warning Statement when publications direct collection of the Social Security Number, or any part of the Social Security Number, from the individual. The warning statement will cite legal authority and when part of a record system, the Privacy Act system of records number and title. You can use the following warning statement: “This instruction requires collecting and maintaining information protected by the Privacy Act of 1974 authorized by (U.S.C. citation and or Executive Order number). System of records notice (number and title) applies.”
Information systems that contain information on individuals that is retrieved by name or personal identifier are subject to the Privacy Act. The Privacy Act requires these systems to have a Privacy Act system notice published in the
(a) Exercise caution before transmitting personal information over e-mail to ensure it is adequately safeguarded. Some information may be so sensitive and personal that e-mail may not be the proper way to transmit it. When sending personal information over e-mail within DoD, ensure: There is an official need; all addressee(s) (including “cc” addressees) are authorized to receive it under the Privacy Act; and it is protected from unauthorized disclosure, loss, or alteration. Protection methods may include encryption or password protecting the information in a separate Word document. When transmitting personal information over e-mail, add “FOUO” to the beginning of the subject line, followed by the subject, and apply the following statement at the beginning of the e-mail:
“This e-mail contains For Official Use Only (FOUO) information which must be protected under the Privacy Act and Air Force Instruction 33-332.”
(b) Do not indiscriminately apply this statement to e-mails. Use it only in situations when you are actually transmitting personal information. DoD Regulation 5400.7/Air Force Supp,
(c) Do not disclose personal information to anyone outside DoD unless specifically authorized by the Privacy Act (see § 806b.47).
(d) Do not send Privacy Act information to distribution lists or group e-mail addresses unless each member has an official need to know the personal information. When in doubt, send only to individual accounts.
(e) Before forwarding e-mails you have received that contain personal information, verify that your intended recipients are authorized to receive the information under the Privacy Act (see § 806b.47).
Information system owners and developers must address Privacy Act requirements in the development stage of the system and integrate privacy protections into the development life cycle of the information system. This is accomplished with a Privacy Impact Assessment.
(a) The Privacy Impact Assessment addresses what information is to be collected; why the information is being collected; the intended use of the information; with whom the information will be shared; what notice or opportunities for the individual to decline or consent to providing the information collected, and how that information is shared; secured; and whether a system of records is being created, or an existing system is being amended. The E-Government Act of 2002
(1) Developing or procuring information technology systems or projects that collect, maintain, or disseminate information in identifiable form from or about members of the public.
(2) Initiating a new electronic collection of information in identifiable form for 10 or more persons excluding agencies, instrumentalities, or employees of the Federal Government.
(b) In general, Privacy Impact Assessments are required to be performed and updated as necessary where a system change creates new privacy risks.
(c) No Privacy Impact Assessment is required where information relates to internal government operations, has been previously assessed under an evaluation similar to a Privacy Impact Assessment, or where privacy issues are unchanged.
(d) The depth and content of the Privacy Impact Assessment should be appropriate for the nature of the information to be collected and the size and complexity of the information technology system.
(e) The system owner will conduct a Privacy Impact Assessment as outlined in appendix E to this part and send it to their Major Command Privacy Act office for review and final approval by the Major Command or Headquarters Air Force Functional Chief Information Officer. The Major Command or Headquarters Air Force Functional Chief Information Officer will send a copy of approved Privacy Impact Assessments to Air Force Chief Information Officer/P, 1155 Air Force Pentagon, Washington DC 20330-1155; or e-mail
(f) Whenever practicable, approved Privacy Impact Assessments will be posted to the Freedom of Information Act/Privacy Act Web site for public access at
The Air Force must publish notices in the
(a) Starting a new system.
(b) Instituting significant changes to an existing system.
(c) Sending out data collection forms or instructions.
(d) Issuing a request for proposal or invitation for bid to support a new system.
At least 120 days before implementing a new system, or a major change to an existing system, subject to this part, system managers must send a proposed notice, through the Major Command Privacy Office, to Air Force Chief Information Officer/P. Send notices electronically to
System managers will review and validate their Privacy Act system notices annually and submit changes to Air Force Chief Information Officer/P through the Major Command Privacy Office.
Maintaining information privacy is the responsibility of every federal employee, military member, and contractor who comes into contact with information in identifiable form. Protect information according to its sensitivity level. Consider the personal sensitivity of the information and the risk of disclosure, loss or alteration. Most information in systems of records is FOUO. Refer to DoD 5400.7-R/Air Force Supp, DoD Freedom of Information Act Program, for protection methods.
Balance additional protection against sensitivity, risk and cost. In some situations, a password may be enough protection for an automated system with a log-on protocol. Others may require more sophisticated security protection based on the sensitivity of the information. Classified computer systems or those with established audit and password systems are obviously less vulnerable than unprotected files. Follow Air Force Instruction 33-202,
(a) AF Form 3227, Privacy Act Cover Sheet,
(b) Privacy Act Labels. Use of Air Force Visual Aid 33-276, Privacy Act Label, is optional to assist in protecting Privacy Act information on compact disks, diskettes, and tapes.
You may use the following methods to dispose of records protected by the Privacy Act and authorized for destruction according to records retention schedules:
(a) Destroy by any method that prevents compromise, such as tearing, burning, or shredding, so long as the personal data is not recognizable and beyond reconstruction.
(b) Degauss or overwrite magnetic tapes or other magnetic medium.
(c) Dispose of paper products through the Defense Reutilization and Marketing Office or through activities that manage a base-wide recycling program.
There are two types of exemptions permitted by 5 U.S.C. 552a:
(a) A
(b) A
Denial authorities may withhold records using Privacy Act exemptions only when an exemption for the system of records has been published in the
A system manager who believes that a system needs an exemption from some or all of the requirements of the Privacy Act will send a request to Air Force Chief Information Officer/P through the Major Command or Field Operating Agency Privacy Act Officer. The request will detail the reasons for the exemption, the section of the Act that allows the exemption, and the specific subsections of the Privacy Act from which the system is to be exempted, with justification for each subsection.
Exemptions permissible under 5 U.S.C. 552a (subject to § 806b.38 of this part):
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
(f)
(g)
(h)
The Privacy Act requires the written consent of the subject before releasing personal information to third parties, unless one of the 12 exceptions of the Privacy Act applies (see § 806b.47). Use this checklist before releasing personal information to third parties: Make sure it is authorized under the Privacy Act; consider the consequences; and check the accuracy of the information. You can release personal information to third parties when the subject agrees in writing. Air Force members consent to releasing their home telephone number and address when they sign and check the “Do Consent” block on the AF Form 624, Base/Unit Locator and Postal Service Center Directory
Before including personal information such as spouses names, home addresses, home phones, and similar information on social rosters or directories that are shared with groups of individuals, ask for signed consent statements. Otherwise, do not include the information. Consent statements must give the individual a choice to consent or not consent, and clearly tell the individual what information is being solicited, the purpose, to whom you plan to disclose the information, and that consent is voluntary. Maintain the signed statements until no longer needed.
Personal information should never be placed on shared drives for access by groups of individuals unless each person has an official need to know the information to perform their job. Add appropriate access controls to ensure access by only authorized individuals. Recall rosters are FOUO because they contain personal information and should be shared with small groups at the lowest levels for official purposes to reduce the number of people with access to such personal information. Commanders and supervisors should give consideration to those individuals with unlisted phone numbers, who do not want their number included on the office recall roster. In those instances, disclosure to the Commander or immediate supervisor, or deputy, should normally be sufficient.
Following are some examples of information that is not releasable without the written consent of the subject. This list is not all-inclusive.
(a) Marital status (single, divorced, widowed, separated).
(b) Number, name, and sex of dependents.
(c) Civilian educational degrees and major areas of study (unless the request for the information relates to the professional qualifications for Federal employment).
(d) School and year of graduation.
(e) Home of record.
(f) Home address and phone.
(g) Age and date of birth (year).
(h) Present or future assignments for overseas or for routinely deployable or sensitive units.
(i) Office and unit address and duty phone for overseas or for routinely deployable or sensitive units.
(j) Race/ethnic origin.
(k) Educational level (unless the request for the information relates to the professional qualifications for Federal employment).
(l) Social Security Number.
Following are examples of information normally releasable to the public
(a) Name.
(b) Rank.
(c) Grade.
(d) Air Force specialty code.
(e) Pay (including base pay, special pay, all allowances except Basic Allowance for Quarters and Variable Housing Allowance).
(f) Gross salary for civilians.
(g) Past duty assignments, unless sensitive or classified.
(h) Present and future approved and announced stateside assignments.
(i) Position title.
(j) Office, unit address, and duty phone number (Continental United States (CONUS) only).
(k) Date of rank.
(l) Entered on active duty date.
(m) Pay date.
(n) Source of commission.
(o) Professional military education.
(p) Promotion sequence number.
(q) Military awards and decorations.
(r) Duty status of active, retired, or reserve.
(s) Active duty official attendance at technical, scientific, or professional meetings.
(t) Biographies and photos of key personnel.
(u) Date of retirement, separation.
Use these guidelines to decide whether to release information:
(a) Would the subject have a reasonable expectation of privacy in the information requested?
(b) Would disclosing the information benefit the general public? The Air Force considers information as meeting the public interest standard if it reveals anything regarding the operations or activities of the agency, or performance of its statutory duties.
(c) Balance the public interest against the individual's probable loss of privacy. Do
The Privacy Act prohibits disclosing personal information to anyone other than the subject of the record without his or her written consent. There are twelve exceptions to the “no disclosure without consent” rule. Those exceptions permit release of personal information without the individual's consent only in the following instances:
(a)
(b)
(c)
In addition to the Routine Uses established by the Department of the Air Force within each system of records, the DoD has established “Blanket Routine Uses” that apply to all record systems maintained by the Department of the Air Force. These “Blanket Routine Uses” have been published only once at the beginning of the Department of the Air Force's
(d)
(e)
No one may use any part of the record to decide on individuals' rights, benefits, or entitlements. You must release records in a format that makes it impossible to identify the real subjects.
(f)
(g)
(h)
(i)
(1) Requests from a Congressional member acting on behalf of the record subject are evaluated under the routine use of the applicable system notice. If the material for release is sensitive, get a release statement.
(2) Requests from a Congressional member not on behalf of a committee or the record subject are properly analyzed under the Freedom of Information Act, and not under the Privacy Act.
(j)
(k)
(l)
Air Force personnel may disclose the medical records of minors to their parents or legal guardians in conjunction with applicable Federal laws and guidelines. The laws of each state define the age of majority.
(a) The Air Force must obey state laws protecting medical records of drug or alcohol abuse treatment, abortion, and birth control. If you manage medical records, learn the local laws and coordinate proposed local policies with the servicing Staff Judge Advocate.
(b) Outside the United States (overseas), the age of majority is 18. Unless parents or guardians have a court order granting access or the minor's written consent, they will not have access to minor's medical records overseas when the minor sought or consented to treatment between the ages of 15 and 17 in a program where regulation or statute provides confidentiality of records and he or she asked for confidentiality.
System managers must keep an accurate record of all disclosures made from any system of records except disclosures to DoD personnel for official use or disclosures under the Freedom of Information Act. System managers may use Air Force Form 771
(a) System managers may file the accounting record any way they want as long as they give it to the subject on request, send corrected or disputed information to previous record recipients, explain any disclosures, and provide an audit trail for reviews. Include in each accounting:
(1) Release date.
(2) Description of information.
(3) Reason for release.
(4) Name and address of recipient.
(5) Some exempt systems let you withhold the accounting record from the subject.
(b) You may withhold information about disclosure accountings for law enforcement purposes at the law enforcement agency's request.
Computer matching programs electronically compare records from two or
(1) Prepare a written agreement between participants;
(2) Secure approval of the Defense Data Integrity Board;
(3) Publish a matching notice in the
(4) Ensure full investigation and due process; and
(5) Act on the information, as necessary.
(a) The Privacy Act applies to matching programs that use records from: Federal personnel or payroll systems and Federal benefit programs where matching:
(1) Determines Federal benefit eligibility;
(2) Checks on compliance with benefit program requirements;
(3) Recovers improper payments or delinquent debts from current or former beneficiaries.
(b) Matches used for statistics, pilot programs, law enforcement, tax administration, routine administration, background checks and foreign counterintelligence, and internal matching that won't cause any adverse action are exempt from Privacy Act matching requirements.
(c) Any activity that expects to participate in a matching program must contact Air Force Chief Information Officer/P immediately. System managers must prepare a notice for publication in the
(d) Record subjects must receive prior notice of a match. The best way to do this is to include notice in the Privacy Act Statement on forms used in applying for benefits. Coordinate computer matching statements on forms with Air Force Chief Information Officer/P through the Major Command Privacy Act Officer.
Do not post personal information on publicly accessible DoD web sites unless clearly authorized by law and implementing regulation and policy. Additionally, do not post personal information on .mil private web sites unless authorized by the local commander, for official purposes, and an appropriate risk assessment is performed.
(a) Ensure public Web sites comply with privacy policies regarding restrictions on persistent and third party cookies, and add appropriate privacy and security notices at major web site entry points and Privacy Act statements or Privacy Advisories when collecting personal information. Notices must clearly explain where the collection or sharing of certain information is voluntary, and notify users how to provide consent.
(b) Include a Privacy Act Statement on the web page if it collects information directly from an individual that we maintain and retrieve by his or her name or personal identifier (
(c) Anytime a web site solicits personally-identifying information, even when not maintained in a Privacy Act system of records, it requires a Privacy Advisory. The Privacy Advisory informs the individual why the information is solicited and how it will be used. Post the Privacy Advisory to the web page where the information is being solicited, or through a well-marked hyperlink “Privacy Advisory—
The Privacy Act requires training for all persons involved in the design, development, operation and maintenance of any system of records. More specialized training is needed for personnel who may be expected to deal with the news media or the public, personnel specialists, finance officers, information managers, supervisors, and individuals working with medical and security records. Commanders will ensure that above personnel are trained annually in the principles and requirements of the Privacy Act.
Helpful resources include:
(a) The Air Force Freedom of Information Act Web page which includes a Privacy Overview, Privacy Act training slides, the Air Force systems of records notices, and links to the Defense Privacy Board Advisory Opinions, the DoD and Department of Justice Privacy web pages. Go to
(b) “The Privacy Act of 1974,” a 32-minute film developed by the Defense Privacy Office. Contact the Joint Visual Information Activity at DSN 795-6543/7283 or commercial (717) 895-6543/7283, and ask for #504432 “The Privacy Act of 1974.”
(c) A Manager's Overview, What You Need to Know About the Privacy Act. This overview gives you Privacy Act 101 and is available on-line at
(d) Training slides for use by the Major Command and base Privacy Act officers, available from the Freedom of Information Act web page at
Formal school training groups that develop or modify blocks of instruction must send the material to Air Force Chief Information Officer/P for coordination.
(a) Information Collections. No information collections are required by this publication.
(b) Records. Retain and dispose of Privacy Act records according to Air Force Manual 37-139, Records Disposition Schedule.
(c) Forms or Information Management Tools (Adopted and Prescribed).
(1) Adopted Forms or Information Management Tools. Air Force Form 624, Base/Unit Locator and PSC Directory, and AF Form 847, Recommendation for Change of Publication.
(2) Prescribed Forms or Information Management Tools. AF Form 3227, Privacy Act Cover Sheet, Air Force Form 771, Accounting of Disclosures, and Air Force Visual Aid 33-276.
The following elements comprise a system of records notice for publication in the
Executive Order 9397 authorizes using the Social Security Number as a personal identifier. Include this authority whenever the Social Security Number is used to retrieve records.
The DoD ‘Blanket Routine Uses’ published in the Air Force Directory of System Notices
Certain DoD “blanket routine uses” have been established that are applicable to every record system maintained by the Department of the Air Force, unless specifically stated otherwise within the particular record system notice. These additional routine uses of the records are published only once in the Air Force's Preamble to its compilation of records systems in the interest of simplicity, economy and to avoid redundancy.
If a system of records maintained by a DoD Component to carry out its functions indicates a violation or potential violation of law, whether civil, criminal, or regulatory in nature, and whether arising by general statute or by regulation, rule, or order issued pursuant thereto, the relevant records in the system of records may be referred, as a routine use, to the agency concerned, whether federal, state, local, or foreign, charged with the responsibility of investigating or prosecuting such violation or charged with enforcing or implementing the statute, rule, regulation, or order issued pursuant thereto.
A record from a system of records maintained by a Component may be disclosed as a routine use to a federal, state, or local agency maintaining civil, criminal, or other relevant enforcement information or other pertinent information, such as current licenses, if necessary to obtain information relevant to a Component decision concerning the hiring or retention of an employee, the issuance of a security clearance, the letting of a contract, or the issuance of a license, grant, or other benefit.
A record from a system of records maintained by a Component may be disclosed to a federal agency, in response to its request, in connection with the hiring or retention of an employee, the issuance of a security clearance, the reporting of an investigation of an employee, the letting of a contract, or the issuance of a license, grant, or other benefit by the requesting agency, to the extent that the information is relevant and necessary to the requesting agency's decision on the matter.
Disclosure from a system of records maintained by a Component may be made to a congressional office from the record of an individual in response to an inquiry from the
Relevant information contained in all systems of records of the Department of Defense published on or before August 22, 1975, will be disclosed to the Office of Management and Budget in connection with the review of private relief legislation as set forth in Office of Management and Budget Circular A-19 (reference (u)) at any stage of the legislative coordination and clearance process as set forth in that Circular.
A record from a system of records maintained by a Component may be disclosed to foreign law enforcement, security, investigatory, or administrative authorities to comply with requirements imposed by, or to claim rights conferred in, international agreements and arrangements including those regulating the stationing and status in foreign countries of DoD military and civilian personnel.
Any information normally contained in Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Form W-2 which is maintained in a record from a system of records maintained by a Component may be disclosed to state and local taxing authorities with which the Secretary of the Treasury has entered into agreements under 5 U.S.C., sections 5516, 5517, and 5520 (reference (v)) and only to those state and local taxing authorities for which an employee or military member is or was subject to tax regardless of whether tax is or was withheld. This routine use is in accordance with Treasury Fiscal Requirements Manual Bulletin No. 76-07.
A record from a system of records subject to the Privacy Act and maintained by a Component may be disclosed to the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) concerning information on pay and leave, benefits, retirement deduction, and any other information necessary for the OPM to carry out its legally authorized government-wide personnel management functions and studies.
A record from a system of records maintained by this component may be disclosed as a routine use to any component of the Department of Justice for the purpose of representing the Department of Defense, or any officer, employee or member of the Department in pending or potential litigation to which the record is pertinent.
Information as to current military addresses and assignments may be provided to military banking facilities who provide banking services overseas and who are reimbursed by the Government for certain checking and loan losses. For personnel separated, discharged, or retired from the Armed Forces, information as to last known residential or home of record address may be provided to the military banking facility upon certification by a banking facility officer that the facility has a returned or dishonored check negotiated by the individual or the individual has defaulted on a loan and that if restitution is not made by the individual, the U.S. Government will be liable for the losses the facility may incur.
A record from a system of records maintained by this component may be disclosed as a routine use to the General Services Administration (GSA) for the purpose of records management inspections conducted under authority of 44 U.S.C. 2904 and 2906.
A record from a system of records maintained by this component may be disclosed as a routine use to the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) for the purpose of records management inspections conducted under authority of 44 U.S.C. 2904 and 2906.
A record from a system of records maintained by this component may be disclosed as a routine use to the Merit Systems Protection Board, including the Office of the Special Counsel for the purpose of litigation, including administrative proceedings, appeals, special studies of the civil service and other merit systems, review of OPM or component rules and regulations, investigation of alleged or possible prohibited personnel practices; including administrative proceedings involving any individual subject of a DoD investigation, and such other functions, promulgated in 5 U.S.C. 1205 and 1206, or as may be authorized by law.
A record from a system of records maintained by this component may be disclosed as a routine use outside the DoD or the U.S.
(a) All systems of records maintained by the Department of the Air Force shall be exempt from the requirements of 5 U.S.C. 552a(d) pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(1) to the extent that the system contains any information properly classified under Executive Order 12958 and that is required by Executive Order to be kept classified in the interest of national defense or foreign policy. This exemption is applicable to parts of all systems of records including those not otherwise specifically designated for exemptions herein, which contain isolated items of properly classified information.
(b) An individual is not entitled to have access to any information compiled in reasonable anticipation of a civil action or proceeding (5 U.S.C. 552a(d)(5)).
(c) No system of records within Department of the Air Force shall be considered exempt under subsection (j) or (k) of the Privacy Act until the exemption rule for the system of records has been published as a final rule in the
(d) Consistent with the legislative purpose of the Privacy Act of 1974, the Department of the Air Force will grant access to non-exempt material in the records being maintained. Disclosure will be governed by the Department of the Air Force's Privacy Instruction, but will be limited to the extent that identity of confidential sources will not be compromised; subjects of an investigation of an actual or potential violation will not be alerted to the investigation; the physical safety of witnesses, informants and law enforcement personnel will not be endangered, the privacy of third parties will not be violated; and that the disclosure would not otherwise impede effective law enforcement. Whenever possible, information of the above nature will be deleted from the requested documents and the balance made available. The controlling principle behind this limited access is to allow disclosures except those indicated above. The decisions to release information from these systems will be made on a case-by-case basis.
(e) General Exemptions. The following systems of records claim an exemption under 5 U.S.C. 552a(j)(2), with the exception of F090 AF IG B, Inspector General Records and F051 AF JA F, Courts-Martial and Article 15 Records. They claim both the (j)(2) and (k)(2) exemption, and are listed under this part:
(1) System identifier and name: F071 AF OSI A, Counter Intelligence Operations and Collection Records.
(2) System identifier and name: F071 AF OSI C, Criminal Records.
(3) System identifier and name: F071 AF OSI D, Investigative Support Records.
(4) System identifier and name: F031 AF SP E, Security Forces Management Information System (SFMIS).
(i) Exemption: Parts of this system may be exempt pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552a(j)(2) if information is compiled and maintained by a component of the agency which performs as its principle function any activity pertaining to the enforcement of criminal laws. Therefore, portions of this system of records may be exempt pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552a(j)(2) from the following subsections of 5 U.S.C. 552a(c)(3), (c)(4), (d), (e)(1), (e)(2), (e)(3), (e)(4)(G), and (I), (e)(5), (e)(8), (f), and (g).
(ii) Authority: 5 U.S.C. 552a(j)(2).
(iii) Reasons: (A) To protect ongoing investigations and to protect from access criminal investigation information contained in this record system, so as not to jeopardize any subsequent judicial or administrative process taken as a result of information contained in the file.
(B) From subsection (c)(3) because the release of the disclosure accounting, for disclosures pursuant to the routine uses published for this system, would permit the subject criminal investigation or matter under investigation to obtain valuable information concerning the nature of that investigation which will present a serious impediment to law enforcement.
(C) From subsection (c)(4) because an exemption is being claimed for subsection this subsection will not be applicable.
(D) From subsection (d) because access the records contained in this system would inform the subject of an investigation of existence of that investigation, provide subject of the investigation with information that might enable him to avoid detection, and would present a serious impediment to law enforcement.
(E) From subsection (e)(4)(H) because system of records is exempt from individual access pursuant to subsection (j) of the Privacy Act of 1974.
(F) From subsection (f) because this system of records has been exempted from access provisions of subsection (d).
(5) System identifier and name: F031 AF SF A, Correction and Rehabilitation Records.
(i) Exemption: Parts of this system may be exempt pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552a(j)(2) if information is compiled and maintained by a component of the agency which performs as its principle function any activity pertaining to the enforcement of criminal laws. Portions of this system of records may be exempt pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552a(j)(2) from the following subsections of 5 U.S.C. 552a(c)(3), (c)(4), (d), (e)(3), (e)(4)(G), (H) and (I), (e)(5), (e)(8), (f), and (g).
(ii) Authority: 5 U.S.C. 552a(j)(2).
(iii) Reasons: (A) From subsection (c)(3) because the release of the disclosure accounting, for disclosures pursuant to the routine uses published for this system, would permit the subject of a criminal investigation or matter under investigation to obtain valuable information concerning the nature of that investigation which will present a serious impediment to law enforcement.
(B) From subsection (c)(4) because an exemption is being claimed for subsection (d), this subsection will not be applicable.
(C) From subsection (d) because access to the records contained in this system would inform the subject of a criminal investigation of the existence of that investigation, provide the subject of the investigation with information that might enable him to avoid detection or apprehension, and would present a serious impediment to law enforcement.
(D) From subsection (e)(3) would constitute a serious impediment to law enforcement in that it could compromise the existence of a confidential investigation, reveal the identity of confidential sources of information and endanger the life and physical safety of confidential informants.
(E) From subsections (e)(4)(G) and (H) because this system of records is exempt from individual access pursuant to subsections (j)(2) of the Privacy Act of 1974.
(F) From subsection (e)(4)(I) because the identity of specific sources must be withheld in order to protect the confidentiality of the sources of criminal and other law enforcement information. This exemption is further necessary to protect the privacy and physical safety of witnesses and informants.
(G) From subsection (e)(5) because in the collection of information for law enforcement purposes it is impossible to determine in advance what information is accurate, relevant, timely, and complete. With the passage of time, seemingly irrelevant or untimely information may acquire new significance as further investigation brings new details to light and the accuracy of such information can only be determined in a court of law. The restrictions of subsection (e)(5) would restrict the ability of trained investigators and intelligence analysts to exercise their judgment reporting on investigations and impede the development of intelligence necessary for effective law enforcement.
(H) From subsection (e)(8) because the individual notice requirements of subsection (e)(8) could present a serious impediment to law enforcement as this could interfere with the ability to issue search authorizations and could reveal investigative techniques and procedures.
(I) From subsection (f) because this system of records has been exempted from the access provisions of subsection (d).
(J) From subsection (g) because this system of records compiled for law enforcement purposes and has been exempted from the access provisions of subsections (d) and (f).
(6) System identifier and name: F090 AF IG B, Inspector General Records.
(i) Exemption: (A) Parts of this system of records may be exempt pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552a(j)(2) if the information is compiled and maintained by a component of the agency which performs as its principle function any activity pertaining to the enforcement of criminal laws. Therefore, portions of this system of records may be exempt pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552a(j)(2) from the following subsections of 5 U.S.C. 552a(c)(3), (c)(4), (d), (e)(1), (e)(2), (e)(3), (e)(4)(G), (H), and (I), (e)(5), (e)(8), (f), and (g).
(B) Investigative material compiled for law enforcement purposes, other than material within the scope of subsection 5 U.S.C. 552a(j)(2), may be exempt pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(2). However, if an individual is denied any right, privilege, or benefit for which he would otherwise be entitled by Federal law or for which he would otherwise be eligible, as a result of the maintenance of the information, the individual will be provided access to the information exempt to the extent that disclosure would reveal the identity of a confidential source. Note: When claimed, this exemption allows limited protection of investigative reports maintained in a system of records used in personnel or administrative actions. Therefore, portions of this system of records may be exempt pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(2) from the following subsections of 5 U.S.C. 552a(c)(3), (d), (e)(1), (e)(4)(G), (H) and (I), and (f).
(ii) Authority: 5 U.S.C. 552a(j)(2) and (k)(2).
(iii) Reasons: (A) From subsection (c)(3) because the release of accounting of disclosure would inform a subject that he or she is under investigation. This information would provide considerable advantage to the subject in providing him or her with knowledge concerning the nature of the investigation and the coordinated investigative efforts and techniques employed by the cooperating agencies. This would greatly impede the Air Force IG's criminal law enforcement.
(B) From subsection (c)(4) and (d), because notification would alert a subject to the fact that an open investigation on that individual is taking place, and might weaken the ongoing investigation, reveal investigative techniques, and place confidential informants in jeopardy.
(C) From subsection (e)(1) because the nature of the criminal and/or civil investigative function creates unique problems in prescribing a specific parameter in a particular case with respect to what information is relevant or necessary. Also, information may be received which may relate to a case under the investigative jurisdiction of another agency. The maintenance of this information
(D) From subsection (e)(2) because collecting information to the fullest extent possible directly from the subject individual may or may not be practical in a criminal and/or civil investigation.
(E) From subsection (e)(3) because supplying an individual with a form containing a Privacy Act Statement would tend to inhibit cooperation by many individuals involved in a criminal and/or civil investigation. The effect would be somewhat adverse to established investigative methods and techniques.
(F) From subsections (e)(4)(G), (H), and (I) because this system of records is exempt from the access provisions of subsection (d) and (f).
(G) From subsection (e)(5) because the requirement that records be maintained with attention to accuracy, relevance, timeliness, and completeness would unfairly hamper the investigative process. It is the nature of law enforcement for investigations to uncover the commission of illegal acts at diverse stages. It is frequently impossible to determine initially what information is accurate, relevant, timely, and least of all complete. With the passage of time, seemingly irrelevant or untimely information may acquire new significance as further investigation brings new details to light.
(H) From subsection (e)(8) because the notice requirements of this provision could present a serious impediment to law enforcement by revealing investigative techniques, procedures, and existence of confidential investigations.
(I) From subsection (f) because the agency's rules are inapplicable to those portions of the system that are exempt and would place the burden on the agency of either confirming or denying the existence of a record pertaining to a requesting individual might in itself provide an answer to that individual relating to an ongoing investigation. The conduct of a successful investigation leading to the indictment of a criminal offender precludes the applicability of established agency rules relating to verification of record, disclosure of the record to that individual, and record amendment procedures for this record system.
(J) From subsection (g) because this system of records should be exempt to the extent that the civil remedies relate to provisions of 5 U.S.C. 552a from which this rule exempts the system.
(7) System identifier and name: F051 AF JA F, Courts-Martial and Article 15 Records.
(i) Exemptions: (A) Parts of this system may be exempt pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552a(j)(2) if the information is compiled and maintained by a component of the agency which performs as its principle function any activity pertaining to the enforcement of criminal laws. Therefore, portions of this system of records may be exempt pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552a(j)(2) from the following subsection of 5 U.S.C. 552a(c)(3), (c)(4), (d), (e)(1), (e)(2), (e)(3), (e)(4)(G), (H) and (I), (e)(5), (e)(8), (f), and (g).
(B) Investigatory material compiled for law enforcement purposes, other than material within the scope of subsection 5 U.S.C. 552a(j)(2), may be exempt pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(2). However, if an individual is denied any right, privilege, or benefit for which he would otherwise be entitled by Federal law or for which he would otherwise be eligible, as a result of the maintenance of the information, the individual will be provided access to the information exempt to the extent that disclosure would reveal the identity of a confidential source. NOTE: When claimed, this exemption allows limited protection of investigative reports maintained in a system of records used in personnel or administrative actions. Therefore, portions of this system of records may be exempt pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(2) from the following subsections of 5 U.S.C. 552a(c)(3), (d), (e)(1), (e)(4)(G), (H) and (I), and (f).
(ii) Authority: 5 U.S.C. 552a(j)(2) and (k)(2).
(iii) Reason: (A) From subsection (c)(3) because the release of the disclosure accounting, for disclosures pursuant to the routine uses published for this system, would permit the subject of a criminal investigation or matter under investigation to obtain valuable information concerning the nature of that investigation which will present a serious impediment to law enforcement.
(B) From subsection (c)(4) because an exemption is being claimed for subsection (d), his subsection will not be applicable.
(C) From subsection (d) because access to the records contained in this system would inform the subject of a criminal investigation of the existence of that investigation, provide the subject of the investigation with information that might enable him to avoid detection or apprehension, and would present a serious impediment to law enforcement.
(D) From subsection (e)(1) because in the course of criminal investigations information is often obtained concerning the violation of laws or civil obligations of others not relating to an active case or matter. In the interests of effective law enforcement, it is necessary that this information be retained since it can aid in establishing patterns of activity and provide valuable leads for other agencies and future cases that may be brought.
(E) From subsection (e)(2) because in a criminal investigation the requirement that information be collected to the greatest extent possible from the subject individual would present a serious impediment to law
(F) From subsection (e)(3) because the requirement that individuals supplying information be provided with a form stating the requirements of subsection (e)(3) would constitute a serious impediment to law enforcement in that it could compromise the existence of a confidential investigation, reveal the identity of confidential sources of information and endanger the life and physical safety of confidential informants.
(G) From subsections (e)(4)(G) and (H) because this system of records is exempt from individual access pursuant to subsections (j) and (k) of the Privacy Act of 1974.
(H) From subsection (e)(4)(I) because the identity of specific sources must be withheld in order to protect the confidentiality of the sources of criminal and other law enforcement information. This exemption is further necessary to protect the privacy and physical safety of witnesses and informants.
(I) From subsection (e)(5) because in the collection of information for law enforcement purposes it is impossible to determine in advance what information is accurate, relevant, timely, and complete. With the passage of time, seemingly irrelevant or untimely information may acquire new significance as further investigation brings new details to light and the accuracy of such information can only be determined in a court of law. The restrictions of subsection (e)(5) would restrict the ability of trained investigators and intelligence analysts to exercise their judgment in reporting on investigations and impede the development of intelligence necessary for effective law enforcement.
(J) From subsection (e)(8) because the individual notice requirements of subsection (e)(8) could present a serious impediment to law enforcement as this could interfere with the ability to issue search authorizations and could reveal investigative techniques and procedures.
(K) From subsection (f) because this system of records has been exempted from the access provisions of subsection (d).
(L) From subsection (g) because this system of records is compiled for law enforcement purposes and has been exempted from the access provisions of subsections (d) and (f).
(8) System identifier and name: F071 JTF A, Computer Network Crime Case System.
(i) Exemption: (A) Parts of this system may be exempt pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552a(j)(2) if the information is compiled and maintained by a component of the agency, which performs as its principle function any activity pertaining to the enforcement of criminal laws. Any portion of this system of records which falls within the provisions of 5 U.S.C. 552a(j)(2) may be exempt from the following subsections of 5 U.S.C. 552a(c)(3), (c)(4), (d), (e)(1), (e)(2), (e)(3), (e)(4)(G), (H), and (I), (e)(5), (e)(8), (f), and (g).
(B) Investigatory material compiled for law enforcement purposes, other than material within the scope of subsection 5 U.S.C. 552a(j)(2), may be exempt pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(2). However, if an individual is denied any right, privilege, or benefit for which he would otherwise be entitled by Federal law or for which he would otherwise be eligible, as a result of the maintenance of the information, the individual will be provided access to the information exempt to the extent that disclosure would reveal the identify of a confidential source.
When claimed, this exemption allows limited protection of investigative reports maintained in a system of records used in personnel or administrative actions. Any portion of this system of records which falls within the provisions of 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(2) may be exempt from the following subsections of 5 U.S.C. 552a(c)(3), (d), (e)(1), (e)(4)(G), (H) and (I), and (f).
(ii) Authority: 5 U.S.C. 552a(j)(2) and (k)(2).
(iii) Reasons: (A) From subsection (c)(3) because the release of accounting of disclosure would inform a subject that he or she is under investigation. This information would provide considerable advantage to the subject in providing him or her with knowledge concerning the nature of the investigation and the coordinated investigative efforts and techniques employed by the cooperating agencies. This would greatly impede criminal law enforcement.
(B) From subsection (c)(4) and (d), because notification would alert a subject to the fact that an open investigation on that individual is taking place, and might weaken the on-going investigation, reveal investigative techniques, and place confidential informants in jeopardy.
(C) From subsection (e)(1) because the nature of the criminal and/or civil investigative function creates unique problems in prescribing a specific parameter in a particular case with respect to what information is relevant or necessary. Also, information may be received which may relate to a case under the investigative jurisdiction of another agency. The maintenance of this information may be necessary to provide leads for appropriate law enforcement purposes and to establish patterns of activity that may relate to the jurisdiction of other cooperating agencies.
(D) From subsection (e)(2) because collecting information to the fullest extent possible directly from the subject individual may or may not be practical in a criminal and/or civil investigation.
(E) From subsection (e)(3) because supplying an individual with a form containing
(F) From subsections (e)(4)(G), (H), and (I) because this system of records is exempt from the access provisions of subsection (d).
(G) From subsection (e)(5) because the requirement that records be maintained with attention to accuracy, relevance, timeliness, and completeness would unfairly hamper the investigative process. It is the nature of law enforcement for investigations to uncover the commission of illegal acts at diverse stages. It is frequently impossible to determine initially what information is accurate, relevant, timely, and least of all complete. With the passage of time, seemingly irrelevant or untimely information may acquire new significance as further investigation brings new details to light.
(H) From subsection (e)(8) because the notice requirements of this provision could present a serious impediment to law enforcement by revealing investigative techniques, procedures, and existence of confidential investigations.
(I) From subsection (f) because the agency's rules are inapplicable to those portions of the system that are exempt and would place the burden on the agency of either confirming or denying the existence of a record pertaining to a requesting individual might in itself provide an answer to that individual relating to an on-going investigation. The conduct of a successful investigation leading to the indictment of a criminal offender precludes the applicability of established agency rules relating to verification of record, disclosure of the record to that individual, and record amendment procedures for this record system.
(J) From subsection (g) because this system of records should be exempt to the extent that the civil remedies relate to provisions of 5 U.S.C. 552a from which this rule exempts the system.
(f) Specific Exemptions. The following systems of records are subject to the specific exemptions shown:
(1) System identifier and name: F036 USAFA K, Admissions Records.
(i) Exemption: Evaluation material used to determine potential for promotion in the Military Services may be exempt pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(7), but only to the extent that the disclosure of such material would reveal the identify of a confidential source. Therefore, portions of this system of records (Liaison Officer Evaluation and Selection Panel Candidate Evaluation) may be exempt pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(7) from the following subsections of 5 U.S.C. 552a(d), (e)(4)(H), and (f).
(ii) Authority: 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(7).
(iii) Reasons: To ensure the frankness of information used to determine whether cadets are qualified for graduation and commissioning as officers in the Air Force.
(2) System identifier and name: F036 AFPC N, Air Force Personnel Test 851, Test Answer Sheets.
(i) Exemption: Testing or examination material used solely to determine individual qualifications for appointment or promotion in the federal or military service may be exempt pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(6), if the disclosure would compromise the objectivity or fairness of the test or examination process. Therefore, portions of this system of records may be exempt pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(6) from the following subsections of 5 U.S.C. 552a(c)(3); (d); (e)(4)(G), (H), and (I); and (f).
(ii) Authority: 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(6).
(iii) Reasons: To protect the objectivity of the promotion testing system by keeping the test questions and answers in confidence.
(3) System identifier and name: F036 USAFA A, Cadet Personnel Management System.
(i) Exemption: Evaluation material used to determine potential for promotion in the Military Services may be exempt pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(7), but only to the extent that the disclosure of such material would reveal the identify of a confidential source. Therefore, portions of this system of records may be exempt pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(7) from the following subsections of 5 U.S.C. 552a(d), (e)(4)(H), and (f).
(ii) Authority: 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(7).
(iii) Reasons: To maintain the candor and integrity of comments needed to evaluate an Air Force Academy cadet for commissioning in the Air Force.
(4) System identifier and name: F036 AETC I, Cadet Records.
(i) Exemption: Investigatory material compiled solely for the purpose of determining suitability, eligibility, or qualifications for federal civilian employment, military service, federal contracts, or access to classified information may be exempt pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(5), but only to the extent that such material would reveal the identity of a confidential source. Therefore, portions of this system of records may be exempt pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(5) (Detachment Professional Officer Course Selection Rating Sheets; Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps Form 0-24—Disenrollment Review; Memoranda for Record and Staff Papers with Staff Advice, Opinions, or Suggestions) may be exempt from the following subsections of 5 U.S.C. 552a(c)(3), (d), (e)(4)(G) and (H), and (f).
(ii) Authority: 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(5).
(iii) Reasons: To protect the identity of a confidential source who furnishes information necessary to make determinations about the qualifications, eligibility, and
(5) System identifier and name: F044 AF SG Q, Family Advocacy Program Records.
(i) Exemption: (A) Investigative material compiled for law enforcement purposes, other than material within the scope of subsection 5 U.S.C. 552a(j)(2), may be exempt pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(2). However, if an individual is denied any right, privilege, or benefit for which he would otherwise be entitled by Federal law or for which he would otherwise be eligible, as a result of the maintenance of the information, the individual will be provided access to the information exempt to the extent that disclosure would reveal the identity of a confidential source.
When claimed, this exemption allows limited protection of investigative reports maintained in a system of records used in personnel or administrative actions.
(B) Investigative material compiled solely for the purpose of determining suitability, eligibility, or qualifications for federal civilian employment, military service, federal contracts, or access to classified information may be exempt pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(5), but only to the extent that such material would reveal the identity of a confidential source.
(C) Therefore, portions of this system of records may be exempt pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(2) and (k)(5) from the following subsections of 5 U.S.C. 552a(c)(3) and (d).
(ii) Authority: 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(2) and (k)(5).
(iii) Reasons: From subsections (c)(3) and (d) because the exemption is needed to encourage those who know of exceptional medical or educational conditions or family maltreatments to come forward by protecting their identities and to protect such sources from embarrassment or recriminations, as well as to protect their right to privacy. It is essential that the identities of all individuals who furnish information under an express promise of confidentiality be protected. Granting individuals access to information relating to criminal and civil law enforcement, as well as the release of certain disclosure accounting, could interfere with ongoing investigations and the orderly administration of justice, in that it could result in the concealment, alteration, destruction, or fabrication of information; could hamper the identification of offenders or alleged offenders and the disposition of charges; and could jeopardize the safety and well being of parents and their children. Exempted portions of this system also contain information considered relevant and necessary to make a determination as to qualifications, eligibility, or suitability for Federal employment and Federal contracts, and that was obtained by providing an express or implied promise to the source that his or her identity would not be revealed to the subject of the record.
(6) System identifier and name: F036 AF PC A, Effectiveness/Performance Reporting System.
(i) Exemption: Evaluation material used to determine potential for promotion in the Military Services (Brigadier General Selectee Effectiveness Reports and Colonel and Lieutenant Colonel Promotion Recommendations with close out dates on or before January 31, 1991) may be exempt pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(7), but only to the extent that the disclosure of such material would reveal the identity of a confidential source. Therefore, portions of this system of records may be exempt pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(7) from the following subsections of 5 U.S.C. 552a(c)(3), (d), (e)(4)(H), and (f).
(ii) Authority: 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(7).
(iii) Reasons: (A) From subsection (c)(3) because making the disclosure accounting available to the individual may compromise express promises of confidentiality by revealing details about the report and identify other record sources, which may result in circumvention of the access exemption.
(B) From subsection (d) because individual disclosure compromises express promises of confidentiality conferred to protect the integrity of the promotion rating system.
(C) From subsection (e)(4)(H) because of and to the extent that portions of this record system are exempt from the individual access provisions of subsection (d).
(D) From subsection (f) because of and to the extent that portions of this record system are exempt from the individual access provisions of subsection (d).
(7) System identifier and name: F036 AFDP A, Files on General Officers and Colonels Assigned to General Officer Positions.
(i) Exemption: Evaluation material used to determine potential for promotion in the Military Services may be exempt pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(7), but only to the extent that the disclosure of such material would reveal the identity of a confidential source. Therefore, portions of this system of records may be exempt pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(7) from the following subsections of 5 U.S.C. 552a(c)(3), (d), (e)(4)(G), (H), and (I); and (f).
(ii) Authority: 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(7).
(iii) Reasons: To protect the integrity of information used in the Reserve Initial Brigadier General Screening Board, the release of which would compromise the selection process.
(8) System identification and name: F036 AF PC O, General Officer Personnel Data System.
(i) Exemption: Evaluation material used to determine potential for promotion in the Military Services may be exempt pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(7), but only to the extent that the disclosure of such material would
(ii) Authority: 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(7).
(iii) Reason: (A) From subsection (c)(3) because making the disclosure accounting available to the individual may compromise express promises of confidentiality by revealing details about the report and identify other record sources, which may result in circumvention of the access exemption.
(B) From subsection (d) because individual disclosure compromises express promises of confidentiality conferred to protect the integrity of the promotion rating system.
(C) From subsection (e)(4)(H) because of and to the extent that portions of this record system are exempt from the individual access provisions of subsection (d).
(D) From subsection (f) because of and to the extent that portions of this record system are exempt from the individual access provisions of subsection (d).
(9) System identifier and name: F036 AFPC K, Historical Airman Promotion Master Test File.
(i) Exemption: Testing or examination material used solely to determine individual qualifications for appointment or promotion in the federal or military service, if the disclosure would compromise the objectivity or fairness of the test or examination process may be exempt pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(6), if the disclosure would compromise the objectivity or fairness of the test or examination process. Therefore, portions of this system of records may be exempt pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(6) from the following subsections of 5 U.S.C. 552a(c)(3), (d), (e)(4)(G), (H), and (I), and (f).
(ii) Authority: 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(6).
(iii) Reasons: To protect the integrity, objectivity, and equity of the promotion testing system by keeping test questions and answers in confidence. Reserved.
(10) System identifier and name: F071 AF OSI F, Investigative Applicant Processing Records.
(i) Exemption: Investigatory material compiled solely for the purpose of determining suitability, eligibility, or qualifications for federal civilian employment, military service, federal contracts, or access to classified information may be exempt pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(5), but only to the extent that such material would reveal the identity of a confidential source. Therefore, portions of this system of records may be exempt pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(5) from the following subsections of 5 U.S.C. 552a(c)(3), (d), (e)(4)(G), (H), and (I), and (f).
(ii) Authority: 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(5).
(iii) Reasons: To protect those who gave information in confidence during Air Force Office of Special Investigations applicant inquiries. Fear of harassment could cause sources not to make frank and open responses about applicant qualifications. This could compromise the integrity of the Air Force Office of Special Investigations personnel program that relies on selecting only qualified people.
(11) System identifier and name: F036 USAFA B, Master Cadet Personnel Record (Active/Historical).
(i) Exemptions: Evaluation material used to determine potential for promotion in the Military Services may be exempt pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(7), but only to the extent that the disclosure of such material would reveal the identify of a confidential source. Therefore, portions of this system of records may be exempt pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(7) from the following subsections of 5 U.S.C. 552a(d), (e)(4)(H), and (f).
(ii) Authority: 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(7).
(iii) Reasons: To maintain the candor and integrity of comments needed to evaluate a cadet for commissioning in the Air Force.
(12) System identifier and name: F031 497IG A, Sensitive Compartmented Information Personnel Records.
(i) Exemption: (A) Investigatory material compiled for law enforcement purposes, other than material within the scope of subsection 5 U.S.C. 552a(j)(2), may be exempt pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(2). However, if an individual is denied any right, privilege, or benefit for which he would otherwise be entitled by Federal law or for which he would otherwise be eligible, as a result of the maintenance of the information, the individual will be provided access to the information exempt to the extent that disclosure would reveal the identify of a confidential source.
When claimed, this exemption allows limited protection of investigative reports maintained in a system of records used in personnel or administrative actions.
(B) Investigatory material compiled solely for the purpose of determining suitability, eligibility, or qualifications for federal civilian employment, military service, federal contracts, or access to classified information may be exempt pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(5), but only to the extent that such material would reveal the identity of a confidential source.
(C) Therefore, portions of this system of records may be exempt pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(2) and (k)(5) from the following subsections of 5 U.S.C. 552a(c)(3), (d), (e)(4)(G), (H), and (I), and (f).
(ii) Authority: 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(2) and (k)(5).
(iii) Reasons: To protect the identity of sources to which proper promises of confidentiality have been made during investigations. Without these promises, sources will often be unwilling to provide information essential in adjudicating access in a fair and impartial manner.
(13) System identifier and name: F071 AF OSI B, Security and Related Investigative Records.
(i) Exemption: Investigatory material compiled solely for the purpose of determining suitability, eligibility, or qualifications for federal civilian employment, military service, federal contracts, or access to classified information may be exempt pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(5), but only to the extent that such material would reveal the identity of a confidential source. Therefore, portions of this system of records may be exempt pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(5) from the following subsections of 5 U.S.C. 552a(c)(3), (d), (e)(4)(G), (H), and (I), and (f).
(ii) Authority: 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(5).
(iii) Reasons: To protect the identity of those who give information in confidence for personnel security and related investigations. Fear of harassment could cause sources to refuse to give this information in the frank and open way needed to pinpoint those areas in an investigation that should be expanded to resolve charges of questionable conduct.
(14) System identifier and name: F031 497IG B, Special Security Case Files.
(i) Exemption: Investigatory material compiled solely for the purpose of determining suitability, eligibility, or qualifications for federal civilian employment, military service, federal contracts, or access to classified information may be exempt pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(5), but only to the extent that such material would reveal the identity of a confidential source. Therefore, portions of this system of records may be exempt pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(5) from the following subsections of 5 U.S.C. 552a(c)(3), (d), (e)(4)(G), (H), and (I), and (f).
(ii) Authority: 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(5).
(iii) Reasons: To protect the identity of those who give information in confidence for personnel security and related investigations. Fear of harassment could cause sources to refuse to give this information in the frank and open way needed to pinpoint those areas in an investigation that should be expanded to resolve charges of questionable conduct.
(15) System identifier and name: F031 AF SP N, Special Security Files.
(i) Exemption: Investigatory material compiled solely for the purpose of determining suitability, eligibility, or qualifications for federal civilian employment, military service, federal contracts, or access to classified information may be exempt pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(5), but only to the extent that such material would reveal the identity of a confidential source. Therefore, portions of this system of records may be exempt pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(5) from the following subsections of 5 U.S.C. 552a(c)(3), (d), (e)(4)(G), (H), and (I), and (f).
(ii) Authority: 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(5).
(iii) Reasons: To protect the identity of those who give information in confidence for personnel security and related investigations. Fear of harassment could cause them to refuse to give this information in the frank and open way needed to pinpoint areas in an investigation that should be expanded to resolve charges of questionable conduct.
(16) System identifier and name: F036 AF PC P, Applications for Appointment and Extended Active Duty Files.
(i) Exemption: Investigatory material compiled solely for the purpose of determining suitability, eligibility, or qualifications for federal civilian employment, military service, federal contracts, or access to classified information may be exempt pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(5), but only to the extent that such material would reveal the identity of a confidential source. Therefore, portions of this system of records may be exempt pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(5) from the following subsection of 5 U.S.C. 552a(d).
(ii) Authority: 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(5).
(iii) Reasons: To protect the identity of confidential sources who furnish information necessary to make determinations about the qualifications, eligibility, and suitability of health care professionals who apply for Reserve of the Air Force appointment or interservice transfer to the Air Force.
(17) System identifier and name: F036 AF DPG, Military Equal Opportunity and Treatment.
(i) Exemption: Investigative material compiled for law enforcement purposes, other than material within the scope of subsection 5 U.S.C. 552a(j)(2), may be exempt pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(2). However, if an individual is denied any right, privilege, or benefit for which he would otherwise be entitled by Federal law or for which he would otherwise be eligible, as a result of the maintenance of the information, the individual will be provided access to the information exempt to the extent that disclosure would reveal the identity of a confidential source.
When claimed, this exemption allows limited protection of investigative reports maintained in a system of records used in personnel or administrative actions. Therefore, portions of this system of records may be exempt pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 522a(k)(2) from the following subsections of 5 U.S.C. 552a(d), (e)(4)(H), and (f).
(ii) Authority: 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(2).
(iii) Reasons: (A) From subsection (d) because access to the records contained in this
(B) From subsection (e)(4)(H) because this system of records is exempt from individual access pursuant to subsection (k) of the Privacy Act of 1974.
(C) From subsection (f) because this system of records has been exempted from the access provisions of subsection (d).
(18) System identifier and name: F051 AF JA I, Commander Directed Inquiries.
(i) Exemption: Investigatory material compiled for law enforcement purposes, other than material within the scope of subsection 5 U.S.C. 552a(j)(2), may be exempt pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(2). However, if an individual is denied any right, privilege, or benefit for which he would otherwise be entitled by Federal law or for which he would otherwise be eligible, as a result of the maintenance of the information, the individual will be provided access to the information except to the extent that disclosure would reveal the identity of a confidential source.
When claimed, this exemption allows limited protection of investigative reports maintained in a system of records used in personnel or administrative actions. Any portion of this system of records which falls within the provisions of 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(2) may be exempt from the following subsections of 5 U.S.C. 552a(c)(3), (d), (e)(1), (e)(4)(G), (H), and (I), and (f).
(ii) Authority: 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(2).
(iii) Reasons: (A) From subsection (c)(3) because to grant access to the accounting for each disclosure as required by the Privacy Act, including the date, nature, and purpose of each disclosure and the identity of the recipient, could alert the subject to the existence of the investigation. This could seriously compromise case preparation by prematurely revealing its existence and nature; compromise or interfere with witnesses or make witnesses reluctant to cooperate; and lead to suppression, alteration, or destruction of evidence.
(B) From subsections (d) and (f) because providing access to investigative records and the right to contest the contents of those records and force changes to be made to the information contained therein would seriously interfere with and thwart the orderly and unbiased conduct of the investigation and impede case preparation. Providing access rights normally afforded under the Privacy Act would provide the subject with valuable information that would allow interference with or compromise of witnesses or render witnesses reluctant to cooperate; lead to suppression, alteration, or destruction of evidence; enable individuals to conceal their wrongdoing or mislead the course of the investigation; and result in the secreting of or other disposition of assets that would make them difficult or impossible to reach in order to satisfy any Government claim growing out of the investigation or proceeding.
(C) From subsection (e)(1) because it is not always possible to detect the relevance or necessity of each piece of information in the early stages of an investigation. In some cases, it is only after the information is evaluated in light of other evidence that its relevance and necessity will be clear.
(D) From subsections (e)(4)(G) and (H) because this system of records is compiled for investigative purposes and is exempt from the access provisions of subsections (d) and (f).
(E) From subsection (e)(4)(I) because to the extent that this provision is construed to require more detailed disclosure than the broad, generic information currently published in the system notice, an exemption from this provision is necessary to protect the confidentiality of sources of information and to protect privacy and physical safety of witnesses and informants.
(19) [Reserved]
(20) System identifier and name: F033 AF A, Information Requests-Freedom of Information Act.
(i) Exemption: During the processing of a Freedom of Information Act request, exempt materials from ‘other’ systems of records may in turn become part of the case record in this system. To the extent that copies of exempt records from those other systems of records are entered into this system, the Department of the Air Force hereby claims the same exemptions for the records from those ‘other’ systems that are entered into this system, as claimed for the original primary system of which they are a part.
(ii) Authority: 5 U.S.C. 552a(j)(2), (k)(1), (k)(2), (k)(3), (k)(4), (k)(5), (k)(6), and (k)(7).
(iii) Reasons: Records are only exempt from pertinent provisions of 5 U.S.C. 552a to the extent such provisions have been identified and an exemption claimed for the original record, and the purposes underlying the exemption for the original record still pertain to the record which is now contained in this system of records. In general, the exemptions were claimed in order to protect properly classified information relating to national defense and foreign policy, to avoid interference during the conduct of criminal, civil, or administrative actions or investigations, to ensure protective services provided
(21) System identifier and name: F033 AF B, Privacy Act Request Files.
(i) Exemption: During the processing of a Privacy Act request, exempt materials from other systems of records may in turn become part of the case record in this system. To the extent that copies of exempt records from those ‘other’ systems of records are entered into this system, the Department of the Air Force hereby claims the same exemptions for the records from those ‘other’ systems that are entered into this system, as claimed for the original primary system of which they are a part.
(ii) Authority: 5 U.S.C. 552a(j)(2), (k)(1), (k)(2), (k)(3), (k)(4), (k)(5), (k)(6), and (k)(7).
(iii) Reason: Records are only exempt from pertinent provisions of 5 U.S.C. 552a to the extent such provisions have been identified and an exemption claimed for the original record, and the purposes underlying the exemption for the original record still pertain to the record which is now contained in this system of records. In general, the exemptions were claimed in order to protect properly classified information relating to national defense and foreign policy, to avoid interference during the conduct of criminal, civil, or administrative actions or investigations, to ensure protective services provided the President and others are not compromised, to protect the identity of confidential sources incident to Federal employment, military service, contract, and security clearance determinations, and to preserve the confidentiality and integrity of Federal evaluation materials. The exemption rule for the original records will identify the specific reasons why the records are exempt from specific provisions of 5 U.S.C. 552a.
(22) System identifier and name: F051 AFJA E, Judge Advocate General's Professional Conduct Files.
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
(B) From subsections (d) and (f) because providing access to investigative records and the right to contest the contents of those records and force changes to be made to the information contained therein would seriously interfere with and thwart the orderly and unbiased conduct of the investigation and impede case preparation. Providing access rights normally afforded under the Privacy Act would provide the subject with valuable information that would allow interference with or compromise of witnesses or render witnesses reluctant to cooperate; lead to suppression, alteration, or destruction of evidence; enable individuals to conceal their wrongdoing or mislead the course of the investigation; and result in the secreting of or other disposition of assets that would make them difficult or impossible to reach in order to satisfy any Government claim growing out of the investigation or proceeding.
(C) From subsection (e)(1) because it is not always possible to detect the relevance or necessity of each piece of information in the early stages of an investigation. In some cases, it is only after the information is evaluated in light of other evidence that its relevance and necessity will be clear.
(D) From subsections (e)(4)(G) and (H) because this system of records is compiled for investigative purposes and is exempt from the access provisions of subsections (d) and (f).
(E) From subsection (e)(4)(I) because to the extent that this provision is construed to require more detailed disclosure than the broad, generic information currently published in the system notice, an exemption from this provision is necessary to protect the confidentiality of sources of information and to protect privacy and physical safety of witnesses and informants.
(23) System identifier and name F033 USSC A, Information Technology and Control Records.
(i)
When claimed, this exemption allows limited protection of investigative reports maintained in a system of records used in personnel or administrative actions. Any portion of this system of records which falls within the provisions of 5 U.S.C. 552a(k)(2) may be exempt from the following subsections of 5 U.S.C. 552a(c)(3), (d), (e)(1), (e)(4)(G), (H), and (I), and (f).
(ii)
(iii)
(B) From subsections (d) and (f) because providing access to investigative records and the right to contest the contents of those records and force changes to be made to the information contained therein would seriously interfere with and thwart the orderly and unbiased conduct of the investigation and impede case preparation. Providing access rights normally afforded under the Privacy Act would provide the subject with valuable information that would allow interference with or compromise of witnesses or render witnesses reluctant to cooperate; lead to suppression, alteration, or destruction of evidence; enable individuals to conceal their wrongdoing or mislead the course of the investigation; and result in the secreting of or other disposition of assets that would make them difficult or impossible to reach in order to satisfy any Government claim growing out of the investigation or proceeding.
(C) From subsection (e)(1) because it is not always possible to detect the relevance or necessity of each piece of information in the early stages of an investigation. In some cases, it is only after the information is evaluated in light of other evidence that its relevance and necessity will be clear.
(D) From subsections (e)(4)(G) and (H) because this system of records is compiled for investigative purposes and is exempt from the access provisions of subsections (d) and (f).
(E) From subsection (e)(4)(I) because to the extent that this provision is construed to require more detailed disclosure than the broad, generic information currently published in the system notice, an exemption from this provision is necessary to protect the confidentiality of sources of information and to protect privacy and physical safety of witnesses and informants.
(24) System identifier and name: F036 AETC X, College Scholarship Program.
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
(B) From (e)(1) because in the collection of information for investigatory purposes, it is not always possible to determine the relevance and necessity of particular information in the early stages of the investigation. In some cases, it is only after the information is evaluated in light of other information that its relevance and necessity becomes clear. Such information permits more informed decision-making by the Department when making required suitability, eligibility, and qualification determinations.
(25) System identifier and name: F032 AFCESA C, Civil Engineer System-Explosive Ordnance Records.
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
(B) From subsections (d) and (f) because providing access to investigative records and the right to contest the contents of those records and force changes to be made to the information contained therein would seriously interfere with and thwart the orderly and unbiased conduct of the investigation and impede case preparation. Providing access rights normally afforded under the Privacy Act would provide the subject with valuable information that would allow interference with or compromise of witnesses or render witnesses reluctant to cooperate; lead to suppression, alteration, or destruction of evidence; enable individuals to conceal their wrongdoing or mislead the course of the investigation; and result in the secreting of or other disposition of assets that would make them difficult or impossible to reach in order to satisfy any Government claim growing out of the investigation or proceeding.
(C) From subsection (e)(1) because it is not always possible to detect the relevance or necessity of each piece of information in the early stages of an investigation. In some cases, it is only after the information is evaluated in light of other evidence that its relevance and necessity will be clear.
(D) From subsections (e)(4)(G) and (H) because this system of records is compiled for investigative purposes and is exempt from the access provisions of subsections (d) and (f).
(E) From subsection (e)(4)(I) because to the extent that this provision is construed to require more detailed disclosure than the broad, generic information currently published in the system notice, an exemption from this provision is necessary to protect the confidentiality of sources of information and to protect privacy and physical safety of witnesses and informants.
(26) System identifier and name: F051 AF JAA, Freedom of Information Appeal Records.
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
The Privacy Act Assessment. The Air Force recognizes the importance of protecting the privacy of individuals, to ensure sufficient protections for the privacy of personal information as we implement citizen-centered e-Government. Privacy issues must be addressed when systems are being developed, and privacy protections must be integrated into the development life cycle of these automated systems. The vehicle for addressing privacy issues in a system under development is the Privacy Impact Assessment. The Privacy Impact Assessment process also provides a means to assure compliance with applicable laws and regulations governing individual privacy.
(a) Purpose. The purpose of this document is to:
(1) Establish the requirements for addressing privacy during the systems development process.
(2) Describe the steps required to complete a Privacy Impact Assessment.
(3) Define the privacy issues you will address in the Privacy Impact Assessment.
(b) Background. The Air Force is responsible for ensuring the privacy, confidentiality, integrity, and availability of personal information. The Air Force recognizes that privacy protection is both a personal and fundamental right. Among the most
(1) Title 5, U.S.C. 552a, The Privacy Act of 1974, as amended, which affords individuals the right to privacy in records maintained and used by Federal agencies.
5 U.S.C. 552a includes Public Law 100-503, The Computer Matching and Privacy Act of 1988.
(2) Public Law 100-235, The Computer Security Act of 1987,
(3) OMB Circular A-130, Management of Federal Information Resources,
(4) Public Law 107-347, Section 208, E-Gov Act of 2002, which aims to ensure privacy in the conduct of federal information activities.
(5) Title 5, U.S.C. 552, The Freedom of Information Act, as amended, which provides for the disclosure of information maintained by Federal agencies to the public while allowing limited protections for privacy.
(6) DoD Directive 5400.11, Department of Defense Privacy Program,
(7) DoD 5400.11-R, Department of Defense Privacy Program,
(8) Air Force Instruction 33-332, Air Force Privacy Act Program.
(c) The Air Force Privacy Office is in the Office of the Air Force Chief Information Officer, Directorate of Plans and Policy, and is responsible for overseeing Air Force implementation of the Privacy Act.
System Privacy. Rapid advancements in computer technology make it possible to store and retrieve vast amounts of data of all kinds quickly and efficiently. These advancements have raised concerns about the impact of large computerized information systems on the privacy of data subjects. Public concerns about highly integrated information systems operated by the government make it imperative to commit to a positive and aggressive approach to protecting individual privacy. Air Force Chief Information Officer is requiring the use of this Privacy Impact Assessment in order to ensure that the systems the Air Force develops protect individuals' privacy. The Privacy Impact Assessment incorporates privacy into the development life cycle so that all system development initiatives can appropriately consider privacy issues from the earliest stages of design.
(a) What is a Privacy Impact Assessment? The Privacy Impact Assessment is a process used to evaluate privacy in information systems. The process is designed to guide system owners and developers in assessing privacy through the early stages of development. The process consists of privacy training, gathering data from a project on privacy issues, and identifying and resolving the privacy risks. The Privacy Impact Assessment process is described in detail in Section C, Completing a Privacy Impact Assessment.
(b) When is a Privacy Impact Assessment Done? The Privacy Impact Assessment is initiated in the early stages of the development of a system and completed as part of the required system life cycle reviews. Privacy must be considered when requirements are being analyzed and decisions are being made about data usage and system design. This applies to all of the development methodologies and system life cycles used in the Air Force.
(c) Who completes the Privacy Impact Assessment? Both the system owner and system developers must work together to complete the Privacy Impact Assessment. System owners must address what data is to be used, how the data is to be used, and who will use the data. The system developers must address whether the implementation of the owner's requirements presents any threats to privacy.
(d) What systems have to complete a Privacy Impact Assessment? Accomplish Privacy Impact Assessments when:
(1) Developing or procuring information technology that collects, maintains, or disseminates information in identifiable form from or about members of the public.
(2) Initiating a new collection of information, using information technology, that collects, maintains, or disseminates information in identifiable form for 10 or more persons excluding agencies, instrumentalities, or employees of the Federal Government.
(3) Systems as described above that are undergoing major modifications.
(e) The Air Force or Major Command Privacy Act Officer reserves the right to request
The Privacy Impact Assessment. This section describes the steps required to complete a Privacy Impact Assessment. These steps are summarized in Table A4.1, Outline of Steps for Completing a Privacy Impact Assessment.
Training. Training on the Privacy Impact Assessment will be available, on request, from the Major Command Privacy Act Officer. The training consists of describing the Privacy Impact Assessment process and provides detail about the privacy issues and privacy questions to be answered to complete the Privacy Impact Assessment. Major Command Privacy Act Officers may use appendix E, Sections A, B, D, and E for this purpose. The intended audience is the personnel responsible for writing the Privacy Impact Assessment document.
The Privacy Impact Assessment Document. Preparing the Privacy Impact Assessment document requires the system owner and developer to answer the privacy questions in Section E. A brief explanation should be written for each question. Issues that do not apply to a system should be noted as “Not Applicable.” During the development of the Privacy Impact Assessment document, the Major Command Privacy Act Officer will be available to answer questions related to the Privacy Impact Assessment process and other concerns that may arise with respect to privacy.
Review of the Privacy Impact Assessment Document. Submit the completed Privacy Impact Assessment document to the Major Command Privacy Act Office for review. The purpose of the review is to identify privacy risks in the system.
Approval of the Privacy Impact Assessment. The system life cycle review process (Command, Control, Communications, Computers, and Intelligence Support Plan) will be used to validate the incorporation of the design requirements to resolve the privacy risks. Major Command and Headquarters Air Force Functional CIOs will issue final approval of the Privacy Impact Assessment.
Title 5, U.S.C., 552a, The Privacy Act of 1974, as amended, requires Federal Agencies to protect personally identifiable information. It states specifically:
Each agency that maintains a system of records shall:
Maintain in its records only such information about an individual as is relevant and necessary to accomplish a purpose of the agency required to be accomplished by statute or by executive order of the President;
Collect information to the greatest extent practicable directly from the subject individual when the information may result in adverse determinations about an individual's rights, benefits, and privileges under Federal programs;
Maintain all records used by the agency in making any determination about any individual with such accuracy, relevance, timeliness, and completeness as is reasonably necessary to assure fairness to the individual in the determination;
Establish appropriate administrative, technical and physical safeguards to ensure the security and confidentiality of records and to protect against any anticipated threats or hazards to their security or integrity which could result in substantial harm, embarrassment, inconvenience, or unfairness to any individual on whom information is maintained.
Accuracy—within sufficient tolerance for error to assure the quality of the record in terms of its use in making a determination.
Completeness—all elements necessary for making a determination are present before such determination is made.
Determination—any decision affecting an individual which, in whole or in part, is based on information contained in the record and which is made by any person or agency.
Necessary—a threshold of need for an element of information greater than mere relevance and utility.
Record—any item, collection or grouping of information about an individual and identifiable to that individual that is maintained by an agency.
Relevance—limitation to only those elements of information that clearly bear on the determination(s) for which the records are intended.
Routine Use—with respect to the disclosure of a record, the use of such record outside DoD for a purpose that is compatible with the purpose for which it was collected.
System of Records—a group of any records under the control of any agency from which information is retrieved by the name of the individual or by some identifying number, symbol, or other identifying particular assigned to the individual.
Timeliness—sufficiently current to ensure that any determination based on the record will be accurate and fair.
To fulfill the commitment of the Air Force to protect personal information, several issues must be addressed with respect to privacy.
The use of information must be controlled.
Information may be used only for a necessary and lawful purpose.
Individuals must be informed in writing of the principal purpose and routine uses of the information being collected from them.
Information collected for a particular purpose should not be used for another purpose without the data subject's consent unless such other uses are specifically authorized or mandated by law.
Any information used must be sufficiently accurate, relevant, timely and complete to assure fair treatment of the individual.
Given the availability of vast amounts of stored information and the expanded capabilities of information systems to process the information, it is foreseeable that there will be increased requests to share that information. With the potential expanded uses of data in automated systems it is important to remember that information can only be used for the purpose for which it was collected unless other uses are specifically authorized or mandated by law. If the data is to be used for other purposes, then the public must be provided notice of those other uses. These procedures do not in themselves create any legal rights, but are intended to express the full and sincere commitment of the Air Force to protect individual privacy rights and which provide redress for violations of those rights.
The sources of the information in the system are an important privacy consideration if the data is gathered from other than Air Force records. Information collected from non-Air Force sources should be verified, to the extent practicable, for accuracy, that the information is current, and complete. This is especially important if the information will be used to make determinations about individuals.
Who has access to the data in a system must be defined and documented. Users of the data can be individuals, other systems, and other agencies. Individuals who have access to the data can be system users, system administrators, system owners, managers, and developers. When individuals are granted access to a system, their access should be limited, where possible, to only that data needed to perform their assigned duties. If individuals are granted access to all of the data in a system, procedures need to be in place to deter and detect browsing and unauthorized access. Other systems are any programs or projects that interface with the system and have access to the data. Other agencies can be International, Federal, state, or local entities that have access to Air Force data.
When requirements for the data to be used in the system are being determined, those requirements must include the privacy attributes of the data. The privacy attributes are derived from the legal requirements imposed by The Privacy Act of 1974. First, the data must be relevant and necessary to accomplish the purpose of the system. Second, the data must be complete, accurate, and timely. It is important to ensure the data has these privacy attributes in order to assure fairness to the individual in making decisions based on the data.
Automation of systems can lead to the consolidation of processes, data, and the controls in place to protect the data. When administrative controls are consolidated, they should be evaluated so that all necessary controls remain in place to the degree necessary to continue to control access to and use of the data. Document record retention and disposal procedures and coordinate them with the Major Command Records Manager.
1. Generally describe the information to be used in System the system.
2. What are the sources of the information in the system?
a. What Air Force files and databases are used?
b. What Federal Agencies are providing data for use in the system?
c. What State and local agencies are providing data for use in the system?
d. What other third party sources will data be collected from?
e. What information will be collected from the employee?
3. Is data accurate and complete?
a. How will data collected from sources other than Air Force records and the subject be verified for accuracy?
b. How will data be checked for completeness?
c. Is the data current? How do you know?
4. Are the data elements described in detail and documented? If yes, what is the name of the document?
1. Who will have access to the data in the system Data (Users, Managers, System Administrators, Developers, Other)?
2. How is access to the data by a user determined? Are criteria, procedures, controls, and responsibilities regarding access documented?
3. Will users have access to all data on the system or will the user's access be restricted? Explain.
4. What controls are in place to prevent the misuse (
5. Does the system share data with another system?
a. Do other systems share data or have access to data in this system? If yes, explain.
b. Who will be responsible for protecting the privacy rights of the employees affected by the interface?
6. Will other agencies have access to the data in the system?
a. Will other agencies share data or have access to data in this system (International, Federal, State, Local, Other)?
b. How will the data be used by the agency?
c. Who is responsible for assuring proper use of the data?
d. How will the system ensure that agencies only get the information they are entitled to under applicable laws?
1. Is the use of the data both relevant and necessary Data to the purpose for which the system is being designed?
2. Will the system create new data about an individual?
a. Will the system derive new data or create previously unavailable data about an individual through aggregation from the information collected?
b. Will the new data be placed in the individual's record?
c. Can the system make determinations about the record subject that would not be possible without the new data?
d. How will the new data be verified for relevance and accuracy?
3. Is data being consolidated?
a. If data is being consolidated, what controls are in place to protect the data from unauthorized access or use?
b. If processes are being consolidated, are the proper controls remaining in place to protect the data and prevent unauthorized access? Explain.
4. How will the data be retrieved? Is it retrieved by a personal identifier? If yes, explain.
(1) a. Explain how the system and its use will ensure Administrative equitable treatment of record subjects.
b. If the system is operated at more than one location, how will consistent use of the system and data be maintained?
c. Explain any possibility of disparate treatment of individuals or groups.
(2) a. Coordinate proposed maintenance and disposition of the records with the Major Command Records Manager.
b. While the data is retained in the system, what are the requirements for determining if
(3) a. Is the system using technologies in ways that the Air Force has not previously employed?
b. How does the use of this technology affect personal privacy?
(4) a. Will this system provide the capability to identify, locate, and monitor individuals? If yes, explain.
b. Will this system provide the capability to identify, locate, and monitor groups of people? If yes, explain.
c. What controls will be used to prevent unauthorized monitoring?
(5) a. Under which Systems of Record notice does the system operate? Provide number and name.
b. If the system is being modified, will the system of record require amendment or revision? Explain.
10 U.S.C. 8013.
(a) Unaltered Air Force publications and forms will be made available to the public with or without charge, subject to the requirements of this part. Base Chiefs of Information Management will set up procedures to meet these needs and will make available Master Publications Libraries for public use according to AFR 4-61. They will also advise requesters that these libraries are available, since in many cases this will satisfy their needs and reduce workloads in processing sales requests. If the item is on sale by the Superintendent of Documents, GPO, refer the request to that outlet. Refer general public requests for Air Force administrative publications and forms to the National Technical Information Service (NTIS), Defense Publication Section, US Department of Commerce, 4285 Port Royal Road, Springfield, VA 22161-0001.
(b) The Air Force does not consider these unaltered publications and forms as records, within the meaning of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), as outlined in 5 U.S.C. 552 and implemented by part 806 of this chapter. Refer requests that invoke the FOIA to the chief, base information management, for processing.
(c) Units will process requests under the Foreign Military Sales Program (FMS) as specified in AFR 4-71, chapter 11.
(d) Units will send requests from foreign governments, their representatives, or international organizations to the MAJCOM foreign disclosure policy office and to HQ USAF/CVAII, Washington DC 20330-5000. Also send information copies of such requests to the base public affairs office. Commands will supplement this requirement to include policies pertaining to those items for which they have authority to release.
(e) Units will return a request for non-Air Force items to the requester for submission to appropriate agency.
(a) The Air Force applies charges to all requests unless specifically excluded.
(b) The Air Force applies charges according to part 813, Schedule of Fees for Copying, Certifying, and Searching Records and Other Documentary Material. Additional guidance is in part 812, User Charges, including specific exclusion from charges as listed in § 812.5. As indicated, the list of exclusions is not all inclusive and recommendations for additional exclusions are sent to the office of primary responsibility for part 812 of this chapter.
(c) When a contractor requires publications and forms to perform a contract, the Air Force furnishes them without charge, if the government contracting officer approves these requirements.
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e) Limited (L) distribution items are not releasable outside the Department of Defense without special review according to AFR 700-6. Units receiving these requests should refer them to the SCS manager shown in the index or on the cover of the publications. Advise the requesters of the referral.
(f)
(a) Limit quantities furnished so that stock levels required for operational Air Force support are not jeopardized.
(b) If the item is not available from publishing distribution office (PDO) stock, obtain it from the Air Force Publishing Distribution Center. If the item is under revision, advise the requester that it is being revised and that no stock is available.
(c) If stocks are not available and the item is being reprinted, advise the requester that stocks are expected to be available in 90 calendar days and to resubmit at that time.
Payment is required before shipping the requested material. Payment must be by check or money order.
(a) Upon receipt of the request, determine the cost involved and request the material.
(b) Upon receipt of the item, advise the requester to resubmit the required payment and send the material after payment is received.
(c) If the material cannot be obtained, advise the requester of the reason.
Obtain instructions from the local Accounting and Finance Office regarding how checks or money orders must be prepared and required procedures for depositing them.
10 U.S.C. 332 and 333.
This part prescribes the commanders' authority for enforcing order within or near Air Force installations under their jurisdiction and controlling entry to those installations. It provides guidance for use of military personnel in controlling civil disturbances and in supporting disaster relief operations. This part applies to installations in the United States, its territories and possessions, and will be used to the maximum extent possible in the overseas commands. Instructions issued by the appropriate overseas commander, status of forces agreements, and other international agreements provide more definitive guidance for the overseas commands. Nothing in this part should be construed as authorizing or requiring security forces units to collect and maintain information concerning persons or organizations having no affiliation with the Air Force other than a list of persons barred from the installation.
The installation commander determines when, where, and how to implement random checks of vehicles or pedestrians. The commander conducts random checks to protect the security of the command or to protect government property.
(a) Air Force installation commanders are responsible for protecting personnel and property under their jurisdiction and for maintaining order on installations, to ensure the uninterrupted and successful accomplishment of the Air Force mission.
(b) Each commander is authorized to grant or deny access to their installations, and to exclude or remove persons whose presence is unauthorized. In excluding or removing persons from the installation, the installation commander must not act in an arbitrary or capricious manner. Their action must be reasonable in relation to their responsibility to protect and to preserve order on the installation and to safeguard persons and property thereon. As far as practicable, they should prescribe by regulation the rules and conditions governing access to their installation.
Under Section 21 of the Internal Security Act of 1950 (50 U.S.C. 797), any directive issued by the commander of a military installation or facility, which includes the parameters for authorized entry to or exit from a military installation, is legally enforceable against all persons whether or not those persons are subject to the Uniformed Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). Military personnel who reenter an installation after having been properly ordered not to do so may be apprehended. Civilian violators may be detained and either escorted off the installation or turned over to proper civilian authorities. Civilian violators may be prosecuted under 18 U.S.C. 1382.
Commanders are prohibited from authorizing demonstrations for partisan political purposes. Demonstrations on any Air Force installation for other than political purposes may only occur with the prior approval of the installation commander. Demonstrations that could result in interference with, or prevention of, the orderly accomplishment of the mission of an installation or that present a clear danger to loyalty, discipline or morale of members of the Armed Forces will not be approved.
Under the authority of 50 U.S.C. 797, installation commanders may deny access to the installation through the use of a barment order. Barment orders should be in writing but may also be oral. Security forces maintain a list of personnel barred from the installation.
The authority to intervene during civil disturbances and to provide disaster assistance is bound by directives issued by competent authorities. States must request federal military intervention or aid directly from the President of the United States by the state's legislature or executive. Installation commanders must immediately report these requests in accordance with AFI 10-802,
The following definitions apply to this part:
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
This subpart contains policies on the use of Air Force military personnel in civil disturbances and disasters. The more important laws concerning military aid to civil authorities are also summarized.
(a) The Air Force gives military assistance to civil authorities in civil defense or civil disturbances and disasters only when such assistance is requested or directed. Commanders will not undertake such assistance without authority, unless the overruling demands of humanity compel immediate action to protect life and property and to restore order.
(b) The military service having available resources nearest the affected area is responsible for providing initial assistance to civil authorities in emergencies. Subsequent operations are to be according to the mutual agreement between the senior service commanders concerned.
(c) The protection of life and property and the maintenance of law and order within the territorial jurisdiction of any State is the primary responsibility of State and local authorities. It is well-established U.S. Government policy that intervention with military forces takes place only after State and local authorities have used their own forces and are unable to control the situation, or when they do not take appropriate action.
This part is not intended to extend Air Force responsibilities in emergencies to generate additional resources (manpower, materiel, facilities, etc.) requirements, or encourage participation in such operations at the expense of the Air Force primary mission. It is a guide for the employment of Air Force resources when:
(a) A disaster or disturbance occurs in areas in which the U.S. Air Force is the executive agent of the United States.
(b) A disaster or disturbance occurs in areas that are remote from an Army installation but near an Air Force installation, thereby necessitating Air Force assumption of responsibility pending arrival of Army personnel.
(c) The overriding demand of conditions resulting from a natural disaster compels immediate action to protect life and property and to restore order.
(a) Civilians in the affected area will be informed of the rules of conduct and other restrictive measures to be enforced by the military. These will be announced by local proclamation or order, and will be given the widest publicity by all available media.
(b) Persons not normally subject to military law, who are taken into custody by military forces incident to civil disturbances, will be turned over to the civil authorities as soon as possible.
(c) Military forces will ordinarily exercise police powers previously inoperative in an affected area; restore and maintain order; maintain essential transportation and communication; and provide necessary relief measures.
(d) U.S. Air Force civilian employees may be used, in any assignments in which they are capable and willing to serve. In planning for on-base contingencies of fires, floods, hurricanes, and other natural disasters, arrangements should be made for the identification and voluntary use of individual employees to the extent that the needs for their services are anticipated.
It is Air Force policy to make every reasonable effort to avoid any confrontation between United States military forces and host nation demonstrators or other dissidents posing a threat to Air Force resources. Intervention by United States military personnel outside the United States is governed by international law, bilateral and other international agreements to which the United States is a party, and host-nation laws. Local plans to counter such situations must include provisions to request and obtain host nation civil or military support as quickly as possible.
10 U.S.C. 8013.
The regulations in this part do not apply to:
(a) Visual information (VI) materials made for the Air Force Office of Special Investigations for use in an investigation or a counterintelligence report. (See Air Force Instruction (AFI) 90-301, The Inspector General Complaints, which describes who may use these materials.)
(b) VI materials made during Air Force investigations of aircraft or missile mishaps according to AFI 91-204, Safety Investigations and Reports. (See AFI 90-301.)
(a) Only the Secretary of the Air Force for Public Affairs (SAF/PA) clears and releases Air Force materials for use outside Department of Defense (DoD), according to AFI 35-205, Air Force Security and Policy Review Program.
(b) The Secretary of the Air Force for Legislative Liaison (SAF/LL) arranges the release of VI material through SAF/PA when a member of Congress asks for them for official use.
(c) The International Affairs Division (HQ USAF/CVAII) or, in some cases, the major command (MAJCOM) Foreign Disclosure Office, must authorize release of classified and unclassified materials to foreign governments and international organizations or their representatives.
(a) Send official Air Force requests for productions or materials from the DoD Central Records Centers by letter or message. Include:
(1) Descriptions of the images needed, including media format, dates, etc.
(2) Visual information record identification number (VIRIN), production, or Research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) identification numbers, if known.
(3) Intended use and purpose of the material.
(4) The date needed and a statement of why products are needed on a specific date.
(b) Send inquiries about motion picture or television materials to the Defense Visual Information Center (DVIC), 1363 Z Street, Building 2730, March ARB, CA 92518-2703.
(c) Send Air Force customer inquiries about still photographic materials to 11 CS/SCUA, Bolling AFB, Washington, DC 20332-0403 (the Air Force accessioning point).
(d) Send non-Air Force customers' inquiries about still photographic materials to the DVIC.
(a) Air Force VI activities cannot sell materials.
(b) HQ AFCIC/ITSM may approve the loan of copies of original materials for federal government use.
(c) Send requests to buy:
(1) Completed, cleared, productions, to the National Archives and Records Administration, National Audiovisual Center, Information Office, 8700 Edgeworth Drive, Capitol Heights, MD 20722-3701.
(2) Nonproduction VI motion media to the DVIC. The center may sell other Air Force VI motion picture and television materials, such as historical and stock footage. When it sells VI motion
(3) VI still media to the DoD Still Media Records Center (SMRC), Attn: SSRC, Washington, DC 20374-1681. When SMRC sells VI still media, the SMRC assesses charges, unless § 811.5 exempts the requesting activity.
Title III of the 1968 Intergovernmental Cooperation Act (42 U.S.C. 4201, 4231, and 4233) exempts some customers from paying for products and loans. This applies if the supplier has sufficient funds and if the exemption does not impair its mission. The requesting agency must certify that the materials are not commercially available. When requests for VI material do not meet exemption criteria, the requesting agency pays the fees. Exempted customers include:
(a) DoD and other government agencies asking for materials for official activities (see DoD Instruction 4000.19, Interservice, and Intergovernmental Support, August 9, 1995, and DoD Directive 5040.2, Visual Information (VI), December 7, 1987.
(b) Members of Congress asking for VI materials for official activities.
(c) VI records center materials or services furnished according to law or Executive Order.
(d) Federal, state, territorial, county, municipal governments, or their agencies, for activities contributing to an Air Force or DoD objective.
(e) Nonprofit organizations for public health, education, or welfare purposes.
(f) Armed Forces members with a casualty status, their next of kin, or authorized representative, if VI material requested relates to the member and does not compromise classified information or an accident investigation board's work.
(g) The general public, to help the Armed Forces recruiting program or enhance public understanding of the Armed Forces, when SAF/PA determines that VI materials or services promote the Air Force's best interest.
(h) Incidental or occasional requests for VI records center materials or services, including requests from residents of foreign countries, when fees would be inappropriate. AFI 16-101, International Affairs and Security Assistance Management, tells how a foreign government may obtain Air Force VI materials.
(i) Legitimate news organizations working on news productions, documentaries, or print products that inform the public on Air Force activities.
(a) You may request unclassified and classified copies of current Air Force productions and loans of DoD and other Federal productions from JVISDA, ATTN: ASQV-JVIA-T-AS, Bldg. 3, Bay 3, 11 Hap Arnold Blvd., Tobyhanna, PA 18466-5102.
(1) For unclassified products, use your organization's letterhead, identify subject title, PIN, format, and quantity.
(2) For classified products, use your organization's letterhead, identify subject title, personal identification number (PIN), format, and quantity. Also, indicate that either your organization commander or security officer, and MAJCOM VI manager approve the need.
(b) You may request other VI materials, such as, still images and motion media stock footage, from DVIC/OM-PA, 1363 Z Street, Building 2730, March ARB, CA 92518-2703.
(a) The DoD records centers usually collect fees in advance. Exceptions are sales where you cannot determine actual cost until work is completed (for example, television and motion picture services with per minute or per footage charges).
(b) Customers pay fees, per AFR 177-108, Paying and Collecting Transactions at Base Level, with cash, treasury check, certified check, cashier's check, bank draft, or postal money order.
(a) AF Form 833, Visual Information Request, AF Form 1340, Visual Information Support Center Workload Report, DD Form 1995, Visual Information (VI) Production Request and Report,
(b) Air Force publications and forms referenced in this part are available from NTIS, 5285 Port Royal Road, Springfield, VA 22161 or online at
10 U.S.C. 8013.
Using various visual and audio media, the Air Force VIDOC program records important Air Force operations, historical events, and activities for use as decision making and communicative tools. VIDOC of Air Force combat operations is called COMCAM documentation. Air Force publications are available at NTIS, 5285 Port Royal Road, Springfield, VA 22161 or online at
Primary sources of VIDOC materials include:
(a) HQ AMC active and reserve combat camera (COMCAM) forces, both ground and aerial, whose primary goal is still and motion media documentation of Air Force and air component combat and combat support operations, and related peacetime activities such as humanitarian actions, exercises, readiness tests, and operations.
(b) Visual information forces with combat documentation capabilities from other commands: HQs ACC, AETC, AFRES, and AFSPACECOM.
(c) Communications squadron base visual information centers (BVISCs).
(d) Air Digital Recorder (ADR) images from airborne imagery systems, such as heads up displays, radar scopes, and images from electro-optical sensors carried aboard aircraft and weapons systems.
(e) Photography of Air Force Research, Development, Test & Evaluation (RDT&E) activities, including high speed still and motion media optical instrumentation.
(a) HQ AFCIC/ITSM:
(1) Sets Air Force VIDOC policy.
(2) Oversees United States Air Force (USAF) COMCAM programs and combat readiness.
(3) Makes sure Air Force participates in joint actions by coordinating with the Office of the Secretary of Defense staff, Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS), executive departments, and other branches of the United States Government.
(4) Approves use of Air Force COMCAM forces in non-Air Force activities.
(b) Air components:
(1) Manage air component COMCAM and visual information support within their areas of responsibility. Documents significant events and operations for theater and national-level use.
(2) Sets requirements for COMCAM and VI support. Includes requirements in operations plans (OPLAN) force lists, concept plans (CONPLAN), operations orders (OPORD), and similar documents. See Air Force Manual (AFMAN) 10-401, Operation Plan and Concept Plan Development and Implementation.
(3) Coordinate with MAJCOM VI managers to plan and source VIDOC forces for war, contingencies, and exercises.
(4) Provide input (VI and COMCAM requirements) to HQ AMC/SCMV, 203 West Losey Street, Room 3180, Scott AFB, IL 62225-5223, as required to develop the annual VI Exercise Support Plan. Include requirements to exercise
(c) HQ AMC:
(1) Provides primary Air Force ADR theater support to the air component commanders.
(2) Maintains a deployable theater support Unified Transportation Command (UTC) to manage ADR requirements above the aviation wing level. This includes the gathering, editing, copying, and distribution of ADR images from combat aviation squadrons for operational analysis, bomb damage assessment, collateral intelligence, training, historical, public affairs, and other needs.
(3) Sets combat training standards and develops programs for all Air Force COMCAM personnel (includes both formal classroom and field readiness training).
(4) Coordinates and meets COMCAM needs in war, operations, and concept plans.
(5) Provides the Air Force's primary COMCAM capability and assists air component and joint commands with deliberate and crisis action planning for USAF's COMCAM assets.
(6) Provides component and theater commands COMCAM planning assistance and expertise for contingencies, humanitarian actions, exercises, and combat operations.
(7) Acts as manpower and equipment force packaging (MEFPAK) manager for COMCAM UTCs.
(8) Funds HQ AMC COMCAM personnel and equipment for contingency or wartime deployments. (The requester funds temporary duty and supply costs for planned events, such as non-JCS exercises and competitions.)
(9) Develops and monitors the annual Air Force-wide VI Exercise Support Plan for the Air Staff, with assistance from air components and supporting MAJCOMs. (Use criteria contained in § 813.4(e)(1) and provide equitable deployment opportunity for tasked commands' VI resources.)
(d) MAJCOM VI managers:
(1) Plan and set policy for documenting activities of operational, historical, public affairs, or other significance within their commands.
(2) Train and equip VIDOC forces to document war, contingencies, major events, Air Force and joint exercises, and weapons tests.
(3) Make sure COMCAM and BVISC forces meet their wartime tasking and identify and resolve deficiencies. Refer significant deficiencies and problems and proposed resolution to HQ AFCIC/ITSM.
(4) Allow documentation of significant Air Force activities and events, regardless of their sensitivity or classification. Protect materials as the supported command directs. Safeguard classified images or handle them according to Department of Defense (DoD) Directive 5200.1, DoD Information Security Program, June 7, 1982, with Changes 1 and 2, and AFI 31-401, Information Security Program Management. The authority in charge of the event or operation approves documentation distribution.
(5) Update UTC availability in MAJCOM information systems.
(6) Assist Air Force Operations Group, in identifying the command's capability to support COMCAM and VI requirements.
(7) Provide inputs to HQ AMC/SCMV for the annual VI Exercise Support Plan for JCS exercises.
(8) Make sure units that have deployable VI teams have Status of Resources and Training System (SORTS) reportable designed operational capability (DOC) statements that accurately reflect their mission and taskings.
(9) Develop and oversee measurements, such as operational readiness inspection criteria, to evaluate VI force readiness at DOC-tasked units.
(a) Air Force COMCAM forces document Air Force and air component activities.
(b) The supported unified command or joint task force commander, through the air component commander (when assigned), controls Air Force COMCAM forces in a joint environment. If an air component is assigned, the air component normally manages documentation of its operations. Air Force COMCAM and visual information
(c) During contingencies, exercises, and other operations, the Air Force provides its share of Unified Command headquarters COMCAM and visual information support forces for still photographic, motion media, graphics, and other VI services.
(d) COMCAM and VI forces take part in Air Force and joint exercises to test procedures and over-all readiness. COMCAM and VI forces also provide VI products to command, operations, public affairs, historical, and other significant customers.
(e) Sourcing COMCAM forces. See AFMAN 10-401 for specific procedures.
(1) When VI support teams are required, the lead wing's VI UTC deploys as primary, whenever possible. If lead wing VI support is not available, the providing command sources the requirement from other active or reserve component forces, or coordinates with other MAJCOMs for assistance.
(2) Air Force VI personnel who assist supported commands in determining COMCAM and VI requirements and sourcing consider the total USAF VI community as a resource. Planners consider employing USAF deployable VI support teams, augmentation combat documentation teams from AFSPACECOM, AETC, and ACC, as well as active and reserve COMCAM teams.
(a)
(b)
(c)
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
All Air Force units assigned a DOC statement report readiness status through the SORTS process. See AFI 10-201, Status of Resources and Training System, for specific information and reporting criteria.
Sec. 8013, 100 Stat. 1053, as amended; 10 U.S.C. 8013, except as otherwise noted.
Air Force Regulations are available on the e-Publishing Web site at
Nomenclature changes to part 842 appear at 81 FR 83688, Nov. 22, 2016.
This part establishes standard policies and procedures for all administrative claims resulting from Air Force activities and for which the Air Force has assigned responsibility.
This subpart explains terms used in this part. It states basic Air Force claims policy and identifies proper claimants.
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
(f)
(g)
(1)
(2)
(h)
(i)
(j)
(k)
(l)
(m)
(n)
(a)
(b)
File a claim at the base legal office of the unit or installation at or nearest to where the accident or incident occurred. If the accident or incident occurred in a foreign country where no Air Force unit is located, file the claim with the Defense Attache (DATT) or Military Assistance Advisory Group (MAAG) personnel authorized to receive claims (DIAM 100-1 and AFR 400-45). In a foreign country where a claimant is unable to obtain adequate assistance in filing a claim, the claimant may contact the nearest Air Force SJA. The SJA then advises AFLOA/JACC through claims channels of action taken and states why the DATT or MAAG was unable to adequately assist the claimant.
Any signed written demand on the Air Force for a sum certain is sufficient to file a claim. The claimant should use these forms when filing a claim:
(a)
(b)
(c)
The claimant or authorized agent signs the claim form in ink using the first name, middle initial, and last name.
(a)
(2) An authorized agent signing for a claimant shows, after the signature, the title or capacity and attaches evidence of authority to present a claim on behalf of the claimant as agent, executor, administrator, parent, guardian, or other representative; for example, John Doe by Richard Roe, Attorney in Fact. A copy of a current and valid power of attorney, court order, or other legal document is sufficient evidence of the agent's authority.
(b)
(c)
(2) If the person signing the claim is other than the corporate officer they must:
(i) Attach to the claim form a certification by a proper corporate officer that the individual is an agent of the corporation duly authorized to file and settle the claim;
(ii) Affix to the claim form the corporate seal (if any) to the certification.
(d)
(a)
(b)
(2) The duly appointed guardian of a minor child or any other person legally entitled to do so under applicable local law may file a claim for a minor's personal injury.
(3) The executor or administrator of the decedent's estate or any other person legally entitled to do so under applicable local law may file a claim based on an individual's death.
(c)
Insured claimants must make a detailed disclosure of their insurance coverage by stating:
(a) Their name and address.
(b) Kind, amount, and dates of coverage of insurance.
(c) Insurance policy number.
(d) Whether a claim was presented to the insurer and, if so, in what amount.
(e) Whether the insurer paid or is expected to pay the claim.
(f) The amount of any payment made or promised.
It sets out the Air Force procedures for processing Article 139, UCMJ claims.
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
Claims for property willfully damaged or wrongfully taken by Air Force military personnel as a result of riotous, violent, or disorderly conduct. If a claim is payable under this part and also under another part, it may be paid under this part if authorized by AFLOA/JACC.
Claims that are not payable are:
(a) Claims resulting from simple negligence.
(b) Claims for personal injury or death.
(c) Claims resulting from acts or omissions of Air Force military personnel while acting within the scope of their duty.
(d) Claims of subrogees.
(e) Claims arising from private indebtedness.
(f) Claims for reimbursement for bad checks.
(g) Claims involving wrongful taking stemming from larceny, forgery or deceit, which are not accompanied by riotous or violent action.
(h) Claims against Air National Guard members unless they are performing duty under Title 10 U.S.C.
(i) Claims for indirect, consequential or remote damages.
(a) A complaint must be submitted within 90 days of the date of the incident. The appointing commander may find good cause for the delay and accept a late claim. The appointing commander's determination of good cause is final and not reviewable.
(b) Assessment of damages in excess of $5,000 against an offender's pay for a single incident requires AFLOA/JACC approval.
Claimant complains (orally or in writing) to the commander of a military organization or unit of the alleged offending member or members or to the commander of the nearest military installation. If the claim is made orally, the individual must assist the commander to reduce the complaint to writing within a reasonable time. The
It explains how to settle and pay claims under the Military Personnel and Civilian Employees' Claims Act for incident to service loss and damage of personal property. These claims are paid according to this subpart even when another subpart may also apply.
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(a)
(b)
(c)
(a)
(1) A claim is also filed when a federal military agency receives from a claimant or duly authorized agent an electronic submission, through a Department of Defense claims Web site, indicating that the claimant intends for the appropriate military branch to consider a digitally signed demand for a determinable sum of money.
(2) A claim is also filed when the Air Force receives from a claimant or duly authorized agent an electronic submission, through the Air Force claims Web site, a digitally signed demand for a determinable sum of money.
(b)
(c)
Upon request of a claimant, a settlement authority may make a partial payment in advance of final settlement when a claimant experiences personal hardship due to extensive property damage or loss. Partial payments are made if a claim for only part of the loss
(a) If a claim for only part of the loss is submitted and is readily provable, pay it up to the amount of the settlement authority. (The claimant may later amend the claim for the remainder of the loss.) If the total payable amount of the claim exceeds the payment limits of the settlement authority, send it with recommendations through claims channels to the proper settlement authority.
(b) When the total claim is submitted and the amount payable exceeds the settlement authority, pay a partial payment within the limits of settlement authority and send the claim, with recommendations, through claims channels to the proper settlement authority.
(a) The claimant must file the claim in writing within 2 years after it accrues. It accrues when the claimant discovered or reasonably should have discovered the full extent of the property damage or loss. For transportation losses, the claim usually accrues on the date of delivery.
(b) To compute the statutory period, the incident date is excluded and the day the claim was filed is included.
(c) Consider a claim filed after the statute has run if both of the following are present:
(1) The United States is at war or in an armed conflict when the claim accrues, or the United States enters a war or armed conflict after the claim accrues. Congress or the President establishes the beginning and end of war or armed conflict. A claimant may not file a claim more than 2 years after the war or armed conflict ends.
(2) Good cause is shown. A claimant may not file a claim more than 2 years after the good cause ceases to exist.
A claim may be filed by:
(a) A proper claimant.
(b) An authorized agent or legal representative of a proper claimant.
(c) A survivor of a deceased proper claimant in this order:
(1) Spouse.
(2) Children.
(3) Father or mother.
(4) Brothers or sisters.
Proper claimants are:
(a) Active duty Air Force military personnel.
(b) Civilian employees of the Air Force who are paid from appropriated funds.
(c) DOD school teachers and school administrative personnel who are provided logistic and administrative support by an Air Force installation commander.
(d) Air Force Reserve (AFRES) and Air National Guard (ANG) personnel when performing active duty, full-time National Guard duty, or inactive duty training, ANG technicians under 32 U.S.C. 709.
(e) Retired or separated Air Force military personnel who suffer damage or loss resulting from the last storage or movement of personal property, or for claims accruing before retirement or separation.
(f) AFROTC cadets while on active duty for summer training.
(g) United States Air Force Academy cadets.
The following individuals are not proper claimants:
(a) Subrogees and assignees of proper claimants, including insurance companies.
(b) Conditional vendors and lienholders.
(c) Non-Air Force personnel, including American Red Cross personnel, United Services Organization (USO) performers, employees of government contractors, and Civil Air Patrol (CAP) members.
(d) AFROTC cadets who are not on active duty for summer training.
(e) Active duty military personnel and civilian employees of a military service other than the Air Force.
(f) DOD employees who are not assigned to the Air Force.
(g) Army and Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) employees and other employees whose salaries are paid from nonappropriated funds (see subpart O).
(h) Military personnel of foreign governments.
Payable claims must be for:
(a) Personal property which is reasonable or useful under the circumstances of military service.
(b) Loss, damage, destruction, confiscation, or forced abandonment which is incident to service.
(c) Losses that are not collectible from any other source, including insurance and carriers.
(d) Property that is owned by the claimants, or their immediate families, or borrowed for their use, or in which the claimants or their immediate families has an enforceable ownership interest.
(e) Losses occurring without the claimants' negligence.
Claims may be payable for loss of or damage to tangible personal property when the damage occurs incident to service. For loss of or damage to property to be incident to service, it must occur at a place and time that is connected to the service of an active duty military member or employment of a civilian employee.
(a)
(1) Any location on a military installation not otherwise excluded.
(2) Any office, building, recreation area, or real estate the Air Force or any other DoD element uses or controls.
(3) Any place a military member is required or ordered to be pursuant to their duties and while performing those duties.
(4) Assigned Government housing or quarters in the United States or provided in kind. The Military Personnel and Civilian Employees' Claims Act specifically prohibits payment for loss of or damage to property in quarters within the U.S. unless the housing or quarters are assigned or otherwise provided in kind. Base housing that has not been privatized is generally considered assigned or provided in kind wherever it is located.
(i) Privatized housing or quarters within the United States subject to the Military Housing Privatization Initiative located within the fence line of a military installation or on federal land in which the DoD has an interest is considered assigned or otherwise provided in kind for the purposes of the Military Personnel and Civilian Employees' Claims Act.
(ii) [Reserved]
(5) Housing or quarters outside the United States. Outside the US, authorized off-base quarters, as well as assigned quarters, including quarters in U.S. territories and possessions, are authorized places. The residence of a civilian employee is not an authorized location if the employee is a local inhabitant.
(6) Temporary duty (TDY) quarters and locations en route to the TDY destination. Significant deviations from the direct travel route are not authorized locations.
(7) Permanent change of station (PCS) temporary quarters and locations enroute to the PCS destination. Significant deviations from the direct travel route are not authorized locations.
(8) Entitlement and benefit locations. For these locations to be authorized, the claimant must be using them for the intended purpose and the property must be reasonably linked to that purpose.
(9) Locations where personal property shipped or stored at government expense are found. Government facilities where property is stored at the claimant's expense or for their convenience without an entitlement are not authorized places.
(b)
(1) An unusual occurrence;
(2) Theft, vandalism or other malfeasance;
(3) Hostile action;
(4) A carrier, contractor, warehouseman or other transportation service provider storing or moving goods or privately owned vehicles at government expense;
(5) An agent of the US; or
(6) A permanent seizure of a witness' property by the Air Force.
(c)
(1) Theft of POVs or their contents, or vandalism to parked POVs:
(i) Anywhere on a military installation.
(ii) At offbase quarters overseas.
(iii) At other authorized places.
(2) Government shipment:
(i) To or from oversea areas incident to PCS.
(ii) On a space available reimbursable basis.
(iii) As a replacement vehicle under the provisions of the Joint Travel Regulations (JTR).
(3) Authorized use for government duty other than PCS moves. The owner must have specific advance permission of the appropriate supervisor or official. Adequate proof of the permission and of nonavailability of official transportation must be provided prior to paying such claims. Claims arising while the claimant is deviating from the principal route or purpose of the trip should not be paid, but claims occurring after the claimant returns to the route or purpose should be paid. Travel between quarters and place of duty, including parking, is not authorized use for government duty.
(4) Paint spray, smokestack emission, and other similar operations by the Air Force on a military installation caused by a contractor's negligence. (Process the claim under subpart F or K, if government negligence causes such losses.) If a contractor's operation caused the damage:
(i) Refer the claim first to the contractor for settlement.
(ii) Settle the claim under this subpart if the contractor does not pay it or excessively delays payment, and assert a claim against the contractor.
(d)
(e)
(f)
(g)
(1) Enemy action.
(2) Action to prevent capture and confiscation.
(3) Combat activities.
(h)
(1) Quell a civil disturbance.
(2) Assist during a public disaster.
(3) Save human life.
(4) Save government property.
(i)
(1) A foreign government unjustly confiscates property.
(2) An unjust change or application of foreign law forces surrender or abandonmnet of property.
(j)
(k)
(1) The money was in a bona fide coin collection.
(2) The claimant can justify possession of the money for a PCS move, extended TDY, vacation, extensive shopping trip, or similar circumstances. The claimant must show a good reason why the money had not been deposited in a bank or converted into travelers checks or a money order.
(3) Local commercial facilities are not available or because U.S. personnel do not generally use such facilities.
A claim is not payable if:
(a) It is not incident to the claimant's service.
(b) The loss or damage is caused in whole or in part by the negligence or wrongful act of the claimant, the claimant's spouse, agent, or employee.
(c) It is a subrogation or assigned claim.
(d) The loss is recovered or recoverable from an insurer or other source unless the settlement authority determines there is good cause for not claiming against the insurer.
(e) It is intangible property including bank books, promissory notes, stock certificates, bonds, baggage checks, insurance policies, checks, money orders, travelers checks and credit cards.
(f) It is government property, including issued clothing items carried on an individual issue supply account. (Clothing not carried on an individual issue supply account which is stolen or clothing lost or damaged in transit may be considered as a payable item when claimed.)
(g) It is enemy property.
(h) It is a loss within the United States at offbase quarters the government did not provide.
(i) It is damage to real property.
(j) It is an appraisal fee, unless the settlement authority requires one to adjudicate the claim.
(k) It is property acquired or shipped for persons other than the claimant or the claimant's immediate family; however, a claim for property acquired for bona fide gifts may be paid.
(l) It is an article held for sale, resale, or used primarily in a private business.
(m) It is an item acquired, possessed, shipped, or stored in violation of any U.S. Armed Force directive or regulation.
(n) It is an item fraudulently claimed.
(o) It is for charges for labor performed by the owner or immediate family member.
(p) It is for financial loss due to changed or cancelled orders.
(q) It is for expenses of enroute repair of a mobile or manufactured home.
(r) It is a loss of use of personal property.
(s) It is an attorney or agent fee.
(t) It is the cost of preparing a claim, other than estimate fees.
(u) It is an inconvenience expense.
(v) It is a loss of, or damage to POV driven during PCS.
(w) It is a personal property insurance premium.
(x) It is a claim for a thesis or other similar papers, except for the cost of materials.
(y) It is damage to, or loss of a rental vehicle which TDY or PCS orders authorized.
(z) It is a cost to relocate a telephone or mobile or manufactured home due to a government ordered quarters move.
A claimant may request reconsideration of an initial settlement or denial of a claim. The claimant sends the request in writing, to the settlement authority within a reasonable time following the initial settlement or denial. Sixty days is considered a reasonable time, but the settlement authority may waive the time limit for good cause.
(a) The original settlement authority reviews the reconsideration request. The settlement authority sends the entire claim file with recommendations and supporting rationale to the next higher settlement authority if all relief the claimant requests is not granted.
(b) The decision of the higher settlement authority is the final administrative action on the claim.
The Air Force becomes subrogated to the rights of the claimant upon settling a claim. The Air Force has the rights of contribution and indemnity permitted by the law of the situs or under contract. The Air Force does not seek contribution or indemnity from U.S. military personnel or civilian employees whose conduct in scope of employment gave rise to government liability.
The military services have jointly established the “Allowance List-Depreciation Guide” to determine values for most items and to limit payment for some categories of items.
This subpart establishes policies and procedures for all administrative claims under the Military Claims Act for which the Air Force has assigned responsibility.
(a)
(b)
(c)
(a)
(i) Settle claims for $100,000 or less.
(ii) Settle claims for more than $100,000, paying the first $100,000 and reporting the excess to the General Accounting Office for payment.
(iii) Deny a claim in any amount.
(2) The Judge Advocate General has delegated authority to settle claims for $100,000 or less and deny claims in any amount.
(3) The following individuals have delegated authority to settle claims for $25,000 or less and to deny claims in any amount:
(i) The Deputy Judge Advocate General.
(ii) The Director, Civil Law and Litigation.
(iii) The Chief, Associate Chief and Branch Chiefs, Claims and Tort Litigation Division.
(4) SJAs of the Air Force component commander of the U.S. geographic
(5) SJAs of GCMs in PACAF and USAFE have delegated authority to settle claims payable, or deny claims filed for $15,000 or less.
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
(f)
(1) Legal malpractice.
(2) On the job personal injury or death of an employee of a government contractor or subcontractor.
(3) Assault, battery, false imprisonment, false arrest, abuse of process, or malicious prosecution committed by an investigative or law enforcement officer.
(4) On-base animal bite cases.
(5) Personal injury from asbestos or radon.
(6) Claims based upon an act or omission of an employee of the government, exercising due care, in the execution of a statute or regulation.
(7) Claims based upon the exercise or performance or the failure to exercise or perform a discretionary function or duty on the part of a federal agency or an employee of the government.
(8) Claims not payable because payment is not in the best interests of the United States, is contrary to public policy, or is otherwise contrary to the basic intent of the MCA.
(9) Claims presented by a national, or a corporation controlled by a national, of a country at war or engaged in armed conflict with the United States, or any country allied with such enemy country.
(10) Medical malpractice.
(a)
(b)
Subpart P of this part sets forth procedures for advance payments.
(a) A claim must be filed in writing within 2 years after it accrues. It is deemed to be filed upon receipt by The Judge Advocate General, AFLOA/JACC, or a Staff Judge Advocate of the Air Force. A claim accrues when the
(b) The statutory time period excludes the day of the incident and includes the day the claim was filed.
(c) A claim filed after the statute of limitations has run is considered if the U.S. is at war or in an armed conflict when the claim accrues or if the U.S. enters a war or armed conflict after the claim accrues, and if good causes shows how the war or armed conflict prevented the claimant from diligently filing the claim within the statute of limitations. But in no case will a claim be considered if filed more than two years after the war or armed conflict ends.
(a) Owners of the property or their authorized agents may file claims for property damage.
(b) Injured persons or their duly authorized agents may file claims for personal injury.
(c) Duly appointed guardians of minor children or any other persons legally entitled to do so under applicable local law may file claims for minors' personal injuries.
(d) Executors or administrators of a decedent's estate or another person legally entitled to do so under applicable local law, may file claims based on:
(1) An individual's death.
(2) A cause of action surviving an individual's death.
(e) Insurers with subrogation rights may file claims for losses paid in full by them. The parties may file claims jointly or individually, to the extent of each party's interest, for losses partially paid by insurers with subrogation rights.
(f) Authorized agents signing claims show their title or legal capacity and present evidence of authority to present the claims.
(a) Citizens and inhabitants of the United States. U.S. inhabitants includes dependents of the U.S. military personnel and federal civilian employees temporarily outside the U.S. for purposes of U.S. Government service.
(b) U.S. military personnel and civilian employees. Note: These personnel are not proper claimants for claims for personal injury or death that occurred incident to their service.
(c) Foreign military personnel when the damage or injury occurs in the U.S. Do not pay for claims under the Military Claims Act (MCA) for personal injury or death of a foreign military personnel that occurred incident to their service.
(d) States, state agencies, counties, or municipalities, or their political subdivisions.
(e) Subrogees of proper claimants to the extent they have paid for the claim in question.
(a) Governments of foreign nations, their agencies, political subdivisions, or municipalities.
(b) Agencies and nonappropriated fund instrumentalities (NAFIs) of the U.S. Government.
(c) Subrogees of § 842.42(a) and (b).
(d) Inhabitants of foreign countries.
(a) Claims arising from negligent or wrongful acts or omissions committed by United States military or civilian personnel while acting in the scope of their employment, subject to the exceptions listed in this subpart.
(b) Claims arising from noncombat activities of the United States, whether or not such injuries of damages arose out of the negligent or wrongful acts or omissions by United States military or civilian employees acting within the scope of their employment.
(c) Claims for property damage of U.S. military personnel under conditions listed in paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section, where the damage occurred on a military installation and is not payable under the Military Personnel and Civilian Employees' Claims Act.
(a) Claims covered by the Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA), Foreign Claims Act (FCA), International Agreements Claims Act (IACA), 10 U.S.C. 2734a and 2734b, Air Force Admiralty Claims Act (AFACA), 10 U.S.C. 9801-9804, 9806, National Guard Claims Act (NGCA), 32 U.S.C. 715, or covered under the Military Personnel and Civilian Employees' Claims Act (MPCECA), 31 U.S.C. 3701, 3721.
(1) MCA claims arising from noncombat activities in the U.S. are not covered by the FTCA because more elements are needed to state an FTCA claim than are needed to state a claim under the MCA for noncombat activities. All FTCA claims are based on elements of traditional tort liability (
(2) Claims for incident-to-service damage to vehicles caused by the negligence of a member or employee of the armed forces acting in the scope of employment are paid under the MCA, instead of the Military Personnel and Civilian Employees' Claims Act.
(b) Arises with respect to the assessment or collection of any customs duty, or the detention of any goods or merchandise by any U.S. officer of customs or excise, or any other U.S. law enforcement officer. Note: This includes loss or damage to property detained by members of the Security Forces or Office of Special Investigation (OSI).
(c) Is cognizable under U.S. admiralty and maritime law, to include:
(1) The Suits in Admiralty Act, 46 U.S.C. 30901 and following.
(2) The Death on the High Seas Act, 46 U.S.C. 30301 and following.
(3) The Public Vessels Act, 46 U.S.C. 31101 and following.
(4) Exception: Claims arising from noncombat activities may be paid under the MCA, even if they are also cognizable under paragraphs (c)(1) through (3) of this section.
(d) Arises out of assault, battery, false imprisonment, false arrest, malicious prosecution, or abuse of process. Exception: Unless such actions were committed by an investigative or law enforcement officer of the U.S. who is empowered by law to conduct searches, seize evidence, or make arrests for violations of federal law.
(e) Arises out of libel, slander, misrepresentation, or deceit.
(f) Arises out of an interference with contract rights.
(g) Arises out of the combat activities of U.S. military forces.
(h) Is for the personal injury or death of a member of the Armed Forces of the U.S. incident to the member's service.
(i) Is for the personal injury or death of any person for workplace injuries covered by the Federal Employees' Compensation Act, 5 U.S.C. 8101, and following.
(j) Is for the personal injury or death of any employee of the US, including nonappropriated fund employees, for workplace injuries covered by the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act, 33 U.S.C. 901, and following.
(k) Is for a taking of property,
(l) Is for patent or copyright infringement.
(m) Results wholly from the negligent or wrongful act of the claimant.
(n) Is for the reimbursement of medical, hospital, or burial expenses furnished at the expense of the US, either directly or through contractual payments.
(o) Arises from contractual transactions, express or implied (including rental agreements, sales agreements, leases, and easements), that:
(1) Are payable or enforceable under oral or written contracts; or
(2) Arise out of an irregular procurement or implied contract.
(p) Is for the personal injury or death of military or civilian personnel of a foreign government incident to their service.
(q) Is based on an act or omission of an employee of the government, exercising due care, in the execution of a statute or regulation, whether or not such statute or regulation is valid. Do not deny claims solely on this exception without the prior approval of USAF/JACC. Claims under the noncombat activities provision of this subpart may be paid even if this paragraph (q) applies. Is based on the exercise or performance of, or the failure to exercise or perform, a discretionary function or duty on the part of a federal agency or a Federal Government employee, whether or not the discretion involved is abused. Do not deny claims solely on this exception without the prior approval of USAF/JACC. Exception: Claims under the noncombat activities provision may be paid even if this paragraph (q) applies.
(r) Is not in the best interests of the US, is contrary to public policy, or is otherwise contrary to the basic intent of the MCA. Examples include, but are not limited to, when a claimant's criminal conduct or failure to comply with a nonpunitive regulation is a proximate cause of the loss. Prior approval must be obtained from USAF/JACC before denying claims solely on this exception.
(s) Arises out of an act or omission of any employee of the government in administering the provisions of the Trading With the Enemy Act, 50 U.S.C. app. 1-44.
(t) Is for damages caused by the imposition or establishment of a quarantine by the U.S.
(u) Arises from the fiscal operations of the Department of the Treasury or from the regulation of the monetary system.
(v) Arises from the activities of the Tennessee Valley Authority.
(w) Arises from the activities of a federal land bank, a federal intermediate credit bank, or a bank for cooperatives.
(x) Is for the personal injury or death of any government contractor employee for whom benefits are available under any worker's compensation law, or under any contract or agreement providing employee benefits through insurance, local law, or custom when the U.S. pays insurance either directly or as part of the consideration under the contract. Only USAF/JACC may act on these claims.
(y) Is for damage, injury or death from or by flood or flood waters at any place.
(z) Is for damage to property or other losses of a state, commonwealth, territory, or the District of Columbia caused by Air National Guard personnel engaged in training or duty under 32 U.S.C. 316, 502, 503, 504, or 505 who are assigned to a unit maintained by that state, commonwealth, territory, or the District of Columbia.
(aa) Is for damage to property or for any death or personal injury arising out of activities of any federal agency or employee of the government in carrying out the provisions of the Disaster Relief Act of 1974 (42 U.S.C. 5121,
(bb) Arises from activities that present a political question.
(cc) Arises from private, as distinguished from government, transactions.
(dd) Is based solely on compassionate grounds.
(ee) Is for rent, damage, or other expenses or payments involving the regular acquisition, use, possession, or disposition of real property or interests therein by and for the U.S.
(ff) Is presented by a national, or a corporation controlled by a national, of a country at war or engaged in armed conflict with the U.S., or any country allied with such enemy country unless the appropriate settlement authority determines that the claimant is, and at the time of the incident was, friendly to the U.S. A prisoner of war or an interned enemy alien is not excluded as to a claim for damage, loss, or destruction of personal property in the custody of the U.S. otherwise payable. Forward claims considered not payable under this paragraph (ff), with recommendations for disposition, to USAF/JACC.
(gg) Arises out of the loss, miscarriage, or negligent transmission of letters or postal matter by the U.S. Postal Service or its agents or employees.
(hh) Is for damage to or loss of bailed property when the bailor specifically assumes such risk.
(ii) Is for property damage, personal injury, or death occurring in a foreign country to an inhabitant of a foreign country.
(jj) Is for interest incurred prior to the payment of a claim.
(kk) Arises out of matters which are in litigation against the U.S.
(ll) Is for attorney fees or costs in connection with pursuing an administrative or judicial remedy against the U.S. or any of its agencies.
(mm) Is for bail, interest or inconvenience expenses incurred in connection with the preparation and presentation of the claim.
(nn) Is for a failure to use a duty of care to keep premises owned or under the control of the U.S. safe for use for any recreational purpose, or for a failure by the U.S. to give any warning of hazardous conditions on such premises to persons entering for a recreational purpose unless there is a willful or malicious failure to guard or warn against a dangerous condition, or unless consideration was paid to the U.S. (including a nonappropriated fund instrumentality) to use the premises.
This section provides the existing law governing liability, measurement of liability and the effects of settlement upon awards.
(a)
(b)
(1)
(2)
(i) Foreign rules and regulations governing the operation of motor vehicles (rules of the road) are applied to the extent those rules are not specifically superseded or preempted by United States military traffic regulations.
(ii) Absolute or strict liability will not apply for claims not arising from noncombat activities.
(iii) Hedonic damages are not payable.
(iv) The collateral source doctrine does not apply.
(v) Joint and several liability does not apply. Payment will be made only upon the portion of loss, damage, injury or death attributable to the Armed Forces of the United States.
(vi) Future economic loss will be discounted to present value after deducting for federal income taxes and, in cases of wrongful death, personal consumption.
(c)
(i) Punitive damages.
(ii) Cost of medical or hospital services furnished at the expense of the United States.
(iii) Cost of burial expenses paid by the United States.
(d)
(1) The United States is not protected by the release executed by the claimant.
(2) The total amount received from such source is first deducted.
(a) A claimant may appeal the final denial of the claim. The claimant sends the request, in writing, to the settlement authority that issued the denial letter within 60 days of the date the denial letter was mailed. The settlement authority may waive the 60 day time limit for good cause.
(b) Upon receipt of the appeal, the original settlement authority reviews the appeal.
(c) Where the settlement authority does not reach a final agreement on an appealed claim, he or she sends the entire claim file to the next higher settlement authority, who is the appellate authority for that claim. Any higher settlement authority may act upon an appeal.
(d) The decision of the appellate authority is the final administrative action on the claim.
The Air Force becomes subrogated to the rights of the claimant upon settling a claim. The Air Force has the rights of contribution and indemnity permitted by the law of the situs, or under contract. Do not seek contribution or indemnity from U.S. military personnel or civilian employees whose conduct gave rise to government liability.
In the settlement of any claim pursuant to 10 U.S.C. 2733 and this subpart, attorney fees will not exceed 20 percent of any award provided that when a claim involves payment of an award over $1,000,000, attorney fees on that part of the award exceeding $1,000,000 may be determined by the Secretary of the Air Force. For the purposes of this paragraph, an award is deemed to be the cost to the United States of any trust or structured settlement, and not its future value.
This subpart tells how to settle and pay claims against the United States presented by inhabitants of foreign countries for property damage, personal injury, or death caused by military and civilian members of the U.S. Armed Forces in foreign countries.
(a)
(b)
(c)
(a)
(i) Settle claims for payment of $100,000 or less.
(ii) Settle claims for more than $100,000, pay the first $100,000, and report the excess to the Department of the Treasury for payment.
(iii) Deny claims in any amount.
(2) The Judge Advocate General, Deputy Judge Advocate General, Director of Civil Law, and the Chief, Deputy Chief and Branch Chiefs, Claims and Tort Litigation Staff are FCCs and have delegated authority to:
(i) Settle claims for payment of $100,000 or less.
(ii) Deny claims in any amount.
(3) The SJAs of the Air Force component commander of the U.S. geographic combatant commands are FCC for claims arising in their respective combatant command Areas of Responsibility (AORs) and may deny claims of $50,000 or less and will pay claims filed in any amount when payment is for $50,000 or less.
(b)
(c)
(d)
(a)
(b)
Subpart P of this part outlines procedures for advance payments.
(a) A claim must be presented to the Air Force within 2 years after it accrues. It accrues when the claimant discovers or reasonably should have discovered the existence of the act that resulted in the claimed loss or injury.
(b) In computing the statutory time period, the day of the incident is excluded and the day the claim was filed is included.
(c) War or armed conflict does not toll the statute of limitations.
(a) Owners of the property or their authorized agents for property damage.
(b) Injured persons or other authorized agents for personal injury.
(c) Executors or administrators of a decedent's estate, or any other person legally entitled to do so under applicable local law, for an individual's death.
(d) Authorized agents (including the claimant's attorney) must show their title or legal capacity and present evidence of authority to present the claim.
Claimants include inhabitants of a foreign country who are:
(a) Foreign nationals. In a wrongful death case, if the decedent is an inhabitant of a foreign country, even though
(b) U.S. nationals residing abroad, unless the claim arises from a benefit, privilege or service provided to them by the U.S. Government, or they reside in the foreign country primarily because they are employed directly by the United States, or sponsored by or accompanying such a person, or employed by a U.S. civilian contractor in furtherance of a contract with the U.S. Government, or sponsored by or accompanying such a person.
(c) U.S. corporations with a place of business in the country in which the claim arose.
(d) Foreign governments and their political subdivisions, including a municipal and prefectural government.
(e) Foreign companies and business entities.
Persons who are not proper claimants include:
(a) Insurers and other subrogees.
(b) Persons determined to be U.S. inhabitants. U.S. inhabitants include dependents of U.S. military personnel and U.S. Government civilian employees.
(c) Foreign military personnel suffering personal injury, or death arising incident to service or pursuant to combined and/or joint military operations. Such operations include, but are not limited to, military exercises and United Nations, NATO, and other regional peacekeeping and humanitarian missions.
(d) Civilian employees of the United States, including local inhabitants, injured in the scope of their employment.
(e) National governments and their political subdivisions engaging in war or armed conflict with the United States or its allies. This includes factions that have not necessarily been recognized by the international community as a legitimate nation state.
(f) A national or nationally controlled corporation of a country engaging in war or armed conflict with the United States or its allies, unless the FCC or local military commander determines the claimant is friendly with the United States.
The following criteria is considered before determining liability.
(a) The incident causing the damage or injury must arise in a foreign country and be caused by noncombatant activities of the U.S. Armed Forces or by the negligent or wrongful acts of civilian employees or military members of the Armed Forces.
(1) It is a prerequisite to U.S. responsibility if the employee causing the damage or injury is a local inhabitant, a prisoner of war, or an interned enemy alien. These persons are “employees” within the meaning of the Foreign Claims Act (FCA) only when in the service of the United States. Ordinarily, a slight deviation as to time or place does not constitute a departure from the scope of employment. The purpose of the activity and whether it furthers the general interest of the United States is considered. If the claim arose from the operation or use of a U.S. Armed Forces vehicle or other equipment by such a person, pay it provided local law imposes liability on the owner of the vehicle or other equipment in the circumstances involved.
(2) It is immaterial when the claim arises from the acts or omissions of any U.S. Armed Forces member or employee not listed in § 842.64(c)(1). The Act imposes responsibility on the United States when it places a U.S. citizen or non-US citizen employee in a position to cause the injury or damage. If the cause is a criminal act clearly outside the scope of employment, ordinarily pay the claim and consider disciplinary action against the offender.
(b) Scope of employment is considered in the following situations.
(1) It is a prerequisite to U.S. responsibility if the employee causing the damage or injury is a local inhabitant, a prisoner of war, or an interned enemy alien. These persons are “employees” within the meaning of the Foreign Claims Act (FCA) only when in the service of the United States. Ordinarily, a slight deviation as to time or place does not constitute a departure
(2) It is immaterial when the claim arises from the acts or omissions of any U.S. Armed Forces member or employee not listed in § 842.64(c)(1) of this part. The Act imposes responsibility on the United States when it places a U.S. citizen or non-US citizen employee in a position to cause the injury or damage. If the cause is a criminal act clearly outside the scope of employment, ordinarily pay the claim and consider disciplinary action against the offender.
A claim is not payable when it:
(a) Is waived under an applicable international agreement, or pursuant to an applicable international agreement, a receiving state should adjudicate and pay the claim. However, if a foreign government subject to such an international agreement disputes its legal responsibilities under the agreement, and the claimant has no other means of compensation, USAF/JACC may authorize payment.
(b) Is purely contractual in nature.
(c) Is for attorney fees, punitive damages, a judgment or interest on a judgment, bail, or court costs. FCC should consider providing early notice to claimants that attorney fees are not payable as an item of damage under the FCA.
(d) Accrues from a private contractual relationship between U.S. personnel and third parties about property leases, public utilities, hiring of domestic servants, and debts of any description. This claim is sent for action to the commander of the person concerned (see 32 CFR part 818).
(e) Is based solely on compassionate grounds.
A Solatium payment is paid from O&M funds as an investigative expense.
(f) Is a paternity claim.
(g) Is for patent or copyright infringement.
(h) Results wholly from the negligent or wrongful act of the claimant or agent.
(i) Is for rent, damage, or other payments involving regular acquisition, possession, and disposition of real property by or for the Air Force.
(j) Is filed by a Communist country or its inhabitants, unless authorized by AFLOA/JACC.
(k) Is for real property taken by a continuing trespass.
(l) Is for personal injury or death of a person covered by:
(1) The Federal Employees' Compensation Act (5 U.S.C. 8101,
(2) The Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act (33 U.S.C. 901,
(3) A U.S. contract or agreement providing employee benefits through insurance, local law, or custom, where the United States pays for them either directly or as part of the consideration under the contract. (See 42 U.S.C. 1651 and 42 U.S.C. 1701.) The Judge Advocate General or Chief, Claims and Tort Litigation Staff, AFLOA/JACC, may authorize an award where local benefits are not adequate. Local benefits are deducted from any award.
(m) Results from an action by an enemy, or directly or indirectly from an act of the U.S. Armed Forces in combat, except that a claim may be allowed if it arises from an accident or malfunction incident to the operation of an aircraft of the U.S. Armed Forces, including its airborne ordnance, indirectly related to combat, and occurring while preparing for or going to, or returning from a combat mission.
(n) Is based on negligence of a concessionaire or other independent contractor.
(o) Arises out of personal activities of family members, guests, servants, or activities of the pets of members and employees of the U.S. Armed Forces.
(p) Is the subject of litigation against the United States or its employees. This restriction does not apply to joint criminal/civil proceedings in a foreign
(q) Is covered under U.S. admiralty or maritime laws, unless authorized by The Judge Advocate General or Chief, Claims and Tort Litigation Staff.
(s) Is not in the best interest of the United States, is contrary to public policy, or otherwise contrary to the basic intent of the FCA. Claims considered not payable on this basis will be forwarded to USAF/JACC for final decision.
(t) Is presented by a national, or a corporation controlled by a national, of a country at war or engaged in armed conflict with the United States, or any country allied with such enemy country unless the settlement authority determines the claimant is, and at the time of the incident was, friendly to the United States. Exception: A prisoner of war or interned enemy alien is not excluded from filing a claim for damage, loss, or destruction of personal property within the U.S. Armed Forces' custody if the claim is otherwise payable.
This section provides guidance to determine the applicable law for assessment of liability.
(a) In adjudicating FCA claims, settlement authorities will follow the law, customs, and standards of the country where the claim arose, except:
(1) Causation is determined based upon general principles of U.S. tort law found in federal case law and standard legal publications.
(2) Joint and several liability does not apply. Payment is based solely on the portion of loss, damage, injury or death attributable to the U.S. Armed Forces.
(3) If lost income or lost profits is recoverable under the law where the claim arose, they shall be limited to net lost income or net lost profits, taking into account appropriate deductions for taxes, regular business expenditures, and in the case of wrongful death, personal consumption during the loss period.
(b) Settlement authorities will not deduct compensation from collateral sources except for:
(1) Direct payments by a member or civilian employee of the U.S. Armed Forces for damages (not solatia).
(2) Any payments recovered or recoverable from an insurance policy when premiums were paid, directly or indirectly, by the United States, or a member or civilian employee of the U.S. Armed Forces; or when the member or employee has the benefit of the insurance (such as when a U.S. member or employee borrows a vehicle of a local national, and the vehicle carries insurance for the benefit of any driver with permission to drive the vehicle).
This section provides the procedures used to reconsider a final denial.
(a) An FCC has the inherent authority to reconsider a final decision. The mere fact that a request for reconsideration is received does not obligate the settlement authority to reopen the claim.
(b) The FCC does not mention a reconsideration right in the original denial letter.
(c) A settlement authority must reconsider the final action when there is:
(1) New and material evidence concerning the claim; or
(2) Obvious errors in the original decision.
(d) The FCC must document in the claim file the reason for reconsideration.
(e) A FCC above the original settlement authority may direct a claim be forwarded to a higher FCC for reconsideration.
The Air Force has all the rights of subrogation, indemnity and contribution, as local law permits. However, settlement authorities will not seek contribution or indemnity from U.S. military members or civilian employees whose conduct gave rise to U.S. Government liability, or whenever it
This subpart governs Air Force actions in investigating, processing, and settling claims under the International Agreement Claims Act.
The following are general definitions. See the relevant international agreement for the specific meaning of a term to use with a specific claim.
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
(f)
(g)
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(a)
(2) If the Air Force receives a claim, send it to the U.S. sending State office for delivery to the receiving State.
(b)
This subpart explains how to settle and pay claims against the United States, for property damage, personal injury, or death incident to the use of a government vehicle or any other government property on a government installation which are not payable under any other statute.
(a)
(b)
(a)
(1) The Judge Advocate General.
(2) The Deputy Judge Advocate General.
(3) Director of Civil Law.
(4) Chief, Deputy Chief and Branch Chiefs, Claims and Tort Litigation staff.
(5) SJA of the Air Force component commands of the U.S. geographic combatant commands.
(6) SJAs of single base GCMs and GCMs in PACAF and USAFE.
(7) The SJA of each Air Force base, station and fixed installation.
(8) Any other judge advocate designated by The Judge Advocate General.
(b)
(c)
(a)
(b)
(a) A claim must be presented in writing within 2 years after it accrues.
(b) In computing time to determine whether the period of limitation has expired, exclude the incident date and include the date the claim was filed.
When all of the following are present, payment of a claim in the amount of $1,000 or less is authorized if it:
(a) Is for property damage, personal injury, or death. Payment for a personal injury or death claim is limited to costs of reasonable medical, hospital, and burial expenses actually incurred and not otherwise furnished or paid by the United States.
(b) Was caused by a military member or civilian employee of the Air Force, whether acting within or outside the scope of employment.
(c) Arose from the use of a government vehicle at any place or from the use of other government property on a government installation.
(d) Is not payable under any other provision of law except Article 139, UCMJ.
A claim is not payable if it is:
(a) Payable under any other provision of the law.
(b) Caused wholly or partly by a negligent or wrongful act of the claimant, the claimant's agent, or employee.
(c) A subrogated claim.
(d) Recoverable from other sources such as an insurance policy, or recovered from action under Article 139, UCMJ.
(e) For pain and suffering or other general damages.
(a) The statute does not provide for appeals. The original settlement authority may, however, reconsider any decision. There is no set format for a reconsideration but it should be submitted in writing within 60 days of the original decision.
(b) The settlement authority may either grant all or any portion of the requested relief without referral to any other office, or forward the entire file with the reasons for the action and recommendations to the next higher claims settlement authority for independent review and final action.
Do not pay a claim unless the claimant accepts the amount offered in full satisfaction of the claim and signs a settlement agreement to that effect, in which the claimant agrees to release any and all claims against the United States, its employees and agents arising from the incident in question. Use the settlement agreement approved for use by the Department of Justice for the settlement of FTCA claims, tailored to this claim.
It sets forth the procedure for administrative settlement of admiralty and maritime claims in favor of and against the United States.
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(a) The following officials have the authority to settle a claim against the Air Force in the amounts provided:
(1) The Secretary of the Air Force has the authority to:
(i) Settle or deny a claim in any amount. Settlements for payment of more than $500,000 are certified to Congress for payment.
(ii) [Reserved]
(2) The following individuals have delegated authority to settle claims for $100,000 or less:
(i) The Judge Advocate General.
(ii) The Deputy Judge Advocate General.
(iii) The Director of Civil Law.
(iv) The Chief and Deputy Chief, Claims and Tort Litigation staff.
(b) Delegation of settlement authority on claims in favor of the United States.
(1) The Secretary of the Air Force has the authority to settle claims for damage to property under the jurisdiction of the Air Force in an amount not to exceed $500,000, and to settle claims for salvage services performed by the Air Force in any amount.
(2) AFLOA/JACC refers all claims for damage to property under the jurisdiction of the Air Force for more than $500,000 to the Department of Justice.
(3) The following individuals have delegated authority to settle claims for $100,000 or less and deny them in any amount:
(i) The Judge Advocate General.
(ii) The Deputy Judge Advocate General.
(iii) The Director of Civil Law.
(iv) The Chief and Deputy Chief, Claims and Tort Litigation Division.
This section provides the policy and procedures to reconsider any maritime claim made against the United States.
(a) The settlement authority may reconsider any claim previously disapproved in whole or in part when either:
(1) The claimant submits new evidence in support of the claim.
(2) There were errors or irregularities in the submission or settlement of the claim.
(b) There is no right of appeal to higher authority under this subpart.
(c) There is no time limit for submitting a request for reconsideration, but it is within the discretion of the settlement authority to decline to reconsider a claim based on the amount of time passed since the claim was originally denied.
This subpart, promulgated under the authority of 28 CFR 14.11, governs claims against the United States for property damage, personal injury, or death, from the negligent or wrongful acts or omission of Air Force military or civilian personnel while acting within the scope of their employment.
(a)
(1) The Judge Advocate General.
(2) The Deputy Judge Advocate General.
(3) The Director of Civil Law.
(4) The Division Chief of Claims and Tort Litigation.
(5) The Division Chief of Environmental Law and Litigation.
(b)
(c)
(d)
The claimant must sign a settlement agreement and general release before any payment is made.
When the Air Force is the proper agency to receive a claim pursuant to 28 CFR 14.2(b), for purposes of the provisions of 28 U.S.C. 2401(b), 2672 and 2675, a claim shall be deemed to have been presented when it is received by:
(a) The office of the Staff Judge Advocate of the Air Force installation nearest the location of the incident; or
(b) The Claims and Tort Litigation Division, 1500 West Perimeter Road, Suite 1700, Joint Base Andrews, MD 20762.
This subpart describes how to assert, administer, and collect claims for damage to or loss or destruction of government property and lost wages of Air Force servicemembers through negligent or wrongful acts. It does not cover admiralty, hospital recovery, or nonappropriated fund claims.
(a)
(i) The Judge Advocate General.
(ii) The Deputy Judge Advocate General.
(iii) The Director of Civil Law.
(iv) Chief, Deputy Chief, and Branch Chiefs, Claims and Tort Litigation Staff.
(2) Installation staff judge advocates have authority to assert claims in any amount, accept full payment on any claim and to compromise, suspend or terminate action on claims asserted for $25,000 or less.
(b)
(c)
A claim may be asserted in writing for loss of or damage to government property, against a tort-feasor when:
(a) Damage results from negligence and the claim is for:
(1) More than $100.
(2) Less than $100 but collection is practicable and economical.
(b) The claim is based on a contract and the contracting officer does not intend to assert a claim under the contract. The contracting officer's intention not to assert a claim should be recorded in a memorandum for the record and placed in the claim file.
(c) The claim is for property damage arising from the same incident as a hospital recovery claim.
(d) The Tort-feasor or his insurer presents a claim against the government arising from the same incident. (Both claims should be processed together.)
(e) The claim is assertable as a counterclaim under an international agreement. (The claim should be processed under subpart G of this part).
(f) The claim is based on product liability. AFLOA/JACC approval must be obtained before asserting the claim.
A claim is not assertable under this subpart when it is for:
(a) Reimbursement for military or civilian employees for their negligence claims paid by the United States.
(b) Loss or damage to government property:
(1) Caused by a nonappropriated fund employee acting in the scope of employment.
(2) Caused by a person who has accountability and responsibility for the damaged property under the Report of Survey system.
(c) Loss or damage to nonappropriated fund property assertable under other provisions.
(d) Loss or damage caused by an employee of an instrumentality of the government in the absence of statutory authority to reimburse.
(e) Monies recovered against a foreign government or any of its political subdivisions. (AFLOA/JACC may authorize this claim as an exception to the rule).
(f) Loss or damage caused by an employee of another federal agency while the employee was acting in the scope of his employment.
The base SJA asserts the claim against the tort-feasor by mailing, certified mail, return receipt requested, the original and one copy of a “Notice of Claim” that includes the following:
(a) Reference to the statutory right to collect.
(b) A demand for payment or restoration.
(c) A description of damage.
(d) The date and place of incident.
(e) The name, phone number, and office address of claims personnel to contact.
If collection efforts are unsuccessful, AFLOA/JACC may refer a claim to the appropriate U.S. Attorney's Office or the Department of Justice for initiation of a lawsuit.
The government must file suit within 3 years after the cause of action accrues. It accrues when a responsible U.S. official knew or reasonably should have known the material facts that resulted in the claimed loss.
This section establishes the guidelines for compromise, termination, or suspension of a claim.
(a) Compromise of a claim is allowable when:
(1) The tort-feasor is unable to pay the full amount within a reasonable time. (A sworn statement showing the debtor's assets and liabilities, income, expenses, and insurance coverage should be obtained and included in the claim file).
(2) The Government is unable to collect a claim in full within a reasonable time even though the enforced collection proceedings are used for collection.
(3) The cost to collect does not justify enforced collection of the full amount.
(4) The government may have difficulty proving its case in court for the full amount claimed.
(b) Compromise is not allowable when there may be fraud, misrepresentation, or violation of antitrust laws. The Department of Justice must authorize compromise of such claims.
(c) Termination of collection is allowable when:
(1) The government is unable to collect the debt after exhausting all collection methods.
(2) The government is unable to locate the tort-feasor.
(3) The cost to collect will exceed recovery.
(4) The claim is legally without merit.
(5) The evidence does not substantiate the claim.
(d) Suspension of collection is allowable when:
(1) The government is unable to locate tort-feasor.
(2) The tort-feasor is presently unable to pay but:
(i) The statute of limitations is tolled or is running anew.
(ii) Future collection may be possible.
This subpart establishes policies and procedures for all administrative claims under the National Guard Claims Act for which the Air Force has assigned responsibility. Unless otherwise outlined in this subpart, follow procedures as outlined in subpart E of this part for claims arising out of noncombat activities.
(a)
(b)
(c)
(2)
(3)
(d)
(a)
(i) Settle a claim for $100,000 or less.
(ii) Settle a claim for more than $100,000, paying the first $100,000 and reporting the excess to the General Accounting Office for payment.
(iii) Deny a claim in any amount.
(2) The Judge Advocate General has delegated authority to settle a claim for $100,000 or less, and deny a claim in any amount.
(3) The following individuals have delegated authority to settle a claim for $25,000 or less, and deny a claim in any amount:
(i) The Deputy Judge Advocate General.
(ii) The Director of Civil Law.
(iii) The Chief, Deputy Chief, and Branch Chiefs, Claims and Tort Litigation Staff.
(4) The SJAs of the Air Force component commander of the U.S. geographic combatant commands for claims arising within their respective combatant command areas of responsibility have delegated authority to settle claims payable or to deny claims filed for $25,000 or less.
(5) SJAs of GCMs in PACAF and USAFE have delegated authority to settle claims payable, and deny claims filed, for $15,000 or less.
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
(f)
(1) On the job personal injury or death of an employee of a government contractor or subcontractor.
(2) Assault, battery, false imprisonment, false arrest, abuse of process, or malicious prosecution committed by an investigative or law enforcement officer.
(a)
(b)
Subpart P of this part sets forth procedures for such payments.
(a) A claim must be filed in writing within 2 years after it accrues. It is deemed to be filed upon receipt by The Judge Advocate General, USAF/JACC, or a Staff Judge Advocate of the Air Force. A claim accrues when the claimant discovers or reasonably should have discovered the existence of the act that resulted in the claimed loss. The same rules governing accrual pursuant to the Federal Tort Claims Act should be applied with respect to the
(b) The statutory time period excludes the day of the incident and includes the day the claim was filed.
(c) A claim filed after the statute of limitations has run is considered if the U.S. is at war or in an armed conflict when the claim accrues or if the U.S. enters a war or armed conflict after the claim accrues, and if good causes shows how the war or armed conflict prevented the claimant from diligently filing the claim within the statute of limitations. But in no case will a claim be considered if filed more than two years after the war or armed conflict ends.
The following individuals may file a claim under this subpart.
(a) Owners of the property or their authorized agents may file claims for property damage.
(b) Injured persons or their duly authorized agents may file claims for personal injury.
(c) Duly appointed guardians of minor children or any other persons legally entitled to do so under applicable local law may file claims for minors' personal injuries.
(d) Executors or administrators of a decedent's estate or another person legally entitled to do so under applicable local law, may file claims based on:
(1) An individual's death.
(2) A cause of action surviving an individual's death.
(e) Insurers with subrogation rights may file claims for losses paid in full by them. The parties may file claims jointly or individually, to the extent of each party's interest, for losses partially paid by insurers with subrogation rights.
(f) Authorized agents signing claims show their title or legal capacity and present evidence of authority to present the claims.
(a) Citizens and inhabitants of the United States. U.S. inhabitants includes dependents of the U.S. military personnel and federal civilian employees temporarily outside the U.S. for purposes of U.S. Government service.
(b) U.S. military personnel and civilian employees. Note: These personnel are not proper claimants for claims for personal injury or death that occurred incident to their service.
(c) Foreign military personnel when the damage or injury occurs in the U.S. Do not pay for claims under the MCA for personal injury or death of a foreign military personnel that occurred incident to their service.
(d) States, state agencies, counties, or municipalities, or their political subdivisions.
(e) Subrogees of proper claimants to the extent they have paid for the claim in question.
(a) Governments of foreign nations, their agencies, political subdivisions, or municipalities.
(b) Agencies and nonappropriated fund instrumentalities of the U.S. Government including the District of Columbia government.
(c) Inhabitants of foreign countries.
(d) The state, territory and its political subdivisions whose Air National Guard member caused the loss.
(e) Subrogees of the claimants in paragraphs (a) through (d) of this section.
Claims arising from noncombat activities of the United States when caused by ANG members performing duty under 32 U.S.C. and acting within the scope of their employment, whether or not such injuries or damages arose out of their negligent or wrongful acts or omissions.
The following are not payable:
(a) Claims covered by the FTCA, FCA, IACA, 10 U.S.C. 2734a and 2734b, Air Force Admiralty Claims Act (AFACA), 10 U.S.C. 9801-9804, 9806, MCA, 10 U.S.C. 2733, or covered under the Military Personnel and Civilian Employees' Claims Act (MPCECA), 31 U.S.C. 3701, 3721.
(b) NGCA claims arising from noncombat activities in the U.S. are not covered by the FTCA because more elements are needed to state an FTCA claim than are needed to state a claim under the NGCA for noncombat activities. All FTCA claims are based on elements of traditional tort liability (
(c) See subpart E of this part for other claims not payable.
(d) Claims for damage to or loss of bailed property when the bailor specifically assumed such risk.
(e) Claims for personal injury or death of a person covered by:
(1) The Federal Employees' Compensation Act.
(2) The Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act.
(3) A United States contract or agreement providing employee benefits through insurance, local law, or custom and the United States pays for such benefits either directly or as a part of the consideration under the contract.
(f) Claims for property damage, personal injury or death occurring in a foreign country to an inhabitant of that country.
(g) Claims caused by the negligent or wrongful acts or omissions of members of the District of Columbia ANG.
(h) Claims arising from a private rather than a government transaction.
(i) Claims for patent or copyright infringement.
(j) Claims for damage, use, or other expenses involving the regular acquisition, possession, and disposition of real property by or for the ANG.
(k) Claims for the taking of private real property by a continuing trespass or by a technical trespass such as overflights of aircraft.
(l) Claims for loss of rental fee for personal property.
(m) Claims in litigation against the United States.
(n) Claims for a maritime occurrence covered under U.S. admiralty laws.
(o) Claims for:
(1) Any tax or customs duty.
(2) The detention of any goods or merchandise by any officer of customs, excise, or law enforcement officer.
(p) Claims from an act or omission of any employee of the Government while administering the provisions of the Trading With the Enemy Act.
(q) Claims for damages caused by the United States' imposition or establishment of a quarantine.
(r) Claims for libel, slander, misrepresentation, deceit or interference with contract rights.
(s) Claims that result wholly from the negligent or wrongful act of the claimant or the claimant's agent.
(t) Claims for reimbursement of medical, hospital, or burial expenses furnished at the expense of the United States, any state, the District of Columbia, or Puerto Rico.
(u) Claims for damage from floods or flood waters.
(v) Claims for damages caused by the fiscal operations of the Treasury or by regulation of the monetary system.
(w) Claims caused by the negligent or wrongful acts or omissions of ANG members acting within the scope of their employment, while performing duty under 32 U.S.C., on or after 29 December 1981.
(x) Claims caused by the negligent or wrongful acts or omissions of ANG technicians employed under 32 U.S.C. 709.
(a)
(b)
(1)
(2)
(i) Absolute or strict liability will not apply for claims not arising from noncombat activities.
(ii) Hedonic damages are not payable.
(iii) The collateral source doctrine will not apply.
(iv) Joint and several liability does not apply. Payment will be made only upon the portion of loss, damage, injury or death attributable to the Armed Forces of the United States.
(v) Future economic loss will be discounted to present value after deducting for federal income taxes and, in cases of wrongful death, personal consumption.
(c)
(1) Punitive damages.
(2) Cost of medical or hospital services furnished at U.S. expense.
(3) Cost of burial expenses paid by the United States.
(d)
(1) The United States is not protected by the release executed by the claimant.
(2) The total amount received from such source is first deducted.
This section explains the steps to take when a denial is appealed.
(a) A claimant may appeal the final denial of the claim. The claimant sends the request, in writing, to the settlement authority that issued the denial letter within 60 days of the date the denial letter was mailed. The settlement authority may waive the 60 day time limit for good cause.
(b) Upon receipt of the appeal, the original settlement authority reviews the appeal.
(c) Where the settlement authority does not reach a final agreement on an appealed claim, he or she sends the entire claim file to the next higher settlement authority, who is the appellate authority for that claim. Any higher settlement authority may act upon an appeal.
(d) The decision of the appellate authority is the final administrative action on the claim.
The Air Force becomes subrogated to the rights of the claimant upon settling a claim. The Air Force has the rights of contribution and indemnity permitted by the law of the situs or under contract. Do not seek contribution or indemnity from ANG members whose conduct gave rise to Government liability.
In the settlement of any claim pursuant to 32 U.S.C. 715 and this subpart, attorney fees will not exceed 20 percent of any award provided that when a claim involves payment of an award over $1,000,000, attorney fees on that part of the award exceeding $1,000,000
This subpart explains how the United States asserts and settles claims for costs of medical care, against third parties under the Federal Medical Care Recovery Act (FMCRA) (10 U.S.C. 1095) and various other laws.
This section defines terms which are used within this subpart.
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
(1) An amount determined by reference to rates set by the Director of the Office of Management and Budget for the value of necessary medical care in U.S. medical facilities.
(2) The actual cost of necessary care from other sources which was reimbursed by the United States.
(f)
(g)
(h)
(i)
(a)
(1) The Judge Advocate General.
(2) The Deputy Judge Advocate General.
(3) The Director of Civil Law.
(4) Chief, Claims and Tort Litigation Staff and the Chief, MCRP.
(b)
(1) SJAs, when given Medical Cost Reimbursement (MCR) claims jurisdiction, are granted authority to waive, compromise, or settle claims in amounts of $25,000 or less. This authority may be re-delegated in writing with authority to re-delegate to subordinates.
(2) SJAs of numbered Air Forces, when given MCR claims jurisdiction,
(3) SJAs of single base GCMs, the SJAs of GCMs in PACAF and USAFE, and the SJAs of each Air Force base, station, or fixed installation have delegated authority to compromise or waive claims for $15,000 or less and to accept full payment on any claim.
(c)
(d)
(e)
Telephonic approvals, in the discretion of the higher settlement authority, are authorized.
(f)
(1) Compromise or waiver of a claim for more than $300,000.
(2) Settlement previously referred to DOJ.
(3) Settlement where a third party files suit against the U.S. or the injured party arising out of the same incident.
A claim should be asserted when the Air Force has furnished or will furnish medical care in military health care facilities or when the Air Force is responsible for reimbursement to a private care provider and either of the following conditions are met:
(a) Third party liability in tort exists for causing an injury or disease.
(b) Local or foreign law permits the United States to recover or the United States is a third party beneficiary under uninsured motorist coverage, medical pay insurance coverage, worker's compensation, no-fault statutes, or other statutes.
A claim should only be asserted if the base SJA determines it merits assertion. Claims for $150 or less need not be asserted; they should be asserted only if the base SJA or designee determines the collection will not exceed the cost to collect, the third party offers payment and demands a release from the United States before paying damages to the injured party, or the United States asserts a property damage claim under subpart L arising out of the same incident.
The following are considered nonassertable claims and should not be asserted:
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
(f)
When asserting the claim, the base SJA will:
(a) MCR personnel assert a claim against a tortfeasor or other third party using a formal letter on Air Force stationery. The assertion is made against all potential payers, including insurers. The demand letter should state the legal basis for recovery and sufficiently describe the facts and circumstances surrounding the incident giving rise to medical care. Applicable bases of recovery include U.S. status as a third-party beneficiary under various types of insurance policies, workers' compensation laws, no-fault laws, or other Federal statutes, including Coordination of Benefits (COB) or FMCRA.
(b) The MCR authority must promptly notify the injured parties or their legal representatives, in writing, that the United States will attempt to recover from the third parties the reasonable value of medical care furnished or to be furnished and that they:
(1) Should seek advice from a legal assistance officer or civilian counsel.
(2) Must cooperate in the prosecution of all actions of the United States against third parties.
(3) Must furnish a complete statement regarding the facts and circumstances surrounding the incident which caused the injury.
(4) Must not execute a release or settle any claim which exists as a result of the injury without prior notice to the MCR authority.
(c) Mail all copies of the SF 96, or claim notice on Air Force letterhead:
(1) By certified mail with return receipt requested in all claims in which the amount claimed is $5,000.00 or more or in which there is a substantial likelihood that the final amount claimed will be $5,000.00 or more.
(2) By regular or certified mail with return receipt requested at the SJA's discretion in cases in which the final amount claimed is less than $5,000.00, unless there is no response to the initial notice of claim within a reasonable period of time and a second notice of claim is required to be mailed. All second notices of claim and copies will be mailed by certified mail, return receipt requested.
(d) Notify the injured parties promptly in writing that the United States will attempt to recover from the third parties the reasonable value of medical care furnished or to be furnished and that they:
(1) Should seek advice from a legal assistance officer or civilian counsel and furnish the civilian counsel's name to the claims officer.
(2) Must cooperate in the prosecution of all actions of the United States against third parties.
(3) Must furnish a complete statement regarding the facts and circumstances surrounding the incident which caused the injury.
(4) Must not execute a release or settle any claim which exists as a result of the injury without prior notice to the SJA.
(5) Should read the enclosed Privacy Act statement.
(a) All cases that require forwarding to the DoJ must be routed through the Chief, MCRP. The MCR authority ensures that personnel review all claims for possible referral not later than two years after the date of the incident for tort based cases.
(b) The United States or the injured party on behalf of the United States must file suit within 3 years after an
The United States or the injured party on behalf of the United States must file suit within 3 years after an action accrues. This is usually 3 years after the initial treatment is provided in a federal medical facility or after the initial payment is made by CHAMPUS, whichever is first.
The
Waivers and compromises of government claims can be made. This section lists the basic guidance for each action. (See this subpart for claims involving waiver and compromise of amounts in excess of settlement authorities' delegated amounts.)
(a)
(1) Risks of litigation.
(2) Questionable liability of the third party.
(3) Costs of litigation.
(4) Insurance (Uninsured or Underinsured Motorist and Medical Payment Coverage) or other assets of the tortfeasor available to satisfy a judgment for the entire claim.
(5) Potential counterclaim against the U.S.
(6) Jury verdict expectancy amount.
(7) Amount of settlement with proposed distribution.
(8) Cost of any future care.
(9) Tortfeasor cannot be located.
(10) Tortfeasor is judgment proof.
(11) Tortfeasor has refused to pay and the case is too weak for litigation.
(b)
(1) Permanent disability or disfigurement of the injured party.
(2) Decreased earning power of the injured party.
(3) Out of pocket losses to the injured party.
(4) Financial status of the injured party.
(5) Pension rights of the injured party.
(6) Other government benefits available to the injured party.
(7) An offer of settlement from a third party which includes virtually all of the thirty party's assets, although the amount is considerably less than the calculation of the injured party's damages.
(8) Whether the injured party received excessive treatment.
(9) Amount of settlement with proposed distribution, including reductions in fees or damages by other parties, medical providers, or attorneys in order to reduce the hardship on the injured party.
(c)
A settlement authority may reconsider its previous action on a request for waiver or compromise whether requested or not. Reconsideration is normally on the basis of new evidence or discovery of errors in the waiver submission or settlement, but can be based upon a re-evaluation of the claim by the settlement authority.
This subpart describes how to settle claims for and against the United States for property damage, personal injury, or death arising out of the operation of nonappropriated fund instrumentalities (NAFIs). Unless stated below, such claims will follow procedures outlined in other subparts of this part for the substantive law applicable to the particular claim. For example, a NAFI claim adjudicated under the Federal Tort Claims Act will follow procedures in this subpart as well as subpart K of this part.
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
Substantiated claims against NAFIs must not be paid solely from appropriated funds. Claims are sent for payment as set out in this subpart. Do not delay paying a claimant because doubt exists whether to use appropriated funds or NAFs. Pay the claim initially from appropriated funds and decide the correct funding source later.
(a)
(b)
(a) This subpart explains how to process certain administrative claims:
(1) Against the United States for property damage, personal injury, or death, arising out of Air Force assigned noncombat missions performed by the Civil Air Patrol (CAP), as well as certain other Air Force authorized missions performed by the CAP in support of the Federal Government.
(2) In favor of the United States for damage to U.S. Government property caused by CAP members or third parties.
(b) Unless stated in this subpart, such claims will follow procedures outlined in other subparts of this part for the
(a)
(b)
(1) Have a special Air Force mission order assigned, and, the Air Force must exercise operational control over the mission.
(2) Involve a peacetime mission the Air Force is tasked to perform by higher authority which requires the expenditure of Air Force resources to accomplish, and the Air Force specifically approves the mission as a noncombat mission, and assigns the mission to the Civil Air Patrol to perform.
(c)
(1)
(2)
(d)
CAP members, 18 years of age or older, whose personal injury or death claim is subject to the Federal Employees' Compensation Act, are improper claimants. FECA is their exclusive remedy.
A claim is payable if all of the following are present:
(a) It is for property damage, personal injury, or death.
(b) It is proximately caused by a CAP member.
(c) It arises from an Air Force noncombat mission performed by the CAP, or arises from an authorized mission performed by the CAP for which specific coverage under this subpart is granted by AFLOA/JACC.
(d) It is otherwise payable because it meets the provisions of an appropriate subpart of this part.
A claim is not payable if it:
(a) Is for use or depreciation of privately owned property, operated by CAP or its members on an Air Force noncombat mission, or other specified Air Force authorized mission.
(b) Is for personal services or expenses incurred by CAP or its members while engaged in an Air Force noncombat mission, or other specified Air Force authorized mission.
(c) Arises out of a CAP incident based solely on government ownership of property on loan to CAP.
(d) Arises from a CAP activity not performed as a noncombat mission of the Air Force or as a specified Air Force authorized mission. These claims
This subpart tells how to make an advance payment before a claim is filed or finalized under the Military Claims, Foreign Claims and National Guard Claims Acts.
(a) The Secretary of the Air Force has authority to make an advance payment of $100,000 or less.
(b) The Judge Advocate General has delegated authority to make an advance payment of $100,000 or less.
(c) The following individuals have delegated authority to make an advance payment of $25,000 or less:
(1) The Deputy Judge Advocate General.
(2) The Director of Civil Law.
(3) The Chief, Deputy Chief, and Branch Chiefs, Claims and Tort Litigation Staff.
(4) SJAs of the Air Force component commander of the U.S. geographic combatant commands for claims arising within their respective combatant command areas of responsibility.
(d) This authority may be redelegated either orally or in writing. Oral redelegations should be confirmed in writing as soon as practical.
A proper claimant or authorized agent may request an advance payment.
Make advance payments only where all of the following exist:
(a) The potential claimant could file a valid claim for property damage or personal injury under the Military Claims, Foreign Claims, or National Guard Claims Acts.
(b) The potential claimant has an immediate need amounting to a hardship for food, shelter, medical or burial expenses, or other necessities. In the case of a commercial enterprise, severe financial loss or bankruptcy will result if the Air Force does not make an advance payment.
(c) Other resources for such needs are not reasonably available.
(d) The potential claim equals or exceeds the amount of the advance payment.
(e) The recipient signs as advance payment agreement.
Do not make an advance payment if the claim is payable under the:
(a) Federal Tort Claims Act.
(b) International Agreement Claims Act.
(c) Military Personnel and Civilian Employees' Claims Act. (Separate regulations issued under the Act provide for partial payments.)
Every person suffering injury or property loss may submit a separate request for an advance payment. For example, where the Air Force destroys a house containing a family of four, each family member may submit a separate request for and receive an advance payment of $100,000 or less.
The claimant is liable for repayment. Deduct the advance payment from any award or judgment given to a claimant. Reimbursement from the claimant will
Sec. 8012, 70A Stat. 488, sec. 1037, 72 Stat. 1445; 10 U.S.C. 8012, 1037.
This part is derived from chapter 2 of Air Force Regulation 110-12, December 1, 1978.
Part 806 of this chapter states the basic policies and instructions governing the disclosure of records and tells members of the public what they must do to inspect or obtain copies of the material referenced herein.
This part establishes criteria and assigns responsibility for the provision of counsel, for the provision of bail, and for the payment of court costs and other necessary and reasonable expenses incident to representation in civil and criminal proceedings, including appellate proceedings, before foreign courts and foreign administrative agencies, which involve members of the Armed Forces, civilian personnel and dependents. Payment of fines is not authorized hereunder.
10 U.S.C. 1037 provides authority for employment of counsel, and payment of counsel fees, court costs, bail, and other expenses incident to representation of persons subject to the Uniform Code of Military Justice before foreign tribunals. For personnel not subject to the Uniform Code of Military Justice, funds for similar expenses may be made available in cases of exceptional interest to the service concerned, upon prior application through the Judge Advocate General of the service concerned, to the appropriate service secretary.
(a) Requests for provision of counsel, provision of bail, or payment of expenses will ordinarily be made by the defendant or accused through appropriate channels to the officer exercising general court-martial jurisdiction over him. This officer shall determine whether the request meets the criteria prescribed herein and, based upon such determination, shall take final action approving or disapproving the request. Within their geographical areas of responsibility, major commands in the interest of obtaining prompt and effective legal service may appoint as approval authority, instead of the officer exercising general court-martial jurisdiction, any subordinate officer having responsibility in a particular country for personnel subject to foreign criminal jurisdiction.
(b) Notwithstanding the criteria prescribed below, an officer exercising approved authority may, in his discretion, deny a request for the provision of counsel, provision of bail or payment of expenses, where the otherwise eligible requestor is in an absent without leave or deserter status at the time of the request, or otherwise is not then subject to United States military control, and there is no reasonable basis for the belief that the requestor will return to United States military control at the conclusion of the proceedings of service of an adjudged sentence, if any.
Requests for the provision of counsel and payment of expenses in criminal cases may be approved in pretrial, trial, appellate and posttrial proceedings in any one of the following criminal cases:
(a) Where the act complained of occurred in the performance of official duty; or
(b) Where the sentence which is normally imposed includes confinement, whether or not such sentence is suspended; or
(c) Where capital punishment might be imposed; or
(d) Where an appeal is made from any proceeding in which there appears to have been a denial of the substantial rights of the accused; or
(e) Where conviction of the offense alleged could later form the basis for administrative discharge proceedings for misconduct as a result of civil court disposition; or
(f) Where the case, although not within the criteria established in paragraphs (a), (b), (c), (d), or (e) of this section, is considered to have significant impact upon the relations of US forces with the host country or is considered to involve any other particular US interest.
Funds for the posting of bail or bond to secure the release of personnel from confinement by foreign authorities before, during, or after trial may be furnished in all criminal cases. Safeguards should be imposed to assure that at the conclusion of the proceedings or on the appearance of the defendant in court, the bail or bond will be refunded to the military authorities. Bail will be provided only to guarantee the presence of the defendant and will not be provided to guarantee the payment of fines or civil damages. Local US military authorities are expected to provide bail, in any case, only after other reasonable efforts have been made to secure release of pretrial custody to the US.
Requests for provision of counsel and payment of expenses in civil cases may be granted in trial and appellate proceedings in either of the following civil cases:
(a) Where the act complained of occurred in the performance of official duty; or
(b) Where the case is considered to have a significant impact upon the relations of US forces with the host country or is considered to involve any other particular US interest. No funds shall be provided under this part in cases where the United States of America is in legal effect the defendant, without prior authorization of the Judge Advocate General.
(a) The selection of individual trial or appellate counsel will be made by the defendant. Such counsel shall represent the individual defendant and not the US Government. Selection shall be made from approved lists of attorneys who are qualified, competent and experienced in trial practice, and admitted for full practice, on their own account, before the courts of the foreign country involved. Normally, these lists will be coordinated with the local court or bar association, if any, and the appropriate US Diplomatic or Consular Mission and should include only those attorneys who are known or reputed, to comply with local attorney fee schedules or guides approved or suggested by local bar associations and should not exceed amounts paid under similar circumstances by nationals of the country where the trial is held. No fee may include any amount in payment for services other than those incident to representation before judicial and administrative agencies of the foreign country in the particular case for which the contract is made, and in no event may any contract include fees for representation in habeas corpus or related proceedings before tribunals of the United States. When appropriate and reasonable in the case, the payment of expenses, in addition to counsel fees, may include court costs, bail costs, charges for obtaining copies of records, printing and filing fees, interpreter fees, witness fees, and other necessary and reasonable expenses. Expenses will not include the payment of fines or civil damages, directly or indirectly.
(b) Whenever possible, the officer responsible under § 845.3 (or his designee), acting on behalf of the United States of America, shall enter into a written contract with the selected counsel. The
(c) If, for example, because of unusual circumstances or local customs, it is not practicable to enter into a written contract as in paragraph (b) of this section, action will be taken to record the agreement reached between the officer responsible under § 845.3 (or his designee) and the selected counsel. This requirement may be met by a letter of commission or letter of understanding, executed between the officer responsible under § 845.3 (or his designee) and the selected counsel, or by a written request for legal services expressly or impliedly accepted by the selected counsel. Any such document shall contain, if possible, an agreed estimate of counsel fees and reasonable expenses and a statement that both fees and expenses will conform to those paid by local nationals under similar circumstances and will not exceed local fee schedules, if any. If this document does not include an agreed estimate of counsel fees and other reasonable expenses, an estimate will be provided by the contracting officer. A copy of the document, together with the estimate, will be furnished the accounting component and will serve as the commitment document for the reservation of funds.
(d) The provision of counsel and payment of expenses under this part is not subject to the provisions of the Defense Acquisition Regulation (subchapter A, chapter I of this title). However, the contract clauses set forth in part 5, section VII, Defense Acquisition Regulation, may be used as a guide in contracting.
(e) Because of the desirability of timely procedural action, it is suggested that there be designated, from among the judge advocates on the staffs of officers responsible under § 845.3, contracting officers with contracting authority limited to agreements described in this section. The effect of this designation would be to combine within one office the duties of contracting officer and judge advocate.
(f) Nothing in this part shall be construed as prohibiting the selection of qualified local counsel employed by the United States Government, if the serviceman freely selects such counsel.
Payment of bills submitted by the selected counsel and other costs shall be made in accordance with the general provision of AFM 177-102 (Commercial Transactions at Base Level), relating to payment of contractual obligations and pertinent disbursing regulations. All payments under these procedures will be in local currency. Acceptance of services procured under these procedures shall be certified to by the officer responsible under § 845.3 (or his designee). Payments of bail may be made when authorized by such officers. Such authorization shall be in the form of a directing letter or message citing 10 U.S.C. 1037.
Authorized expenses incurred incident to implementation of the policies set forth in this part, including transportation and per diem expenses of trial observers, interpreters, and local counsel employees, shall be paid from appropriated funds of the service to which the defendant belongs. Payments shall be made from the appropriation current at time of payment, unless obligations for authorized costs have previously been established. Refunds shall be processed as appropriation refund. Such funds are chargeable to the base for operation and maintenance purposes (O&M or R&D, as applicable).
No reimbursement will ordinarily be required from individuals with respect to payments made in their behalf under this part. However, prior to the posting of bail on behalf of a defendant, a signed agreement shall be secured from him wherein he agrees to remit the amount of such bail or permit the application of so much of his pay as may be necessary to reimburse the Government in the event that he willfully
Judge advocates who advise officers responsible under § 845.3 are authorized to correspond directly with each other and with the Judge Advocate General of the service concerned for advice with regard to payment of counsel fees and other expenses.
49 U.S.C. 44502 and 47103.
The Air Force establishes and uses its airfields to support the scope and level of operations necessary to carry out missions worldwide. The Congress funds airfields in response to Air Force requirements, but also specifies that civil aviation access is a national priority to be accommodated when it does not jeopardize an installation's military utility. The Air Force engages in dialogue with the civil aviation community and the Federal Aviation Administration to ensure mutual understanding of long-term needs for the national air transportation system and programmed military force structure requirements. To implement the national policy and to respond to requests for access, the Air Force must have policies that balance such requests with military needs. Civil aircraft access to Air Force airfields on foreign territory requires host nation approval.
(a) The Air Force will manage two programs that are generally used to grant civil aircraft access to its airfields: civil aircraft landing permits and joint-use agreements. Other arrangements for access will be negotiated as required for specific purposes.
(1) Normally, landing permits will be issued only for civil aircraft operating in support of official Government business. Other types of use may be authorized if justified by exceptional circumstances. Access will be granted on an equitable basis.
(2) The Air Force will consider only proposals for joint use that do not compromise operations, security, readiness, safety, environment, and quality of life. Further, only proposals submitted by authorized local Government representatives eligible to sponsor a public airport will be given the comprehensive evaluation required to conclude a joint-use agreement.
(3) Any aircraft operator with an inflight emergency may land at any Air Force airfield without prior authorization. An inflight emergency is
(b) Air Force requirements will take precedence on Air Force airfields over all civil aircraft operations, whether they were previously authorized or not.
(c) Civil aircraft use of Air Force airfields in the United States will be subject to Federal laws and regulations. Civil aircraft use of Air Force airfields in foreign countries will be subject to US Federal laws and regulations that have extraterritorial effect and to applicable international agreements with the country in which the Air Force installation is located.
(a) As the program manager for joint use, the Civil Aviation Branch, Bases and Units Division, Directorate of Operations (HQ USAF/XOOBC), ensures that all impacts have been considered and addressed before forwarding a joint-use proposal or agreement to the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Installations (SAF/MII), who holds decision authority. All decisions are subject to the environmental impact analysis process as directed by the Environmental Planning Division, Directorate of Environment (HQ USAF/CEVP), and the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Environment, Safety, and Occupational Health (SAF/MIQ). The Air Force Real Estate Agency (AFREA/MI) handles the leases for Air Force-owned land or facilities that may be included in an agreement for joint use.
(b) HQ USAF/XOOBC determines the level of decision authority for landing permits. It delegates decision authority for certain types of use to major commands and installation commanders.
(c) HQ USAF/XOOBC makes the decisions on all requests for exceptions or waivers to this part and related Air Force instructions. The decision process includes consultation with other affected functional area managers when required. Potential impacts on current and future Air Force policies and operations strongly influence such decisions.
(d) Major commands, direct reporting units, and field operating agencies may issue supplements to establish command-unique procedures permitted by and consistent with this part.
This part applies to all regular United States Air Force (USAF), Air National Guard (ANG), and United States Air Force Reserve (USAFR) installations with airfields. This part also applies to civil aircraft use of Air Force ramps at civil airports hosting USAF, ANG, and USAFR units.
Air Force airfields are available for use by civil aircraft so far as such use does not interfere with military operations or jeopardize the military utility of the installation. Access will be granted on an equitable basis. Air Force requirements take precedence over authorized civil aircraft use. This part carries the force of US law, and exceptions are not authorized without prior approval from the Civil Aviation Branch, Bases and Units Division, Directorate of Operations, (HQ USAF/XOOBC), 1480 Air Force Pentagon, Washington DC 20330-1480. Proposed exceptions or waivers are evaluated as to current and future impact on Air Force policy and operations.
(a) The Air Force:
(1) Determines whether civil aircraft use of Air Force airfields is compatible with current and planned military activities.
(2) Normally authorizes civil aircraft use of Air Force airfields only in support of official Government business. If exceptional circumstances warrant, use for other purposes may be authorized.
(3) Acts as clearing authority for civil aircraft use of Air Force airfields, subject to the laws and regulations of the US, or to applicable international agreements (e.g., status of forces agreements) with the country in which the Air Force installation is located.
(4) Reserves the right to suspend any operation that is inconsistent with national defense interests or deemed not in the best interests of the Air Force.
(5) Will terminate authority to use an Air Force airfield if the:
(i) User's liability insurance is canceled.
(ii) User lands for other than the approved purpose of use or is otherwise in violation of this part or clearances and directives hereunder.
(6) Will not authorize use of Air Force airfields:
(i) In competition with civil airports by providing services or facilities that are already available in the private sector.
Use to conduct business with or for the US Government is not considered as competition with civil airports.
(ii) Solely for the convenience of passengers or aircraft operator.
(iii) Solely for transient aircraft servicing.
(iv) By civil aircraft that do not meet US Department of Transportation operating and airworthiness standards.
(v) That selectively promotes, benefits, or favors a specific commercial venture unless equitable consideration is available to all potential users in like circumstances.
(vi) For unsolicited proposals in procuring Government business or contracts.
(vii) Solely for customs-handling purposes.
(viii) When the air traffic control tower and base operations are closed or when a runway is restricted from use by all aircraft.
Requests for waiver of this provision must address liability responsibility, emergency response, and security.
(7) Will not authorize civil aircraft use of Air Force ramps located on civil airfields.
This section does not apply to use of aero club facilities located on Air Force land at civil airports, or civil aircraft chartered by US military departments and authorized use of terminal facilities and ground handling services on the Air Force ramp. Only the DD Form 2400, Civil Aircraft Certificate of Insurance, and DD Form 2402, Civil Aircraft Hold Harmless Agreement, are required for use of Air Force ramps on civil airfields.
(b) Civil aircraft operators must:
(1) Have an approved DD Form 2401, Civil Aircraft Landing Permit, before operating at Air Force airfields, except for emergency use and as indicated in paragraphs (d)(2) and (d)(2)(iii)(E) of this section, and , and § 855.13(b)(1)(ii).
(2) Ensure that pavement load-bearing capacity will support the aircraft to be operated at the Air Force airfield.
(3) Ensure that aircraft to be operated at Air Force airfields are equipped with an operating two-way radio capable of communicating with the air traffic control tower.
(4) Obtain final approval for landing from the installation commander or a designated representative (normally base operations) at least 24 hours prior to arrival.
(5) Not assume that the landing clearance granted by an air traffic control tower facility is a substitute for either the approved civil aircraft landing permit or approval from the installation commander or a designated representative (normally base operations).
(6) Obtain required diplomatic or overflight clearance before operating in foreign airspace.
(7) Pay applicable costs and fees.
(8) File a flight plan before departing the Air Force airfield.
(c) The installation commander or a designated representative:
(1) Exercises administrative and security control over both the aircraft and passengers while on the installation.
(2) May require civil users to delay, reschedule, or reroute aircraft arrivals or departures to preclude interference with military activities.
(3) Cooperates with customs, immigration, health, and other public authorities in connection with civil aircraft arrival and departure.
(d) Decision Authority: The authority to grant civil aircraft use of Air Force airfields is vested in:
(1) Directorate of Operations, Bases and Units Division, Civil Aviation Branch (HQ USAF/XOOBC). HQ USAF/XOOBC may act on any request for civil aircraft use of an Air Force airfield. Decision authority for the following will not be delegated below HQ USAF:
(i) Use of multiple Air Force airfields except as designated in paragraph (d)(2) of this section.
(ii) Those designated as 2 under Approval Authority in Table 1 to this part.
(iii) Any unusual or unique purpose of use not specifically addressed in this part.
(2) Major Command, Field Operating Agency, Direct Reporting Unit, or Installation Commander. With the exception of those uses specifically delegated to another decision authority, major commands (MAJCOMs), field operating agencies (FOAs), direct reporting units (DRUs) and installation commanders or designated representatives have the authority to approve or disapprove civil aircraft landing permit applications (DD Forms 2400, Civil Aircraft Certificate of Insurance; 2401; Civil Aircraft Landing Permit, and 2402, Civil Aircraft Hold Harmless Agreement) at airfields for which they hold oversight responsibilities. Additionally, for expeditious handling of short notice requests, they may grant requests for one-time, official Government business flights that are in the best interest of the US Government and do not violate other provisions of this part. As a minimum, for one-time flights authorized under this section, the aircraft owner or operator must provide the decision authority with insurance verification and a completed DD Form 2402 before the aircraft operates into the Air Force airfield. Air Force authority to approve civil aircraft use of Air Force airfields on foreign soil may be limited. Commanders outside the US must be familiar with base rights agreements or other international agreements that may render inapplicable, in part or in whole, provisions of this part. Decision authority is delegated for specific purposes of use and or locations as follows:
(i) Commander, 611th Air Operations Group (AOG). The Commander, 611th AOG or a designated representative may approve commercial charters, on a case-by-case basis, at all Air Force airfields in Alaska, except Eielson and Elmendorf AFBs, if the purpose of the charter is to transport goods and or materials, such as an electric generator or construction materials for a community center, for the benefit of remote communities that do not have adequate civil airports.
(ii) Commander, Air Mobility Command (AMC). The Commander, AMC or a designated representative may approve permits that grant landing rights at Air Force airfields worldwide in support of AMC contracts.
(iii) US Defense Attache Office (USDAO). The USDAO, acting on behalf of HQ USAF/XOOBC, may grant a request for one-time landing rights at an Air Force airfield provided:
(A) The request is for official Government business of either the US or the country to which the USDAO is accredited.
(B) The Air Force airfield is located within the country to which the USDAO is accredited.
(C) Approval will not violate any agreement with the host country.
(D) The installation commander concurs.
(E) The USDAO has a properly completed DD Form 2402 on file and has verified that the insurance coverage meets the requirements of Table 2 to this part, before the aircraft operates into the Air Force airfield.
(a) Any aircraft owned by:
(1) Any other US Government agency.
(2) US Air Force aero clubs established as prescribed in AFI 34-117, Air Force Aero Club Program, and AFMAN 3-132, Air Force Aero Club Operations
This includes aircraft owned by individuals but leased by an Air Force aero club.
(3) Aero clubs of other US military services.
This includes aircraft owned by individuals but leased by Army or Navy aero clubs.
(4) A US State, County, Municipality, or other political subdivision, when operating to support official business at any level of Government.
(b) Any civil aircraft under:
(1) Lease or contractual agreement for exclusive US Government use on a long-term basis and operated on official business by or for a US Government agency; for example, the Federal
The Government must hold liability responsibility for all damages or injury associated with operation of the aircraft.
(2) Lease or contractual agreement to the Air Force for Air Force Civil Air Patrol (CAP) liaison purposes and operated by an Air Force CAP liaison officer on official Air Force business.
(3) CAP control for a specific mission directed by the Air Force.
(4) Coast Guard control for a specific mission directed by the Coast Guard.
For identification purposes, the aircraft will be marked with a sticker near the port side door identifying it as a Coast Guard Auxiliary aircraft. The pilot will always be in uniform and normally have a copy of a Coast Guard Auxiliary Patrol Order. If the aircraft is operating under “verbal orders of the commander,” the pilot can provide the telephone number of the cognizant Coast Guard commander.
(5) Contractual agreement to any US, State, or local Government agency in support of operations involving safety of life or property as a result of a disaster.
(6) Government furnished property or bailment contract for use by a contractor, provided the Federal, State, or local Government has retained liability responsibilities.
(7) Civil aircraft transporting critically ill or injured individuals or transplant organs to or from an Air Force installation.
(8) Historic aircraft being delivered for Air Force museum exhibits under the provisions of AFI 84-103, Museum System.
The Air Force authorizes use of its airfields for a specific purpose by a named individual or company. The authorization cannot be transferred to a second or third party and does not extend to use for other purposes. An approved landing permit does not obligate the Air Force to provide supplies, equipment, or facilities other than the landing, taxiing, and parking areas. The aircraft crew and passengers are only authorized activities at the installation directly related to the purpose for which use is granted. All users are expected to submit their application (DD Forms 2400, 2401, and 2402) at least 30 days before intended use and, except for use as a weather alternate, CRAF alternate, or emergency landing site, must contact the appropriate installation commander or a designated representative for final landing approval at least 24 hours before arrival. Failure to comply with either time limit may result in denied landing rights.
To allow time for processing, the application (DD Forms 2400, 2401, and 2402) and a self-addressed, stamped envelope should be submitted at least 30 days before the date of the first intended landing. The verification required for each purpose of use must be included with the application. The name of the user must be the same on all forms. Original, hand scribed signatures, not facsimile elements, are required on all forms. Landing Permit Application Instructions are at attachment 3 to this part. The user is responsible for reviewing this part and accurately completing the forms before submitting them to the approving authority.
When a landing permit expires, DD Forms 2401 and 2400 must be resubmitted for continued use of Air Force airfields.
Corporations must resubmit the DD Form 2402 every five years.
The purposes of use normally associated with civil aircraft operations at Air Force airfields are listed in Table 1. Requests for use for purposes other than those listed will be considered and may be approved if warranted by unique circumstances. A separate DD Form 2401 is required for each purpose of use. (Users can have multiple DD Forms 2401 that are covered by a single DD Form 2400 and DD Form 2402.)
Applicants must provide proof of third-party liability insurance on a DD Form 2400, with the amounts stated in
(a) Any insurance presented as a single limit of liability or a combination of primary and excess coverage will be an amount equal to or greater than the each accident minimums indicated in Table 2 to this part for bodily injury (individuals outside the aircraft), property damage, and passengers.
(b) The policy will specifically provide that:
(1) The insurer waives any right of subrogation it may have against the US by reason of any payment made under the policy for injury, death, or property damage that might arise, out of or in connection with the insured's use of any Air Force airfield.
(2) The insurance afforded by the policy applies to the liability assumed by the insured under DD Form 2402.
(3) If the insurer or the insured cancels or reduces the amount of insurance afforded under the listed policy before the expiration date indicated on DD Form 2400, the insurer will send written notice of policy cancellation or coverage reduction to the Air Force approving authority at least 30 days before the effective date of the cancellation or reduction. The policy must state that any cancellation or reduction will not be effective until at least 30 days after such notice is sent.
Upon receipt of an application (DD Forms 2400, 2401, and 2402) for use of an Air Force airfield, the decision authority:
(a) Determines the availability of the airfield and its capability to accommodate the purpose of use requested.
(b) Determines the validity of the request and ensures all entries on DD Forms 2400, 2401, and 2402 are in conformance with this part.
(c) Approves DD Form 2401 (with conditions or limitations noted) by completing all items in Section II—For Use by Approving Authority as follows:
(1) Period of Use (Block 7): The “From” date will be either the first day of approved use or the first day of insurance coverage. The “From” date cannot precede the first day of insurance coverage shown on the DD Form 2400. The “Thru” date is determined by the insurance expiration date and or the purpose of use. For example, the period of use for participants in an Air Force open house will be determined by both insurance coverage and open house dates. The permit would be issued only for the duration of the open house but must not precede or exceed the dates of insurance coverage. Many insurance policies terminate at noon on the expiration date. Therefore, if the insurance expiration is used to determine the permit expiration date, the landing permit will expire one day before the insurance expiration date shown on the DD Form 2400. If the insurance expiration date either exceeds 2 years or is indefinite (for example, “until canceled”), the landing permit will expire 2 years from the issue date or first day of coverage.
(2) Frequency of Use (Block 8) is normally “as required” but may be more specific, such as “one time.”
(3) Identification Number (Block 9): Installation commanders or a designated representative assign a permit number comprised of the last three letters of the installation's International
(4) DD Form 2400 (Dated and Filed) (Block 11a): This block should contain the date from block 1 (Date Issued) on the DD Form 2400 and the identification of the unit or base where the form was approved; i.e., 30 March 1995, HQ USAF/XOOBC.
(5) DD Form 2402 (Dated and Filed) (Block 11b): This block should contain the date from block 4 (Date Signed) on the DD Form 2402 and the identification of the unit or base where the form was approved; i.e., 30 March 1995, HQ USAF/XOOBC.
(6) SA-ALC/SFR, 1014 Andrews Road, Building 1621, Kelly AFB TX 78241-5603 publishes the list of companies authorized to purchase Air Force fuel on credit. Block 12 should be marked “yes” only if the permit holder's name appears on the SA-ALC list.
(7) Landing Fees, Block 13, should be marked as indicated in Table 1 to this part.
(8) Permit Amendments: New entries or revisions to an approved DD Form 2401 may be made only by or with the consent of the approving authority.
(d) Provides the applicant with written disapproval if:
(1) Use will interfere with operations, security, or safety.
(2) Adequate civil facilities are collocated.
(3) Purpose of use is not official Government business and adequate civil facilities are available in the proximity of the requested Air Force airfield.
(4) Use will constitute competition with civil airports or air carriers.
(5) Applicant has not fully complied with this part.
(e) Distributes the approved DD Form 2401 before the first intended landing, when possible, as follows:
(1) Retains original.
(2) Returns two copies to the user.
(3) Provides a copy to HQ USAF/XOOBC.
HQ USAF/XOOBC will provide a computer report of current landing permits to the MAJCOMs, FOAs, DRUs, and installations.
(a) Civil aircraft operators may be invited to a specified Air Force airfield for:
(1) A base open house to perform or provide a static display.
(2) A flying safety seminar.
(b) Civil fly-in procedures:
(1) The installation commander or a designated representative:
(i) Requests approval from the MAJCOM, FOA, or DRU with an information copy to HQ USAF/XOOBC/XOOO and SAF/PAC.
(ii) Ensures that DD Form 2402 is completed by each user.
DD Forms 2400 and 2401 are not required for fly-in participants if flying activity consists of a single landing and takeoff with no spectators other than flightline or other personnel required to support the aircraft operations.
(2) The MAJCOM, FOA, or DRU ensures HQ USAF/XOOBC/XOOO and SAF/PAC are advised of the approval or disapproval for the fly-in.
(3) Aerial performance by civil aircraft at an Air Force open house requires MAJCOM or FOA approval and an approved landing permit as specified in AFI 35-201, Community Relations
(a)
(1) Informs the operator of subpart B procedures and the requirement for notifying the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) as specified in section 6 of the FAA Airman's Information Manual.
(2) Notifies the Federal Aviation Flight Standards District Office (FSDO) by telephone or telefax, followed by written notification using FAA Form 8020-9, 8020-11, or 8020-17, as appropriate. A copy of the written notification must be provided to HQ USAF/XOOBC.
(3) Ensures the operator completes a DD Form 2402, and collects applicable charges. (In some instances, it may be necessary to arrange to bill the user for the appropriate charges.) DD Form 2402 need not be completed for commercial carriers if it is known that the form is already on file at HQ USAF/XOOBC.
(4) In a foreign country, notifies the local US Defense Attache Office (USDAO) by telephone or telefax and, where applicable, the appropriate USDAO in the country of aircraft registry, followed by written notification with an information copy to HQ USAF/XOOBC and the civil aviation authority of the country or countries concerned.
(b)
(1) The Air Force will use any method or means to clear an aircraft or wreckage from the runway to preclude interference with essential military operations after coordinating with the FSDO and National Transportation Safety Board. Removal efforts will minimize damage to the aircraft or wreckage; however, military or other operational factors may be overriding.
(2) An operator making an emergency landing:
(i) Is not charged a landing fee.
(ii) Pays all costs for labor, material, parts, use of equipment and tools, and so forth, to include, but not limited to:
(A) Spreading foam on the runway.
(B) Damage to runway, lighting, and navigation aids.
(C) Rescue, crash, and fire control services.
(D) Movement and storage of aircraft.
(E) Performance of minor maintenance.
(F) Fuel or oil (AFM 67-1, vol 1, part three, chapter 1, Air Force Stock Fund and DPSC Assigned Item Procedures
(c)
(i) Landed due to flight disorientation.
(ii) Mistook the Air Force airfield for a civil airport.
(2) Normal landing fees must be charged and an unauthorized landing fee may be assessed to compensate the Government for the added time, effort, and risk involved in the inadvertent landing. Only the unauthorized landing fee may be waived by the installation commander or a designated representative if, after interviewing the pilot-in-command and appropriate Government personnel, it is determined that flying safety was not significantly impaired. The pilot-in-command may appeal the imposition of an unauthorized landing fee for an inadvertent landing to the MAJCOM, FOA, or DRU whose decision will be final. A subsequent inadvertent landing will be processed as an intentional unauthorized landing.
(d)
(i) Landed without an approved DD Form 2401 on board the aircraft.
(ii) Landed for a purpose not approved on the DD Form 2401.
(iii) Operated an aircraft not of a model or registration number on the approved DD Form 2401.
(iv) Did not request or obtain the required final approval from the installation commander or a designated representative at least 24 hours before aircraft arrival.
(v) Did not obtain landing clearance from the air traffic control tower.
(vi) Landed with an expired DD Form 2401.
(vii) Obtained landing authorization through fraudulent methods, or
(viii) Landed after having been denied a request to land from any Air Force authority, including the control tower.
(2) Normal landing fees and an unauthorized landing fee must be charged. Intentional unauthorized landings increase reporting, processing, and staffing costs; therefore, the unauthorized landing fee for paragraph (d)(1)(i) through (d)(1)(vi) of this section will be increased by 100 percent. The unauthorized landing fee will be increased 200 percent for paragraph (d)(1)(vii) and (d)(1)(viii) of this section.
(3) Intentional unauthorized landings may be prosecuted as a criminal trespass, especially if a debarment letter has been issued. Repeated intentional unauthorized landings prejudice the user's FAA operating authority and jeopardize future use of Air Force airfields.
(a) An installation commander in the United States, its territories, or its possessions may choose to detain an aircraft for an intentional unauthorized landing until:
(1) The unauthorized landing has been reported to the FAA, HQ USAF/XOOBC, and the appropriate US Attorney.
(2) All applicable charges have been paid.
(b) If the installation commander wishes to release the aircraft before the investigation is completed, he or she must obtain bond, promissory note, or other security for payment of the highest charge that may be assessed.
(c) The pilot and passengers will not be detained longer than is necessary for identification, although they may be permitted to remain in a lounge or other waiting area on the base at their request for such period as the installation commander may determine (normally not to exceed close of business hours at the home office of the entity owning the aircraft, if the operator does not own the aircraft). No person, solely due to an intentional unauthorized landing, will be detained involuntarily after identification is complete without coordination from the appropriate US Attorney, the MAJCOM, FOA, or DRU, and HQ USAF/XOOBC.
The time that an aircraft spends on an installation is at the discretion of the installation commander or a designated representative but should be linked to the purpose of use authorized. Parking and storage may be permitted on a nonexclusive, temporary, or intermittent basis, when compatible with military requirements. At those locations where there are Air Force aero clubs, parking and storage privileges may be permitted in the area designated for aero club use without regard for the purpose of use authorized, if consistent with aero club policies. Any such permission may be revoked upon notice, based on military needs and the installation commander's discretion.
(a) Landing, parking, and storage fees (Tables 3 and 4 to this part) are determined by aircraft maximum gross takeoff weight (MGTOW). All fees are normally due and collectible at the time of use of the Air Force airfield. DD Form 1131, Cash Collection Voucher, is used to deposit the fees with the base accounting and finance officer. In some instances, it may be necessary to bill the user for charges incurred.
(b) Landing fees are not charged when the aircraft is operating in support of official Government business or for any purpose, the cost of which is subject to reimbursement by the US Government. Parking and Storage Fees (Table 4 to this part) are charged if an
When a user qualifies under the provisions of AFM 67-1, vol. 1, part three, chapter 1, Air Force Stock Fund and DPSC Assigned Item Procedures,
Supplies and services furnished to a user will be charged for as prescribed in AFM 67-1, volume 1, part one, chapter 10, section N, Basic Air Force Supply Procedures, and AFR 177-102, paragraph 28.24, Commercial Transactions at Base Level.
An agreement between the Air Force and a local Government agency is required before a community can establish a public airport on an Air Force airfield.
(a) Joint use of an Air Force airfield will be considered only if there will be no cost to the Air Force and no compromise of mission capability, security, readiness, safety, or quality of life. Further, only proposals submitted by authorized representatives of local Government agencies eligible to sponsor a public airport will be given the comprehensive evaluation required to conclude a joint use agreement. All reviewing levels will consider and evaluate such requests on an individual basis.
(b) Generally, the Air Force is willing to consider joint use at an airfield if it does not have pilot training, nuclear storage, or a primary mission that requires a high level of security. Civil operations must begin within 5 years of the effective date of an agreement. Operational considerations will be based on the premise that military aircraft will receive priority handling (except in emergencies), if traffic must be adjusted or resequenced. The Air Force normally will not consider personnel increases solely to support civil operations but, if accommodated, all costs must be fully reimbursed by the joint-use sponsor. The Air Force will not provide personnel to install, operate, maintain, alter, or relocate navigation equipment or aircraft arresting systems for the sole use of civil aviation. Changes in equipment or systems to support the civil operations must be funded by the joint-use sponsor. The Air Force must approve siting, design, and construction of the civil facilities.
To initiate consideration for joint use of an Air Force airfield, a formal proposal must be submitted to the installation commander by a local Government agency eligible to sponsor a public airport. The proposal must include:
(a) Type of operation.
(b) Type and number of aircraft to be located on or operating at the airfield.
(c) An estimate of the number of annual operations for the first 5 years.
(a) Upon receipt of a joint-use proposal, the installation commander, without precommitment or comment, will send the documents to the Air Force Representative (AFREP) at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Regional Office within the geographical area where the installation is located. AFI 13-201, Air Force Airspace Management,
(b) The AFREP provides comments to the installation commander on airspace, air traffic control, and other related areas, and informs local FAA personnel of the proposal for joint use.
(c) The installation, the numbered Air Force, and the major command (MAJCOM) will then evaluate the proposal. The MAJCOM will send the comments and recommendations from all reviewing officials to HQ USAF/XOOBC.
(d) Factors considered in evaluating joint use include, but are not limited to:
(1) Impact on current and programmed military activities at the installation.
(2) Compatibility of proposed civil aviation operations with present and planned military operations.
(3) Compatibility of communications systems.
(4) Instrument capability of crew and aircraft.
(5) Runway and taxiway configuration. (Installations with single runways normally will not be considered for joint use.)
(6) Security. The possibility for sabotage, terrorism, and vandalism increases with joint use; therefore, joint use will not be considered:
(i) If military and civil aircraft would be collocated in hangars or on ramps.
(ii) If access to the civil aviation facilities would require routine transit through the base.
(7) Fire, crash, and rescue requirements.
(8) Availability of public airports to accommodate the current and future air transportation needs of the community through construction or expansion.
(9) Availability of land for civil airport complex.
The majority of land required for a terminal and other support facilities must be located outside the installation perimeter or at a site that will allow maximum separation of military and civil activities. If the community does not already own the needed land, it must be acquired at no expense to the Air Force. The Air Force may make real property that is not presently needed, but not excess, available by lease under 10 U.S.C 2667. An application for lease of Air Force real property must be processed through the chain of command to the Air Force Real Estate Agency, 172 Luke Avenue, Suite 104, Building 5683, Bolling AFB DC 20332-5113, as prescribed in AFI 32-9003, Granting Temporary Use of Air Force Real Property
(10) Sponsor's resources to pay a proportionate share of costs for runway operation and maintenance and other jointly used facilities or otherwise provide compensation that is of direct benefit to the Government.
(e) When the Air Force determines that joint use may be compatible with its defense mission, the environmental impact analysis process must be completed before a final decision can be made. The Air Force will act as lead agency for the preparation of the environmental analysis (32 CFR part 989, Environmental Impact Analysis Process). The local Government agency representatives, working in coordination with Air Force personnel at the installation and other concerned local or Federal officials, must identify the proposed action, develop conceptual alternatives, and provide planning, socioeconomic, and environmental information as specified by the appropriate MAJCOM and HQ USAF/CEVP. The information must be complete and accurate in order to serve as a basis for the preparation of the Air Force environmental documents. All costs associated with the environmental studies required to complete the environmental impact analysis process must be paid by the joint use sponsor. Information on environmental analysis requirements is available from HQ USAF/CEVP, 1260 Air Force Pentagon, Washington DC 20330-1260.
(f) HQ USAF/XOOBC can begin negotiating a joint-use agreement after the environmental impact analysis process is completed. The agreement must be
(1) Joint-use agreements are tailored to accommodate the needs of the community and minimize the impact on the defense mission. Although each agreement is unique, attachment 4 to this part provides basic terms that are frequently included in such agreements.
(2) Agreements for joint use at Air Force airfields on foreign soil are subject to the requirements of AFI 51-701, Negotiating, Concluding, Reporting, and Maintaining International Agreements
(g) HQ USAF/XOOBC and SAF/MII approval is required to amend existing joint use agreements. The evaluation and decision processes followed in concluding an initial joint-use proposal must be used to amend existing joint-use agreements.
(a) Temporary use of Air Force runways occasionally is needed for extended periods when a local civil airport is unavailable or to accommodate special events or projects. Such use requires agreement between the Air Force and the local airport authority or other equivalent responsible entity.
(b) The local proponent and Air Force personnel should draft and submit an agreement to the MAJCOM Director for Operations, or equivalent level, for review and comment. The agreement must address all responsibilities for handling aircraft, cargo, and passengers, and hold the Air Force harmless of all liabilities. The agreement will not exceed 3 years. Although each agreement will be unique, attachment 5 of this part provides one example. The draft agreement, with all comments and recommendations, must be sent to HQ USAF/XOOBC for final approval.
* Formerly Shemya AFB.
A3.1. DD Form 2400, Civil Aircraft Certificate of Insurance: The insurance company or its authorized agent must complete and sign the DD Form 2400. Corrections to the form made using a different typewriter, pen, or whiteout must be initialed by the signatory. THE FORM CANNOT BE COMPLETED BY THE AIRCRAFT OWNER OR OPERATOR. Upon expiration, the DD Form 2400 must be resubmitted along with DD Form 2401 for continued use of Air Force airfields. The DD Form 2400 may be submitted to the decision authority by either the user or insurer. (Approved by the Office of Management and Budget under control number 0701-0050)
A3.1.1. Block 1, Date Issued. The date the DD Form 2400 is completed by the signatory.
A3.1.2. Block 2a and 2b, Insurer Name, Address. The name and address of the insurance company.
A3.1.3. Block 3a and 3b. Insured Name, Address. The name and address of the aircraft owner and or operator. (The name of the user must be the same on all the forms.)
A3.1.4. Block 4a, Policy Number(s). The policy number must be provided. Binder numbers or other assigned numbers will not be accepted in lieu of the policy number.
A3.1.5. Block 4b, Effective Date. The first day of current insurance coverage.
A3.1.6. Block 4c, Expiration Date. The last day of current insurance coverage. The DD Form 2400 is valid until one day before the insurance expiration date. A DD Form 2400 with the statement “until canceled,” in lieu of a specific expiration date, is valid for two years from the issue date.
A3.1.7. Block 5, Aircraft Liability Coverage. The amount of split limit coverage. All boxes in block 5 must be completed to specify the coverage for: each person (top line, left to right) outside the aircraft (bodily injury) and each passenger; and the total coverage per accident (second line, left to right) for: persons outside the aircraft (bodily injury), property damage, and passengers. IF BLOCK 5 IS USED, BLOCK 6 SHOULD NOT BE USED. All coverages must be stated in US dollars. ALL SEATS THAT CAN BE USED FOR PASSENGERS MUST BE INSURED. See Table 2 for required minimum coverage.
A3.1.8. Block 6, Single Limit. The maximum amount of coverage per accident. IF BLOCK 6 IS USED, BLOCK 5 SHOULD NOT BE USED. The minimum coverage required for a combined single limit is determined by adding the minimums specified in the “each accident” line of Table 2. All coverages must be stated in US dollars. ALL SEATS THAT CAN BE USED FOR PASSENGERS MUST BE INSURED.
A3.1.9. Block 7, Excess Liability. The amount of coverage which exceeds primary coverage. All coverages must be stated in US dollars.
A3.1.10. Block 8, Provisions of Amendments or Endorsements of Listed Policy(ies). Any modification of this block by the insurer or insured invalidates the DD Form 2400.
A3.1.11. Block 9a, Typed Name of Insurer's Authorized Representative. Individual must be an employee of the insurance company, an agent of the insurance company, or an employee of an insurance broker.
A3.1.12. Block 9b, Signature. The form must be signed in blue ink so that hand scribed, original signatures are easy to identify. Signature stamps or any type of facsimile signature cannot be accepted.
A3.1.13. Block 9c, Title. Self-explanatory.
A3.1.14. Block 9d, Telephone Number. Self-explanatory.
A3.1.15. THE REVERSE OF THE FORM MAY BE USED IF ADDITIONAL SPACE IS REQUIRED.
A3.2. DD Form 2401, Civil Aircraft Landing Permit. A separate DD Form 2401 must be submitted for each purpose of use (Table 1). (Approved by the Office of Management and Budget under control number 0701-0050)
A3.2.1. Block 1a. The name of the owner or operator. (The name of the user must be the same on all the forms.)
A3.2.2. Block 1b. This block should only be completed if the applicant is a subsidiary, division, etc, of another company.
A3.2.3. Block 1c. Business or home address, whichever is applicable, of applicant.
A3.2.4. Block 2. List the airfields where the aircraft will be operating. The statement “Any US Air Force Installation Worldwide” is acceptable for users performing AMC and White House Press Corps charters. “All Air Force airfields in the CONUS” is acceptable, if warranted by official Government business, for all users.
A3.2.5. Block 3. Self-explanatory. (Users will not necessarily be denied landing rights if pilots are not instrument rated and current.)
A3.2.6. Block 4. Provide a brief explanation of purpose for use. The purposes normally associated with use of Air Force airfields are listed in Table 1. If use for other purposes is requested, it may be approved if warranted by unique circumstances. (The verification specified for each purpose of use must be included with the application.)
A3.2.7. Block 5. EXCEPT AS NOTED FOR BLOCK 5C, ALL ITEMS MUST BE COMPLETED.
A3.2.8. Block 5a and Block 5b. Self-explanatory.
A3.2.9. Block 5c. If the DD Form 2400, Certificate of Insurance, indicates coverage for “any aircraft of the listed model owned and or operated,” the same statement can be used in block 5c in lieu of specific registration numbers.
A3.2.10. Block 5d. The capacity provided must reflect only the number of crew required to operate the aircraft. The remaining seats are considered passenger seats.
A3.2.11. Block 5e. Self-explanatory.
A3.2.12. Block 5d. A two-way radio is required. Landing rights will not necessarily be denied for lack of strobe lights, a transponder, or IFR capabilities.
A3.2.13. Block 6a. Self-explanatory.
A3.2.14. Block 6b. If the applicant is an individual, this block should not be completed.
A3.2.15. Block 6c. This block should contain a daytime telephone number.
A3.2.16. Block 6d. The form must be signed in blue ink so that hand scribed, original signatures are easy to identify. Signature stamps or any type of facsimile signature cannot be accepted.
A3.2.17. Block 6e. Self-explanatory.
A3.2.18. THE REVERSE OF THE FORM MAY BE USED IF ADDITIONAL SPACE IS REQUIRED.
BLOCKS 7A THROUGH 14C ARE NOT COMPLETED BY THE APPLICANT.
A3.2.19. Blocks 7a and 7b. The expiration date of a permit is determined by the insurance expiration date or the purpose of use. For example, the dates of an air show will determine the expiration date of a permit approved for participation in the air show. If the insurance expiration is used to determine the permit expiration date, the landing permit will expire one day before the insurance expiration date shown on the DD Form 2400, or 2 years from the date the permit is issued when the insurance expiration date either exceeds 2 years or is indefinite (for example, “until canceled”).
A3.2.20. APPROVED PERMITS CANNOT BE CHANGED WITHOUT THE CONSENT OF THE APPROVING AUTHORITY.
A3.2.21. DD FORMS 2400 AND 2401 MUST BE RESUBMITTED TO RENEW A LANDING PERMIT. (Corporations must resubmit the DD Form 2402 every five years.)
A3.3. DD Form 2402, Civil Aircraft Hold Harmless Agreement. A form submitted and accepted by an approving authority for an individual remains valid and need not be resubmitted to the same approving authority, unless canceled for cause. Forms submitted by companies, organizations, associations, etc, must be resubmitted at least every five years. (Approved by the Office of Management and Budget under control number 0701-0050)
A3.3.1. Block 2a(1). This block should contain the user's name if the applicant is a company. If the hold harmless agreement is intended to cover other entities of a parent company, their names must also be included in this block.
A3.3.2. Block 2a(2). This block should contain the user's address if the applicant is a company.
A3.3.3. Block 2b(1). This block should contain the name of the individual applying for a landing permit or the name of a corporate officer that is authorized to legally bind the corporation from litigation against the Air Force.
A3.3.4. Block 2b(2). This block should contain the address of the individual applying for a landing permit. A company address is only required if it is different from the address in block 2a(2).
A3.3.5. Block 2b(3). The form must be signed in blue ink so that hand scribed, original signatures are easy to identify. Signature stamps or any type of facsimile signature cannot be accepted.
A3.3.6. Block 2b(4). This block should only be completed when the applicant is a company, organization, association, etc.
A3.3.7. Block 3a(1). If the applicant is a company, organization, association, etc, the form must be completed and signed by the corporate secretary or a second corporate officer (other than the officer executing DD Form 2402) to certify the signature of the first officer. As necessary, the US Air Force also may require that the form be authenticated by an appropriately designated third official.
A3.3.8. Block 3a(2). The form must be signed in blue ink so that hand scribed, original signatures are easy to identify. Signature stamps or any type of facsimile signature cannot be accepted.
A3.3.9. Block 3a(3). Self-explanatory.
A3.3.10. Block 4. Self-explanatory.
This Joint Use Agreement is made and entered into this ____ day of ____ 19__, by and between the Secretary of the Air Force, for and on behalf of the United States of America (“Air Force”) and an airport sponsor (“Sponsor”) a public body eligible to sponsor a public airport.
WHEREAS, the Air Force owns and operates the runways and associated flight facilities (collectively “flying facilities”) located at Warbucks Air Force Base, USA (“WAFB”); and
WHEREAS, Sponsor desires to use the flying facilities at WAFB to permit operations by general aviation aircraft and commercial air carriers (scheduled and nonscheduled) jointly with military aircraft; and
WHEREAS, the Air Force considers that this Agreement will be in the public interest, and is agreeable to joint use of the flying facilities at WAFB; and
WHEREAS, this Agreement neither addresses nor commits any Air Force real property or other facilities that may be required for exclusive use by Sponsor to support either present or future civil aviation operations and activities in connection with joint use; and
WHEREAS, the real property and other facilities needed to support civil aviation operations are either already available to or will be diligently pursued by Sponsor;
NOW, THEREFORE, it is agreed:
a. The Air Force hereby authorizes Sponsor to permit aircraft equipped with two-way radios capable of communicating with the WAFB Control Tower to use the flying facilities at WAFB, subject to the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement and those Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR) applicable to civil aircraft operations. Civil aircraft operations are limited to 20,000 per calendar year. An operation is a landing or a takeoff. Civil aircraft using the flying facilities of WAFB on official Government business as provided in Air Force Instruction (AFI) 10-1001, Civil Aircraft Landing Permits, are not subject to this Agreement.
b. Aircraft using the flying facilities of WAFB under the authority granted to Sponsor by this Agreement shall be entitled to use those for landings, takeoffs, and movement of aircraft and will normally park only in the area made available to Sponsor and designated by them for that purpose.
c. Government aircraft taking off and landing at WAFB will have priority over all civil aircraft at all times.
d. All ground and air movements of civil aircraft using the flying facilities of WAFB under this Agreement, and movements of all other vehicles across Air Force taxiways, will be controlled by the WAFB Control Tower. Civil aircraft activity will coincide with the WAFB Control Tower hours of operation. Any additional hours of the WAFB Control Tower or other essential airfield management, or operational requirements beyond those needed by the Air Force, shall be arranged and funded (or reimbursed) by Sponsor. These charges, if any, shall be in addition to the annual charge in paragraph 2 and payable not less frequently than quarterly.
e. No civil aircraft may use the flying facilities for training.
f. Air Force-owned airfield pavements made available for use under this Agreement shall be for use on an “as is, where is” basis. The Air Force will be responsible for snow removal only as required for Government mission accomplishment.
g. Dust or any other erosion or nuisance that is created by, or arises out of, activities or operations by civil aircraft authorized use of the flying facilities under this Agreement will be corrected by Sponsor at no expense to the Air Force, using standard engineering methods and procedures.
h. All phases of planning and construction of new runways and primary taxiways on Sponsor property must be coordinated with the WAFB Base Civil Engineer. Those intended to be jointly used by Air Force aircraft will be designed to support the type of military aircraft assigned to or commonly transient through WAFB.
i. Coordination with the WAFB Base Civil Engineer is required for planning and construction of new structures or exterior alteration of existing structures that are owned or leased by Sponsor.
j. Sponsor shall comply with the procedural and substantive requirements established by the Air Force, and Federal, State,
k. Sponsor shall implement civil aircraft noise mitigation plans and controls at no expense to and as directed by the Air Force, pursuant to the requirements of the WAFB Air Installation Compatible Use Zone (AICUZ) study; the FAA part 150 study; and environmental impact statements and environmental assessments, including supplements, applicable to aircraft operations at WAFB.
l. Sponsor shall comply, at no expense to the Air Force, with all applicable FAA security measures and procedures as described in the Airport Security Program for WAFB.
m. Sponsor shall not post any notices or erect any billboards or signs, nor authorize the posting of any notices or the erection of any billboards or signs at the airfield of any nature whatsoever, other than identification signs attached to buildings, without prior written approval from the WAFB Base Civil Engineer.
n. Sponsor shall neither transfer nor assign this Agreement without the prior written consent of the Air Force.
a. For the purpose of reimbursing the Air Force for Sponsor's share of the cost of maintaining and operating the flying facilities of WAFB as provided in this Agreement, Sponsor shall pay, with respect to civil aircraft authorized to use those facilities under this Agreement, the sum of (specify sum) annually. Payment shall be made quarterly, in equal installments.
b. All payments due pursuant to this Agreement shall be payable to the order of the Treasurer of the United States of America, and shall be made to the Accounting and Finance Officer, WAFB, within thirty (30) days after each quarter. Quarters are deemed to end on December 31, March 31, June 30, and September 30. Payment shall be made promptly when due, without any deduction or setoff. Interest at the rate prescribed by the Secretary of the Treasury of the United States shall be due and payable on any payment required to be made under this Agreement that is not paid within ten (10) days after the date on which such payment is due and end on the day payment is received by the Air Force.
Sponsor shall be responsible for providing services, maintenance, and emergency repairs for civil aircraft authorized to use the flying facilities of WAFB under this Agreement at no cost to the Air Force. If Air Force assistance is required to repair an aircraft, Sponsor shall reimburse the Air Force for all expenses of such services. Any required reimbursement shall be paid not less frequently than quarterly. These charges are in addition to the annual charge specified in paragraph 2.
a. The Air Force maintains the level of fire fighting, crash, and rescue capability required to support the military mission at WAFB. The Air Force agrees to respond to fire, crash, and rescue emergencies involving civil aircraft outside the hangars or other structures within the limits of its existing capabilities, equipment, and available personnel, only at the request of Sponsor, and subject to subparagraphs b, c, and d below. Air Force fire fighting, crash, and rescue equipment and personnel shall not be routinely located in the airfield movement area during nonemergency landings by civil aircraft.
b. Sponsor shall be responsible for installing, operating, and maintaining, at no cost to the Air Force, the equipment and safety devices required for all aspects of handling and support for aircraft on the ground as specified in the FARs and National Fire Protection Association procedures and standards.
c. Sponsor agrees to release, acquit, and forever discharge the Air Force, its officers, agents, and employees from all liability arising out of or connected with the use of or failure to supply in individual cases, Air Force fire fighting and or crash and rescue equipment or personnel for fire control and crash and rescue activities pursuant to this Agreement. Sponsor further agrees to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the Air Force, its officers, agents, and employees against any and all claims, of whatever description, arising out of or connected with such use of, or failure to supply Air Force fire fighting and or crash and rescue equipment or personnel.
d. Sponsor will reimburse the Air Force for expenses incurred by the Air Force for fire fighting and or crash and rescue materials expended in connection with providing such service to civil aircraft. The Air Force may, at its option, with concurrence of the National Transportation Safety Board, remove crashed civil aircraft from Air Force-owned pavements or property and shall follow existing Air Force directives and or instructions in recovering the cost of such removal.
e. Failure to comply with the above conditions upon reasonable notice to cure or termination of this Agreement under the provisions of paragraph 7 may result in termination of fire protection and crash and rescue response by the Air Force.
f. The Air Force commitment to assist Sponsor with fire protection shall continue only so long as a fire fighting and crash and rescue organization is authorized for military operations at WAFB. The Air Force shall have no obligation to maintain or provide a fire fighting, and crash and rescue organization or fire fighting and crash and rescue equipment; or to provide any increase in fire fighting and crash and rescue equipment or personnel; or to conduct training or inspections for purposes of assisting Sponsor with fire protection.
a. Sponsor will assume all risk of loss and or damage to property or injury to or death of persons by reason of civil aviation use of the flying facilities of WAFB under this Agreement, including, but not limited to, risks connected with the provision of services or goods by the Air Force to Sponsor or to any user under this Agreement. Sponsor further agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the Air Force against, and to defend at Sponsor expense, all claims for loss, damage, injury, or death sustained by any individual or corporation or other entity and arising out of the use of the flying facilities of WAFB and or the provision of services or goods by the Air Force to Sponsor or to any user, whether the claims be based in whole, or in part, on the negligence or fault of the Air Force or its contractors or any of their officers, agents, and employees, or based on any concept of strict or absolute liability, or otherwise.
b. Sponsor will carry a policy of liability and indemnity insurance satisfactory to the Air Force, naming the United States of America as an additional insured party, to protect the Government against any of the aforesaid losses and or liability, in the sum of not less than (specify sum) bodily injury and property damage combined for any one accident. Sponsor shall provide the Air Force with a certificate of insurance evidencing such coverage. A new certificate must be provided on the occasion of policy renewal or change in coverage. All policies shall provide that: (1) No cancellation, reduction in amount, or material change in coverage thereof shall be effective until at least thirty (30) days after receipt of notice of such cancellation, reduction, or change by the installation commander at WAFB, (2) any losses shall be payable notwithstanding any act or failure to act or negligence of Sponsor or the Air Force or any other person, and (3) the insurer shall have no right of subrogation against the United States.
This Agreement shall become effective immediately and shall remain in force and effect for a term of 25 years, unless otherwise renegotiated or terminated under the provisions of paragraph 7, but in no event shall the Agreement survive the termination or expiration of Sponsor's right to use, by license, lease, or transfer of ownership, of the land areas used in connection with joint use of the flying facilities of WAFB.
a. If significant change in circumstances or conditions relevant to this Agreement should occur, the Air Force and Sponsor may enter into negotiations to revise the provisions of this Agreement, including financial and insurance provisions, upon sixty (60) days written notice to the other party. Any such revision or modification of this Agreement shall require the written mutual agreement and signatures of both parties. Unless such agreement is reached, the existing agreement shall continue in full force and effect, subject to termination or suspension under this section.
b. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, the Air Force may terminate this Agreement: (1) At any time by the Secretary of the Air Force, giving ninety (90) days written notice to Sponsor, provided that the Secretary of the Air Force determines, in writing, that paramount military necessity requires that joint use be terminated, or (2) at any time during any national emergency, present or future, declared by the President or the Congress of the United States, or (3) in the event that Sponsor ceases operation of the civil activities at WAFB for a period of one (1) year, or (4) in the event Sponsor violates any of the terms and conditions of this Agreement and continues and persists therein for thirty (30) days after written notification to cure such violation. In addition to the above rights, the Air Force may at any time suspend this agreement if violations of its terms and conditions by Sponsor create a significant danger to safety, public health, or the environment at WAFB.
c. The failure of either the Air Force or Sponsor to insist, in any one or more instances, upon the strict performance of any of the terms, conditions, or provisions of this Agreement shall not be construed as a waiver or relinquishment of the right to the future performance of any such terms, conditions, or provisions. No provision of this Agreement shall be deemed to have been waived by either party unless such waiver be in writing signed by such party.
a. No notice, order, direction, determination, requirement, consent, or approval under this Agreement shall be of any effect unless it is in writing and addressed as provided herein.
b. Written communication to Sponsor shall be delivered or mailed to Sponsor addressed: The Sponsor, 9000 Airport Blvd, USA.
c. Written communication to the Air Force shall be delivered or mailed to the Air Force addressed: Commander, WAFB, USA.
This Agreement does not affect the WAFB-Sponsor Fire Mutual Aid Agreement.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the respective duly authorized representatives of the parties hereto have executed this Agreement on the date set forth below opposite their respective signatures.
This letter of agreement establishes policies, responsibilities, and procedures for commercial air carrier operations at Warbucks AFB, USA, (WAFB) for the period (date) through (date) Military requirements will take precedence over civil aircraft operations. Should a conflict arise between air carrier and Air Force operational procedures, Air Force procedures will apply.
The following air carriers are authorized use, provided they have a civil aircraft landing permit approved at HQ USAF/XOOBC for such use:
The Bunker International Airport (BIA) manager or air carrier station managers will ensure that the WAFB Airfield Manager is provided current airline schedules during the approved period of use. Every effort will be made to avoid disruption of the air carriers' schedules; however, it is understood that the installation commander will suspend or change flight plans when required to preclude interference with military activities or operations.
The BIA terminal will be used for passenger loading and unloading. Security checks will be performed at the terminal before loading passengers on buses. Luggage on arriving aircraft will be directly offloaded onto vehicles and delivered to the BIA terminal. Each arriving and departing bus or vehicle caravan will be accompanied by a credentialed representative of the airline or BIA to ensure its integrity enroute. Buses or vehicles transporting passengers to board an aircraft will not depart WAFB until the passengers are airborne. Unless an emergency exists, arriving passengers will not deplane until the buses are available for transportation to the BIA terminal. All checked luggage will be picked up at BIA and delivered directly to the departing aircraft. Buses will proceed directly to the aircraft at WAFB alert ramp. Luggage on arriving aircraft will be directly offloaded onto a vehicle parked on the WAFB alert ramp. WAFB will be notified, in advance, if a local funeral home requires access for pickup or delivery of deceased persons.
Air Force-owned fuel will not be provided. The air carriers will provide their own ground support equipment. Refueling equipment from BIA will be prepositioned at WAFB on the alert ramp. The Air Force shall not be responsible for any damage or loss to such equipment, and BIA expressly assumes all risks of any such loss or damage and agrees to indemnify and hold the United States harmless against any such damage or loss. No routine aircraft maintenance will be accomplished at WAFB. Emergency repairs and or maintenance are only authorized to avoid extended parking and storage of civil aircraft at WAFB.
The installation commander will exercise administrative and security control over both the aircraft and passengers on WAFB. Customs officials will be transported to and from the base by air carrier representatives. The installation commander will cooperate with customer, health, and other public officials to expedite arrival and departure of the aircraft. Air carrier representatives will notify the WAFB Airfield Manager, in advance, of armed security or law enforcement officers arriving or departing on a flight. BIA officials and air carrier representatives must provide the WAFB Airfield Manager a list of employees, contractors, and vehicles requiring flightline access. Temporary passes will be issued to authorized individuals and vehicles.
BIA will provide technical information and training for WAFB Fire Department personnel prior to (date) . Fire, Crash, and Rescue Services will be provided in an emergency, but fire trucks will not routinely park on the flightline for aircraft arrivals and departures. BIA will reimburse WAFB for all such services.
The Air Force shall not be responsible for damages to property or injuries to persons which may arise from or be incident to the use of WAFB by BIA under this Agreement, or for damages to the property of BIA or injuries to the person of BIA's officers, agents, servants, employees, or invitees. BIA agrees to assume all risks of loss or damage to property and injury or death to persons by reason of or incident to the use of WAFB under this Agreement and expressly waives any and all claims against the United States for any such loss, damage, personal injury, or death caused by or occurring as a consequence of such use. BIA further agrees to indemnify, save, and hold the United States, its officers, agents, and employees harmless from and against all claims, demands, or actions, liabilities, judgments, costs, and attorneys fees, arising out of, claimed on account of, or in any manner predicated upon personal injury, death or property damage resulting from, related to, caused by, or arising out of the use of WAFB under this Agreement.
Landing and parking fees will be charged in accordance with to AFI 10-1001, Civil Aircraft Landing Permits. Charges will be made in accordance with the appropriate Air Force Instructions for any services or supplies required from WAFB. The WAFB Airfield Manager will be responsible for consolidating all charges which will be billed to BIA not later than (date) by the Accounting and Finance Office.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the respective duly authorized representatives of the parties hereto have executed this Agreement on the date set forth below opposite their respective signatures.
10 U.S.C. 2640, 8013.
The following references apply to this part:
(a) 10 U.S.C. 2640, Charter Air Transportation of Members of the Armed Forces.
(b) Department of Defense Directive 4500.53,
Department of Defense Directive 4500.53,
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
(f)
(1) DOD Air Carrier Survey and Analysis Office;
(2) DOD Commercial Airlift Review Board (CARB);
(3) Commander-in-Chief, U.S. Transportation Command, or USCINCTRANS; and
(4) Secretary of Defense. (
(g)
(1)
(2)
(3)
(h)
(i)
(j)
(k)
(l)
(m)
(n)
(o)
(p)
(1) Remain in effect until the air carrier furnishes satisfactory evidence that the conditions causing the suspension have been remedied and has been reinstated by the CARB, or;
(2) Be for a fixed period of time as determined at the discretion of the CARB.
(q)
(r)
(a)
(b)
(2) Foreign air carriers performing portions of GSA City Pair routes awarded to U.S. air carriers under a code-sharing arrangement, as well as foreign air carriers providing individually-ticketed passenger service to DOD personnel traveling on official business, may be subject to limited oversight and review pursuant to § 861.6.
(3) The inspection and oversight requirements, as well as the quality and safety criteria of this part may, on a case-by-case basis and at the discretion of the CARB or higher authority, be applied to air carriers seeking to provide or providing operational support services as defined in § 861.3(l).
(4) The inspection and oversight requirements of this part do not apply to aircraft engaged in medical transport services if procured under emergency conditions to save life, limb or eyesight. Likewise, the inspection and oversight requirements of this part are not applicable when DOD is not involved in the procurement of the medical transportation services. For example, when specific medical treatment is obtained on an individual basis by or for DOD personnel with medical transportation provided, as needed, at the direction of the non-DOD medical care giver. This includes situations where DOD, through TRICARE or otherwise, pays for such transportation as part of the costs of medical services provided.
(c)
(2)
(3)
(d)
(e)
(1)
(i) “12 months” refers to the 12 calendar months immediately preceding the request for DOD approval.
(ii) “Continuous” service means the carrier must have performed revenue-generating services of the nature for which DOD approval is sought, as an FAA part 121, 125, 127, or 135 (14 CFR 121, 125, 127, or 135) air carrier (or foreign CAA equivalent if appropriate) on a recurring, substantially uninterrupted basis. The services must have occurred with such frequency and regularity as to clearly demonstrate the carrier's ability to perform and support sustained, safe, reliable, and regular services of the type DOD is seeking. Weekly flight activity is normally considered continuous, while sporadic or seasonal operations (if such operations are the only operations conducted by the carrier) may not suffice to establish a carrier's ability to perform and support services in the sustained, safe, reliable, and regular manner required by DOD. The ability of a carrier to perform services of the type sought by DOD may be called into question if there have been lengthy periods of time during the qualifying period in which the carrier has not operated such services. Consequently, any cessation, or nonperformance of the type of service for which approval is sought may, if it exceeds 30 days in length during the qualifying period and depending on the underlying factual circumstances, necessitate “restarting” the 12-month continuous service period needed to obtain DOD approval.
(iii) “Equivalent to the services sought by DOD” means service offered to qualify for DOD approval must be substantially equivalent to the type of service sought by DOD. The prior experience must be equivalent in difficulty and complexity with regard to the distances flown, weather systems encountered, international and national procedures, the same or similar aircraft, schedule demands, aircrew experience, number of passengers handled, frequency of operations, and management required. There is not a set formula for determining whether a particular type of service qualifies. The performance of cargo services is not considered to be “substantially equivalent” to the performance of passenger services, and may not be used to meet the 12 continuous months requirement for passenger services. However, when a carrier already providing cargo services to DOD applies to carry passengers, the CARB may consider the carrier's cargo performance and experience in assessing whether a carrier is qualified to carry passengers on a specific type or category of aircraft, over certain routes or stage lengths, or under differing air traffic control, weather, or other conditions. The following examples are illustrative and not intended to reflect or predict CARB action in any given case:
Coyote Air has operated commercial passenger commuter operations in the U.S. for a number of years flying a variety of twin-engine turboprop aircraft. They have also been a DOD-approved cargo carrier, providing international cargo services using DC-10 freighter aircraft. Coyote Air purchases a passenger version DC-10, and seeks DOD approval to provide international passenger service for DOD. The CARB may decide that although Coyote Air has provided passenger services for 12 continuous months, those services are not substantially equivalent to those being sought by DOD. While the carrier may have considerable operational experience with the DC-10, its commuter passenger operations are not substantially equivalent to the service now proposed—international passenger services on large jet aircraft.
Acme Air has been a DOD-approved cargo carrier for several years, operating domestic and international missions with MD-11 freighter aircraft. At the same time, Acme has been performing commercial international passenger services with B-757
(iv) Once approved by DOD, an air carrier's failure to maintain continuous operations of the type for which approval has been granted may, at the discretion of the CARB, be grounds for nonuse or suspension under this part, rendering the carrier ineligible for DOD business during the nonuse or suspension period. Any cessation or nonperformance of the type of service for which approval has been obtained may, if it exceeds 30 days in length and depending on the circumstances, provide the basis for the CARB to take appropriate action.
(2)
(3)
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)
(v)
(vi)
(vii)
(viii)
(ix)
(4)
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)
(v)
(vi)
(vii)
(viii)
(ix)
(x)
(xi)
(5)
(6)
(7)
(8)
(ii) Portable Electronic Devices (PEDs) used in the provision of medical services or treatment on board aircraft are tested for non-interference with aircraft systems and the results documented to show compliance with 14 CFR 91.21 or other applicable CAA regulations. If there are no CAA regulations, actual use/inflight testing of the same or similar model PED prior to use with DOD patients is the minimum requirement.
(a) This section establishes procedures to be used by the DOD when, in accordance with references in§ 861.1(a) and (b):
(1) An air carrier is subject to review or other action by the DOD Commercial Airlift Review Board, or CARB;
(2) A warning, suspension, temporary nonuse, or reinstatement action is considered or taken against a carrier by the CARB; or
(3) An issue involving an air carrier is referred by the CARB to higher authority for appropriate action.
(b) These procedures apply to air carriers seeking to provide or already providing air transportation services to DOD. It also applies to U.S. or foreign air carriers providing operational support services to DOD which, on a case-by-case basis and at the discretion of the CARB or higher authority, require some level of oversight by DOD.
(c) An air carrier's sole remedy in the case of a suspension decision by the CARB is the appellate process under this part.
(d) Quality and safety issues relating to air carriers used, or proposing to be used, by DOD, per reference (b) must be referred to the CARB for appropriate disposition.
(e)
(f)
(2)
(3)
(g)
(ii) The carrier shall be promptly notified of the temporary nonuse determination and the basis therefore.
(iii) Temporary nonuse status terminates automatically if suspension proceedings are not commenced, as set out in paragraph (g)(2) of this section, within 30 days of inception unless the CARB and air carrier mutually agree to extend the temporary nonuse status.
(2)
(ii) If the CARB determines that suspension may be appropriate, it shall notify the air carrier that suspension action is under consideration and of the basis for such consideration. The air carrier will be offered a hearing within 15 days of the date of the notice, or other such period as granted by the CARB, at which the air carrier may be present and may offer evidence. The hearings shall be as informal as practicable, consistent with administrative due process. Formal rules of evidence do not apply.
(iii) The types of evidence which may be considered includes, but is not limited to:
(A) Information and analysis provided by the DOD Air Carrier Survey and Analysis Office.
(B) Information submitted by the air carrier.
(C) Information relating to action that may have been taken by the air carrier to:
(
(
(D) Other matters the CARB deems relevant.
(iv) The CARB's decisions on the reception or exclusion of evidence shall be final.
(v) Air carriers shall have the burden of proving their suitability to safely perform DOD air transportation and/or operational support services by clear and convincing evidence.
(vi) After the conclusion of such hearing, or if no hearing is requested and attended by the air carrier within the time specified by the CARB, the CARB shall consider the matter and make a final decision whether or not to suspend the air carrier or to impose such lesser sanctions as appropriate. The air carrier will be notified of the CARB's decision.
(3)
(ii) The carrier has the burden of proving by clear and convincing evidence that reinstatement is warranted. The air carrier must satisfy the CARB that the deficiencies, which led to suspension, have been corrected and that action has been implemented to preclude the recurrence of similar deficiencies.
(iii) Air carrier evidence in support of reinstatement will be provided in a timely manner to the CARB for its review. The CARB may independently
(4)
(ii) Air carriers shall not be entitled to a de novo hearing or personal presentation before the appellate authority.
(iii) The decision of the appellate authority is final and is not subject to further administrative review or appeal.
(5)
Foreign air carriers providing or seeking to provide services to DOD shall be subject to review and, if appropriate, approval by DOD. Application of the criteria and requirements of this part and the degree of oversight to be exercised by DOD, if any, over a foreign air carrier depends upon the type of services performed and, in some instances, by the quality of oversight exercised by the foreign air carrier's CAA. The scope and frequency of the review of any given foreign air carrier under this part will be at the discretion of the CARB or higher authority.
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
(f)
(a)
(1) The disclosure of the information would, in the future, inhibit an air carrier from voluntarily providing such information to DOD or another Federal agency for the purposes of this part or for other air safety purposes; and
(2) The receipt of such information generally enhances the fulfillment of responsibilities under this part or other air safety responsibilities involving DOD or another Federal agency.
(b)
(c)
This subpart sets up procedures for correction of military records to remedy error or injustice. It tells how to apply for correction of military records and how the Air Force Board for Correction of Military Records (AFBCMR, or the Board) considers applications. It defines the Board's authority to act on applications. It directs collecting and maintaining information subject to the Privacy Act of 1974 authorized by 10 U.S.C. 1034 and 1552. System of Records notice F035 SAFCB A, Military Records Processed by the Air Force Correction Board, applies.
The AFBCMR operates within the Office of the Secretary of the Air Force according to 10 U.S.C. 1552. The Board consists of civilians in the executive part of the Department of the Air Force who are appointed and serve at the pleasure of the Secretary of the Air Force. Three members constitute a quorum of the Board.
(a)
(b)
(c)
(a) Who may apply:
(1) In most cases, the applicant is a member or former member of the Air Force, since the request is personal to the applicant and relates to his or her military records.
(2) An applicant with a proper interest may request correction of another person's military records when that person is incapable of acting on his or her own behalf, is missing, or is deceased. Depending on the circumstances, a child, spouse, civilian employee or former civilian employee, former spouse, parent or other close relative, an heir, or a legal representative (such as a guardian or executor) of the member or former member may be able to show a proper interest. Applicants will send proof of proper interest with the application when requesting correction of another person's military records. An application may be returned when proper interest has not been shown.
(3) A member, former member, employee or former employee, dependent, and current or former spouse may apply to correct a document or other record of any other military matter that affects them (This does not include records pertaining to civilian employment matters). Applicants will send proof of the effect of the document or record upon them with the application when requesting a correction under this provision.
(b)
(1) Any Air Force Military Personnel Flight (MPF) or publications distribution office.
(2) Most veterans' service organizations.
(3) The Air Force Review Boards Office, SAF/MRBR, 550 C Street West, Suite 40, Randolph AFB TX 78150-4742.
(4) The AFBCMR, 1535 Command Drive, EE Wing 3rd Floor, Andrews AFB MD 20762-7002.
(5) Thru the Internet at
(c)
(1) Review Air Force Pamphlet 36-2607.
(2) Discuss their concerns with MPF, finance office, or other appropriate officials. Errors can often be corrected administratively without resort to the Board.
(3) Exhaust other available administrative remedies (otherwise the Board may return the request without considering it).
(d)
(1) The name under which the member served.
(2) The member's social security number or Air Force service number.
(3) The applicant's current mailing address.
(4) The specific records correction being requested.
(5) Proof of proper interest if requesting correction of another person's records.
(6) The applicant's original signature.
(e) Applicants should mail the original signed DD Form 149 and any supporting documents to the Air Force address on the back of the form.
(f)
(1) The Board may excuse untimely filing in the interest of justice.
(2) If the application is filed late, applicants should explain why it would be in the interest of justice for the Board to waive the time limits.
(g)
(h)
(1) The term “counsel” includes members in good standing of the bar of any state, accredited representatives of veterans' organizations recognized under by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs pursuant to 38 U.S.C. 5902(a)(1), and other persons determined by the Executive Director of the Board to be competent to represent the interests of the applicant.
(2) See DoDD 7050.06,
(i)
(1) May not exceed 25 double-spaced typewritten pages.
(2) Must be typed on one side of a page only with not more than 12 characters per inch.
(3) Must be assembled in a manner that permits easy reproduction.
(4) Responses to advisory opinions must not exceed 10 double-spaced typewritten pages and meet the other requirements for briefs.
(5) These limitations do not apply to supporting documentary evidence.
(6) In complex cases and upon request, the Executive Director of the Board may waive these limitations.
(j)
(k)
(a)
(1) May get additional information and advisory opinions on an application from any Air Force organization or official.
(2) May ask the applicant to furnish additional information regarding matters before the Board.
(b) Applicants will be given an opportunity to review and comment on advisory opinions and additional information obtained by the Board. They will also be provided with a copy of correspondence to or from the Air Force Review Boards Agency with an entity outside the Air Force Review Boards Agency in accordance with the provisions of 10 U.S.C. 1556.
(c)
(d) The panel may decide the case in executive session or authorize a hearing. When a hearing is authorized, the procedures in § 865.4(f), of this part, apply.
(e)
(f)
(1) The Executive Director will notify the applicant or counsel, if any, of the time and place of the hearing. Written notice will be mailed 30 days in advance of the hearing unless the notice period is waived by the applicant. The applicant will respond not later than 15 days before the hearing date, accepting or declining the offer of a hearing and, if accepting, provide information pertaining to counsel and witnesses. The Board will decide the case in executive
(2) When granted a hearing, the applicant may appear before the Board with or without counsel and may present witnesses. It is the applicant's responsibility to notify witnesses, arrange for their attendance at the hearing, and pay any associated costs.
(3) The panel chair conducts the hearing, maintains order, and ensures the applicant receives a full and fair opportunity to be heard. Formal rules of evidence do not apply, but the panel observes reasonable bounds of competency, relevancy, and materiality. Witnesses other than the applicant will not be present except when testifying. Witnesses will testify under oath or affirmation. A recorder will record the proceedings verbatim. The chair will normally limit hearings to 2 hours but may allow more time if necessary to ensure a full and fair hearing.
(4) Additional provisions apply to cases processed under 10 U.S.C. 1034. See DoDD 7050.06,
(g) The Board will not deny or recommend denial of an application on the sole ground that the issue already has been decided by the Secretary of the Air Force or the President of the United States in another proceeding.
(h)
(1) Whether the provisions of the Military Whistleblowers Protection Act apply to the application. This determination is needed only when the applicant invokes the protection of the Act, or when the question of its applicability is otherwise raised by the evidence.
(2) Whether the application was timely filed and, if not, whether the applicant has demonstrated that it would be in the interest of justice to excuse the untimely filing. When the Board determines that an application is not timely, and does not excuse its untimeliness, the application will be denied on that basis.
(3) Whether the applicant has exhausted all available and effective administrative remedies. If the applicant has not, the application will be denied on that basis.
(4) Whether the applicant has demonstrated the existence of a material error or injustice that can be remedied effectively through correction of the applicant's military record and, if so, what corrections are needed to provide full and effective relief.
(5) In Military Whistleblowers Protection Act cases only, whether to recommend to the Secretary of the Air Force that disciplinary or administrative action be taken against any Air Force official whom the Board finds to have committed an act of reprisal against the applicant. Any determination on this issue will not be made a part of the Board's record of proceedings and will not be given to the applicant, but will be provided directly to the Secretary of the Air Force under separate cover (Sec 865.2b, of this part).
(i)
(1) The name and vote of each Board member.
(2) The application.
(3) Briefs and written arguments.
(4) Documentary evidence.
(5) A hearing transcript if a hearing was held.
(6) Advisory opinions and the applicant's related comments.
(7) The findings, conclusions, and recommendations of the Board.
(8) Minority reports, if any.
(9) Other information necessary to show a true and complete history of the proceedings.
(j)
(k)
(l)
(1) Denies any application (except under 10 U.S.C. 1034).
(2) Grants any application in whole or part when the relief was recommended by the official preparing the advisory opinion, was unanimously agreed to by the panel, and does not affect an appointment or promotion requiring confirmation by the Senate, and does not affect a matter for which the Secretary of the Air Force or his or her delegee has withheld decision authority or required notification before final decision.
(3) The Board sends the record of proceedings on all other applications to the Secretary of the Air Force or his or her designee for final decision.
(m) The Board may identify DoD or Air Force policies, instructions, guidance or practices that are leading to, or likely to lead to unsound business decisions, unfair results, waste of government funds or public criticism. The Board will forward such observations directly to the appropriate offices of the Secretariat and/or Air Staff for review and evaluation. Such observations will not be included in the record of proceedings.
(a) The Secretary may direct such action as he or she deems appropriate on each case, including returning the case to the Board for further consideration. Cases returned to the Board for further reconsideration will be accompanied by a brief statement of the reasons for such action. If the Secretary does not accept the Board's recommendation, the Secretary's decision will be in writing and will include a brief statement of the grounds for his/her final decision.
(b)
(1) Of the name and address of the official to whom the request for review must be submitted.
(2) That the request for review must be submitted within 90 days after receipt of the decision by the Secretary of the Air Force.
(3) That the request for review must be in writing and include the applicant's name, address, and telephone number; a copy of the application to the AFBCMR and the final decision of the Secretary of the Air Force; and a statement of the specific reasons the applicant is not satisfied with the decision of the Secretary of the Air Force.
(4) That the request must be based on the Board record; requests for review based on factual allegations or evidence not previously presented to the Board will not be considered under this paragraph but may be the basis for reconsideration by the Board under § 865.6.
(c) In cases under § 865.5(b) of this part which involve additional issues not cognizable under that paragraph, the additional issues may be considered separately by the Board under § 865.3 and § 865.4 of this part. The special time limit in § 865.5 (b) does not apply to the decision concerning these additional issues.
(d)
(a) The Board may reconsider an application if the applicant submits newly discovered relevant evidence
(b) If the request contains new evidence, the Executive Director or his/her designee will refer it to a panel of the Board for a decision. The Board will decide the relevance and weight of any new evidence, whether it was reasonably available to the applicant when the application was previously considered, and whether it was submitted in a timely manner. The Board may deny reconsideration if the request does not meet the criteria for reconsideration. Otherwise the Board will reconsider the application and decide the case either on timeliness or merit as appropriate.
(c) If the request does not contain new evidence, the Executive Director or his/her designee will return it to the applicant without referral to the Board.
(a)
(b)
(1) The Executive Director will furnish the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) with AFBCMR decisions potentially affecting monetary entitlement or benefits. DFAS will treat such decisions as claims for payment by or on behalf of the applicant.
(2) DFAS settles claims on the basis of the corrected military record. Computation of the amount due, if any, is a function of DFAS. Applicants may be required to furnish additional information to DFAS to establish their status as proper parties to the claim and to aid in deciding amounts due.
(3) Earnings received from civilian employment during any period for which active duty pay and allowances are payable will be deducted from the settlement. Amounts found due will be offset by the amount of any existing indebtedness to the government in compliance with the Debt Collection Act of 1982 or successor statutes.
(c)
(a) At the request of the Board, all Air Force activities and officials will furnish the Board with:
(1) All available military records pertinent to an application.
(2) An advisory opinion concerning an application. The advisory opinion will include an analysis of the facts of the case and of the applicant's contentions, a statement of whether or not the requested relief can be done administratively, and a recommendation on the timeliness and merit of the request. Regardless of the recommendation, the advisory opinion will include instructions on specific corrective action to be taken if the Board grants the application.
(b)
(c)
(d)
Sec. 8012, 70A Stat. 488; sec. 1553, 72 Stat. 1267, 10 U.S.C. 8012, 1553.
This subpart establishes policies for the review of discharges and dismissals under 32 CFR part 70, “Discharge Review Boards Procedures and Standards,” 47 FR 37770, August 26, 1982. 1982, and explains the jurisdiction, authority, and actions of the Air Force Discharge Review Board. It applies to all Air Force activities. This subpart is affected by the Privacy Act of 1974. The system of records cited in this subpart is authorized by 10 U.S.C. 1553 and 8012. Each data gathering form or format which is required by this subpart contains a Privacy Act Statement, either incorporated in the body of the document or in a separate statement accompanying each such document.
(a) Title 10 U.S.C., section 1553.
(b) Title 38 U.S.C., sections 101 and 3103, as amended by Pub. L. 95-126, October 8, 1977.
(c) DOD Directive 5000.19, “Policies for the Management and Control of Information Requirements,” March 12, 1976.
(d) DOD Directive 5000.11, “Data Elements and Data Codes Standardization Program,” December 7, 1964.
(e) DOD Directive 5000.12-M “DOD Manual for Standard Data Elements,” December 1981.
(f) DOD Directive 1332.14, “Enlisted Administrative Separations,” January 28, 1982.
(g) DOD Directive 5400.7, “DOD Freedom of Information Act Program,” March 24, 1980; title 5 U.S.C., section 552.
(h) DOD Directive 5400.11, “Department of Defense Privacy Program,” June 9, 1982; title 5 U.S.C., section 552a.
(i) Title 10 U.S.C., chapter 47, Uniform Code of Military Justice.
(j) Wood v. Secretary of Defense, Civ. No. 77-0684 (D.D.C.) (Order, December 3, 1981).
(k) Urban Law Institute of Antioch College, Inc. v. Secretary of Defense, Civ. No. 76-0530, (D.D.C.) (Stipulation of Dismissal, January 31, 1977) (Order and Settlement Agreement, July 30, 1982).
(l) Air Force Regulation 35-41, Vol III, Separation Procedures for USAFR Members, dated October 30, 1975.
(m) Air Force Regulation 36-2, Officer Personnel, Administrative Discharge Procedures, August 2, 1976.
(n) Air Force Regulation 36-3, Officer Personnel, Administrative Discharge Procedures, August 2, 1976.
(o) Air Force Regulation 36-12, Officer Personnel, Administrative Separation of Commissioned Officers and Warrant Officers, July 15, 1977.
(p) Air Force Regulation 39-10, Separation Upon Expiration of Term of Service, for Convenience of Government, Minority, Dependency and Hardship, January 3, 1977.
(q) Air Force Manual 39-12, Separation for Unsuitability, Misconduct, Resignation, or Request for Discharge for the Good of the Service and Procedures for the Rehabilitation Program, September 1, 1966.
(r) Air National Guard Regulation 39-10, Enlisted Personnel-Separation, December 30, 1971.
The Air Force Discharge Review Board (DRB) was established within the Department of the Air Force under section 301 of the Serviceman's Readjustment Act of 1944, as amended (now 10 U.S.C. 1553) and further amended by Pub. L. 95-126 dated October 8, 1977.
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
(f)
(g)
(h)
(i)
(j)
(k)
(l)
The Secretary of the Air Force is responsible for the overall operation of the Discharge Review program within the Department of the Air Force. The following delegation of authority have been made:
(a) To the Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Air Force (Manpower, Reserve Affairs and Installations) to act for the Secretary of the Air Force in all discharge review actions subject to review by the Secretary as specified in § 865.113 of this subpart.
(b) To the Director, Air Force Personnel Council, for operation of all phases of the discharge review function and authority to take action in the name of the Secretary of the Air Force in all discharge review actions except those specified in § 865.113 of this subpart.
The DRB has jurisdiction and authority in cases of former military personnel who, at the time of their separation from the Service, were members of the US Army Aviation components (Aviation Section, Signal Corps; Air Service; Air Corps; or Air Forces) prior to September 17, 1947, or the US Air Force. The DRB does not have jurisdiction and authority concerning personnel of other armed services who at the time of their separation, were assigned to duty with the Army Air Forces or the US Air Force.
(a) The DRB's review is based on the former member's available military records, issues submitted by the former member, or his counsel and on any other evidence that is presented to the DRB. The DRB determines whether the type of discharge or dismissal the former member received is equitable and proper; if not, the DRB instructs the USAF Manpower and Personnel Center (AFMPC) to change the discharge reason or to issue a new character of discharge according to the DRB's findings.
(b) The DRB is not authorized to revoke any discharge, to reinstate any person who has been separated from the military service, or to recall any person to active duty.
(c) The DRB, on its own motion, may review a case that appears likely to result in a decision favorable to the former military member, without the member's knowledge or presence. In this case, if the decision is:
(1) Favorable, the DRB directs AFMPC to notify the former member accordingly at the member's last known address.
(2) Unfavorable, the DRB returns the case to the files without any record of formal action; the DRB then reconsiders the case without prejudice in accordance with normal procedures.
(a)
(b)
(c)
(1)
(2)
(3) The applicant must ensure that issues submitted to the DRB are consistent with the request for change in discharge set forth in “Board Action Requested” of the DD Form 293. If an ambiguity is created by a difference between an applicant's issue and the requested action, the DRB will respond
(d) If the member is deceased or mentally incompetent, the spouse, next-of-kin, or legal representative may, as agent for the member, submit the application for the review along with proof of the member's death or mental incompetency.
(e) Applicants forward their requests for review to the USAF Manpower and Personnel Center-mailing address: AFMPC/MPCDOA1, Randolph AFB TX 78150. AFMPC will obtain all available military records of the former members from the National Personnel Records Center.
(f)
(g)
(1)
(2)
(3)
(i) Provides a means for an applicant to set forth clearly and specifically those matters that, in the opinion of the applicant, provide a basis for changing the discharge;
(ii) Assists the DRB in focusing on those matters considered to be important by an applicant;
(iii) Assists the DRB in distinguishing between a matter submitted by an applicant in the expectation that it will be treated as a decisional issue under § 865.112, and those matters submitted simply as background or supporting materials;
(iv) Provides the applicant with greater rights in the event that the applicant later submits a complaint under § 865.121 of this subpart concerning the decisional document.
(v) Reduces the potential for disagreement as to the content of an applicant's issue.
(4)
(5)
(h)
(i)
(j)
(1) The issue must be set forth or expressly incorporated in the “Applicant's Issue” portion of DD Form 293.
(2) If an applicant's issue cites a prior decision (of the DRB, another Board, an agency, or a court), the applicant shall describe the specific principles and facts that are contained in the prior decision and explain the relevance of cited matter to the applicant's case.
(3) To insure timely consideration of principles cited from unpublished opinions (including decisions maintained by the Armed Forces Discharge Review Board/Correction Board Reading Room), the applicant must provide the DRB with copies of such decisions or of the relevant portion of treatise, manual, or similar source in which the principles were discussed. At the applicant's request, such materials will be returned.
(4) If the applicant fails to comply with the requirements above, the decisional document shall note the defect, and shall respond to the issue without regard to the citation.
(k)
(1)
(2)
(i) Limit by DRB's authority to question an applicant as to the meaning of such matter;
(ii) Preclude the DRB from developing decisional issues based upon such questions:
(iii) Prevent the applicant from amending or withdrawing such matter any time before the DRB closes the review process for deliberation; or
(iv) Prevent the DRB from presenting an applicant with a list of proposed decisional issues and written information concerning the right of the applicant to add to, amend, or withdraw the applicant's submission. The written information will state that the applicant's decision to take such action (or decline to do so) will not be used against the applicant in the consideration of the case.
(3) Additional Issues Identified During a Hearing. The following additional
(l)
(1) Such absence must have been included as part of the basis for the applicant's discharge under other than honorable conditions.
(2) Such absence is computed without regard to the applicant's normal or adjusted expiration of term of service.
(a) The DRB consists of five members, with the senior line officer acting as the presiding officer. The presiding officer convenes, recesses and adjourns the Board.
(b) In addition to holding hearings in Washington, DC, the DRB, as a convenience to applicants, periodically conducts hearings at selected locations throughout the Continental United States. Reviews are conducted at locations central to those areas with the greatest number of applicants. A continuing review and appraisal is conducted to ensure the selected hearing locations are responsive to a majority of applicants. Administrative details and responsibilities for Regional Boards are outlined in § 865.124.
(a) Before applying for discharge review, potential applicants or their designated resentatives may, and are encouraged to obtain copies of their military personnel records by submitting a General Services Administration Standard Form 180, Request Pertaining to Military Records, to the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC) 9700 Page Boulevard, St. Louis, Mo 63132; thus avoiding any lengthy delays in the processing of the application (DD Form 293) and the scheduling of reviews.
(1) Once the application for discharge review (DD Form 293) is submitted, an applicant's military records are forwarded to the DRB where they cannot be reproduced. Submission of a request for an applicant's military records, including a request under the Freedom of Information Act or Privacy Act after the DD Form 293 has been submitted, shall result automatically in the termporary suspension of processing of the application for discharge review until the requested records are sent to an appropriate location for copying, are copied, and returned to the headquarters of the DRB. Processing of the application shall then be resumed at whatever stage of the discharge review process is practicable.
(2) Applicants and their designated representatives also may examine their military personnel records at the site of their scheduled review before the hearing. The DRB shall notify applicants and their designated representatives of the dates the records are available for examination in their standard scheduling information.
(b) The DRB is not authorized to provide copies of documents that are under the cognizance of another government department, office, or activity. Applications for such information must be made by the applicant to the cognizant authority. The DRB shall advise the applicant of the mailing address of the government department, office, or activity to which the request should be submitted.
(c) If the official records relevant to the discharge review are not available at the agency having custody of the
(d) The DRB may take steps to obtain additional evidence that is relevant to the discharge under consideration beyond that found in the official military records or submitted by the applicant, if a review of available evidence suggests that it would be incomplete without the additional information, or when the applicant presents testimony or documents that require additional information to evaluate properly. Such information shall be made available to the applicant, upon request, with appropriate modifications regarding classified material.
(1) In any case heard on the request of an applicant, the DRB shall provide the applicant and counsel or representative, if any, at a reasonable time before initiating the decision process, a notice of the availability of all regulations and documents to be considered in the discharge review, except for documents in the official personnel or medical records and any documents submitted by the applicant. The DRB shall also notify the applicant or counsel or representative (i) of the right to examine such documents or to be provided with copies of documents upon request; (ii) of the date by which such request must be received; and (iii) of the opportunity to respond within a reasonable period of time to be set be the DRB.
(2) When necessary to acquaint the applicant with the substance of a classified document, the classifying authority, on the request of the DRB, shall prepare a summary of or an extract from the document, deleting all reference to source of information and other matters, the disclosure of which, in the opinion of the classifying authority, would be detrimental to the national security interest of the United States. Should preparation of such summary be deemed impracticable by the classifying authority, information from the classified source shall not be considered by the DRB in its review of the case.
(e) Current Air Force numbered publications may be obtained from the Chief, Central Base Administration at any major Air Force installation or by writing:
(a) The applicant is entitled, by law, to appear in person at his or her request before the DRB in open session and to be represented by counsel of his or her own selection. The applicant also may present such witnesses as he or she may desire.
(b) There are two types of reviews. They are:
(1)
(2)
(c) The Government does not compensate or pay the expenses of the applicant, applicant's witnesses, or counsel.
(d) A summary of the available military records of the applicant is prepared for use by the DRB in the review process. A copy of the summary is available to the applicant and/or his or her counsel, upon request.
(e) When an applicant has requested a personal appearance and/or representation by counsel on the DD Form 293, the DRB sends written notice of the hearing time and place to the applicant and designated counsel. Evidence of such notification will be placed in the applicant's record.
(f) Personal appearance hearings shall be conducted with recognition of the rights of the individual to privacy. Accordingly, presence at hearings of individuals other than those whose presence is required will be limited to persons authorized by the presiding officer and/or expressly requested by the
(g) Formal rules of evidence shall not be applied in DRB proceedings. The presiding officer shall rule on matters of procedure and shall ensure that reasonable bounds of relevancy and materiality are maintained in the taking of evidence and presentation of witnesses. Applicants and witnesses may present evidence to the DRB panel either in person or by affidavit or through counsel. If an applicant or witness testifies under oath or affirmation, he or she is subject to questioning by Board members.
(h) There is a presumption of regularity in the conduct of governmental affairs. This presumption can be applied in any review unless there is substantial credible evidence to rebut the presumption.
(i)
(i) When the applicant and/or a designated counsel or representative has been sent a letter containing the date and location of a proposed hearing and fails to make a timely response; or
(ii) When the applicant and/or a designated representative, after being notified by letter of the time and place of the hearing, fails to appear at the appointed time, either in person or by representative, without having made a prior, timely request for a postponement or withdrawal.
(2) In such cases, the applicant shall be deemed to have waived his/her right to a hearing, and the DRB shall complete its review of the discharge. Further request for a hearing shall not be granted unless the applicant can demonstrate that the failure to appear or respond was due to circumstances beyond the applicant's control.
(j)
(2) Postponements of scheduled reviews normally shall not be permitted other than for demonstrated good and sufficient reason set forth by the applicant in a timely manner, or for the convenience of the government.
(k)
(1) Where the only previous consideration of the case was on the motion of the DRB;
(2) When the original discharge review did not involve a personal appearance hearing and a personal appearance is now desired, and the provisions of § 865.109(j) do not apply;
(3) Where changes in discharge policy are announced subsequent to an earlier review of an applicant's discharge, and the new policy is made expressly retroactive;
(4) Where the DRB determines that policies and procedures under which the applicant was discharged differ in material respects from policies and procedures currently applicable on a service-wide basis to discharges of the type under consideration, provided that such changes in policies or procedures represent a substantial enhancement of the rights afforded an applicant in such proceeding;
(5) Where an individual is to be represented by a counsel/representative, and was not so represented in any previous consideration of the case.
(6) Where the case was not previously considered under the uniform standards published pursuant to Pub. L. 95-126 and application is made for such consideration within 15 years after the date of discharge; or
(7) On the basis of presentation of new, substantial, relevant evidence not available to the applicant at the time of the original review. The decision as to whether evidence offered by an applicant in support of a request for reconsideration is in fact new, substantial, relevant, and was not available to the applicant at the time of the original review will be based on a comparison of such evidence with the evidence
(a) The DRB shall meet in plenary session to review discharges and exercise its discretion on a case-by-case basis in applying the standards set forth in this regulation.
(b) The presiding officer is responsible for the conduct of the discharge review. The presiding officer shall convene, recess, and adjourn the DRB as appropriate, and shall maintain an atmosphere of dignity and decorum at all times.
(c) Each board member shall act under oath or affirmation requiring careful, objective consideration of the application. They shall consider all relevant material and competent information presented to them by the applicant. In addition, they shall consider all available military records, together with such other records as may be in the files and relevant to the issues before the DRB.
(d) The DRB shall identify and address issues after a review of the following material obtained and presented in accordance with this subpart and 32 CFR part 70: available official military records, documentary evidence submitted by or on behalf of the applicant, presentation of testimony by or on behalf of the applicant, oral or written arguments presented by or on behalf of the applicant, and any other relevant evidence.
(e) Application of Standards:
(1) When the DRB determines that an applicant's discharge was improper, the DRB will determine which reason for discharge should have been assigned based upon the facts and circumstances properly before the discharge authority in view of the regulations governing reasons for discharge at the time the applicant was discharged.
(2) When the board determines that an applicant's discharge was inequitable, any change will be based on the evaluation of the applicant's overall record of service and relevant regulations.
(f) Voting shall be conducted in closed session, a majority of the five members' votes constituting the DRB's decision.
(g) Details of closed session deliberations of a DRB are privileged information and shall not be divulged.
(h) A formal minority opinion may be submitted in instances of disagreement between members of a board. The opinion must cite findings, conclusions and reasons which are the basis for the opinion. The complete case with the majority and minority recommendations will be submitted to the Director, Air Force Personnel Council.
(i) The DRB may request advisory opinions from staff offices of the Air Force. These opinions are advisory in nature and are not binding on the DRB in its decision making process.
(a) If an issue submitted by an applicant contains two or more clearly separate issues, the DRB should respond to each issue under the guidance of this section as if it had been set forth separately by the applicant.
(b) If an applicant uses a “building block” approach (that is, setting forth a series of conclusions on issues that lead to a single conclusion purportedly warranting a change in the applicant's discharge), normally there should be a separate response to each issue.
(c) This section does not preclude the DRB from making a single response to multiple issues when such action would enhance the clarity of the decisional document, but such response must reflect an adequate response to each separate issue.
(d) An item submitted as an issue by an applicant in accordance with this regulation shall be addressed as a decisional issue under § 865.112 of this subpart in the following circumstances:
(1) When the DRB decides that a change in discharge should be granted, and the DRB bases its decision in whole or in part on the applicant's issue; or
(2) When the DRB does not provide the applicant with the full change in discharge requested, and the decision is
(e) If the applicant receives the full change in discharge requested (or a more favorable change), that fact shall be noted and the basis shall be addressed as a decisional issue even if that basis is not addressed as an issue by the applicant. No further response is required to other issues submitted by the applicant.
(f) If the applicant does not receive the full change in discharge requested with respect to either the character of or reason for discharge (or both), the DRB shall address the items submitted by the applicant unless one of the following responses is applicable:
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(a) The decisional document shall discuss the issues that provide a basis for the decision whether there should be a change in the character of or reason for discharge. In order to enhance clarity, the DRB should not address matters other than issues relied upon in the decision or raised by the applicant.
(b)
(c)
(d)
(2) If an applicant identifies an issue as pertaining to the propriety of the discharge (for example, by citing a propriety standard or otherwise claiming that a change in discharge is required as a matter of law), the DRB shall consider the issue solely as a matter of propriety. Except as provided in § 865.112(d)(4), the DRB is not required to consider such an issue under the equity standards.
(3) If the applicant's issue contends that the DRB is required as a matter of
(4) If the applicant's issue sets forth principles of equity contained in a prior DRB decision, describes the relationship to the applicant's case, and contends that the DRB is required as a matter of law to follow the prior case, the decisional document shall note that the DRB is not bound by its discretionary decisions in prior cases under the standards in § 865.120 of this subpart. However, the principles cited by the applicant, and the description of the relationship of the principles to the applicant's case, shall be considered under the equity standards and addressed under § 865.112(h) or § 865.112(i).
(5) If the applicant's issue cannot be identified as a matter of propriety or equity, the DRB shall address it as an issue of equity.
(e)
(f)
(1) If a reason is based in whole or in part upon a part, statute, constitutional provision, judicial determination, or other source of law, the DRB shall cite the pertinent source of law and the facts in the record that demonstrate the relevance of the source of law to the particular circumstances in the case.
(2) If a reason is based in whole or in part on a determination as to the occurrence or nonoccurrence of an event or circumstance, including a factor required by applicable Air Force regulations to be considered for determination of the character of and reason for the applicant's discharge, the DRB shall make a finding of fact for each such event or circumstance.
(i) For each such finding, the decisional document shall list the specific source of the information relied upon. This may include the presumption of regularity in appropriate cases. If the information is listed in the service record section of the decisional document, a citation is not required.
(ii) If a finding of fact is made after consideration of contradictory evidence in the record (including information cited by the applicant or otherwise identified by members of the DRB), the decisional document shall set forth the conflicting evidence, and explain why the information relied upon was more persuasive than the information that was rejected. If the presumption of regularity is cited as the basis for rejecting such information, the decisional document shall explain why the contradictory evidence was insufficient to overcome the presumption. In an appropriate case, the explanation as to why the contradictory evidence was insufficient to overcome the presumption of regularity may consist of a statement that the applicant failed to provide sufficient corroborating evidence, or that the DRB did not find the applicant's testimony to be sufficiently credible to overcome the presumption.
(3) If the DRB disagrees with the position of the applicant on an issue of propriety, the following guidance applies in addition to the guidance in § 842.112(f) (1) and (2).
(i) The DRB may reject the applicant's position by explaining why it disagrees with the principles set forth in the applicant's issue (including principles derived from cases cited by the applicant).
(ii) The DRB may reject the applicant's position by explaining why the principles set forth in the applicant's issue (including principles derived from cases cited by the applicant) are not relevant to the applicant's case.
(iii) The DRB may reject an applicant's position by stating that the applicant's issue of propriety is not a matter upon which the DRB grants a change in discharge, and by providing an explanation for this position. When the applicant indicates that the issue is to be considered in conjunction with one or more other specified issues, the explanation will address all such specified issues.
(iv) The DRB may reject the applicant's position on the grounds that other specified factors in the case preclude granting relief, regardless of whether the DRB agreed with the applicant's position.
(v) If the applicant takes the position that the discharge must be changed because of an alleged error in a record associated with the discharge, and the record has not been corrected by the organization with primary responsibility for corrective action, respond that it will presume the validity of the record in the absence of such corrective action. If the organization empowered to correct the record is within the Department of the Air Force, the DRB should provide the applicant with a brief description of the procedures for requesting correction of the record. If the DRB on its own motion cites this issue as a decisional issue on the basis of equity, it shall address the issue as such.
(vi) When an applicant's issue contains a general allegation that a certain course of action violated his or her constitutional rights, respond in appropriate cases by noting that the action was consistent with statutory or regulatory authority, and by citing the presumption of constitutionality that attaches to statutes and regulations. If, on the other hand, the applicant makes a specific challenge to the constitutionality of the action by challenging the application of a statute or regulation is a particular set of circumstances, it is not sufficient to respond solely by citing the presumption of constitutionality of the statute or regulation when the applicant is not challenging the constitutionality of the statute or regulation. Instead, the response must address the specific circumstances of the case.
(g)
(h)
(i)
(1) If a reason is based in whole or in part upon a part, statute, constitutional provision, judicial determination, or other source of law, the DRB shall cite the pertinent source of law and the facts in the record that demonstrate the relevance of the source of law to the exercise of discretion on the issue of equity in the applicant's case.
(2) If a reason is based in whole or in part on a determination as to the occurrence or nonoccurrence of an event or circumstance, including a factor required by applicable Air Force regulations to be considered for determination of the character of and reason for the applicant's discharge, the DRB shall make a finding of fact for each such event or circumstance.
(i) For each such finding, the decisional document shall list the specific source of the information relied upon. This may include the presumption of regularity in appropriate cases. If the information is listed in the service record section of the decisional document, a citation is not required.
(ii) If a finding of fact is made after consideration of contradictory evidence in the record (including information cited by the applicant or otherwise identified by members of the DRB), the decisional document shall set forth the conflicting evidence, and explain why the information relied upon was more persuasive than the information that was rejected. If the presumption of regularity is cited as the basis for rejecting such information, the decisional document shall explain why the contradictory evidence was insufficient to overcome the presumption. In an appropriate case, the explanation as to why the contradictory evidence was insufficient to overcome the presumption of regularity may consist of a statement that the applicant failed to provide sufficient corroborating evidence, or that the DRB did not find the applicant's testimony to be sufficiently credible to overcome the presumption.
(3) If the DRB disagrees with the position of the applicant on an issue of equity, the following guidance applies in addition to the guidance in § 865.112(i) (1) and (2):
(i) The DRB may reject the applicant's position by explaining why it disagrees with the principles set forth in the applicant's issue (including principles derived from cases cited by the applicant).
(ii) The DRB may reject the applicant's position by explaining why the principles set forth in the applicant's issue (including principles derived from cases cited by the applicant) are not relevant to the applicant's case.
(iii) The DRB may reject an applicant's position by explaining why the applicant's issue is not a matter upon which the DRB grants a change in discharge as a matter of equity. When the applicant indicates that the issue is to be considered in conjunction with other specified issues, the explanation will address all such issues.
(iv) The DRB may reject the applicant's position on the grounds that other specified factors in the case preclude granting relief, regardless of whether the DRB agreed with the applicant's position.
(v) If the applicant takes the position that the discharge should be changed as a matter of equity because of an alleged error in a record associated with the discharge, and the record has not been corrected by the organization with primary responsibility for corrective action, the DRB may respond that it will presume the validity of the record in the absence of such corrective action. However, the DRB will consider whether it should exercise its equitable powers to change the discharge on the basis of the alleged error. If it declines to do so, the DRB shall explain why the applicant's position did not provide a sufficient basis for the change in the discharge requested by the applicant.
(4) When the DRB concludes that aggravating factors outweigh mitigating factors, the DRB must set forth reasons such as the seriousness of the offense, specific circumstances surrounding the offense, number of offenses, lack of mitigating circumstances, or similar factors. The DRB is not required, however, to explain why it relied on any such factors unless the applicability or weight of such factors are expressly raised as an issue by the applicant.
(5) If the applicant has not submitted any issues and the DRB has not otherwise relied upon an issue of equity for a change in discharge, the decisional document shall contain a statement to that effect, and shall note that the major factors upon which the discharge was based are set forth in the service record portion of the decisional document.
(a) The Director of the Personnel Council may forward cases for consideration by the Secretarial Reviewing Authority (SRA) under rules established by the Secretary of the Air Force.
(b) The following categories of dicharge review requests are subject to
(1) Cases in which a minority of the DRB panel requests their submitted opinions be forwarded for consideration (refer to § 865.110(h)).
(2) Cases when required in order to provide information to the Secretary on specific aspects of the discharge review function which are of interest to the Secretary.
(3) Any case which the Director, Air Force Personnel Council believes is of significant interest to the Secretary.
(c) The Secretarial Reviewing Authority is the Secretary of the Air Force or the official to whom he has delegated this authority. The SRA may review the types of cases described above before issuance of the final notification of a decision. Those cases forwarded for review by the SRA shall be considered under the standards set forth in § 865.121 and DOD Directive 1332.28.
(d) There is no requirement that the Director of the Personnel Council submit a recommendation when a case is forwarded to the SRA. If a recommendation is submitted, however, it should be in accordance with the guidelines described below.
(e) Format for Recommendation. If a recommendation is provided, it shall contain the Director's views whether there should be a change in the character of or reason for discharge (or both). If the Director recommends such a change, the particular change to be made shall be specified. The recommendation shall set forth the Director's position on decisional issues submitted by the applicant in accordance with the following:
(1) Adoption of the DRB's Decisional document. The recommendation may state that the Director has adopted the decisional document prepared by the majority. The Director shall ensure that the decisional document meets the requirements of this regulation.
(2) Adoption of the Specific Statements From the Majority. If the Director adopts the views of the majority only in part, the recommendation shall cite the specific matter adopted from the majority. If the Director modifies a statement submitted by the majority, the recommendation shall set forth the modification.
(3) Response to Issues Not Included in Matter Adopted From the Majority. The recommendation shall set forth the following if not adopted in whole or in part from the majority:
(i) The issues on which the Director's recommendation is based. Each such decisional issue shall be addressed by the Director in accordance with § 865.112 of this subpart.
(ii) The Director's response to items submitted as issues by the applicant under § 865.111 of this subpart.
(iii) Reasons for rejecting the conclusions of the majority with respect to decisional issues which, if resolved in the applicant's favor, would have resulted in greater relief for the applicant than that afforded by the Director's recommendation. Each issue shall be addressed in accordance with § 865.112 of this subpart.
(f) Copies of the proposed decisional document on cases that have been forwarded to the SRA (except for cases reviewed on the DRB's own motion without the participation of the applicant or the applicant's counsel) shall be provided to the applicant and counsel or representative, if any. The document will include the Director's recommendation to the SRA, if any. Classified information shall be summarized.
(g) The applicant shall be provided with a reasonable period of time, but not less than 25 days, to submit a rebuttal to the SRA. An issue in rebuttal consists of a clear and specific statement by the applicant in support of or in opposition to the statements of the DRB or Director on decisional issues and other clear and specific issues that were submitted by the applicant. The rebuttal shall be based solely on matters in the record when the DRB closed the case for deliberation or in the Director's recommendation.
(h)
(i)
(1)
(2)
(i) The SRA has adopted the Director's recommendation.
(ii) The SRA has adopted the proposed decisional document prepared by the DRB.
(iii) If the SRA adopts the views of the DRB or the Director only in part, the addendum shall cite the specific statements adopted. If the SRA modifies a statement submitted by the DRB or the Director, the addendum shall set forth the modification.
(3)
(i) A list of the issues on which the SRA's decision is based. Each such decisional issue shall be addressed by the SRA. This includes reasons for rejecting the conclusion of the DRB or the Director with respect to decisional issues which, if resolved in the applicant's favor, would have resulted in change to the discharge more favorable to the applicant than that afforded by the SRA's decision.
(ii) The SRA's response to items submitted as issues by the applicant will be in accordance with § 865.111 of this subpart.
(4)
(ii) If the SRA does not grant the full change in discharge requested by the applicant (or a more favorable change), the addendum shall list each issue in rebuttal submitted by an applicant and shall set forth the response of the SRA under the following:
(A) If the SRA rejects an issue in rebuttal, the SRA may respond in accordance with the principles in § 865.112 of this subpart.
(B) If the matter adopted by the SRA provides a basis for the SRA's rejection of the rebuttal material, the SRA may note that fact and cite the specific matter adopted that responds to the issue in rebuttal.
(C) If the matter submitted by the applicant does not meet the requirements for rebuttal material in paragraph (g) of this section, that fact shall be noted.
(j)
(a) A decisional document shall be prepared for each review conducted by the DRB.
(b) At a minimum, the decisional decument shall contain:
(1) The date, character of, and reason for discharge or dismissal certificate issued to the applicant upon separation from the military service, including the specific regulatory authority under which the discharge or dismissal certificate was issued.
(2) The circumstances and character of the applicant's service as extracted from military records and information provided by other government authority or the applicant, such as, but not limited to:
(i) Date of enlistment (YYMMDD).
(ii) Period of enlistment.
(iii) Age at enlistment.
(iv) Length of service.
(v) Periods of unauthorized absence.
(vi) Conduct and efficiency ratings (numerical or narrative).
(vii) Highest rank achieved.
(viii) Awards and decorations.
(ix) Educational level.
(x) Aptitude test scores.
(xi) Incidents of punishment pursuant to Article 15, Uniform Code of Military Justice (including nature and date of offense or punishment).
(xii) Conviction by court-martial.
(xiii) Prior military service and type of discharge received.
(3) A list of the type of documents submitted by or on behalf of the applicant (including a written brief, letters of recommendation, affidavits concerning the circumstances of the discharge, or other documentary evidence), if any.
(4) A statement whether the applicant testified, and a list of the type of witnesses, if any, who testified on behalf of the applicant.
(5) A notation whether the application pertained to the character of discharge, the reason for discharge, or both.
(6) The DRB's conclusions on the following:
(i) Whether the character of or the reason for discharge should be changed.
(ii) The specific changes to be made, if any.
(7) A list of the items submitted as issues on DD Form 293 or expressly incorporated therein and such other items submitted as issues by the applicant that are identified as inadvertently omitted under § 865.106(g)(4). If the issues are listed verbatim on DD Form 293, a copy of the relevant portion of the form may be attached. Issues that have been withdrawn or modified with the consent of the applicant need not be listed.
(8) The response to items submitted as issues by the applicant under the guidance in § 865.111.
(9) A list of decisional issues and a discussion of such issues under the guidance of § 865.112.
(10) Minority views, if any, when authorized under the rules of the Secretary of the Air Force.
(11) The recommendation of the Director when required by § 865.113.
(12) Any addendum of the SRA when required by § 865.113.
(13) Advisory opinions, including those containing factual information, when such opinions have been relied upon for final decision or have been accepted as a basis for rejecting any of the applicant's issues. Such advisory opinions or relevant portions thereof that are not fully set forth in the discussion of decisional issues or otherwise in response to items submitted as issues by the application shall be incorporated by reference. A copy of the opinions incorporated by reference shall be appended to the decision and included in the record of proceedings.
(14) A record of the DRB member's names and votes.
(15) Index entries for each decisional issue under appropriate categories listed in the Subject/Category listing.
(16) An authentication of the document by an appropriate official.
(a) The applicant and counsel or representative, if any, shall be provided with a copy of the decisional document and of any further action in review. The applicant (and counsel, if any) shall be notified of the availability of the complaint process in accordance with § 865.121 of this subpart and of the right to appeal to the Board for the Correction of Military Records. Final notification of decisions shall be issued to the applicant with a copy to the counsel or representative, if any.
(b) Notification to applicants with copies to counsel or representatives, shall normally be made through the U.S. Postal Service. Such notification shall consist of a notification of the decision, together with a copy of the decisional document.
(c) Notification of HQ AFMPC/MPCDOAl shall be for the purpose of appropriate action and inclusion of review matter in the military records. Such notification shall bear appropriate certification of completeness and accuracy.
(d) Actions on review by Secretarial Reviewing Authority, when occurring, shall be provided to the applicant and counsel or representative in the same manner as the notification of the review decision.
(a) When the proceedings in any review have been concluded, a record thereof will be prepared. Records may include written records, electromagnetic records, or a combination thereof.
(b) At a minimum, the record will include the following:
(1) The application for review (DD Form 293).
(2) A record of the testimony in verbatim, summarized, or recorded form at the option of the DRB.
(3) Documentary evidence or copies thereof considered by the DRB other than the military record.
(4) Brief/arguments submitted by or on behalf of the applicant.
(5) Advisory opinions considered by the DRB, if any.
(6) The findings, conclusions, and reasons developed by the DRB.
(7) Notification of the DRB's decision to the cognizant custodian of the applicant's records, or reference to the notification document.
(8) Minority reports, if any.
(9) A copy of the decisional document.
The original record of proceedings and all appendices thereto shall in all cases be incorporated in the military record of the applicant and returned to the custody of the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC), St. Louis, Missouri. If a portion of the original record cannot be stored with the service record, the service record shall contain a notation as to the place where the record is stored.
(a) A copy of the decisional document prepared in accordance with § 865.114 of this subpart, shall be made available for public inspection and copying promptly after a notice of final decision is sent to the applicant.
(b) To the extent required to prevent a clearly unwarranted invasion of personal privacy, identifying details of the applicant and other persons will be deleted from documents made available for public inspection and copying. Names, addresses, social security numbers, and military service numbers must be deleted. Written justification shall be made for all other deletions and shall be available for public inspection.
(c) The DRB shall ensure that there is a means for relating a decisional document number to the name of the applicant to permit retrieval of the applicant's records when required in processing a complaint in accordance with § 865.121 of this subpart.
(d) Any other privileged or classified material contained in or appended to any documents required to be furnished the applicant and counsel/representative or made available for public inspection and copying may be deleted therefrom only if a written statement of the basis for the deletions is provided the applicant and counsel/representative and made available for public inspection. It is not intended that the statement be so detailed as to reveal the nature of the withheld material.
(e) DRB documents made available for public inspection and copying shall be located in the Armed Forces Discharge Review/Correction Boards Reading Room. The documents shall be indexed in usable and concise form so as to enable the public and those who represent applicants before the DRB to isolate from all these decisions that are indexed those cases that may be similar to an applicant's case and that indicate the circumstances under and/or reasons for which the DRB or the Secretary of the Air Force granted or denied relief.
(1) The reading file index shall include, in addition to any other items determined by the DRB, the case number, the date, character of, reason for, and authority for the discharge. It shall further include the decisions of the DRB and reviewing authority, if any, and the issues addressed in the statement of findings, conclusions and reasons.
(2) The index shall be maintained at selected permanent locations throughout the United States. This ensures reasonable availability to applicants at least 30 days before a regional board review. The index shall also be made
(3) The Armed Forces Discharge Review/Correction Board Reading Room shall publish indexes quarterly for the DRB. The DRB shall be responsible for timely submission to the Reading Room of individual case information required for update of indexes. These indexes shall be available for public inspection or purchase (or both) at the Reading Room. This information will be provided to applicants in the notice of acceptance of the application.
(4) Correspondence relating to matters under the cognizance of the Reading Room (including request for purchase of indexes) shall be addressed to:
Information protected under the Privacy Act is involved in discharge review functions. The provisions of 32 CFR part 286a will be observed throughout the processing of a request for review of discharge or dismissal.
(a)
(b)
(1) There exists an error of fact, law, procedures, or discretion associated with the discharge at the time of issuance; and that the rights of the applicant were prejudiced thereby (such error shall constitute prejudicial error, if there is substantial doubt that the discharge would have remained the same if the error had not been made); or
(2) A change in policy by the Air Force made expressly retroactive to the type of discharge under consideration, requires a change in the discharge.
(c) When a record associated with the discharge at the time of issuance involves a matter in which the primary responsibility for corrective action rests with another organization (for example, another Board, agency, or court), the DRB will recognize an error only to the extent that the error has been corrected by the organization with primary responsibility for correcting the record.
(d) The primary function of the DRB is to exercise its discretion on issues of equity by reviewing the individual merits of each application on a case-by-case basis. Prior decisions in which the DRB exercised its discretion to change a discharge based on issues of equity (including the factors cited in such decisions or the weight given to factors in such decisions) do not blind the DRB in its review of subsequent cases because no two cases present the same issues of equity.
(e) The following applies to applicants who received less than fully honorable administrative discharges because of their civilian misconduct while in an inactive reserve component and who were discharged or had their discharge reviewed on or after April 20, 1971: the DRB shall either recharacterize the discharge to honorable without any additional proceedings or additional proceedings shall be conducted in accordance with the Court's Order of December 3, 1981, in Wood v. Secretary of Defense to determine whether proper grounds exist for the issuance of a less
(1) An Under Other Than Honorable (formerly Undesirable) Discharge for an inactive reservist can only be based upon civilian misconduct found to have affected directly the performance of military duties;
(2) A General Discharge for an inactive reservist can only be based upon civilian misconduct found to have had an adverse impact on the overall effectiveness of the military, including military morale and efficiency.
(f) The following applies to applicants who received less than fully honorable administrative discharges (between June 21, 1971 and March 2, 1982) because evidence developed by or as a direct result of complusory urinalysis testing was introduced in the discharge proceedings. Applicants who believe they are members of the above category will so indicate this by writing “CATEGORY W” in block 7 of their DD Form 293. AFMPC/MPCDOA1 will expedite processing these applications to the designated “CATEGORY W” reviewer. For class members the designated reviewer shall either recharacterize the discharge to honorable without any additional proceedings or complete a review to determine whether proper ground exists for the issuance of a less than honorable discharge. If the applicant is determined not to be a class member, the application is returned to normal review procedure channels. If new administrative proceedings are initiated, the former service member must be notified of:
(1) The basis of separation other than drug abuse or use or possession of drugs based upon compelled urinalysis that was specified in the commander's report and upon which the Air Force now seeks to base a less than honorable discharge.
(2) The full complement of procedural protections that are required by current regulations.
(3) Name, address and telephone number of an Area Defense Counsel with whom the former service member has a right to consult, and
(4) The right to participate in the new proceedings to be conducted at the Air Force base nearest the former service member's current address, or to elect to maintain his or her present character of discharge.
(g)
(1) In the course of a discharge review, it is determined that the policies and procedures under which the applicant was discharged differ in material respects from policies and procedures currently applicable on a service-wide basis to discharges of the type under consideration provided that:
(i) Current policies or procedures represent a substantial enhancement of the rights afforded an applicant in such proceedings; and
(ii) There is substantial doubt that the applicant would have received the same discharge if relevant current policies and procedures had been available to the applicant at the time of the discharge proceedings under consideration.
(2) At the time of issuance, the discharge was inconsistent with standards of discipline in the Air Force; or
(3) In the course of a discharge review, it is determined that a change is warranted based upon consideration of the applicant's military record and other evidence presented to the DRB viewed in conjunction with the factors listed in this section and the regulations under which the applicant was discharged, even though the discharge was determined to have been otherwise equitable and proper at the time of issuance. Areas of consideration include, but are not limited to:
(i) Quality of Service, as evidenced by factors such as:
(A) Service History, including date of enlistment, period of enlistment, highest rank achieved, conduct or efficiency ratings (numerical or narrative).
(B) Awards and decorations.
(C) Letters of commendation or reprimand.
(D) Combat service.
(E) Wounds received in action.
(F) Record of promotions and demotions.
(G) Level of responsibility at which the applicant served.
(H) Other acts of merit that may not have resulted in a formal recognition through an award or commendation.
(I) Length of service during the period which is the subject of the discharge review.
(J) Prior military service and type of discharge received or outstanding post-service conduct to the extent that such matters provide a basis for a more thorough understanding of the performance of the applicant during the period of service which is the subject of the discharge review.
(K) Convictions by court-martial.
(L) Record of non-judicial punishment.
(M) Convictions by civil authorities while a member of the Air Force, reflected in the discharge proceedings or otherwise noted in military records.
(N) Record of periods of unauthorized absence.
(O) Records relating to a discharge in lieu of court-martial.
(ii) Capability to Serve, as evidenced by factors such as:
(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)
Former members of the Air Force or their counsel or representative may submit complaints with respect to the decisional document issued in the former member's case.
(a) All complaints should be processed in accordance with 32 CFR part 70 and should be forwarded to:
(b) The Air Force Discharge Review Board will respond to all complaints in accordance with 32 CFR part 70.
The Air Force Discharge Review Board shall prepare and provide to the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense (Military Personnel and Force Management) DASD(MP&FM), Office of the ASD(MRA&L), a semiannual report of discharge review actions in accordance with § 865.125.
Only the Secretary of the Air Force may authorize or approve a waiver of, or exception to, any part of this subpart.
Composition of the board for these hearings consists of three members from Washington with augmentation by two members from nearby local Air Force resources. The nearest Air Force installation or Air Force Reserve Unit is tasked to provide two officers to serve as members of the DRB. Active duty members will serve on the board as an additional duty. Reserve members will be on a temporary tour of active duty (TTAD) for the duration of the hearings. Detailed information must be provided to the individuals selected to serve before each hearing date. The administrative staff in Washington processes all cases for regional hearings, establishes hearing dates, and returns the records to the Manpower and Personnel Center at Randolph AFB, Texas, when the case is finalized.
Semi-annual reports will be submitted by the 20th day of April and October for the preceding 6-month reporting period (1 October through 31 March
(a) Part 1—Regular Cases are all those that are not included in part 2 below.
(b) Part 2—Other cases include the following:
(1) Reconsideration of President Ford's memorandum of 19 January 1977.
(2) Special Discharge Review Program cases.
(3) Statutes of Limitation Cases—those heard under Pub. L. 95-126 by waiver of 10 U.S.C. 1553.
(c) Part 3—Total—combine parts 1 and 2.
(d) Part 4—Cases outstanding include all those eligible cases in which a DD Form 293 has been received but has not been heard by the Discharge Review Board as the reporting date for this report. Reports will be prepared by the Air Force Discharge Review Board and submitted to the Army Discharge Review Board (executive agent for DRB matters).
38 U.S.C. 106.
(a) Who may apply.
(1) You may apply for discharge if you were a member of a recognized group. A spouse, next of kin, or legal representative may apply on behalf of a deceased or mentally incompetent person. Proof of death or mental incompetency must accompany such an application.
(b) Where to apply.
(1) Send your application for discharge to the Directorate of Personnel Program Management, Separations Branch, HQ AFPC/DPPRS, 550 C Street West, Suite 11, Randolph AFB, TX 78150-4713.
(c) How to apply.
(1) Fill out DD Form 2168,
(2) Obtain DD Form 2168 from HQ AFPC/DPRS, 550 C Street West, Suite 11, Randolph AFB, TX 78150-4713 or the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC), 9700 Page Boulevard, St. Louis, MO 63132.
(3) Make your application as complete as possible; the burden of proof is on you. Provide all available evidence to document your membership in the group and what services you performed.
(d) Documentation may include:
(1) Flight logbooks.
(2) Separation or discharge certificates.
(3) Mission orders.
(4) Identification cards.
(5) Contracts.
(6) Personnel action forms.
(7) Employment records.
(8) Education certificates and diplomas.
(9) Pay vouchers.
(10) Certificates of awards.
(11) Casualty information.
(e) The Air Force will not under any circumstances provide or pay for legal representation for you.
(a) HQ AFPC/DPPRS reviews your application and does one of the following:
(1) Refers your application to another military department and sends you a written notice or a copy of the referral letter.
(2) Returns your application without prejudice if the Secretary of the Air Force has not determined whether members of your group are certified for discharge. You may resubmit the application after the Secretary determines that your group is certified.
(3) Refers applications made by a group (or individuals on behalf of a group) to the Secretary of the Air Force, Manpower, Reserve Affairs and installations, Personnel Council (AFPC), The Pentagon, Washington, DC 20330 for further review. This part does not cover such applications.
(4) Returns the application to you if it is complete.
(5) Refers all complete applications to the Individual Service Review Board for further consideration.
(a) The Commander, Headquarters Air Force Personnel Center (HQ AFPC/CC) establishes the Individual Service Review Board as necessary.
(b) The Board consists of military members in grade Lieutenant Colonel or higher, and civilian members, grade
(c) The Directorate of Personnel Program Management, Separations Branch, HQ AFPC/DPPRS, 550 C Street West, Suite 11, Randolph AFB, TX 78150-4713, provides administrative support to the Board.
(a) Individual Service Review Board meets in closed session to consider the application, the evidence submitted, and other relevant information. Applicants or their representatives do not have the right to appear before the Board.
(b) The Board:
(1) Evaluates the evidence.
(2) Decides whether the applicant was a member of a recognized group during dates of its qualification.
(3) Decides whether to approve the application for discharge.
(4) Determines the period and character of the applicant's service.
(a) If the Board approves an application for discharge and determines that it should be honorable, HQ AFPC/DPPRSO issues the applicant a DD Form 256AF, Honorable Discharge, and a DD Form 214,
(b) Enter a military grade on the DD Form 214 only if the Administrator of Veterans' Affairs requests it.
(c) Enter a pay grade on the DD Form 214 only for individuals who were killed or received service-related injuries or disease during the approved period of service. For proof of grade criteria, see DoD 1000.20,
(d) If the Board approves an application for discharge but determines that it should be “under honorable conditions” (general discharge), it forwards the case to the Air Force Personnel Council (AFPC) for final decision. HQ AFPC/DPPRSO, 550 C Street West, Suite 20, Randolph AFB, TX 78150-4722, then issues the appropriate discharge certificate and a DD Form 214 to the applicant.
(e) To appeal the characterization of a discharge, submit DD Form 149,
(f) If the member dies or is declared missing during the period of equivalent active military duty, the Directorate of Casualty Matters (HQ AFPC/DPW) issues DD Form 1300,
(a) Once the Board has decided your case, HQ AFPC/DPPRS notifies you:
(1) If the Board denied your application for discharge because there is insufficient evidence to show that you belonged to a qualifying group.
(2) If the Board determines that your service cannot be characterized as “under honorable conditions.”
(b) You have 60 days from the date of this notice to submit additional evidence or information to HQ AFPC/DPPRS, 550 C Street West, Suite 11, Randolph AFB, TX 78150-4713.
(c) If after 60 days you have submitted new evidence, the Board reviews the case again. If the Board determines that your application now merits approval, it proceeds according to paragraph (e).
(d) If you do not submit additional evidence or if, after review, the Board determines that your application should be denied, it forwards the case to the AFPC for final decision.
(e) HQ AFPC/DPPRS notifies you of the final decision.
(f) If your application is denied, the Board returns it to you without prejudicing any later consideration.
If you are approved for a General Discharge, you may apply to the Air Force
(a) File a copy of the application, supporting evidence, and DD Form 214 in the Master Personnel Records Groups maintained at the National Personnel Records Center, St. Louis, MO 63132, for approved cases. Send copies of DD Form 214 to:
(1) The applicant.
(2) The Veterans' Administration.
(3) HQ AFPC/DPPRS, 550 C Street West, Suite 11, Randolph AFB, TX 78150-4713.
The following form, DD Form 2168,
10 U.S.C. 814; 10 U.S.C. 8013; Sec. 721(a), Pub. L. 100-456, 102 Stat. 2001.
This part establishes procedures for making Air Force members, civilian personnel, and family members available to U.S. civilian authorities for trial or specified court appearances. It implements 32 CFR part 146. This part does not confer any rights, benefits, privileges, or form of due process procedure upon any individuals.
A general court martial convening authority (GCMCA) may authorize delivery of a member of that command to Federal or state civil authorities. The GCMCA may delegate this authority to an installation or equivalent commander. See AFPD 51-10, Making Military Personnel, Employees, and Dependents Available to Civilian authorities,
(a) The Under Secretary of Defense (USD), Personnel & Readiness (P&R), is the denial authority for all requests for return of members to the United States for delivery to civilian authorities when the request falls under § 884.9(e).
(b) The Air Force Judge Advocate General (TJAG) may approve requests that fall under § 884.9(e) or recommend denial of such requests. TJAG or a designee may approve or deny:
(1) Requests for return of members to the United States for delivery to civilian authorities when the request falls under § 884.9(f).
(2) Requests for delays of up to 90 days completing action on requests for return of members to the United States for delivery to civilian authorities.
(c) The Air Force Legal Services Agency's Military Justice Division (HQ AFLSA/JAJM), 172 Luke Avenue, Suite 343, Bolling AFB, DC 20332-5113, processes requests for return of members to the United States for delivery to civilian authorities and notifies requesting authorities of decisions on requests. HQ AFLSA/JAJM completes action on requests within 30 days after receipt of the request, unless a delay is granted; they send all reports and notifications to USD/P&R and to the DoD General Counsel (DoD/GC), as required by this part; and they handle all communications with requesters.
Continue restraint only as long as is reasonably necessary to deliver the member to civilian authorities. See AFPD 51-10, paragraph 5. To determine whether probable cause exists and whether a reasonable belief exists that restraint is necessary, the commander should refer to the Manual for Courts-Martial (MCM), 1984, specifically, Rules for Courts-Martial (RCM) 305(h)(2)(B), and the discussion following it. The requirement for the formal review of restraint found in MCM 1984, RCM 305, and AFI 51-201, Military Justice Guide,
(a) Before delivering an Air Force member to a civilian authority, the commander or designee directs the member in writing to report to a designated Air Force unit, activity, or recruiting office for further instructions in the event the civilian authority releases the member (see § 884.17). The commander designates the member's unit, if the civilian authority is in the immediate vicinity of the member's base. The commander advises the designated Air Force unit, activity, or recruiting office of the situation. Once the member has been released and has reported to the designated authority, it immediately sends the member's name, rank, Social Security number (SSN). organization, and other pertinent information to the member's commander, who then provides further instructions.
(b) The member's commander notifies the military personnel flight (MPF) of the situation. In turn, the MPF provides an information copy to the Air Force Personnel Center (AFPC) assignment office responsible for the member's Air Force specialty code (AFSC), as listed in AFMAN 36-2105, Officer Classification,
When either the prisoner or state authorities make a request under the Detainer's Act, follow the procedures in Title 18 U.S.C. App. Section 1,
(a) When Federal authorities request the delivery of service members, the Air Force will normally deliver service members when the request is accompanied by a warrant issued pursuant to the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure, rule 4, or when a properly identified Federal officer represents that such a warrant has been issued.
(b) A U.S. marshal, deputy marshal, or other officer authorized by law will call for and take into custody persons desired by Federal authorities for trial. The officer taking custody must execute a statement in substantially the form set out in § 884.18.
(a) The Air Force normally will turn over to the civilian authorities of the state, upon their request. Air Force members charged with an offense against state or local law. Each request by such civilian authorities for the surrender of a member of the Air Force should normally be accompanied by a copy of an indictment, information, or other document used in the state to prefer charges, or a warrant that reflects the charges and is issued by a court of competent jurisdiction.
(b) Before making delivery to civilian authorities of a state, the commander having authority to deliver will obtain a written agreement, substantially in the form of § 884.18, from a duly authorized officer of the state.
(c) Where the state authority cannot agree to one or more of the conditions set out in the form, the commander may authorize modification. The requirements of the agreement are substantially met when the state authority informs the accused's commander of the accused's prospective release for return to military authorities and when the state furnishes the accused transportation back to his or her station, together with necessary funds to cover incidental expenses en route. The accused's commander provides copies of the statement or agreement of this section and in § 884.6(b) to the civilian authority to whom the member was delivered and to the Air Force unit, activity, or recruiting office nearest to the place of trial designated in the agreement as the point of contact in the event of release on bail or on recognizance (see § 884.4). The accused's commander immediately notifies the civilian authority if the member has been discharged from the Air Force.
(a) This part applies to members who are located in the United States. With respect to the extradition process, Air Force personnel have the same status as persons not in the Armed Forces. Accordingly, if a state other than the state in which the member is located requests the delivery of a military member, in the absence of a waiver of extradition process by the member concerned, that state must use its normal extradition procedures to make arrangements to take the individual into custody in the state where he or she is located.
(b) The Air Force will not transfer a military member from a base within one state to a base within another state for the purpose of making the member amenable to prosecution by civilian authorities.
(a) Authority. This section implements Pub. L. 100-456, section 721(a), and DoD Directive 5525.9, December 27, 1988.
(b) The Air Force expects members to comply with orders issued by Federal or state court of competent jurisdiction, unless noncompliance is legally
(c) Air Force officials will ensure that members do not use assignments or officially sponsored residence outside the United States to avoid compliance with valid orders of Federal or state court of competent jurisdiction.
(d) Noncompliance with a court order may be legally justified when the individual can adequately demonstrate that the conduct, which is the subject of the complaint or request, was sanctioned by supplemental court orders, equally valid court orders of other jurisdictions, good faith legal efforts to resist the request, or other reasons. HQ USAF/JAG, HQ AFLSA/JACA, and Air Force legal offices in the jurisdiction concerned will provide legal support to servicing staff judge advocates who request assistance in reviewing these issues.
(e) When Federal, state, or local authorities request delivery of an Air Force member stationed outside the United States who is convicted of or charged with a felony or other serious offense or who is sought by such authorities in connection with the unlawful or contemptuous taking of a child from the jurisdiction of a court or from the lawful custody of another person, the member's commander will normally expeditiously return the member to the United States for delivery to the requesting authorities.
(1) A serious offense is defined as one punishable by confinement for more than 1 year under the laws of the requesting jurisdiction.
(2) Delivery of the member is not required if the controversy can be resolved without returning the member to the United States or if the request for delivery of the member is denied in accordance with this instruction.
(f) Ordinarily, do not return an Air Force member stationed outside the United States to the United States for delivery to civilian authorities if the offense is not specified in paragraph (e) of this section. TJAG may direct return when deemed appropriate under the facts and circumstances of the particular case.
(g) Before taking action under this section, give the member the opportunity to provide evidence of legal efforts to resist the court order or process sought to be enforced or otherwise to show legitimate cause for noncompliance.
The Air Force expects persons overseas wanted by Federal or state authorities to make themselves available to those authorities for disposition. If they do not, DoD Directive 5525.9, Compliance of DoD Members, Employees, and Family Members Outside the United States With Court Orders, 10 U.S.C. 814, and Pub. L. 100-456, section 721(a), authorize and require commanders to respond promptly to requests from civilian authorities for assistance in returning members, civilian employees, and family members from overseas.
(a) Include the following information in a request for return of an Air Force member to the United States for delivery to civilian authorities.
(1) Fully identify the member sought by providing the member's name, grade, SSN, and unit of assignment, to the extent the information is known.
(2) Specify the offense for which the member is sought. If the member is charged with a crime, specify the maximum punishment under the laws of the requesting jurisdiction. Specify whether the member is sought in connection with the unlawful or contemptuous taking of a child from the jurisdiction of a court or the lawful custody of another.
(3) Include copies of all relevant requests for assistance, indictments, information, or other instruments used to bring charges, all relevant court orders or decrees, and all arrest warrants, writs of attachment or capias (writs authorizing arrests), or other
(4) Indicate whether the requesting authorities will secure the member's lawful delivery or extradition from the port of entry to the requesting jurisdiction, whether they will do so at their own expense, and whether they will notify HQ AFLSA/JAJM of the member's release from custody and of the ultimate disposition of the matter.
(5) Any U.S. attorney or assistant U.S. attorney, governor or other duly authorized officer of a requesting state or local jurisdiction, or the judge, magistrate, or clerk of a court of competent jurisdiction must sign the request.
(b) Civilian authorities making requests for return of members to the United States for delivery to them should direct their request to HQ AFLSA/JAJM. If another Air Force agency or official receives the request, immediately send it to HQ AFLSA/JAJM.
(c) Upon receipt of a request, HQ AFLSA/JAJM promptly notifies the member's commander, who consults with the servicing staff judge advocate. The commander provides a report of relevant facts and circumstances and recommended disposition of the request through command channels to HQ AFLSA/JAJM. If the commander recommends denial of the request or a delay in processing or approving it, the commander provides the information specified in § 884.12(a)(1) through (a)(4) or § 884.13(a)(1) through (a)(4).
(d) After proper authority has approved a request for return of a member to the United States for delivery to civilian authorities, HQ AFLSA/JAJM notifies AFPC of the decision to return the member to the United States. AFPC issues permanent change of station (PCS) orders, assigning the member to an installation as close to the requesting jurisdiction as possible, considering the needs of the Air Force for personnel in the member's rank and AFSC.
(e) HQ AFLSA/JAJM notifies requesting authorities of the member's new assignment, port of entry into the United States and estimated time of arrival. Except during unusual circumstances, HQ AFLSA/JAJM notifies requesting authorities at least 10 days before the member's return.
(a) On a request to return a member to the United States for delivery to civilian authorities. TJAG may grant a delay of not more than 90 days in completing action when one or more of the following are present:
(1) Efforts are in progress to resolve the controversy to the satisfaction of the requesting authorities without the member's return to the United States.
(2) Additional time is required to permit the member to provide satisfactory evidence of legal efforts to resist the request or to show legitimate cause for noncompliance.
(3) Additional time is required to permit the commander to determine the specific effect of the loss of the member on command mission and readiness or to determine pertinent facts and circumstances relating to any international agreement, foreign judicial proceeding, DoD, Air Force, or other military department investigation or court-martial affecting the member.
(4) Other unusual facts or circumstances warrant delay.
(b) AFLSA/JAJM promptly reports all delays in cases falling under AFPD 51-10,
(c) Delays in excess of 90 days are not authorized in cases falling under AFPD 51-10, paragraph 3, unless approved by USD/P&R.
(a) A request for return of a member to the United States for delivery to civilian authorities may be denied when:
(1) The member's return would have an adverse impact on operational readiness or mission requirements.
(2) An international agreement precludes the member's return.
(3) The member is the subject of foreign judicial proceedings, court-martial, or a DoD, Air Force, or other military department investigation.
(4) The member showed satisfactory evidence of legal efforts to resist the request or other legitimate cause for noncompliance or when other unusual facts or circumstances warrant a denial.
(b) Commanders promptly send to HQ AFLSA/JAJM information supporting a determination that denial may be appropriate. In cases warranting denial, TJAG promptly sends a recommendation and supporting documentation, through SAF/GC and SAF/MI, to USD/P&R for decision.
(c) The fact that a recommendation for denial is pending does not by itself authorize noncompliance or a delay in compliance with any provision of this section, but TJAG may consider a pending request for denial in determining whether to grant a delay.
(a) The Air Force expects civilian employees and family members to comply with orders issued by Federal or state court of competent jurisdiction, unless noncompliance is legally justified. Air Force civilian employees who persist in noncompliance are subject to adverse administrative action, including separation for cause as provided in AFI 36-704, Discipline and Adverse Actions (PA).
(b) Air Force officials ensure that civilian personnel and family members do not use assignments or officially sponsored residence outside the United States to avoid compliance with valid orders of Federal or state court of competent jurisdiction.
(a) The procedures of this section apply to civilian employees, including nonappropriated fund instrumentality (NAFI) employees, who are assigned outside the United States, and to command-sponsored family members residing outside the United States.
(b) This section applies only when Air Force authorities receive a request for assistance from Federal, state, or local authorities involving noncompliance with a court order and when noncompliance is the subject of any of the following: An arrest warrant; indictment, information, or other document used in the jurisdiction to prefer charges; or a contempt citation involving the unlawful or contemptuous removal of a child from the jurisdiction of the court or the lawful custody of a parent or third party.
(c) To the maximum extent possible, consistent with provisions of international agreements and foreign court orders, DoD and military department investigations, and judicial proceedings, commanders comply with requests for assistance. After exhausting all reasonable efforts to resolve the matter without the employee or family member returning to the United States, the commander shall strongly encourage the individual to comply. The commander shall consider imposing disciplinary action (including removal) against the employee or withdrawing command sponsorship of the family member, as appropriate, for failure to comply.
The commander or designee promptly reports each request for assistance and intended action by message. Send reports to HQ AFLSA/JAJM, which submits required reports, through channels, to USD/P&R, HQ AFLSA/JAJM conducts all communications with requesters.
1. You are being delivered to the custody of civilian authorities, pursuant to the provisions of AFI 51-1001. This action does not constitute a discharge from the Air Force. In the event that you are released from civilian custody on bail or on your own recognizance, report immediately in person or by telephone to the (Air Force unit, activity, or recruiting office) for further instructions. Advise the commander of your name, rank,
2. Certain restrictions may be placed upon you by civilian authorities in connection with your temporary release from custody. Be certain to include in your report what these limitations are.
3. AFI 51-1001, paragraph 4 provides that the authority to whom you report will notify your commander. If that is not possible, request the nearest Air Force base military personnel flight to contact HQ AFPC/DPMARS or DPMRPP2 by the fastest means available. Provide your name, rank, SSN, organization, and the circumstances of your release; further instruction will then be given to you.
1. A warrant for the arrest of (name, rank, and SSN), hereinafter referred to as the “member,” and who is charged with (offenses) has been issued by (civilian authority) and in execution, thereof, I accept his or her custody.
2. In consideration of the delivery of member at (location) to me for trial upon the above charge, pursuant to the authority vested in me as (position), I hereby agree to the following:
a. The commander (name, rank, unit, telephone), will be advised of the disposition of the charges.
b. The member will be immediately returned to the custody of the military upon completion of the trial, if acquitted; or upon satisfying the sentence imposed, if convicted; or upon other disposition of the case.
c. The member's return will be to (location) or to such other place as may be designated by the Department of the Air Force.
3. The member's return will not be required if the member's commander has indicated that return is not appropriate. Instead of actual delivery, transportation for the member may be arranged so long as it is without expense to the United States or to the member.
4. Pending disposition of the charges, the member will remain in the custody of [name of agency and location], unless released on bail or the member's own recognizance, in which event [Air Force unit, activity, or recruiting office nearest place of trial] will be notified.
10 U.S.C. 1041.
This part tells who may apply for a certificate in lieu of a lost or destroyed certificate of separation. It explains where and how to apply. It implements 10 U.S.C. 1041 and DOD Instruction 1332.13, December 23, 1968. This publication applies to ANG and USAFR members. It authorizes collection of information protected by the Privacy Act of 1974. The authority to collect the information is title 10, U.S.C. 8912 and Executive Order 9397. Each form used to collect personal information has an associated Privacy Act Statement that will be given to the individual before information is collected. System of records notice F035 AF MP C, Military Personnel Records System, applies.
(a)
(b)
(1) Is currently serving as a member of the Air Force; or
(2) Formerly served in the active military service as a member of the Air Force and all military affiliation was terminated after September 25, 1947.
(c)
(d)
Certificates of separation are important personal documents. Processing applications for CILs is costly to the Air Force. To keep requests for CILs at a minimum:
(a) Personnel officers will tell members of the importance of safeguarding the original certificates.
(b) Persons who issue CILs will type or stamp across the lower margin “THIS IS AN IMPORTANT RECORD—SAFEGUARD IT” (if it is not printed on the certificate).
Do not show this legend on DD Form 363AF, Certificate of Retirement.
CILs may be issued only to:
(a) A service member whose character of service was honorable or under honorable conditions.
(b) A surviving spouse.
(c) A guardian, when a duly certified or otherwise authenticated copy of the court order of appointment is sent with the application.
(a) Standard Form 180 (SF 180), Request Pertaining to Military Records, should be used by persons who had service as shown in § 887.3(a). However, a letter request, with sufficient identifying data and proof that the original certificate of separation was lost or destroyed, may be used. Members on active duty will forward their applications through their unit commander.
(b) SF 180, or any similar form used by agencies outside the Department of Defense, will be used by persons shown in § 887.3(b), (c), and § 887.7.
Persons authorized CILs may be assisted in their request by the Customer Service Unit (DPMAC) in the consolidated base personnel office.
The issuing authority makes sure that the proper CIL form is issued, particularly if the service member has had service in both the Army and Air Force. The assignment status as of September 26, 1947 determines if the person was in the Army or Air Force at the time of discharge or release from active duty. Separations that took place on or before September 25, 1947 are considered Army separations. Those that took place on or after September 26, 1947 are considered Air Force separations, unless the records clearly show the person actually served as a member of the Army during the period of service for which the CIL is requested. Individuals indicated in § 887.3 may be issued CILs prepared on one of the following forms:
(a) DD Form 303AF, Certificate in Lieu of Lost or Destroyed Discharge, is used to replace any lost or destroyed certificate of discharge from the Air Force.
(b) DD Form 363AF, Certificate of Retirement, is used to replace any lost or destroyed certificate of retirement from the Air Force (issued only to service members).
(c) AF Form 386, Certificate in Lieu of Lost or Destroyed Discharge (AUS), is used to replace any lost or destroyed certificate of discharge from the Army.
(d) AF Form 681, Certificate in Lieu of Lost or Destroyed Certificate of Service (AUS), is used to replace any lost or destroyed certificate of service, or like form, issued on release from extended active duty (EAD) in the Army.
(e) AF Form 682, Certificate in Lieu of Lost or Destroyed Certificate of Service (USAF), is used to replace any lost or destroyed certificate of service, or like form, issued on release from EAD in the Air Force.
(a) DD Form 363AF must be signed by a general officer or colonel.
(b) All other CILs must be signed by a commissioned officer, NCO in grade of master sergeant or above, or a civilian in grade GS-7 or above.
Those persons whose character of service was under other than honorable conditions or dishonorable are not eligible for CILs. However, an official photocopy of the report of separation
(a) On the DD Forms 214 issued before October 1, 1979, the following items will be masked out before a photocopy is sent out:
(1) Specific authority for separation.
(2) Narrative reason for separation.
(3) Reenlistment eligibility code.
(4) SPD or separation designation number (SDN).
(b) For DD Forms 214 issued after October 1, 1979, send one copy with the Special Additional Information Section, and one copy without it.
(c) If a report of separation is not available, furnish a brief official statement of military service. Use the letterhead stationery of the issuing records custodian. File copy of the statement in the master personnel record (MPerR).
(d) If (obsolete form) DD Form 258AF, Undesirable Discharge Certificate, has been issued, it may be replaced with DD Form 794AF, Discharge Under Other Than Honorable Conditions.
(e) A $4.25 fee may be charged for issuing a document under this section, with the exception of paragraph (d) of this section.
(a) For DD Form 363AF: Headquarters, Air Force Military Personnel Center, Officer Actions Branch (HQ AFMPC/DPMD00), Randolph AFB TX 78150-6001, for officers; and Headquarters, Air Force Military Personnel Center, Analysis and Certification Section (HQ AFMPC/DPMD0A2), Randolph AFB TX 78150-6001, for enlisted members. Applicants must attach a copy of the retirement order to SF 180 or letter.
(b) All other certificates:
(1) HQ AFMPC/DPMD00 for officers, and HQ AFMPC/DPMD0A2, for enlisted members, Randolph AFB TX 78150-6001 for:
(i) Members on EAD or on the temporary disability retired list (TDRL).
(ii) General officers in retired pay status.
(2) National Personnel Records Center, Military Personnel Records—Air Force (NPRC/MPR-AF), 9700 Page Boulevard, St. Louis MO 63132, for officers and enlisted members:
(i) Completely separated from the Air Force or Air National Guard.
(ii) In a retired pay status, except general officers.
(iii) In the retired Reserve who cannot become eligible for retired pay.
(3) Headquarters, Air Reserve Personnel Center, Reference Services Branch (HQ ARPC/DSMR), Denver CO 80280-5000, for Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve officers and enlisted members not on EAD, including retired Reserve who will be eligible for retired pay at age 60.
This part does not prohibit authorities (see § 887.8) from supplying photocopies of certificates of service, reports of separation, or similar documents. Agencies that provide copies of DD Form 214 (or their equivalent) will conspicuously affix an “official” seal or stamp on them to indicate that these documents are copies made from official United States Air Force military personnel records.
10 U.S.C., Chapter 903, and 10 U.S.C. 8012, except as otherwise noted.
This part is derived from Air Force Regulation 53-10, October 22, 1985.
Part 806 of this chapter states the basic policies and instructions governing the disclosure of records and tells members of the public what they must do to inspect or obtain copies of the material referenced herein.
This part tells civilian and enlisted personnel (including Air Force Reserve and National Guard) the methods of applying and the requirements and procedures for appointing young men and women to the United States Air Force Academy.
This part is affected by the Privacy Act of 1974. The systems of records prescribed in this part are authorized by 10 U.S.C., chapter 903; and 10 U.S.C. 8012. Each form that is subject to the provisions of part 806b.5 of this chapter, and is required by this part, contains a Privacy Act Statement either incorporated in the body of the document or in a separate statement accompanying each such document.
Appointments as U.S. Air Force Academy cadets are offered to those candidates having the strongest potential to become successful career officers. Offers of appointment are made according to the law and guidance provided by HQ USAF to most effectively accomplish the Academy's mission. All candidates are appointed as cadets under the authority of the President; however, an appointment is conditional until the candidate is admitted.
Appointments and nominations are based on statutory authority contained in 10 U.S.C., chapter 903. Specific authorities may nominate eligible applicants for appointment vacancies at the Academy. Each applicant must obtain a nomination to receive an appointment. Applicants may apply for a nomination in each category in which they are eligible.
All appointees must have a nomination in at least one of the following categories:
(a) Congressional and U.S. Possessions categories include the following nominating authorities:
(1) U.S. Senators and Representatives.
(2) Delegates in Congress from the District of Columbia, Guam, Virgin Islands, and American Samoa.
(3) Resident Commissioner of Puerto Rico.
(4) Governor of Puerto Rico.
(5) Administrator of the Panama Canal Commission.
(b) Vice-Presidential category.
(c) Presidential competitive category.
(d) Children of deceased or disabled veterans and children of military or civilian personnel in missing status competitive category.
(e) Honor military and honor Naval schools, Air Force Reserve Officers' Training Corps (AFROTC), and Air Force Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (AFJROTC) competitive category.
(f) Children of Medal of Honor recipients category.
(g) Air Force enlisted regular competitive category.
(h) Air Force enlisted reserve competitive category.
(i) Superintendent competitive category.
(j) Foreign students competitive category (40 foreign persons designated to receive instruction under 10 U.S.C 9344).
Each applicant must meet the following eligibility requirements:
(a)
(b)
(1) For American-born citizens, certified birth certificate presented to the Director of Admissions (USAFA/RRS), U.S. Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs CO 80840-5651 before administration of oath of appointment.
(2) Foreign cadets must present certified copies of certificates of arrival and nationalization or citizenship to USAFA/RRS before administration of oath of appointment.
Facsimiles, copies, photographs or otherwise of birth certificate or certificate of citizenship will not be accepted unless properly certified by the raised seal of the issuing authority.
(c)
(d)
(1) Applicant is or has been a conscientious objector. In this case, an affidavit is required stating that such beliefs and principles have been abandoned so far as they pertain to willingness to bear arms and give full and unqualified military service to the United States.
(2) Any facts that indicate the applicant's appointment may not be consistent with the interests of national security.
(3) Conviction by court-martial of other than a “minor offense” (MCM, 1984, part V, paragraph 1e, page V-1) or conviction of a felony in a civilian court.
(4) Elimination from any officer training program or any preparatory school of the Army, Navy, or Air Force Academies for military inaptitude, indifference, or undesirable traits of character. This includes any person who resigned in lieu of impending charges or who was eliminated by official action.
(5) Habitual alcohol misuse or drug abuse which exceeds the standards of AFR 30-2 is disqualifying.
(6) Any behavior, activity, or association showing the applicant's conduct is incompatible with exemplary standards of personal conduct, moral character, and integrity.
(e)
(f)
For the purpose of this regulation, children are defined as the natural children of a parent and adopted children whose adoption proceedings were initiated before their 15th birthday.
(g)
Before being offered an appointment, candidates must take either the College Board Admission Testing Program (ATP) or the American College Testing Program (ACT) test.
(a)
(b)
Before being offered an appointment, candidates must take a Candidate Fitness Test (CFT) which consists of exercises designed to measure muscular strength, coordination, and aerobic power. Waivers to the CFT requirement may be granted by the Air Force Academy Director of Athletics if a candidate's participation in high school athletics conflicts with test administration dates and the candidate clearly demonstrates an acceptable level of physical fitness.
The Air Force Academy conducts a precandidate evaluation program as an initial step in the admissions process and as an aid to Members of Congress in screening their applicants for nomination.
(a) Applicants normally are sent a precandidate packet, including USAFA Form 149, Precandidate Questionnaire, with a request for the applicant to provide academic, athletic, leadership, and medical information.
(b) The Academy evaluates the precandidate information and provides an analysis to appropriate congressional offices. Such information gives the nominating authorities an indication of the applicant's potential to qualify for admission and the applicant's self-reported medical status; it does not, however, reflect the applicant's final admission status. It is intended only to aid in selecting the best-qualified applicants for nomination.
(c) Applicants whose evaluation indicates they are fully qualified will be notified and advised to seek a nomination. Individuals whose evaluations reflect areas needing improvement are informed and encouraged to submit additional test scores or information in an effort to meet the qualifying levels.
Individuals who meet the basic eligibility requirements of § 901.4 may apply for a nomination according to their domicile (permanent legal residence).
(a) U.S. Senators, U.S. Representatives, the District of Columbia Delegate to the House of Representatives, and the Resident Commissioner of Puerto Rico are each authorized a quota of five cadets attending the Academy at any one time. If a vacancy occurs in their quota, each may nominate ten candidates to fill each vacancy.
(b) Delegates in Congress from Guam and from the Virgin Islands are each
(c) The Governor of Puerto Rico, the Delegate from American Samoa, and the Panama Canal Commission Administrator may each have one cadet attending the Academy and each may nominate ten candidates to fill their vacancy.
(1) Applicants domiciled in and natives of Puerto Rico may apply to the Governor of Puero Rico in addition to the Resident Commissioner.
(2) Applicants domiciled in American Samoa may apply to their Delegate.
(3) Children of civilian personnel of the U.S. Government residing in the Republic of Panama who are citizens of the United States may apply to the Panama Canal Commission Administrator.
(d) Nominating authorities in these categories normally submit their nominations by January 31 for the class entering the following summer.
(1) These nominating authorities may nominate only if a vacancy occurs from their authorized quota of cadets attending the Academy. Vacancies normally occur from graduation or separation of cadets from the Academy. Failure of a member of a graduating class to complete the Academy program with his class does not delay the admission of his or her successor. HQ USAF/DPPA maintains the master records of cadets nominated and appointed, determines vacancies in each nominating authority's quota, and validates nominations submitted by each nominating authority.
(2) These nominating authorities forward their nominations on DD Form 1870, Nomination for Appointment to the U.S. Military Academy, Naval Academy, or Air Force Academy, for each Air Force Academy nominee through HQ USAF/DPPA, Washington, DC 20330-5060, to USAFA/RRS, USAF Academy, Colorado Springs, CO 80840-5651.
The Vice President of the United States nominates from the United States at large, and is authorized a quota of five cadets attending the Academy at any one time. For each vacancy occurring in the quota, ten individuals may be nominated to fill the vacancy. Requests for a nomination are submitted directly to the Vice President no later than October 31. Any individual who meets the basic eligibility requirements of § 901.4 may apply to the Vice President for a nomination. The Vice President forwards nominations on DD Form 1870 for each Air Force Academy nominee through HQ USAF/DPPA, Washington, DC 20330-5060, to USAFA/RRS, USAF Academy, Colorado Springs, CO 80840-5651.
Appointments to fill vacancies from this category are made from candidates in order of merit. One hundred appointments are authorized each year.
(a) The child of a Regular or Reserve member of the Armed Forces of the United States is eligible for nomination if:
(1) The parent is on active duty and has completed 8 years of continuous active duty service (other than for training) by July 1 of the year that the candidate would enter the U.S. Air Force Academy; or
(2) The parent was retired with pay or was granted retired or retainer pay (children of reservists retired and receiving pay pursuant to 10 U.S.C., chapter 67, are ineligible); or
(3) The parent died after retiring with pay or died after being granted retired or retainer pay (children of such reservists who were retired and receiving pay pursuant to 10 U.S.C., chapter 67, are ineligible); and
(4) The applicant does not meet the eligibility requirements for the Children of Deceased or Disabled Veterans (CODDV) nomination category. (By law, a person eligible for appointment consideration under the DOCCV category is not a candidate in the Presidential category.)
(b) An eligible individual applies to USAFA/RRS, U.S. Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs, CO 80840-5651. A suggested letter format is included in the precandidate packet. The nominating period opens on May 1 and closes January 31. Applicants do not write directly
For the purpose of this category, children are defined as the natural children of a parent and adopted children whose adoption proceedings were initiated before their 15th birthday.
Appointments to fill vacancies from this competitive category are made from candidates in order of merit. Appointments authorized in this category are limited to 65 cadets at the Academy at any one time.
(a) The child of a deceased or disabled member of the Armed Forces of the United States is eligible for nomination if:
(1) The parent was killed in action or died of wounds or injuries received or diseases contracted while in active service or of preexisting injury or disease aggravated by active service; or
(2) The parent has a permanent service-connected disability rated at not less than 100 percent resulting from wounds or injuries received or diseases contracted while in active service, or of preexisting injury or disease aggravated by active service.
(b) The child of a parent who is in “missing status” is eligible if the parent is a member of the Armed Services or a civilian employee in active government service who is officially carried or determined to be absent in a status of missing; missing in action; interned in a foreign country; captured, beleaguered, or beseiged by a hostile force; or detained in a foreign country against the person's will.
(c) To request a nomination in this category, an individual submits an application to USAFA/RRS between May 1 and January 31. A suggested letter format is included in the precandidate packet.
For the purpose of this category, children are defined as the natural children of a parent and adopted children whose adoption proceedings were initiated before the 15th birthday.
Appointments to fill vacancies from this competitive category are made from candidates in order of merit. Twenty appointments are authorized each year.
(a) Honor military and honor Naval schools:
(1) Five honor graduates, or prospective honor graduates, from each designated honor military and honor naval school may be nominated to fill the vacancies allocated to this category. School authorities must certify that each nominee is a prospective honor graduate or an honor graduate, and meets the basic eligibility requirements.
(2) School authorities submit nominees directly to the Academy (USAFA/RRS) using specific nomination forms. Such nominations are submitted no later than January 31 of the entry year. Nominations are not limited to honor graduates of the current year. An individual eligible for nomination in this category applies to the administrative authority of the school involved.
(b) AFROTC and AFJROTC:
(1) Five students from each college or university AFROTC detachment may be nominated to compete for the vacancies allocated in this category.
(i) Students must apply for nomination to the Professor of Aerospace Studies (PAS) who must certify that the applicants meet the basic eligibility requirements and have or will have satisfactorily completed at least 1 year of scholastic work at the time the class for which they are applying enters the Academy.
(ii) The PAS uses the forms provided by the Academy to recommend for nomination the five best-qualified applicants to the president of the educational institution in which the AFROTC detachment is established.
(iii) Nominations from the president of the institution are submitted directly to the Academy (USAFA/RRS) by January 31 of the entry year.
(2) Five students from each high school AFJROTC detachment may be nominated to compete for the vacancies allocated to this category.
(i) Students must apply for nomination to the Aerospace Science Instructor, who must certify that the applicants meet the basic eligibility requirements and have or will have successfully completed the prescribed AFJROTC program by the end of the school year.
(ii) The Aerospace Science Instructor uses the nomination forms provided by the Academy to recommend for nomination the five best-qualified applicants to the principal of the high school in which the AFJROTC detachment is established.
(iii) Nominations from the principal of the high school are submitted directly to the Academy by January 31 of the entry year.
(a) The child of any Medal of Honor recipient who served in any branch of the Armed Forces may apply for nomination. If applicants meet the eligibility criteria and qualify on the entrance examinations, they are admitted to the Academy. Appointments from this category are not limited.
(b) The applicant applies directly to the Academy requesting a nomination in this category. The nominating period opens on May 1 and closes January 31. A suggested letter format is included in the precandidate packet.
For the purpose of this category, children are defined as the natural children of a parent and adopted children whose adoption proceedings were initiated before their 15th birthday.
Appointments to fill vacancies from this competitive category are made from candidates in order of merit. A total of 85 appointments are authorized from this category each year. Applications must be submitted no later than January 31 of the entry year.
(a) Any enlisted member of the Regular component of the Air Force may apply for nomination. Selectees must be in active duty enlisted status when appointed as cadets.
(b) Regular category applicants must arrange to have their high school transcripts submitted to USAFA/RRS. They must also complete AF Form 1786, “Application for Appointment to the United States Air Force Academy Under Quota Allotted to Enlisted Members of the Regular and Reserve Components of the Air Force,” and submit it to their organization commander who:
(1) Determines if the applicant meets the basic eligibility requirements shown in § 901.4 of this part. If disqualified, the application is returned and the applicant is informed of the reason.
(2) Advises the Consolidated Base Personnel Office (CBPO) to hold any reassignment action of the airman pending selection for an appointment. The CBPO places the airman in assignment availability code (AAC) 05 and coordinates on AF Form 1786. Applicants not selected are reassigned on Academy notification to the CBPO. Applicants to technical school follow-on training (if there is any) or PCS to their end assignment also are reassigned. The initial application package from the technical training center CBPO to USAFA/RRS includes the following information on all pipe-line students: name, SSN, AFSC, course graduation date, follow-on training, and end assignment.
(3) Completes an indorsement and forwards AF Form 1786 through the CBPO to USAFA/RRS, USAF Academy, Colorado Springs CO 80840-5651. The commander's indorsement must include a comprehensive statement of the applicant's character, ability, and motivation to become a career officer. Statements in the application regarding component, length of service, and date of birth must be verified from official records.
Appointments to fill vacancies from this competitive category are made from candidates in order of merit. A total of 85 appointments are authorized from this category each year. Applications must be submitted no later than January 31 of the entry year.
(a) Any enlisted member of the Air Force Reserve or the Air National Guard of the United States (ANGUS) may apply for nomination.
(b) A Reserve commissioned officer who satisfactorily completes 1 year of
(c) Reserve category applicants must arrange to have their high school transcripts submitted to USAFA/RRS, complete AF Form 1786, and submit it to their organization commander. The organization commander processes the application as outlined in § 901.14(b). A Reserve applicant is not placed on active duty to be processed for nomination or appointment to the Air Force Academy.
(d) Reserve airmen on EAD as a result of an honor suspension from the Air Force Academy Cadet Wing must reapply for admission under the procedures specified in § 901.14(b). Additionally, the AF Form 1786 which they submit must be endorsed by their wing commander, as well as their squadron commander, and must make specific recommendations about their potential to conform to Cadet Honor Code standards.
Fifty eligible applicants who have not secured a nomination to the Academy from any other nominating authority may be nominated by the Superintendent. Highly qualified applicants are selected for nomination from the nationwide precandidate program by the Academy. Appointments from this category are made in order of merit from the nationwide pool of qualified alternates to fill the class.
(a) The Academy is authorized to provide instruction to as many as 40 foreign persons at any one time. Foreign citizens must apply to the government of their own country. Coordination with the U.S. Embassy is necessary to ensure all admission and appointment requirements are met. HQ USAF/DPPA effects necessary consultation before nomination invitations are forwarded to each country.
(b) The application must contain complete particulars about the applicant's background and must be submitted as early as possible. Nominations from this category must be received by the Academy by December 31 before their desired summer admission. Applicants in these categories must meet the eligibility and admissions requirements established for all Academy candidates, except the requirement to be a U.S. citizen, and they must be able to read, write, and speak English proficiently.
To fill a vacancy in the Vice-Presidential quota or in the quota of a nominating authority in the congressional and U.S. Possessions categories, selections for appointment offers are made according to the following nomination methods.
(a)
(b)
(c)
Fully qualified candidates not offered appointments in their nominating category are placed in a nationwide pool of qualified alternates. To bring the Cadet Wing up to full strength, additional appointments are selected from this pool in order of merit. The first 150 additional appointments are of individuals having nominations from Members of Congress. Thereafter, three of every four additional appointments are of individuals having nominations from the Vice President, Members of Congress, Delegates to Congress (from the District of Columbia, Virgin Islands, and Guam), Governor of Puerto Rico, Resident Commissioner of Puerto Rico, or Administrator of Panama Canal Commission.
The Director of Admissions (USAFA/RRS) acknowledges receipt of all applicants' nominations. If not previously received, USAFA/RRS forwards a precandidate questionnaire for completion. If the precandidate questionnaire indicates the potential to qualify for admission to the Academy or the Preparatory School, USAFA/RRS sends the individual a candidate kit which includes: USAFA Form 146, AFA Candidate Personal Data Record; USAFA Form 147, AFA Candidate Activities Record; and USAFA Form 148, AFA Request for Secondary School Transcript; AF Form 2030, Drug Abuse Certificate; and complete processing instructions.
(a) Notification of candidates selected for appointment are furnished by USAFA/RRS to HQ USAF/DPPA. HQ USAF/DPPA notifies Members of Congress and the Vice President of offers of appointment. After HQ USAF/DPPA notifies the nominating sources and advises USAFA/RRS that notification has been completed, USAFA/RRS notifies each appointee (civilian, Regular or Reserve service member) by letter, enclosing an acceptance or declination statement form. On receipt of an acceptance statement for each unconditional offer of appointment, USAFA/RRS forwards the completed candidate file to Cadet Examinations and Records (USAFA/RR). Conditional offers of appointment that have been accepted are held by USAFA/RRS until the conditional factor is resolved—medical status cleared, satisfactory preparatory school or college transcript received, proof of citizenship provided, etc. HQ USAF/DPPA is notified of removal of conditional status from offer of appointment in order to notify nominating sources as stated above. USAFA/RR completes admissions in-processing by:
(1) Forwarding an appointment kit which includes detailed reporting instructions to each appointee.
(2) Issuing invitation to travel orders.
(3) Notifying the Directorate of Cadet Personnel (USAFA/DPYC) of Regular airmen appointees. Regular airmen in technical school completes all phases of training, if time permits, before reporting to the Academy. On graduation, the airmen remain at the technical school in casual status (unless otherwise directed by HQ AFMPC/MPCRAC1) until earliest reporting date for the Academy.
(b) The Department of Defense Medical Examination Review Board (DODMERB) notifies applicants of their medical status. USAFA/RRS informs HQ USAF/DPPA of changes in medical status of candidates offered conditional appointments.
(c) USAFA/RRS notifies each unsuccessful candidate by May 1. For active duty Air Force personnel, the servicing CBPO also is notified and cancels the airman's Assignment Availability Code 05.
The applicant or nominee is personally responsible for notifying USAFA/RRS, USAF Academy, Colorado Springs, CO 80840-5651, of every change of address or station assignment. Notifications from military personnel must include complete name, grade, SSN, and new organization or unit to which assigned.
If any of the annual quotas of cadets authorized in the Regular airman, Reserve airman, or Presidential nomination categories are not filled, then candidates from the other two categories may fill the vacancies on a best-qualified basis.
USAFA Forms 146, 147, 148 and 149 are stocked and issued by USAFA/RRS, USAF Academy, Colorado Springs, CO 80840-5651. DD Form 1870 is stocked and issued by the Air Force Academy Activities Group, HQ USAF/DPPA, Washington, DC 20330-5060.
(a) A cadet who enters the Air Force Academy directly from civilian status and takes an oath of allegiance as a cadet normally assumes a military service obligation of not less than 6 years nor more than 8 years under 10 U.S.C. 651.
(b) A cadet who enters the Air Force Academy from the Regular or Reserve component of the Air Force and fails to complete the Academy course of instruction reverts to enlisted status to complete any prior service obligation under 10 U.S.C. 516.
(c) If they are minors, cadets are required to sign an agreement with the parent's or guardian's consent that they will fulfill the following obligations:
(1) Complete the Academy course of instruction unless disenrolled from the Academy by competent authority.
(2) Accept an appointment and on graduation serve as a commissioned officer in a Regular component of one of the armed services for 5 years.
(3) Serve as a commissioned officer in the Reserve component until the 8th anniversary if authorized to resign from the Regular component before the 8th anniversary of their graduation.
(4) Be subject to the separation policies in AFR 53-3 and, perhaps, be required to serve on active duty in enlisted status if disenrolled from the Academy before graduation.
(5) Reimburse the U.S. Air Force under regulations prescribed by the Secretary of the Air Force for the costs of Academy education if the recipient, voluntarily or because of misconduct, fails to complete the period of active duty incurred.
On admission, each appointee (except foreign cadets) will be required to take the following oath of allegiance:
I (name), having been appointed an Air Force cadet in the United States Air Force, do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; that I take this obligation freely, without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion; and that I will well and faithfully discharge the duties of the office of which I am about to enter. So Help Me God.
Appointment of candidates is according to § 901.18. Selecting of the charged cadets from the nominees for each vacancy is accomplished as follows:
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
(f)
(g)
The information collection requirements in this part 901 have been approved by the Office of Management and Budget under control numbers 0701-0026, 0701-0063, 0701-0064, 0701-0066 and 0701-0087.
5 U.S.C. 301, 10 U.S.C. 8013, and 10 U.S.C. 9331 unless otherwise noted).
This part is derived from AFI 36-2021, September 12, 2006. Part 806 of this chapter states the basic policies and instructions governing the disclosure of records and tells members of the public what they must do to inspect or obtain copies of the material referenced herein.
(a) Mission. To motivate, prepare, and evaluate selected candidates in an educational, military, moral, and physical environment, to perform successfully and enhance diversity at USAFA.
(b) Responsibilities:
(1) Superintendent, USAFA (HQ USAFA/CC). Ensures adequate oversight of HQ USAFA/PL activities, administration, and resources. Means of oversight include but are not limited to:
(i) United States Air Force Academy Instruction (USAFAI) 36-3502, USAFA Assessment Board.
(ii) The Preparatory School Advisory Committee, as established in USAFAI 36-2013, Superintendent's Preparatory School Advisory Committee of the USAF Academy Preparatory School.
(iii) Annual Assessment, as established in Department of Defense (DoD) Directive 1322.22, Service Academies.
(iv) Audits, Eagle Looks, and Unit Compliance Inspections.
(v) Special reviews and investigations as directed by HQ USAF.
(vi) USAFA Board of Visitors (BoV).
(2) HQ USAFA/PL Commander:
(i) Ensures the education and training programs satisfy the school's mission.
(ii) Informs HQ USAFA/RR of candidates' names, including essential categories, when each class enters.
(iii) Administers the disenrollment process. Notifies the Headquarters USAFA Superintendent (HQ USAFA/CC), and HQ USAFA/RR of all disenrollments.
(iv) Responsible, along with ARPC, for administering the oath of enlistment on the date of inprocessing. The effective date of enlistment is the date the applicant took the oath.
(3) Air Reserve Personnel Center (ARPC):
(i) Receives DD Form 1966, Record of Military Processing-Armed Forces of the United States, from select candidates upon inprocessing.
(ii) Reviews the DD Form 1966 for completion/acceptance.
(iii) Completes the DD Form 4, Enlistment/Reenlistment Document Armed Forces of the United States, if DD Form 1966 is in order.
(iv) Responsible, along with USAFA/PL, for administering the oath of enlistment on the date of inprocessing. The effective date of enlistment is the date the applicant took the oath.
(v) Publishes reserve orders placing applicant on active duty for the purpose of attending Preparatory school. Preparatory school determines the date of call to active duty (usually date administered the oath). ARPC provides copies of orders to MPF on the date of inprocessing.
(4) 10th Mission Support Squadron Military Personnel (10 MSS/DPM):
(i) Ensures Regular and Reserve Air Force personnel reassigned to the HQ USAFA/PL enter with the highest grade they had achieved as of their date of enrollment and retain their date of rank or effective date.
(ii) Maintains records on Cadet Candidates.
(iii) Processes separation orders for non-prior service members who complete the HQ USAFA/PL and accept an appointment to a U.S. Service Academy.
(iv) Prepares discharge orders for non-prior service members who are disenrolled or do not accept appointment to a U.S. Service Academy.
(v) Issues ID cards.
(5) Headquarters USAFA Admissions (HQ USAFA/RR):
(i) Notifies cadet candidates of their acceptance into HQ USAFA/PL. Includes an accept-or-decline form with acceptance letter and asks cadet candidates to return the form as soon as possible.
(ii) Issues “Invitation to Travel” letters to all accepted cadet candidates (including civilians, reservist and members of other services) inviting them to travel to the HQ USAFA/PL, enlist in the Air Force Reserve (if necessary), and attend the HQ USAFA/PL.
(iii) Sends a notice to non-selected service personnel and their servicing Military Personnel Flight (MPF).
(iv) Provides 10 MSS/DPMA with the name, grade, social security number, mailing address, and unit of assignment for reassignment of all applicants on Air Force active duty who are accepted into HQ USAFA/PL.
(v) Sends DODMERB a data file listing all applicants that need a medical examination. DODMERB uses the data file to schedule necessary exams.
(6) Unit commanders of all Regular and Reserve Component Air Force personnel applying to the HQ USAFA/PL:
(i) Review each applicant's completed AF Form 1786, Application for Appointment to the United States Air Force Academy Under Quota Allotted to Enlisted Members of the Regular and Reserve Components of the Air Force, and determine if the applicant meets eligibility requirements.
(ii) Forward an endorsement of all applicants who meet eligibility requirements, together with AF Form 1786, through the MPF to: Headquarters USAFA Admission Selections (HQ USAFA/RRS), 2304 Cadet Drive, USAF Academy CO 80840-5025. The endorsement must include a comprehensive statement of the applicant's character, ability, and motivation to become a career officer. Verify statements in applications regarding service
(iii) Notify HQ USAFA/RR immediately on determining that an applicant is no longer recommended for selection to the HQ USAFA/PL.
(7) Unit commanders of Regular or Reserve members of the Army, Navy, or Marine Corps and unit commanders of Army or Air National Guard members:
(i) Accept letters of application to the HQ USAFA/PL from unit personnel.
(ii) Complete an endorsement for all applicants who meet the eligibility requirements. Include in the endorsement a comprehensive statement of the applicant's character, ability, and motivation to become a career officer. Verify statements in applications regarding service component, length of service, and date of birth from official records. Send the endorsement and letter of application to HQ USAFA/RRS, 2304 Cadet Drive, USAF Academy CO 80840-5025.
(iii) Ensure that each applicant receives a release from active duty to attend the HQ USAFA/PL before sending the endorsement. In order to facilitate the accession of a National Guard (Air or Army) member into USAFA or HQ USAFA/PL, a DD Form 368, Request for Conditional Release, or AF Form 1288, Application for Ready Reserve Assignment, should be accomplished and forwarded to the losing Military Personnel Flight (MPF) service for out-processing. Once the member has enlisted the 10 MSS/DPM will contact the losing MPF. A copy of the DD Form 4 and orders will be provided to the losing ANG MPF by fax. In turn, the losing MPF will project the member's record in MilPDS based on the gaining PAS provided by the 10 MSS/DPM.
(iv) Notify HQ USAFA/RR immediately on determining that an applicant is no longer recommended for selection to the HQ USAFA/PL.
(a) For admission to the HQ USAFA/PL, applicants must be:
(1) At least 17 and no more than 22 years old by 1 July of the year of admission.
(2) A citizen or permanent resident of the United States able to obtain citizenship (or Secretary of Defense waiver allowed by 10 U.S.C. 532(f)) by projected commissioning date.
(3) Unmarried and have no dependents.
(4) Of high moral character. Applicants must have no record of Uniform Code of Military Justice convictions or civil offenses beyond minor violations; no history of drug or alcohol abuse; and no prior behaviors, activities, or associations incompatible with USAF standards.
(5) Medically qualified for appointment to the U.S. Air Force Academy (USAFA).
(6) A member of the armed services or eligible to enlist in the U.S. Air Force Reserve.
(b) Normally, applicants must not have previously attended college on a full-time basis or attended a U.S. Service Academy or a U.S. Service Academy Preparatory School. The Headquarters USAFA Registrar's Office (HQ USAFA/RR) determines an applicant's status in this regard.
(c) Every applicant must be an active candidate in the USAFA admissions program, normally through one of following:
(1) Nominated by a source specified in public law.
(2) Identified by the USAFA as fulfilling institutional needs.
(d) Members of the Air Force Reserve or Air National Guard (ANG) must agree to active duty service if admitted to the HQ USAFA/PL. Admitted ANG personnel first transfer to the Air Force Reserves before leaving their place of residence and being called to active duty.
(e) Regular and reserve members of the Armed Forces and the National Guard must have completed basic training.
(f) Regular members of the Armed Forces must have at least 1 year retainability when they enter the HQ USAFA/PL.
(a) Cadet candidates for the HQ USAFA/PL are selected on the basis of demonstrated character, test scores, medical examination, prior academic
(1) Achieve satisfactory scores on the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) or the American College Testing Program (ACT).
(2) Take and pass a medical evaluation administered through the Department of Defense Medical Evaluation Review Board (DODMERB).
(3) Have an acceptable academic record as determined by HQ USAFA/RR. Each applicant must furnish a certified transcript from each high school or civilian preparatory school attended. Applicants should send transcripts to HQ USAFA/RR, 2304 Cadet Drive, Suite 200, USAF Academy CO 80840-5025.
(4) Take the Candidate Fitness Assessment.
(b) HQ USAFA/RR oversees the holistic review of each viable candidate's record by a panel. This holistic review may include consideration of factors that would enhance diversity at USAFA, such as unique academic abilities, language skills, demonstrated leadership skills, foreign cultural knowledge, athletic prowess, flying aptitude, uncommon life experiences, demonstrated moral or physical courage or other performance-based factors.
(c) HQ USAFA/RR also examines reports and records that indicate an applicant's aptitude, achievement, or ability to graduate from the HQ USAFA/PL in the selection process.
(d) HQ USAFA/RR includes Preparatory School selection guidelines in the “Criteria and Procedures for Air Force Academy Appointment, Class of 20XX” (Contract) and submits for Superintendent approval.
(e) For members of the Armed Forces and the National Guard, HQ USAFA/RR also considers letters of recommendation from applicants' unit commanders.
(a) Regular and Reserve members of the Air Force must send their applications to: HQ USAFA/RR, 2304 Cadet Dr, Suite 200, USAF Academy CO 80840-5025, no later than 31 January for admission the following summer. Those otherwise nominated to the Air Force Academy must complete all steps of admissions by 15 April.
(b) Regular and Reserve members of the Air Force must complete AF Form 1786 and submit it to their unit commander.
(c) Regular and Reserve members of the Army, Navy, or Marine Corps, as well as members of the National Guard, must submit a letter of application through their unit commander.
(d) Civil Air Patrol (CAP) cadets send their applications to HQ USAFA/RR and must apply to CAP National Headquarters by 31 January for nomination.
(e) HQ USAFA/RR automatically considers civilian candidates for admission who have a nomination to the USAFA, but were not selected.
(a) Civilians admitted to the HQ USAFA/PL take the oath of enlistment on the date of their initial in-processing at the HQ USAFA/PL. Their effective date of enlistment is the date they take this oath.
(b) Civilians who enlist for the purpose of attending the HQ USAFA/PL will be awarded the rank of E-1. These cadet candidates are entitled to the monthly student pay at the same rate as USAFA cadets according to United States Code Title 37, Section 203.
USAFA Preparatory School Enrollment for members selected from operational Air Force:
Selected Regular Air Force members at technical training schools remain there in casual status until the earliest reporting date for the HQ USAFA/PL. Students must not leave their training school without coordinating with HQ USAFA/RR.
USAFA Cadet Enrollment for Cadet Candidates who graduate from the Prepatory School with an appointment to the USAFA:
(a) The Air Force releases cadet candidates entering the USAFA from active duty and reassigns them to active duty as Air Force Academy cadets, effective on their date of entry into the USAFA in accordance with one of these authorities:
(1) The Department of Air Force letter entitled Members of the Armed Forces Appointed to a Service Academy, 8 July 1957.
(2) Title 10, United States Code, Sections 516 and 523. Air Force Instruction (AFI) 36-3208, Administrative Separation of Airmen.
(b) The Air Force discharges active Reserve cadet candidates who enlisted for the purpose of attending the HQ USAFA/PL in accordance with AFI 36-3208 and reassigns them to active duty as Air Force Academy cadets, effective on their date of entry into the USAFA.
(a) In accordance with AFI 36-3208, the Commander, HQ USAFA/PL, may disenroll a student who:
(1) Fails to meet and maintain HQ USAFA/PL educational, military, character, or physical fitness standards.
(2) Fails to demonstrate adaptability and suitability for participation in USAFA educational, military, character, or physical training programs.
(3) Displays unsatisfactory conduct.
(4) Fails to meet statutory requirements for admission to the USAFA, for example:
(i) Marriage or acquiring legal dependents.
(ii) Medical disqualification.
(iii) Refusal to serve as a commissioned officer in the U.S. Armed Forces.
(5) Requests disenrollment.
(b) The HQ USAFA/PL commander may also disenroll a student when it is determined that the student's retention is not in the best interest of the Government.
(c) The military personnel flight (10 MSS/DPM) processes Regular Air Force members for reassignment if:
(1) They are disenrolled from the HQ USAFA/PL.
(2) They fail to obtain or accept an appointment to a U.S. Service Academy.
(d) The Air Force reassigns Air Force Reserve cadet candidates who are disenrolled from the HQ USAFA/PL or who fail to obtain or accept an appointment to an U.S. Service Academy in either of two ways under AFI 36-3208:
(1) Discharges them from the United States Air Force without any further military obligation if they were called to active duty solely to attend the HQ USAFA/PL.
(2) Releases them from active duty and reassigns them to the Air Force Reserve Personnel Center if they were released from Reserve units to attend the HQ USAFA/PL.
(e) The National Guard (Army or Air Force) releases cadet candidates from active duty and reassigns them to their State Adjutant General.
(f) The Air Force reassigns Regular and Reserve personnel from other Services back to their unit of origin to complete any prior service obligation if:
(1) They are disenrolled from the HQ USAFA/PL.
(2) They fail to obtain or accept an appointment to the USAFA.
(a) Headquarters USAFA Cadet Personnel (HQ USAFA/DPY) maintains records of cadet candidates who enter the USAFA until they are commissioned or disenrolled.
(b) 10 MSS/DPM will send records of Regular Air Force personnel who enter one of the other Service Academies to HQ Air Force Personnel Center (HQ AFPC) for processing.
(a) Information Collections. No information collections are created by this publication.
(b) Records. Ensure that all records created as a result of processes prescribed in this publication are maintained in accordance with AFMAN 37-123, Management of Records, and disposed of in accordance with the Air Force Records Disposition Schedule (RDS) located at
(c) Forms or IMTs (Adopted and Prescribed).
(1) Adopted Forms or IMTs: AF IMT 847, Recommendation for Change of Publication. AF Form 1288, Application for Ready Reserve Assignment, AF Form 1786, Application for Appointment to the USAF Academy Under Quota Allotted to Enlisted Members of the Regular and Reserve Components of the Air Force, DD Form 4, Enlistment/Reenlistment Document-Armed Forces of the United States, DD Form 368, Request for Conditional Release, and DD Form 1966, Record of Military Processing-Armed Forces of the United States.
(2) Prescribed Forms or IMTs: No forms or IMTs are prescribed by this publication
Sec. 48, Pub. L. 86-624, 74 Stat. 424; E.O. 11048, Sept. 1, 1962, 27 FR 8851, 3 CFR, 1959-1963 Comp., p. 632; agreement between the Department of Interior and Department of the Air Force, dated 19 June 1972, 37 FR 12255; and Secretary of the Air Force Order 111.1, dated 26 April 1999.
(a) The local civil and criminal laws of Wake Island consist of this part and applicable provisions of the laws of the United States.
(b) For the purposes of this part, Wake Island includes Wake, Peale, and Wilkes Islands, and the appurtenant reefs, shoals, shores, bays, lagoons, keys, territorial waters, and superadjacent airspace of them.
The purpose of this part is to provide—
(a) For the civil administration of Wake Island;
(b) Civil laws for Wake Island not otherwise provided for;
(c) Criminal laws for Wake Island not otherwise provided for; and
(d) A judicial system for Wake Island not otherwise provided for.
In this part—
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
This part was originally applicable at 0000 June 25, 1972. Amendments to this part apply April 10, 2002.
(a) The civil administration authority at Wake Island is vested in the Secretary of the Air Force. That authority has been delegated to the General Counsel of the Air Force with authority to redelegate all or any part of his functions, powers, and duties under this part to such officers and employees of the Air Force as he may designate, but excluding redelegation of the power to promulgate, amend, or repeal this part, or any part thereof. Such redelegation must be in writing and must be in accordance with any applicable Secretary of the Air Force Orders. Such redelegation may be further redelegated subject to such restrictions as the delegating authority may impose. A redelegation may also be made to a commissioned officer serving in another United States military service who exercises military command, but such redelegation must explicitly and specifically list the powers redelegated and shall not include the power or authority to issue permits, licenses, or other outgrants unless individually approved by the Air Force official who made the redelegation. The Commander is the agent of the Secretary, his delegate and designee when carrying out any function, power, or duty assigned under this part.
(b) The authority of the General Counsel to appoint Judges shall not be delegated.
(c) Judges and officers of the court may not redelegate their powers or authorities except as specifically noted in this part.
(a) Permits in effect on the dates specified in § 935.4 continue in effect until revoked or rescinded by the Commander. Permits issued by the Commander shall conform to the requirements of Air Force Instruction 32-9003 (Available from the National Technical Information Service, 5285 Port Royal Road, Springfield, VA 22161.). No permit or registration shall be issued under other authority that is inconsistent with this part. The Commander
(1) Businesses, including any trade, profession, calling, or occupation, and any establishment where food or beverages are prepared, offered, or sold for human consumption.
(2) Self-propelled motor vehicles, except aircraft, including attached trailers.
(3) Vehicle operators.
(4) Boats.
(5) Food handlers.
(6) Drugs, narcotics, and poisons.
(7) Construction.
(8) Burials.
(b) To the extent it is not inconsistent with this part, any permit or registration issued pursuant to Air Force directives or instructions as applicable to Wake Island shall constitute a permit or registration under this section, and no other permit or registration shall be required.
The Commander may—
(a) Appoint Peace Officers;
(b) Direct the abatement of any public nuisance upon failure of any person to comply with a notice of removal;
(c) Direct sanitation and fire prevention inspections;
(d) Establish records of vital statistics;
(e) Direct the registration and inspections of motor vehicles, boats, and aircraft;
(f) Impose quarantines;
(g) Direct the impoundment and destruction of unsanitary food, fish, or beverages;
(h) Direct the evacuation of any person from a hazardous area;
(i) Commission notaries public;
(j) Establish and maintain a facility for the restraint or confinement of persons and provide for their care;
(k) Direct the removal of any person from Wake Island and prohibit his future presence on the island;
(l) Issue traffic regulations that are not inconsistent with this part, and post traffic signs;
(m) Prohibit the posting, distribution, or public display of advertisements, signs, circulars, petitions, or similar materials, soliciting, picketing, or parading in any public place or area if he determines it would interfere with public business or endanger the health and safety of persons and property on Wake Island;
(n) Perform or direct any other acts, not inconsistent with this part or applicable laws and regulations, if he considers it necessary for protection of the health or safety of persons and property on Wake Island; and
(o) Issue any order or notice necessary to implement this section. Any order or notice issued pursuant to Air Force directives and instructions as applicable to Wake Island shall constitute an order or notice issued pursuant to this section.
(a) The Commander may revoke or suspend any island permit or registration for cause, with or without notice.
(b) The holder of any revoked or suspended permit or registration may demand a personal hearing before the Commander within 30 days after the effective date of the revocation or suspension.
(c) If a hearing is demanded, it shall be granted by the Commander within 30 days of the date of demand. The applicant may appear in person and present such documentary evidence as is pertinent. The Commander shall render a decision, in writing, setting forth his reasons, within 30 days thereafter.
(d) If a hearing is not granted within 30 days, a written decision is not rendered within 30 days after a hearing, or the applicant desires to appeal a decision, he may, within 30 days after the latest of any of the foregoing dates appeal in writing to the General Counsel, whose decision shall be final.
The medical officer on Wake Island, or any other qualified person under his supervision, may perform autopsies upon authorization of the Commander or a Judge of the Wake Island Court.
(a) To the extent he considers there to be a need for such services, the Commander may commission one or more residents of Wake Island as notaries
(b) A person applying for commission as a notary public must be a citizen of the United States and shall file an application, together with evidence of good character and a proposed seal in such form as the Commander requires, with a fee of $50 which shall be deposited in the Treasury as a miscellaneous receipt.
(c) Upon determining there to be a need for such a service and after such investigation as he considers necessary, the Commander may commission an applicant as a notary public. Commissions shall expire 3 years after the date thereof, and may be renewed upon application upon payment of a fee of $25.
(d) Judges and the Clerk of the Wake Island Court and the Island Attorney shall have the general powers of a notary public.
During the imminence and duration of any emergency declared by him, the Commander may perform or direct any acts necessary to protect life and property.
Civil acts and deeds taking place on Wake Island shall be determined and adjudicated as provided in this part; and otherwise, as provided in the Act of June 15, 1950 (64 Stat. 217) (48 U.S.C. 644a), according to the laws of the United States relating to such an act or deed taking place on the high seas on board a merchant vessel or other vessel belonging to the United States.
In any case in which the civil rights, powers, and duties of any person on Wake Island are not otherwise prescribed by the laws of the United States or this part, the civil rights, powers, and duties as they obtain under the laws of the State of Hawaii will apply to persons on Wake Island.
In addition to any act made criminal in this part, any act committed on Wake Island that would be criminal if committed on board a merchant vessel or other vessel belonging to the United States is a criminal offense and shall be adjudged and punished according to the laws applicable on board those vessels on the high seas.
No person may on Wake Island—
(a) Sell or give an alcoholic beverage manufactured for consumption (including beer, ale, or wine) to any person who is not at least 21 years of age;
(b) Procure for, engage in, aid or abet in, or solicit for prostitution;
(c) Use any building, structure, vehicle, or public lands for the purpose of lewdness, assignation, or prostitution;
(d) Possess or display (publicly or privately) any pornographic literature, film, device, or any matter containing obscene language, that tends to corrupt morals;
(e) Make any obscene or indecent exposure of his person;
(f) Commit any disorderly, obscene, or indecent act;
(g) Commit any act of voyeurism (Peeping Tom);
(h) Enter upon any assigned residential quarters or areas immediately adjacent thereto, without permission of the assigned occupant;
(i) Discard or place any paper, debris, refuse, garbage, litter, bottle, can, human or animal waste, trash, or junk in any public place, except into a receptacle or place designated or used for that purpose;
(j) Commit any act of nuisance;
(k) With intent to provoke a breach of the peace or under such circumstances that a breach of the peace may be occasioned thereby, act in such a manner as to annoy, disturb, interfere with, obstruct, or be offensive to any other person;
(l) Be drunk in any public place;
(m) Use any profane or vulgar language in a public place;
(n) Loiter or roam about Wake Island, without any lawful purpose, at late and unusual hours of the night;
(o) Lodge or sleep in any place without the consent of the person in legal possession of that place;
(p) Grossly waste any potable water;
(q) Being a male, knowingly enter any area, building, or quarters reserved for women, except in accordance with established visiting procedures;
(r) Smoke or ignite any fire in any designated and posted “No Smoking” area, or in the immediate proximity of any aircraft or fueling pit;
(s) Enter any airplane parking area or ramp, unless he is on duty therein, is a passenger under appropriate supervision, or is authorized by the Commander to enter that place;
(t) Interfere or tamper with any aircraft or servicing equipment or facility, or put in motion the engine of any aircraft without the permission of its operator;
(u) Post, distribute, or publicly display advertisements, signs, circulars, petitions, or similar materials, or solicit, picket, or parade in any public place or area where prohibited by the Commander pursuant to § 935.12;
(v) Import onto or keep on Wake Island any plant or animal not indigenous to the island, other than military working dogs or a guide dog for the blind or visually-impaired accompanying its owner; or
(w) Import or bring onto or possess while on Wake Island any firearm, whether operated by air, gas, spring, or otherwise, or explosive device, including fireworks, unless owned by the United States.
Whoever is found guilty of a violation of any provision of subpart E of this part is subject to a fine of not more than $500 or imprisonment of not more than 6 months, or both.
Whoever is found guilty of a violation of subpart N of this part is subject to a fine of not more than $100, imprisonment of not more than 30 days, or suspension or revocation of his motor vehicle operator's permit, or any combination or all of these punishments.
(a) Whoever is found guilty of a violation of subpart O or P of this part is subject to a fine of not more than $100, or imprisonment of not more than 30 days, or both.
(b) The penalties prescribed in paragraph (a) of this section are in addition to and do not take the place of any criminal penalty otherwise applicable and currently provided by the laws of the United States.
A Judge may, in any civil or criminal case or proceeding, punish any person for disobedience of any order of the Court, or for any contempt committed in the presence of the Court, by a fine of not more than $100, or imprisonment of not more than 30 days, or both.
(a) The judicial authority under this part is vested in the Wake Island Court and the Wake Island Court of Appeals.
(b) The Wake Island Court and the Wake Island Court of Appeals shall each have a seal approved by the General Counsel.
(c) Judges and Clerks of the Courts may administer oaths.
(a) The trial judicial authority for Wake Island is vested in the Wake Island Court.
(b) The Wake Island Court consists of one or more Judges, appointed by the General Counsel as needed. The term of a Judge shall be for one year, but he may be re-appointed. When the Wake Island Court consists of more than one Judge, the General Counsel shall designate one of the Judges as the Chief Judge who will assign matters to Judges, determine when the Court will sit individually or en banc, and prescribe rules of the Court not otherwise provided for in this Code. If there is only one Judge appointed, that Judge shall be the Chief Judge.
(c) Sessions of the Court are held on Wake Island or Hawaii at times and places designated by the Chief Judge.
There is an Island Attorney, appointed by the General Counsel as needed. The Island Attorney shall serve at the pleasure of the General Counsel. The Island Attorney represents the United States in the Wake Island Court and in the Wake Island Court of Appeals.
There is a Public Defender, appointed by the General Counsel as needed. The Public Defender shall serve at the pleasure of the General Counsel. The Public Defender represents any person charged with an offense under this part who requests representation and who is not able to afford his own legal representation.
There is a Clerk of the Court, who is appointed by the Chief Judge. The Clerk shall serve at the pleasure of the Chief Judge. The Clerk maintains a public docket containing such information as the Chief Judge may prescribe, administers oaths, and performs such other duties as the Court may direct. The Clerk is an officer of the Court.
(a) The Wake Island Court has jurisdiction over all offenses under this part and all actions of a civil nature, cognizable at law or in equity, where the amount in issue is not more than $1,000, exclusive of interests and costs, but not including changes of name or domestic relations matters.
(b) The United States is not subject to suit in the Court.
(c) The United States may intervene in any matter in which the Island Attorney determines it has an interest.
(a) The appellate judicial authority for Wake Island is vested in the Wake Island Court of Appeals.
(b) The Wake Island Court of Appeals consists of a Chief Judge and two Associate Judges, appointed by the General Counsel as needed. The term of a judge shall be for one year, but he may be reappointed. The Chief Judge assigns matters to Judges, determines whether the Court sits individually or en banc, and prescribes rules of the Court not otherwise provided for in this part.
(c) Sessions of the Court of Appeals are held in the National Capital Region at times and places designated by the Chief Judge. The Court may also hold sessions at Wake Island or in Hawaii.
(d) A quorum of the Court of Appeals will consist of one Judge when sitting individually and three Judges when sitting en banc.
(e) The address of the Court of Appeals is—Wake Island Court of Appeals, SAF/GC, Room 4E856, 1740 Air Force Pentagon, Washington, DC 20330-1740.
There is a Clerk of the Court of Appeals, who is appointed by the Chief Judge. The Clerk serves at the pleasure of the Chief Judge. The Clerk maintains a public docket containing such information as the Chief Judge may prescribe, administers oaths, and performs such other duties as the Court directs. The Clerk is an officer of the Court.
The Court of Appeals has jurisdiction over all appeals from the Wake Island Court.
(a) No person may be appointed a Judge, Island Attorney, or Public Defender under this part who is not a member of the bar of a State, Commonwealth, or Territory of the United States or of the District of Columbia.
(b) Any person, other than an officer or employee of the Department of the Air Force, appointed as a Judge, Island Attorney, Public Defender, or to any other office under this part shall, prior to entering upon the duties of that office, take an oath, prescribed by the General Counsel, to preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States. Such oath may be administered by any officer or employee of the Department of the Air Force.
(c) Civilian officers and employees of the Department of the Air Force may be appointed as a Judge, Island Attorney, Public Defender, or Clerk, as an additional duty and to serve without additional compensation. Officers and employees of the Department of the Air Force, both civilian and military, who serve in positions designated as providing legal services to the Department and who are admitted to practice law in an active status before the highest court of a State, Commonwealth, or territory of the United States, or of the District of Columbia, and are in good standing therewith, are admitted to the Bar of the Wake Island Court and the Wake Island Court of Appeals.
(d) No person may practice law before the Wake Island Court or the Wake Island Court of Appeals who is not admitted to Bar of those courts. Any person admitted to practice law in an active status before the highest court of a State, Commonwealth, or territory of the United States, or of the District of Columbia, and in good standing therewith, may be admitted to the Bar of the Wake Island Court and the Wake Island Court of Appeals. Upon request of the applicant, the Court, on its own motion, may grant admission. A grant of admission by either court constitutes admission to practice before both courts.
(a) No civil action may be filed more than 1 year after the cause of action arose.
(b) No person is liable to be tried under this part for any offense if the offense was committed more than 1 year before the date the information or citation is filed with the Clerk of the Wake Island Court.
(a) A Judge or the Clerk of the Court shall issue subpoenas for the attendance of witnesses. The subpoena must include the name of the Court and the title, if any, of the proceeding; and shall command each person to whom it is directed to attend and give testimony at the time and place specified therein. The Clerk may issue a subpoena for a party requesting it, setting forth the name of the witness subpoenaed.
(b) A Judge or the Clerk may also issue a subpoena commanding the person to whom it is directed to produce the books, papers, documents, or other objects designated therein. The Court may direct that books, papers, documents, or other objects designated in the subpoena be produced before the Court at a time before the trial or before the time when they are to be offered into evidence. It may, upon their production, allow the books, papers, documents, or objects or portions thereof to be inspected by the parties and their representatives.
(c) Any peace officer or any other person who is not a party and who is at least 18 years of age may serve a subpoena. Service of a subpoena shall be made by delivering a copy thereof to the person named.
(d) The Clerk of the Court shall assess and collect a witness fee of $40 for each subpoena requested by any party other than the United States, which shall be tendered to the witness as his witness fee together with service of the subpoena. Witnesses subpoenaed by the Island Attorney shall be entitled to a fee of $40 upon presentment of a proper claim therefor on the United States. No duly summoned witness may refuse, decline, or fail to appear or disobey a subpoena on the ground that the witness fee was not tendered or received.
(e) Upon a showing that the evidence is necessary to meet the ends of justice and that the defendant is indigent, the Public Defender may request the Court to direct the Island Attorney to obtain the issuance of a subpoena on behalf of a defendant in a criminal case. Witnesses so called on behalf of the defendant shall be entitled to the same witness fees as witnesses requested by the Island Attorney.
(f) Subpoenas may be credited only to persons or things on Wake Island.
(g) No person who is being held on Wake Island because of immigration status shall be entitled to a witness
(a) The Federal Rules of Civil Procedure (28 U.S.C.) apply to civil actions in the Court to the extent the presiding Judge considers them applicable under the circumstances.
(b) There is one form of action called the “Civil Action.”
(c) Except as otherwise provided for in this part, there is no trial by jury.
(d) A civil action begins with the filing of a complaint with the Court. The form of the complaint is as follows except as it may be modified to conform as appropriate to the particular action:
Upon the filing of a complaint, a Judge or Clerk of the Court shall issue a summons in the following form and deliver it for service to a peace officer or other person specifically designated by the Court to serve it:
To the above-named defendant:
You are hereby directed to appear and answer the attached cause at ______ on ______ day of ___ 20—, at ______ -.M. and to have with you all books, papers, and witnesses needed by you to establish any defense you have to said claim.
You are further notified that in case you do not appear, judgment will be given against you, for the amount of said claim, together with cost of this suit and the service of this order.
Dated: ______, 20 ______. (Clerk, Wake Island Court) ________
(a) A peace officer or other person designated by the Court to make service shall serve the summons and a copy of the complaint at Wake Island upon the defendant personally, or by leaving them at his usual place of abode with any adult residing or employed there.
(b) In the case of a corporation, partnership, joint stock company, trading association, or other unincorporated association, service may be made at Wake Island by delivering a copy of the summons and complaint to any of its officers, a managing or general agent, or any other agent authorized by appointment or by law to receive service.
The Clerk of the Court shall promptly provide a copy of the summons to the plaintiff, together with notice that if the plaintiff fails to appear at the Court at the time set for the trial, the case will be dismissed. The trial shall be set at a date that will allow each party at least 7 days, after the pleadings are closed, to prepare.
(a) The defendant may, at his election, file an answer to the complaint.
(b) The defendant may file a counterclaim, setoff, or any reasonable affirmative defense.
(c) If the defendant elects to file a counterclaim, setoff, or affirmative defense, the Court shall promptly send a copy of it to the plaintiff.
(a) The presiding Judge is responsible for the making of an appropriate record of each civil action.
(b) All persons shall give their testimony under oath or affirmation. The Chief Judge shall prescribe the oath and affirmation that may be administered by any Judge or the Clerk of the Court.
(c) Each party may present witnesses and other forms of evidence. In addition, the presiding Judge may informally investigate any controversy, in
(d) The Court may issue its judgment in writing or orally from the bench. However, if an appeal is taken from the judgment, the presiding Judge shall, within 10 days after it is filed, file a memorandum of decision as a part of the record. The Judge shall place in the memorandum findings of fact, conclusions of law, and any comments that he considers will be helpful to a thorough understanding and just determination of the case on appeal.
(a) If, after 60 days after the date of entry of judgment (or such other period as the Court may prescribe), the judgment debtor has not satisfied the judgment, the judgment creditor may apply to the Court for grant of execution on the property of the judgment debtor.
(b) Upon a writ issued by the Court, any peace officer may levy execution on any property of the judgment debtor except—
(1) His wearing apparel up to a total of $300 in value;
(2) His beds, bedding, household furniture and furnishings, stove, and cooking utensils, up to a total of $300 in value; and
(3) Mechanics tools and implements of the debtor's trade up to a total of $200 in value.
(c) Within 60 days after levy of execution, a peace officer shall sell the seized property at public sale and shall pay the proceeds to the Clerk of the Court. The Clerk shall apply the proceeds as follows:
(1) First, to the reasonable costs of execution and sale and court costs.
(2) Second, to the judgment.
(3) Third, the residue (if any) to the debtor.
(d) In any case in which property has been seized under a writ of execution, but not yet sold, the property seized shall be released upon payment of the judgment, court costs, and the costs of execution.
(a) If a judgment debtor fails to satisfy a judgment in full within 60 days after the entry of judgment (or such other period as the Court may prescribe), the Court may, upon the application of the judgment creditor issue a writ of garnishment directed to any person having money or property in his possession belonging to the judgment debtor or owing money to the judgment debtor. The following are exempt from judgment:
(1) Ninety percent of so much of the gross wages as does not exceed $200 due to the judgment debtor from his employer.
(2) Eighty percent of so much of the gross wages as exceeds $200 but does not exceed $500 due to the judgment debtor from his employer.
(3) Fifty percent of so much of the gross wages as exceeds $500 due to the judgment debtor from his employer.
(b) The writ of garnishment shall be served on the judgment debtor and the garnishee and shall direct the garnishee to pay or deliver from the money or property owing to the judgment debtor such money or property as the Court may prescribe.
(c) The garnished amount shall be paid to the Clerk of the Court, who shall apply it as follows:
(1) First, to satisfy the costs of garnishment and court costs.
(2) Second, to satisfy the judgment.
(3) Third, the residue (if any) to the judgment debtor.
(d) Funds of the debtor held by the United States are not subject to garnishment.
(a) A person who is arrested on Wake Island for any violation of this part is entitled to be released on bail in an amount set by a Judge or Clerk of the Court, which may not exceed the maximum fine for the offense charged. If the defendant fails to appear for arraignment, trial or sentence, or otherwise breaches any condition of bail, the Court may direct a forfeiture of the whole or part of the bail and may on motion after notice to the surety or
(b) The Chief Judge of the Wake Island Court may prescribe a schedule of bail for any offense under this part which the defendant may elect to post and forfeit without trial, in which case the Court shall enter a verdict of guilty and direct forfeiture of the bail.
(c) Bail will be deposited in cash with the Clerk of the Court.
Any property seized in connection with an alleged offense (unless the property is perishable) is retained pending trial in accordance with the orders of the Court. The property must be produced in Court, if practicable. At the termination of the trial, the Court shall restore the property or the funds resulting from the sale of the property to the owner, or make such other proper order as may be required and incorporate its order in the record of the case. Any item used in the commission of the offense, may, upon order of the Court, be forfeited to the United States. All contraband, which includes any item that is illegal for the owner to possess, shall be forfeited to the United States; such forfeiture shall not relieve the owner from whom the item was taken from any costs or liability for the proper disposal of such item.
(a) Any offense may be prosecuted by a written information signed by the Island Attorney. However, if the offense is one for which issue of a citation is authorized by this part and a citation for the offense has been issued, the citation serves as an information.
(b) A copy of the information shall be delivered to the accused, or his counsel, as soon as practicable after it is filed.
(c) Each count of an information may charge one offense only and must be particularized sufficiently to identify the place, the time, and the subject matter of the alleged offense. It shall refer to the provision of law under which the offense is charged, but any error in this reference or its omission may be corrected by leave of Court at any time before sentence and is not grounds for reversal of a conviction if the error or omission did not mislead the accused to his prejudice.
(a) Upon motion of the accused at any time after filing of the information or copy of citation, the Court may order the prosecutor to allow the accused to inspect and copy or photograph designated books, papers, documents, or tangible objects obtained from or belonging to the accused, or obtained from others by seizure or process, upon a showing that the items sought may be material to the preparation of his defense and that the request is reasonable.
(b) When the Court is satisfied that it has jurisdiction to try the accused as charged, it shall require the accused to identify himself and state whether or not he has counsel. If he has no counsel, but desires counsel, the Court shall give him a reasonable opportunity to procure counsel.
(c) When both sides are ready for arraignment, or when the Court determines that both sides have had adequate opportunities to prepare for arraignment, the Court shall read the charges to the accused, explain them (if necessary), and, after the reading or stating of each charge in Court, ask the accused whether he pleads “guilty” or “not guilty”. The Court shall enter in the record of the case the plea made to each charge.
(d) The accused may plead “guilty” to any or all of the charges against him, except that the Court may in its discretion refuse to accept a plea of guilty, and may not accept a plea without first determining that the plea is made voluntarily with understanding of the nature of the charge.
(e) The accused may plead “not guilty” to any or all of the charges against him. The Court shall enter a plea of not guilty if the answer of the accused to any charge is such that it does not clearly amount to a plea of guilty or not guilty.
(f) The accused may, at any stage of the trial, with the consent of the Court, change a plea of not guilty to one of guilty. The Court shall then proceed as if the accused had originally pleaded guilty.
If the Court accepts a plea of guilty to any charge or charges, it shall make a finding of guilty on that charge. Before imposing sentence, the Court shall hear such statements for the prosecution and defense, if any, as it requires to enable it to determine the sentence to be imposed. The accused or his counsel may make any reasonable statement he wishes in mitigation or of previous good character. The prosecution may introduce evidence in aggravation, or of bad character if the accused has introduced evidence of good character. The Court shall then impose any lawful sentence that it considers proper.
(a) If the accused pleads not guilty, he is entitled to a trial on the charges in accordance with procedures prescribed in the Rules of Criminal Procedure for the U.S. District Courts (18 U.S.C.), except as otherwise provided for in this part, to the extent the Court considers practicable and necessary to the ends of justice. There is no trial by jury.
(b) All persons shall give their testimony under oath or affirmation. The Chief Judge shall prescribe the oath and affirmation that may be administered by any Judge or the Clerk of the Court.
(c) Upon completion of the trial, the Court shall enter a judgment consisting of a finding or findings and sentence or sentences, or discharge of the accused.
(d) The Court may suspend any sentence imposed, may order the revocation of any Island automobile permit in motor vehicle cases, and may place the accused on probation. It may delay sentencing pending the receipt of any presentencing report ordered by it.
(a) Any party to an action may, within 15 days after judgment, appeal an interlocutory order, issue of law, or judgment, except that an acquittal may not be appealed, by filing a notice of appeal with the Clerk of the Wake Island Court and serving a copy on the opposing party. Judgment is stayed while the appeal is pending.
(b) Upon receiving a notice of appeal with proof of service on the opposing party, the Clerk shall forward the record of the action to the Wake Island Court of Appeals.
(c) The appellant shall serve on the opposing party and file a memorandum setting forth his grounds of appeal with the Wake Island Court of Appeals within 15 days after the date of the judgment. The appellee may serve and file a reply memorandum within 15 days thereafter. An appeal and the reply shall be deemed to be filed when deposited in the U.S. mail with proper postage affixed, addressed to the Clerk, Wake Island Court of Appeals, at his address in Washington, DC. The period for filing an appeal may be waived by the Court of Appeals when the interests of justice so require.
(d) The Court of Appeals may proceed to judgment on the record, or, if the Court considers that the interests of justice so require, grant a hearing.
(e) The decision of the Court of Appeals shall be in writing and based on the record prepared by the Wake Island Court, on the proceedings before the Court of Appeals, if any be had, and on any memoranda that are filed. If the Court of Appeals considers the record incomplete, the case may be remanded to the Wake Island Court for further proceedings.
(f) The decision of the Court of Appeals is final.
A Judge of the Wake Island Court may order a new trial as required in the interest of justice, or vacate any judgment and enter a new one, on motion made within a reasonable time after discovery by the moving party of matters constituting the grounds upon which the motion for new trial or vacation of judgment is made.
Peace officers—
(a) Have the authority of a sheriff at common law;
(b) May serve any process on Wake Island that is allowed to be served under a Federal or State law; the officer serving the process shall execute any required affidavit of service;
(c) May conduct sanitation or fire prevention inspections;
(d) May inspect motor vehicles, boats, and aircraft;
(e) May confiscate property used in the commission of a crime;
(f) May deputize any member of the Air Force serving on active duty or civilian employee of the Department of the Air Force to serve as a peace officer;
(g) May investigate accidents and suspected crimes;
(h) May direct vehicular or pedestrian traffic;
(i) May remove and impound abandoned or unlawfully parked vehicles, boats, or aircraft, or vehicles, boats, or aircraft interfering with fire control apparatus or ambulances;
(j) May take possession of property lost, abandoned, or of unknown ownership;
(k) May enforce quarantines;
(l) May impound and destroy food, fish, or beverages found unsanitary;
(m) May be armed;
(n) May exercise custody over persons in arrest or confinement;
(o) May issue citations for violations of this part; and
(p) May make arrests, as provided for in § 935.122.
Any person appointed as a peace officer must be a citizen of the United States and have attained the age of 18 years. The following persons, while on Wake Island on official business, shall be deemed peace officers: special agents of the Air Force Office of Special Investigations, members of the Air Force Security Forces, agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, United States marshals and their deputies, officers and agents of the United States Secret Service, agents of the United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms, agents of the United States Customs Service, and agents of the United States Immigration and Naturalization Service.
(a) Any person may make an arrest on Wake Island, without a warrant, for any crime (including a petty offense) that is committed in his presence.
(b) Any peace officer may, without a warrant, arrest any person on Wake Island who violates any provision of this part or commits a crime that is not a violation of this part, in his presence, or that he reasonably believes that person to have committed.
(c) In making an arrest, a peace officer must display a warrant, if he has one, or otherwise clearly advise the person arrested of the violation alleged, and thereafter require him to submit and be taken before the appropriate official on Wake Island.
(d) In making an arrest, a peace officer may use only the degree of force needed to effect submission, and may remove any weapon in the possession of the person arrested.
(e) A peace officer may, whenever necessary to enter any building, vehicle, or aircraft to execute a warrant of arrest, force an entry after verbal warning.
(f) A peace officer may force an entry into any building, vehicle, or aircraft whenever—
(1) It appears necessary to prevent serious injury to persons or damage to property and time does not permit the obtaining of a warrant;
(2) To effect an arrest when in hot pursuit; or
(3) To prevent the commission of a crime which he reasonably believes is being committed or is about to be committed.
Any Judge may issue or direct the Clerk to issue a warrant for arrest if, upon complaint, it appears that there is probable cause to believe an offense has been committed and that the person named in the warrant has committed it. If a Judge is not available, the warrant may be issued by the Clerk and executed, but any such warrant shall be thereafter approved or quashed by the first available Judge. The issuing officer shall—
(a) Place the name of the person charged with the offense in the warrant, or if his name is not known, any name or description by which he can be identified with reasonable certainty;
(b) Describe in the warrant the offense charged;
(c) Place in the warrant a command that the person charged with the offense be arrested and brought before the Wake Island Court;
(d) Sign the warrant; and
(e) Issue the warrant to a peace officer for execution.
The Chief Judge may authorize the Clerk to issue pro forma orders of the Court discharging any person from custody, with or without bail, pending trial, whenever further restraint is not required for protection of persons or property on Wake Island. Persons not so discharged shall be brought before a Judge or U.S. Magistrate as soon as a Judge or Magistrate is available. Judges may discharge defendants from custody, with or without bail or upon recognizance, or continue custody pending trial as the interests of justice and public safety require.
In any case in which a peace officer may make an arrest without a warrant, he may issue and serve a citation if he considers that the public interest does not require an arrest. The citation must briefly describe the offense charged and direct the accused to appear before the Wake Island Court at a designated time and place.
This subpart applies to self-propelled motor vehicles (except aircraft), including attached trailers.
Each person driving a motor vehicle on Wake Island shall drive on the right-hand side of the road, except where necessary to pass or on streets where a sign declaring one-way traffic is posted.
Each person operating a motor vehicle on Wake Island shall operate it at a speed—
(a) That is reasonable, safe, and proper, considering time of day, road and weather conditions, the kind of motor vehicle, and the proximity to persons or buildings, or both; and
(b) That does not exceed 40 miles an hour or such lesser speed limit as may be posted.
(a) A pedestrian has the right-of-way over vehicular traffic when in the vicinity of a building, school, or residential area.
(b) In any case in which two motor vehicles have arrived at an uncontrolled intersection at the same time, the vehicle on the right has the right-of-way.
(c) If the driver of a motor vehicle enters an intersection with the intent of making a left turn, he shall yield the right-of-way to any other motor vehicle that has previously entered the intersection or is within hazardous proximity.
(d) When being overtaken by another motor vehicle, the driver of the slower vehicle shall move it to the right to allow safe passing.
(e) The driver of a motor vehicle shall yield the right-of-way to emergency vehicles on an emergency run.
(a) Any person operating a motor vehicle and making a turn or coming to a stop shall signal the turn or stop in accordance with this section.
(b) A signal for a turn or stop is made by fully extending the left arm as follows:
(1) Left turn—extend left arm horizontally.
(2) Right turn—extend left arm upward.
(3) Stop or decrease speed—extend left arm downward.
(c) A signal light or other device may be used in place of an arm signal prescribed in paragraph (b) of this section if it is visible and intelligible.
(a) Each person making a right turn in a motor vehicle shall make the approach and turn as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or road edge.
(b) Each person making a left turn in a motor vehicle shall make the approach and turn immediately to the right of the center of the road, except that on multi-lane roads of one-way traffic flow he may make the turn only from the left lane.
(c) No person may make a U-turn in a motor vehicle if he cannot be seen by the driver of any approaching vehicle within a distance of 500 feet.
(d) No person may place a vehicle in motion from a stopped position, or change from or merge into a lane of traffic, until he can safely make that movement.
No person may, while on Wake Island—
(a) Operate a motor vehicle in a careless or reckless manner;
(b) Operate or occupy a motor vehicle while he is under the influence of a drug or intoxicant;
(c) Consume an alcoholic beverage (including beer, ale, or wine) while he is in a motor vehicle;
(d) Operate a motor vehicle that is overloaded or is carrying more passengers than it was designed to carry;
(e) Ride on the running board, step, or outside of the body of a moving motor vehicle;
(f) Ride a moving motor vehicle with his arm or leg protruding, except when using the left arm to signal a turn;
(g) Operate a motor vehicle in a speed contest or drag race;
(h) Park a motor vehicle for a period longer than the posted time limit;
(i) Stop, park, or operate a motor vehicle in a manner that impedes or blocks traffic;
(j) Park a motor vehicle in an unposted area, except adjacent to the right-hand curb or edge of the road;
(k) Park a motor vehicle in a reserved or restricted parking area that is not assigned to him;
(l) Sound the horn of a motor vehicle, except as a warning signal;
(m) Operate a tracked or cleated vehicle in a manner that damages a paved or compacted surface;
(n) Operate any motor vehicle contrary to a posted traffic sign;
(o) Operate a motor vehicle as to follow any other vehicle closer than is safe under the circumstances;
(p) Operate a motor vehicle off of established roads, or in a cross-country manner, except when necessary in conducting business;
(q) Operate a motor vehicle at night or when raining on the traveled part of a street or road, without using operating headlights; or
(r) Operate a motor vehicle without each passenger wearing a safety belt; this shall not apply to military combat vehicles designed and fabricated without safety belts.
Each person operating a motor vehicle on Wake Island shall—
(a) Turn off the highbeam headlights of his vehicle when approaching an oncoming vehicle at night; and
(b) Comply with any special traffic instructions given by an authorized person.
Each person operating a motor bus on Wake Island shall—
(a) Keep its doors closed while the bus is moving with passengers on board; and
(b) Refuse to allow any person to board or alight the bus while it is moving.
(a) No person may operate a privately owned motor vehicle on Wake Island unless he has an island operator's permit.
(b) The Commander may issue an operator's permit to any person who is at least 18 years of age and satisfactorily demonstrates safe-driving knowledge, ability, and physical fitness.
(c) No person may operate, on Wake Island, a motor vehicle owned by the United States unless he holds a current operator's permit issued by the United States.
(d) Each person operating a motor vehicle on Wake Island shall present his operator's permit to any peace officer, for inspection, upon request.
(a) Each person who has custody of a motor vehicle on Wake Island shall present that vehicle for periodic safety inspection, as required by the Commander.
(b) No person may operate a motor vehicle on Wake Island unless it is in a condition that the Commander considers to be safe and operable.
(c) No person may operate a motor vehicle on Wake Island unless it is equipped with an adequate and properly functioning—
(1) Horn;
(2) Wiper, for any windshield;
(3) Rear vision mirror;
(4) Headlights and taillights;
(5) Brakes;
(6) Muffler;
(7) Spark or ignition noise suppressors; and
(8) Safety belts.
(d) No person may operate a motor vehicle on Wake Island if that vehicle is equipped with a straight exhaust or muffler cutoff.
(a) Each person who has custody of any of the following on Wake Island shall register it with the Commander.
(1) A privately owned motor vehicle.
(2) A privately owned boat.
(3) An indigenous animal, military working dog, or guide dog for the blind or visually-impaired accompanying its owner.
(4) A narcotic or dangerous drug or any poison.
(b) Each person who obtains custody of an article described in paragraph (a) (4) of this section shall register it immediately upon obtaining custody. Each person who obtains custody of any other article described in paragraph (a) of this section shall register it within 10 days after obtaining custody.
(a) No person may use a privately owned motor vehicle or boat on Wake Island unless he has an island permit for it.
(b) The operator of a motor vehicle shall display its registration number on the vehicle in a place and manner prescribed by the Commander.
No person may engage in any of the following on Wake Island unless he has an island permit:
(a) Any business, commercial, or recreational activity conducted for profit, including a trade, profession, calling, or occupation, or an establishment where food or beverage is prepared, offered, or sold for human consumption (except for personal or family use).
(b) The practice of any medical profession, including dentistry, surgery, osteopathy, and chiropractic.
(c) The erection of any structure or sign, including a major alteration or enlargement of an existing structure.
(d) The burial of any human or animal remains, except that fish and bait scrap may be buried at beaches where fishing is permitted, without obtaining a permit.
(e) Keeping or maintaining an indigenous animal.
(f) Importing, storing, generating, or disposing of hazardous materials.
(g) Importing of solid wastes and importing, storing, generating, treating, or disposing of hazardous wastes, as they are defined in the Solid Waste Disposal Act, as amended, 42 U.S.C. 6901
In the event of any fire, crash, search and rescue, natural disaster, national peril, radiological hazard, or other calamitous emergency—
(a) No person may impede or hamper any officer or employee of the United States or any other person who has emergency authority;
(b) No unauthorized persons may congregate at the scene of the emergency; and
(c) Each person present shall promptly obey the instructions, signals, or alarms of any peace officer, fire or crash crew, or other authorized person, and any orders of the Commander.
(a) Each person engaged in a business or other activity on Wake Island shall, at his expense, provide and maintain (in an accessible location) fire extinguishers of the type, capacity, and quantity satisfactory for protecting life and property in the areas under that person's control.
(b) To minimize fire hazards, no person may store any waste or flammable fluids or materials except in a manner and at a place prescribed by the Commander.
The Commander may regulate the use of designated or posted areas on Wake Island, as follows:
(a) Restricted areas—which no person may enter without permission.
(b) Prohibited activities areas—in which no person may engage in any activity that is specifically prohibited.
(c) Special purpose areas-in which no person may engage in any activity other than that for which the area is reserved.
Any person who discovers any unexploded ordnance material on Wake Island shall refrain from tampering with it and shall immediately report its site to the Commander.
The operator of each boat used at Wake Island shall conform to the limitations on its operations as the Commander may prescribe in the public interest.
No person may anchor, moor, or beach any boat, barge, or other floating object on Wake Island in any location or manner other than as prescribed by the Commander.
10 U.S.C. 8013.
(a) This part implements the Air Force Environmental Impact Analysis Process (EIAP) and provides procedures for environmental impact analysis both within the United States and abroad. Because the authority for, and rules governing, each aspect of the EIAP differ depending on whether the action takes place in the United States or outside the United States, this part provides largely separate procedures for each type of action. Consequently, the main body of this part deals primarily with environmental impact analysis under the authority of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) (Public Law 91-190, 42 United States Code (U.S.C.) Sections 4321 through 4347), while the primary procedures for environmental impact analysis of actions outside the United States in accordance with Executive Order (E.O.) 12114, Environmental Effects Abroad of Major Federal Actions, are contained in §§ 989.37 and 989.38.
(b) The procedures in this part are essential to achieve and maintain compliance with NEPA and the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) Regulations for Implementing the Procedural Provisions of the NEPA (40 CFR Parts 1500 through 1508, referred to as the “CEQ Regulations”). Further requirements are contained in Department of Defense Directive (DoDD) 4715.1, Environmental Security, Department of Defense Instruction (DoDI) 4715.9, Environmental Planning and Analysis, DoDD 5000.1, Defense Acquisition, and Department of Defense Regulation 5000.2-R, Mandatory Procedures for Major Defense Acquisition Programs and Major Automated Information System Acquisition Programs.
(c) Air Force activities abroad will comply with this part, E. O. 12114, and 32 CFR part 187 (DoDD 6050.7, Environmental Effects Abroad of Major Department of Defense Actions, March 31,
(d) Appendix A is a glossary of references, abbreviations, acronyms, and terms. Refer to 40 CFR 1508 for definitions of other terminology used in this part.
(a) This part provides a framework on how to comply with NEPA and E.O. 12114 according to Air Force Policy Directive (AFPD) 32-70
(b) Major commands (MAJCOM) provide additional implementing guidance in their supplemental publications to this part. MAJCOM supplements must identify the specific offices that have implementation responsibility and include any guidance needed to comply with this part. All references to MAJCOMs in this part include the Air National Guard Readiness Center (ANGRC) and other agencies designated as “MAJCOM equivalent” by HQ USAF.
(a)
(1) The Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Installations (SAF/IEI).
(i) Develops environmental planning policy and provides oversight of the EIAP program.
(ii) Determines the level of environmental analysis required for especially important, visible, or controversial Air Force proposals and approves selected Environmental Assessments (EAs) and all Environmental Impact Statements (EISs) prepared for Air Force actions, whether classified or unclassified, except as specified in paragraph (c)(3) of this section.
(iii) Is the liaison on environmental matters with Federal agencies and national level public interest organizations.
(iv) Ensures appropriate offices in the Office of the Secretary of Defense are kept informed on EIAP matters of Defense-wide interest.
(2) The General Counsel (SAF/GC). Provides final legal advice to SAF/IE, HQ USAF, and HQ USAF Environment, Safety and Occupational Health Committee (ESOHC) on EIAP issues.
(3)
(i) Assists with narrowing and defining key issues by arranging consultations with congressional delegations on potentially sensitive actions.
(ii) Distributes draft and final EISs to congressional delegations.
(iii) Reviews and provides the Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD) with analyses of the Air Force position on proposed and enrolled legislation and executive department testimony dealing with EIAP issues.
(4)
(i) Reviews and clears environmental documents in accordance with Air Force Instruction (AFI) 35-101, Public Affairs Policies and Procedures
(ii) Assists the environmental planning function and the Air Force Legal Services Agency, Trial Judiciary Division (AFLOA/JAJT), in planning and conducting public scoping meetings and hearings.
(iii) Ensures that public affairs aspects of all EIAP actions are conducted in accordance with this part and AFI 35-101.
(iv) The National Guard Bureau, Office of Public Affairs (NGB-PA), will assume the responsibilities of SAF/PA for the EIAP involving the National Guard Bureau, Air Directorate.
(b) Headquarters U.S. Air Force (HQ USAF). The Civil Engineer (HQ USAF/ILE) is responsible for execution of the EIAP program. The National Guard Bureau Air Directorate (NGB-CF) oversees the EIAP for Air National Guard actions.
(c) MAJCOMs, the Air National Guard, Field Operating Agencies (FOAs), and Single Manager Programs.
(1) Air Force Center for Engineering and the Environment (AFCEE). The AFCEE Technical Directorate, Built Infrastructure Division (AFCEE/TDB) is available to provide technical assistance and has the capability to provide contract support to the proponent, EPF, and MAJCOMs in developing EIAP documents.
(2) Air Force Regional Environmental Offices (REOs). REOs review non-Air Force environmental documents that may have an impact on the Air Force. Requests for review of such documents should be directed to the proper REO (Atlanta, Dallas, or San Francisco) along with any relevant comments. The REO:
(i) Notifies the proponent, after receipt, that the REO is the single point of contact for the Air Force review of the document.
(ii) Requests comments from potentially affected installations, MAJCOMs, the ANG, and HQ USAF, as appropriate.
(iii) Consolidates comments into the Air Force official response and submits the final response to the proponent.
(iv) Provides to HQ USAF/A7CI and the appropriate MAJCOMs and installations a copy of the final response and a complete set of all review comments.
(3) Single Manager Acquisition Programs (system-related NEPA). The proponent Single Manager (i.e., System Program Director, Materiel Group Managers, and Product Group Managers) for all programs, regardless of acquisition category, shall comply with DoD Regulation 5000.2-R. SAF/AQR, as the Air Force Acquisition Executive Office, is the final approval authority for all system-related NEPA documents. SAF/AQR is responsible for accomplishing appropriate Headquarters EPC/ESOHC review. The Single Manager will obtain appropriate Product Center EPC approval prior to forwarding necessary EIAP documents (i.e., Notices of Intent (NOIs) and preliminary draft and final EAs and EISs) to SAF/AQR. The Single Manager will allow for concurrent review of EIAP documents by HQ AFMC/CEV and the Operational Command (HQ ACC, HQ AMC, HQ AFSPC, etc.) The Single Manager is responsible for budgeting and funding EIAP efforts, including EIAP for research, development, testing, and evaluation activities.
(4)
(d)
(1) Complying with the EIAP and shall ensure integration of the EIAP during the initial planning stages of proposed actions so that planning and decisions reflect environmental values, delays are avoided later in the process, and potential conflicts are precluded.
(2) Notifying the EPF of a pending action and completing Section I of AF Form 813, Request for Environmental Impact Analysis. Prepare the Description of Proposed Action and Alternatives (DOPAA) through an interdisciplinary team approach including the EPF and other key Air Force participants.
(3) Identifying key decision points and coordinating with the EPF on EIAP phasing to ensure that environmental documents are available to the
(4) Determining, with the EPF, as early as possible whether to prepare an EIS. The proponent and the EPF will conduct an early internal scoping process as part of the EIAP process. The internal scoping process should involve key Air Force environmental participants (see § 989.3(c)(4)) and other Air Force offices as needed and conclude with preparation of a DOPAA. For complex or detailed EAs or EISs, an outside facilitator trained in EIAP may be used to focus and guide the discussion. Department of the Air Force personnel, rather than contractors, should generally be used to prepare the DOPAA.
(5) Presenting the DOPAA to the EPC for review and comment.
(6) Coordinating with the EPF, Public Affairs, and Staff Judge Advocate prior to organizing public or interagency meetings which deal with EIAP elements of a proposed action and involving persons or agencies outside the Air Force.
(7) Subsequent to the decision to prepare an EIS, assisting the EPF and Public Affairs Office in preparing a draft NOI to prepare an EIS. All NOIs must be forwarded through the MAJCOM EPF to HQ USAF/A7CI for review and publication in the
(8) Ensuring that proposed actions are implemented as described in the final EIAP decision documents.
(e)
(1) Supports the EIAP by bringing key participants in at the beginning of a proposed action and involving them throughout the EIAP. Key participants play an important role in defining and focusing key issues at the initial stage.
(2) At the request of the proponent, prepares environmental documents using an interdisciplinary approach, or obtains technical assistance through Air Force channels or contract support. Assists the proponent in obtaining review of environmental documents.
(3) Assists the proponent in preparing a DOPAA and actively supports the proponent during all phases of the EIAP.
(4) Evaluates proposed actions and completes Sections II and III of AF Form 813, subsequent to submission by the proponent and determines whether a Categorical Exclusion (CATEX) applies. The responsible EPF member signs the AF Form 813 certification.
(5) Identifies and documents, with technical advice from the Bioenvironmental Engineer and other staff members, environmental quality standards that relate to the action under evaluation.
(6) Supports the proponent in preparing environmental documents, or obtains technical assistance through Air Force channels or contract support and adopts the documents as official Air Force papers when completed and approved.
(7) Ensures the EIAP is conducted on base-level and MAJCOM-level plans, including contingency plans for the training, movement, and operations of Air Force personnel and equipment.
(8) Prepares the NOI to prepare an EIS with assistance from the proponent and the Public Affairs Office.
(9) Prepares applicable portions of the Certificate of Compliance for each military construction project according to AFI 32-1021, Planning and Programming of Facility Construction Projects.
(10) Submits one hard copy and one electronic copy of the final EA/Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) and
(f)
(g)
(1) Advises the proponent, EPF, and EPC on CATEX determinations and the legal sufficiency of environmental documents.
(2) Advises the EPF during the scoping process of issues that should be addressed in EISs and on procedures for the conduct of public hearings.
(3) Coordinates the appointment of the independent hearing officer with AFLOA/JAJT and provides support for the hearing officer in cases of public hearings on the draft EIS. The proponent pays administrative and Temporary Duty (TDY) costs. The hearing officer presides at hearings and makes final decisions regarding hearing procedures.
(4) Promptly refers all matters causing or likely to cause substantial public controversy or litigation through channels to AFLOA/JACE (or NGB-JA).
(h)
(1) Advises the EPF, the EPC, and the proponent on public affairs activities on proposed actions and reviews environmental documents for public involvement issues.
(2) Advises the EPF of issues and competing interests that should be addressed in the EIS or EA.
(3) Assists in preparation of and attends public meetings or media sessions on environmental issues.
(4) Prepares, coordinates, and distributes news releases and other public information materials related to the proposal and associated EIAP documents.
(5) Notifies the media (television, radio, newspaper) and purchases advertisements when newspapers will not run notices free of charge. The EPF will fund the required advertisements.
(6) Determines and ensures Security Review requirements are met for all information proposed for public release.
(7) For more comprehensive instructions about public affairs activities in environmental matters, see AFI 35-101.
(i)
(j)
Air Force personnel will:
(a) Consider and document environmental effects of proposed Air Force actions through AF Forms 813, EAs, FONSIs, EISs, RODs, and documents prepared according to E.O. 12114.
(b) Evaluate proposed actions for possible CATEX from environmental impact analysis (appendix B).
(c) Make environmental documents, comments, and responses, including those of other federal agencies, state, Tribal, and local governments, and the public, part of the record available for review and use at all levels of decisionmaking.
(d) Review the specific alternatives analyzed in the EIAP when evaluating the proposal prior to decisionmaking.
(e) Ensure that alternatives to be considered by the decisionmaker are both reasonable and within the range of alternatives analyzed in the environmental documents.
(f) Pursue the objective of furthering foreign policy and national security interests while at the same time considering important environmental factors.
(g) Consider the environmental effects of actions that affect the global commons.
(h) Determine whether any foreign government should be informed of the
(a) The host EPF manages the EIAP using an interdisciplinary team approach. This is especially important for tenant-proposed actions, because the host command is responsible for the EIAP for actions related to the host command's installations.
(b) The host command prepares environmental documents internally or directs the host base to prepare the environmental documents. Environmental document preparation may be by contract (requiring the tenant to fund the EIAP), by the tenant unit, or by the host. Regardless of the preparation method, the host command will ensure the required environmental analysis is accomplished before a decision is made on the proposal and an action is undertaken. Support agreements should provide specific procedures to ensure host oversight of tenant compliance, tenant funding or reimbursement of host EIAP costs, and tenant compliance with the EIAP regardless of the tenant not being an Air Force organization.
(c) For aircraft beddown and unit realignment actions, program elements are identified in the Program Objective Memorandum. Subsequent Program Change Requests must include AF Form 813.
(d) To ensure timely initiation of the EIAP, SAF/AQ forwards information copies of all Mission Need Statements and System Operational Requirements Documents to SAF/IEI, HQ USAF/A7CI (or NGB/A7CV), the Air Force Medical Operations Agency, Aerospace Medicine Office (AFMOA/SG), and the affected MAJCOM EPFs.
(e) The MAJCOM of the scheduling unit managing affected airspace is responsible for preparing and approving environmental analyses.
Contract EIAP efforts are proponent MAJCOM responsibilities. Each year, the EPF programs for anticipated out-year EIAP workloads based on inputs from command proponents. If proponent offices exceed the budget in a given year or identify unforeseen requirements, the proponent offices must provide the remaining funding.
(a) Non-Air Force agencies or entities may request the Air Force to undertake an action, such as issuing a permit or outleasing Air Force property, that may primarily benefit the requester or an agency other than the Air Force. The EPF and other Air Force staff elements must identify such requests and coordinate with the proponent of the non-Air Force proposal, as well as with concerned state, Tribal, and local governments.
(b) Air Force decisions on such proposals must take into consideration the potential environmental impacts of the applicant's proposed activity (as described in an Air Force environmental document), insofar as the proposed action involves Air Force property or programs, or requires Air Force approval.
(c) The Air Force may require the requester to prepare, at the requester's expense, an analysis of environmental impacts (40 CFR 1506.5), or the requester may be required to pay for an EA or EIS to be prepared by a contractor selected and supervised by the Air Force. The EPF may permit requesters to submit draft EAs for their proposed actions, except for actions described in § 989.16(a) and (b), or for actions the EPF has reason to believe will ultimately require an EIS. For EISs, the EPF has the responsibility to prepare the environmental document,
(d) In no event is the requester who prepares or funds an environmental analysis entitled to reimbursement from the Air Force. When requesters prepare environmental documents outside the Air Force, the Air Force must independently evaluate and approve the scope and content of the environmental analyses before using the analyses to fulfill EIAP requirements. Any outside environmental analysis must evaluate reasonable alternatives as defined in § 989.8.
(a) The Air Force must analyze reasonable alternatives to the proposed action and the “no action” alternative in all EAs and EISs, as fully as the proposed action alternative.
(b) “Reasonable” alternatives are those that meet the underlying purpose and need for the proposed action and that would cause a reasonable person to inquire further before choosing a particular course of action. Reasonable alternatives are not limited to those directly within the power of the Air Force to implement. They may involve another government agency or military service to assist in the project or even to become the lead agency. The Air Force must also consider reasonable alternatives raised during the scoping process (see § 989.18) or suggested by others, as well as combinations of alternatives. The Air Force need not analyze highly speculative alternatives, such as those requiring a major, unlikely change in law or governmental policy. If the Air Force identifies a large number of reasonable alternatives, it may limit alternatives selected for detailed environmental analysis to a reasonable range or to a reasonable number of examples covering the full spectrum of alternatives.
(c) The Air Force may expressly eliminate alternatives from detailed analysis, based on reasonable selection standards (for example, operational, technical, or environmental standards suitable to a particular project). In consultation with the EPF, the appropriate Air Force organization may develop written selection standards to firmly establish what is a “reasonable” alternative for a particular project, but they must not so narrowly define these standards that they unnecessarily limit consideration to the proposal initially favored by proponents. This discussion of reasonable alternatives applies equally to EAs and EISs.
(d) Except in those rare instances where excused by law, the Air Force must always consider and assess the environmental impacts of the “no action” alternative. “No action” may mean either that current management practice will not change or that the proposed action will not take place. If no action would result in other predictable actions, those actions should be discussed within the no action alternative section. The discussion of the no action alternative and the other alternatives should be comparable in detail to that of the proposed action.
(a)
(b)
The Air Force should use tiered (40 CFR 1502.20) environmental documents, and environmental documents prepared by other agencies, to eliminate repetitive discussions of the same issues and to focus on the issues relating to specific actions. If the Air Force adopts another Federal agency's environmental document, subsequent Air Force environmental documents may also be tiered.
(a) The EPF combines environmental analysis with other related documentation when practicable (40 CFR 1506.4) following the procedures prescribed by the CEQ regulations and this part.
(b) The EPF must integrate comprehensive planning (AFI 32-7062, Air Force Comprehensive Planning
The Air Force uses AF Form 813 to document the need for environmental analysis or for certain CATEX determinations for proposed actions. The form helps narrow and focus the issues to potential environmental impacts. AF Form 813 must be retained with the EA or EIS to record the focusing of environmental issues.
(a) CATEXs define those categories of actions that do not individually or cumulatively have potential for significant effect on the environment and do not, therefore, require further environmental analysis in an EA or an EIS. The list of Air Force-approved CATEXs is in appendix B. Supplements to this part may not add CATEXs or expand the scope of the CATEXs in appendix B.
(b) Characteristics of categories of actions that usually do not require either an EIS or an EA (in the absence of extraordinary circumstances) include:
(1) Minimal adverse effect on environmental quality.
(2) No significant change to existing environmental conditions.
(3) No significant cumulative environmental impact.
(4) Socioeconomic effects only.
(5) Similarity to actions previously assessed and found to have no significant environmental impacts.
(c) CATEXs apply to actions in the United States and abroad. General exemptions specific to actions abroad are in 32 CFR part 187. The EPF or other decision-maker forwards requests for additional exemption determinations for actions abroad to HQ USAF/A7CI with a justification letter.
(d) Normally, any decision-making level may determine the applicability of a CATEX and need not formally record the determination on AF Form 813 or elsewhere, except as noted in the CATEX list.
(e) Application of a CATEX to an action does not eliminate the need to meet air conformity requirements (see § 989.30).
(a) When a proposed action is one not usually requiring an EIS but is not categorically excluded, the EPF supports the proponent in preparing an EA (40
(b) Whenever a proposed action usually requires an EIS, the EPF responsible for the EIAP may prepare an EA to definitively determine if an EIS is required based on the analysis of environmental impacts. Alternatively, the EPF may choose to bypass the EA and proceed with preparation of an EIS.
(c) An EA is a written analysis that:
(1) Provides analysis sufficient to determine whether to prepare an EIS or a FONSI.
(2) Aids the Air Force in complying with the NEPA when no EIS is required.
(d) The length of an EA should be as short and concise as possible, while matching the magnitude of the proposal. An EA briefly discusses the need for the proposed action, reasonable alternatives to the proposed action, the affected environment, the environmental impacts of the proposed action and alternatives (including the “no action” alternative), and a listing of agencies and persons consulted during preparation. The EA should not contain long descriptions or lengthy, detailed data. Rather, incorporate by reference background data to support the concise discussion of the proposal and relevant issues.
(e) The format for the EA may be the same as the EIS. The alternatives section of an EA and an EIS are similar and should follow the alternatives analysis guidance outlined in § 989.8.
(f) The EPF should design the EA to facilitate rapidly transforming the document into an EIS if the environmental analysis reveals a significant impact.
(g) As a finding contained in the draft FONSI, a Finding of No Practicable Alternative (FONPA) must be submitted (five hard copies and an electronic version) to the MAJCOM EPF when the alternative selected could be located in wetlands or floodplains, and must discuss why no other practicable alternative exists to avoid impacts. See AFI 32-7064, Integrated Natural Resources Management.
(h) EAs and accompanying FONSIs that require the Air Force to make Clean Air Act General Conformity Determinations shall be submitted (five hard copies and an electronic version) through the MAJCOM EPF to HQ USAF/A7CI for SAF/IEE coordination. SAF/IEE signs all General Conformity Determinations; SAF/IEI will sign the companion FONSIs after coordination with SAF/IEE, when requested by the MAJCOM (see § 989.30).
(i) In cases potentially involving a high degree of controversy or Air Force-wide concern, the MAJCOM, after consultation with HQ USAF/A7CI, may request HQ USAF ESOHC review and approval of an EA, or HQ USAF may direct the MAJCOM to forward an EA (five hard copies and an electronic version) for HQ USAF ESOHC review and approval.
(j) As a minimum, the following EAs require MAJCOM approval because they involve topics of special importance or interest. Unless directed otherwise by HQ USAF/A7CI, the installation EPF must forward the following types of EAs to the MAJCOM EPF, along with an unsigned draft FONSI: (MAJCOMs can require other EAs to receive MAJCOM approval in addition to those types specified here.)
(1) All EAs on non-Air Force proposals that require an Air Force decision, such as use of Air Force property for highways, space ports, and joint-use proposals.
(2) EAs where mitigation to insignificance is accomplished in lieu of initiating an EIS (§ 989.22(c)).
(k) A few examples of actions that normally require preparation of an EA (except as indicated in the CATEX list) include:
(1) Public land withdrawals of less than 5,000 acres.
(2) Minor mission realignments and aircraft beddowns.
(3) New building construction on base within developed areas.
(4) Minor modifications to Military Operating Areas (MOAs), air-to-ground weapons ranges, and military training routes.
(l) The Air Force will involve other federal agencies, state, Tribal, and local governments, and the public in the preparation of EAs (40 CFR 1501.4(b) and 1506.6). The extent of involvement usually coincides with the
(a) The FONSI (40 CFR 1508.13) briefly describes why an action would not have a significant effect on the environment and thus will not be the subject of an EIS. The FONSI must summarize the EA or, preferably, have it attached and incorporated by reference, and must note any other environmental documents related to the action.
(b) If the EA is not incorporated by reference, the FONSI must include:
(1) Name of the action.
(2) Brief description of the action (including alternatives considered and the chosen alternative).
(3) Brief discussion of anticipated environmental effects.
(4) Conclusions leading to the FONSI.
(5) All mitigation actions that will be adopted with implementation of the proposal (see § 989.22).
(c) Keep FONSIs as brief as possible. Only rarely should FONSIs exceed two typewritten pages. Stand-alone FONSIs without an attached EA may be longer.
(d) For actions of regional or local interest, disseminate the FONSI according to § 989.24. The MAJCOM and NGB are responsible for release of FONSIs to regional offices of Federal agencies, the state single point of contact (SPOC), and state agencies concurrent with local release by the installations.
(e) The EPF must make the EA and unsigned FONSI available to the affected public and provide the EA and unsigned FONSI to organizations and individuals requesting them and to whomever the proponent or the EPF has reason to believe is interested in the action, unless disclosure is precluded for security classification reasons. Draft EAs and unsigned draft FONSIs will be clearly identified as drafts and distributed via cover letter which will explain their purpose and need. The EPF provides a copy of the documents without cost to organizations and individuals requesting them. The FONSI transmittal date (date of letter of transmittal) to the state SPOC or other equivalent agency is the official notification date.
(1) Before the FONSI is signed and the action is implemented, the EPF should allow sufficient time to receive comments from the public. The time period will reflect the magnitude of the proposed action and its potential for controversy. The greater the magnitude of the proposed action or its potential for controversy, the longer the time that must be allowed for public review. Mandatory review periods for certain defined actions are contained in § 989.15(e)(2). These are not all inclusive but merely specific examples. In every case where an EA and FONSI are prepared, the proponent and EPF must determine how much time will be allowed for public review. In all cases, other than classified actions, a public review period should be the norm unless clearly unnecessary due to the lack of potential controversy.
(2) In the following circumstances, the EA and unsigned FONSI are made available for public review for at least 30 days before FONSI approval and implementing the action (40 CFR 1501.4(e)(2)):
(i) When the proposed action is, or is closely similar to, one that usually requires preparation of an EIS (see § 989.16).
(ii) If it is an unusual case, a new kind of action, or a precedent-setting case in terms of its potential environmental impacts.
(iii) If the proposed action would be located in a floodplain or wetland.
(iv) If the action is mitigated to insignificance in the FONSI, in lieu of an EIS (§ 989.22(c)).
(v) If the proposed action is a change to airspace use or designation.
(vi) If the proposed action would have a disproportionately high and adverse environmental effect on minority populations and low-income populations.
(f) As a general rule, the same organizational level that prepares the EA also reviews and recommends the FONSI for approval by the EPC. MAJCOMs may decide the level of EA
(a) Certain classes of environmental impacts normally require preparation of an EIS (40 CFR 1501.4). These include, but are not limited to:
(1) Potential for significant degradation of the environment.
(2) Potential for significant threat or hazard to public health or safety.
(3) Substantial environmental controversy concerning the significance or nature of the environmental impact of a proposed action.
(b) Certain other actions normally, but not always, require an EIS. These include, but are not limited to:
(1) Public land withdrawals of over 5,000 acres (Engle Act, 43 U.S.C. 155 through 158).
(2) Establishment of new air-to-ground weapons ranges.
(3) Site selection of new airfields.
(4) Site selection of major installations.
(5) Development of major new weapons systems (at decision points that involve demonstration, validation, production, deployment, and area or site selection for deployment).
(6) Establishing or expanding supersonic training areas over land below 30,000 feet MSL (mean sea level).
(7) Disposal and reuse of closing installations.
The EPF must furnish, through the MAJCOM, to HQ USAF/A7CI the NOI (40 CFR 1508.22) describing the proposed action for congressional notification and publication in the
(a) After publication of the NOI for an EIS, the EPF must initiate the public scoping process (40 CFR 1501.7) to determine the scope of issues to be addressed and to help identify significant environmental issues to be analyzed in depth. Methods of scoping range from soliciting written comments to conducting public scoping meetings (see 40 CFR 1501.7 and 1506.6(e)). The scoping process is an iterative, pro-active process of communicating with individual citizens, neighborhood, community, and local leaders, public interest groups, congressional delegations, state, Tribal, and local governments, and federal agencies. The scoping process must start prior to official public scoping meetings and continue through to preparation of the draft EIS. The purpose of this process is to de-emphasize insignificant issues and focus the scope of the environmental analysis on significant issues (40 CFR 1500.4(g)). Additionally, scoping allows early and more meaningful participation by the public. The result of scoping is that the proponent and EPF determine the range of actions, alternatives, and impacts to be considered in the EIS (40 CFR 1508.25). The EPF must send scripts for scoping meetings to HQ USAF/A7CI (or ANGRC/CEV) no later than 30 days before the first scoping meeting. Scoping meeting plans are similar in content to public hearing plans (see appendix C). Public scoping meetings should generally be held at locations not on the installation.
(b) Where it is anticipated the proposed action and its alternatives will have disproportionately high and adverse human health or environmental effects on minority populations or low-income populations, special efforts
(a)
(b)
(c)
(2) The EPF sponsors public hearings on the draft EIS according to the procedures in appendix C to this part. Hearings take place no sooner than 15 days after the
(3) Where analyses indicate that a proposed action will potentially have disproportionately high and adverse human health or environmental effects on minority populations or low-income populations, the EPF should make special efforts to ensure that these potentially impacted populations are brought into the review process.
(d)
(e)
(a) If changes in the draft EIS are minor or limited to factual corrections and responses to comments, the proponent and EPF may, with the prior approval of HQ USAF/A7CI and SAF/IEI, prepare a document containing only comments on the Draft EIS, Air Force responses, and errata sheets of changes staffed to the HQ USAF ESOHC for coordination. However, the EPF must submit the Draft EIS and all of the above documents, with a new cover sheet indicating that it is a final EIS (40 CFR 1503.4(c)), to HQ USAF/A7CI for filing with the EPA (40 CFR 1506.9). If more extensive modifications are required, the EPF must prepare a preliminary final EIS incorporating these modifications for coordination within the Air Force. Regardless of which procedure is followed, the final EIS must be processed in the same way as the draft EIS, including receipt of copies of the EIS by SAF/LLP, except that the public need not be invited to comment during the 30-day post-filing waiting period. The Final EIS should be furnished to every person, organization, or agency that made substantive comments on the Draft EIS or requested a copy. Although the EPF is not required to respond to public comments received during this period, comments received must be considered in determining final decisions such as identifying the preferred alternative, appropriate mitigations, or if a supplemental analysis is required.
(b) The EPF processes all necessary supplements to EISs (40 CFR 1502.9) in the same way as the original Draft and Final EIS, except that a new scoping process is not required.
(c) If major steps to advance the proposal have not occurred within 5 years from the date of the Final EIS approval, reevaluation of the documentation should be accomplished to ensure its continued validity.
(a) The proponent and the EPF prepare a draft ROD, formally staff it through the MAJCOM EPC, to HQ USAF/A7CI for verification of adequacy, and forwards it to either SAF/IEI or SAF/AQR, as the case may be, for approval and designation of the signator. A ROD (40 CFR 1505.2) is a concise public document stating what an agency's decision is on a specific action. The ROD may be integrated into any other document required to implement the agency's decision. A decision on a course of action may not be made until the later of the following dates:
(1) 90 days after publication of the DEIS; or
(2) 30 days after publication of the NOA of the Final EIS in the
(b) The Air Force must announce the ROD to the affected public as specified in § 989.24, except for classified portions. The ROD should be concise and should explain the conclusion, the reason for the selection, and the alternatives considered. The ROD must identify the course of action, whether it is the proposed action or an alternative, that is considered environmentally preferable regardless of whether it is the alternative selected for implementation. The ROD should summarize all the major factors the agency weighed in making its decision, including essential considerations of national policy.
(c) The ROD must state whether the selected alternative employs all practicable means to avoid, minimize, or
(a) When preparing EIAP documents, indicate clearly whether mitigation measures (40 CFR 1508.20) must be implemented for the alternative selected. If using Best Management Practices (BMPs), identify the specific BMPs being used and include those BMPs in the mitigation plan. Discuss mitigation measures in terms of “will” and “would” when such measures have already been incorporated into the proposal. Use terms like “may” and “could” when proposing or suggesting mitigation measures. Both the public and the Air Force community need to know what commitments are being considered and selected, and who will be responsible for implementing, funding, and monitoring the mitigation measures.
(b) The proponent funds and implements mitigation measures in the mitigation plan that is approved by the decision-maker. Where possible and appropriate because of amount, the proponent should include the cost of mitigation as a line item in the budget for a proposed project. The proponent must ensure compliance with mitigation requirements, monitoring their effectiveness, and must keep the EPF informed of the mitigation status. The EPF reports its status, through the MAJCOM, to HQ USAF/A7CI when requested. Upon request, the EPF must also provide the results of relevant mitigation monitoring to the public.
(c) The proponent may “mitigate to insignificance” potentially significant environmental impacts found during preparation of an EA, in lieu of preparing an EIS. The FONSI for the EA must include these mitigation measures. Such mitigations are legally binding and must be carried out as the proponent implements the project. If, for any reason, the project proponent later abandons or revises in environmentally adverse ways the mitigation commitments made in the FONSI, the proponent must prepare a supplemental EIAP document before continuing the project. If potentially significant environmental impacts would result from any project revisions, the proponent must prepare an EIS.
(d) For each FONSI or ROD containing mitigation measures, the proponent prepares a plan specifically identifying each mitigation, discussing how the proponent will execute the mitigations, identifying who will fund and implement the mitigations, and stating when the proponent will complete the mitigation. The mitigation plan will be forwarded, through the MAJCOM EPF to HQ USAF/A7CI for review within 90 days from the date of signature of the FONSI or ROD.
All Air Force EIAP documents belong to and are the responsibility of the Air Force. EIAP correspondence and documents distributed outside of the Air Force should generally be signed out by Air Force personnel and documents should reflect on the cover sheet they are an Air Force document. Contractor preparation information should be contained within the document's list of preparers.
(a) Except as provided in § 989.26, public notification is required for various aspects of the EIAP.
(b) Activities that require public notification include:
(1) An EA and FONSI.
(2) An EIS NOI.
(3) Public scoping meetings.
(4) Availability of the draft EIS.
(5) Public hearings on the draft EIS (which should be included in the NOA for the draft EIS).
(6) Availability of the final EIS.
(7) The ROD for an EIS.
(c) For actions of local concern, the list of possible notification methods in 40 CFR 1506.6(b)(3) is only illustrative. The EPF may use other equally effective means of notification as a substitute for any of the methods listed. Because many Air Force actions are of limited interest to persons or organizations outside the Air Force, the EPF
(d) For the purpose of EIAP, the EPF begins the time period of local notification when it sends written notification to the state SPOC or other equivalent agency (date of letter of notification).
Base closure or realignment may entail special requirements for environmental analysis. The permanent base closure and realignment law, 10 U.S.C. 2687, requires a report to the Congress when an installation where at least 300 DoD civilian personnel are authorized to be employed is closed, or when a realignment reduces such an installation by at least 50 percent or 1,000 of such personnel, whichever is less. In addition, other base closure laws may be in effect during particular periods. Such nonpermanent closure laws frequently contain provisions limiting the extent of environmental analysis required for actions taken under them. Such provisions may also add requirements for studies not necessarily required by NEPA.
(a) Classification of an action for national defense or foreign policy purposes does not relieve the requirement of complying with NEPA. In classified matters, the Air Force must prepare and make available normal NEPA environmental analysis documents to aid in the decision-making process; however, Air Force staff must prepare, safeguard, and disseminate these documents according to established procedures for protecting classified documents. If an EIAP document must be classified, the Air Force may modify or eliminate associated requirements for public notice (including publication in the
(b) Where the proposed action is classified and unavailable to the public, the Air Force may keep the entire NEPA process classified and protected under the applicable procedures for the classification level pertinent to the particular information. At times (for example, during weapons system development and base closures and realignments), certain but not all aspects of NEPA documents may later be declassified. In those cases, the EPF should organize the EIAP documents, to the extent practicable, in a way that keeps the most sensitive classified information (which is not expected to be released at any early date) in a separate annex that can remain classified; the rest of the EIAP documents, when declassified, will then be comprehensible as a unit and suitable for release to the public. Thus, the documents will reflect, as much as possible, the nature of the action and its environmental impacts, as well as Air Force compliance with NEPA requirements.
(c) Where the proposed action is not classified, but certain aspects of it need to be protected by security classification, the EPF should tailor the EIAP for a proposed action to permit as normal a level of public involvement as possible, but also fully protect the classified part of the action and environmental analysis. In some instances, the EPF can do this by keeping the classified sections of the EIAP documents in a separate, classified annex.
(d) For § 989.26(b) actions, an NOI or NOA will not be published in the
(e) The EPF similarly protects classified aspects of FONSIs, RODs, or other environmental documents that are part of the EIAP for a proposed action, such as by preparing separate classified annexes to unclassified documents, as necessary.
(f) Whenever a proponent believes that EIAP documents should be kept classified, the EPF must make a report of the matter to SAF/IEI, including proposed modifications of the normal EIAP to protect classified information. The EPF may make such submissions at whatever level of security classification is needed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the issues. SAF/IEI, with support from SAF/GC and other staff elements as necessary, makes final decisions on EIAP procedures for classified actions.
Assess direct and indirect impacts of proposed actions on the safety and health of Air Force employees and others at a work site. The EIAP document does not need to specify compliance procedures. However, the EIAP documents should discuss impacts that require a change in work practices to achieve an adequate level of health and safety.
(a)
(b)
Unless directed otherwise, the MAJCOM plans and programs proponent will forward a copy of all EAs for force structure and unit moves to HQ USAF/A7CI for information only at the preliminary draft and preliminary final stages.
Section 176(c) of the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990, 42 U.S.C. 7506(c), establishes a conformity requirement for Federal agencies which has been implemented by regulation, 40 CFR 93, subpart B. All EIAP documents must address applicable conformity requirements and the status of compliance. Conformity applicability analyses and determinations are developed in parallel with EIAP documents, but are separate and distinct requirements and should be documented separately. To increase the utility of a conformity determination in performing the EIAP, the conformity determination should be completed prior to the completion of the EIAP so as to allow incorporation of the information from the conformity determination into the EIAP.
The Pollution Prevention Act of 1990, 42 U.S.C. 13101(b), established a national policy to prevent or reduce pollution at the source, whenever feasible. Pollution prevention approaches should be applied to all pollution-generating activities. The environmental document should analyze potential pollution that may result from the proposed action and alternatives and must discuss potential pollution prevention measures when such measures are feasible for incorporation into the proposal or alternatives. Where pollution cannot be prevented, the environmental analysis and proposed mitigation measures should include, wherever possible, recycling, energy recovery, treatment, and environmentally safe disposal actions (see AFI 32-7080, Pollution Prevention Program
Aircraft noise data files used for analysis during EIAP will be submitted to HQ AFCEE for review and validation prior to public release, and upon completion of the EIAP for database entry. Utilize the current NOISEMAP computer program for air installations and the Assessment System for Aircraft Noise for military training routes and military operating areas. Guidance on standardized Air Force noise data development and analysis procedures is available from HQ AFCEE/TDB. Develop EIAP land use analysis relating to aircraft noise impacts originating from air installations following procedures in AFI 32-7063, Air Installation Compatible Use Zone (AICUZ) Program. Draft EIAP aircraft noise/land use analysis associated with air installations will be coordinated with the MAJCOM AICUZ program manager.
During the preparation of environmental analyses under this instruction, the EPF should ensure compliance with the provisions of E.O. 12898, Federal Actions to Address Environmental Justice in Minority Populations and Low-Income Populations, and Executive Memorandum of February 11, 1994, regarding E.O. 12898.
(a)
(b)
(a) EAs, EISs, and mitigation measures will be tracked at bases and MAJCOMs through an appropriate environmental management system.
(b) Proponents, EPFs, and public affairs offices may utilize the World Wide Web, in addition to more traditional means, to notify the public of availability of EAs and EISs. When possible, allow distribution of documents electronically. Public review comments
(c) All documentation will be disposed of according to AFMAN 37-139, Records Disposition Schedule.
In order to deal with unusual circumstances and to allow growth in the EIAP process, SAF/IEI may grant waivers to those procedures contained in this part not required by NEPA or the CEQ Regulations. Such waivers shall not be used to limit compliance with NEPA or the CEQ Regulations but only to substitute other, more suitable procedures relative to the context of the particular action. Such waivers may also be granted on occasion to allow experimentation in procedures in order to allow growth in the EIAP. This authority may not be delegated.
Procedures for analysis of environmental actions abroad are contained in 32 CFR part 187. That directive provides comprehensive policies, definitions, and procedures for implementing E.O. 12114. For analysis of Air Force actions abroad, 32 CFR part 187 will be followed.
(a) The EPF will generally perform the same functions for analysis of actions abroad that it performs in the United States. In addition to the requirements of 32 CFR part 187, the following Air Force specific rules apply:
(b) For EAs dealing with global commons (geographic areas beyond the jurisdiction of the United States or any foreign nation), HQ USAF/A7CI will review actions that are above the MAJCOM approval authority. In this instance, approval authority refers to the same approval authority that would apply to an EA in the United States. The EPF documents a decision not to do an EIS.
(c) For EISs dealing with the global commons, the EPF provides sufficient copies to HQ USAF/A7CI for the HQ USAF ESOHC review and AFCEE/TDB technical review. After ESOHC review, the EPF makes a recommendation as to whether the proposed draft EIS will be released as a draft EIS.
(d) For environmental studies and environmental reviews, forward, when appropriate, environmental studies and reviews to HQ USAF/A7CI for coordination among appropriate federal agencies. HQ USAF/A7CI makes environmental studies and reviews available to the Department of State and other interested federal agencies, and, on request, to the United States public, in accordance with 32 CFR part 187. HQ USAF/A7CI also may inform interested foreign governments or furnish copies of studies, in accordance with 32 CFR part 187.
All definitions in the CEQ Regulations, 40 CFR part 1508, apply to this part. In addition, the following definitions apply:
Although a proposed action may qualify for a categorical exclusion from the requirements for environmental impact analysis under NEPA, this exclusion does not relieve the EPF or the proponent of responsibility for complying with all other environmental requirements related to the proposal, including requirements for permits, and state regulatory agency review of plans.
Circumstances may arise in which usually categorically excluded actions may have a
A2.2.1. Actions of greater scope or size than generally experienced for a particular category of action.
A2.2.2. Potential for degradation (even though slight) of already marginal or poor environmental conditions.
A2.2.3. Initiating a degrading influence, activity, or effect in areas not already significantly modified from their natural condition.
A2.2.4. Use of unproved technology.
A2.2.5. Use of hazardous or toxic substances that may come in contact with the surrounding environment.
A2.2.6. Presence of threatened or endangered species, archaeological remains, historical sites, or other protected resources.
A2.2.7. Proposals adversely affecting areas of critical environmental concern, such as prime or unique agricultural lands, wetlands, coastal zones, wilderness areas, floodplains, or wild and scenic river areas.
A2.2.8. Proposals with disproportionately high and adverse human health or environmental effects on minority populations or low-income populations.
Actions that are categorically excluded in the absence of unique circumstances are:
A2.3.1. Routine procurement of goods and services.
A2.3.2. Routine Commissary and Exchange operations.
A2.3.3. Routine recreational and welfare activities.
A2.3.4. Normal personnel, fiscal or budgeting, and administrative activities and decisions including those involving military and civilian personnel (for example, recruiting, processing, paying, and records keeping).
A2.3.5. Preparing, revising, or adopting regulations, instructions, directives, or guidance documents that do not, themselves, result in an action being taken.
A2.3.6. Preparing, revising, or adopting regulations, instructions, directives, or guidance documents that implement (without substantial change) the regulations, instructions, directives, or guidance documents from higher headquarters or other Federal agencies with superior subject matter jurisdiction.
A2.3.7. Continuation or resumption of pre-existing actions, where there is no substantial change in existing conditions or existing land uses and where the actions were originally evaluated in accordance with applicable law and regulations, and surrounding circumstances have not changed.
A2.3.8. Performing interior and exterior construction within the 5-foot line of a building without changing the land use of the existing building.
A2.3.9. Repairing and replacing real property installed equipment.
A2.3.10. Routine facility maintenance and repair that does not involve disturbing significant quantities of hazardous materials such as asbestos and lead-based paint.
A2.3.11. Actions similar to other actions which have been determined to have an insignificant impact in a similar setting as established in an EIS or an EA resulting in a FONSI. The EPF must document application of this CATEX on AF Form 813, specifically identifying the previous Air Force approved environmental document which provides the basis for this determination.
A2.3.12. Installing, operating, modifying, and routinely repairing and replacing utility and communications systems, data processing cable, and similar electronic equipment that use existing rights of way, easements, distribution systems, or facilities.
A2.3.13. Installing or modifying airfield operational equipment (such as runway visual range equipment, visual glide path systems, and remote transmitter or receiver facilities) on airfield property and usually accessible only to maintenance personnel.
A2.3.14. Installing on previously developed land, equipment that does not substantially alter land use (i.e., land use of more than one acre). This includes outgrants to private lessees for similar construction. The EPF must document application of this CATEX on AF Form 813.
A2.3.15. Laying-away or mothballing a production facility or adopting a reduced maintenance level at a closing installation when (1) agreement on any required historic preservation effort has been reached with the state historic preservation officer and the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation, and (2) no degradation in the environmental restoration program will occur.
A2.3.16. Acquiring land and ingrants (50 acres or less) for activities otherwise subject to CATEX. The EPF must document application of this CATEX on AF Form 813.
A2.3.17. Transferring land, facilities, and personal property for which the General Services Administration (GSA) is the action agency. Such transfers are excluded only if there is no change in land use and GSA complies with its NEPA requirements.
A2.3.18. Transferring administrative control of real property within the Air Force or to another military department or to another Federal agency, not including GSA, including returning public domain lands to the Department of the Interior.
A2.3.19. Granting easements, leases, licenses, rights of entry, and permits to use Air Force controlled property for activities that, if conducted by the Air Force, could be categorically excluded in accordance with
A2.3.20. Converting in-house services to contract services.
A2.3.21. Routine personnel decreases and increases, including work force conversion to either on-base contractor operation or to military operation from contractor operation (excluding base closure and realignment actions which are subject to congressional reporting under 10 U.S.C. 2687).
A2.3.22. Routine, temporary movement of personnel, including deployments of personnel on a TDY basis where existing facilities are used.
A2.3.23. Personnel reductions resulting from workload adjustments, reduced personnel funding levels, skill imbalances, or other similar causes.
A2.3.24. Study efforts that involve no commitment of resources other than personnel and funding allocations.
A2.3.25. The analysis and assessment of the natural environment without altering it (inspections, audits, surveys, investigations). This CATEX includes the granting of any permits necessary for such surveys, provided that the technology or procedure involved is well understood and there are no adverse environmental impacts anticipated from it. The EPF must document application of this CATEX on AF Form 813.
A2.3.26. Undertaking specific investigatory activities to support remedial action activities for purposes of cleanup of Environmental Restoration Account (ERA)—Air Force and Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) corrective action sites. These activities include soil borings and sampling, installation, and operation of test or monitoring wells. This CATEX applies to studies that assist in determining final cleanup actions when they are conducted in accordance with legal agreements, administrative orders, or work plans previously agreed to by EPA or state regulators.
A2.3.27. Normal or routine basic and applied scientific research confined to the laboratory and in compliance with all applicable safety, environmental, and natural resource conservation laws.
A2.3.28. Routine transporting of hazardous materials and wastes in accordance with applicable Federal, state, interstate, and local laws.
A2.3.29. Emergency handling and transporting of small quantities of chemical surety material or suspected chemical surety material, whether or not classified as hazardous or toxic waste, from a discovery site to a permitted storage, treatment, or disposal facility.
A2.3.30. Immediate responses to the release or discharge of oil or hazardous materials in accordance with an approved Spill Prevention and Response Plan or Spill Contingency Plan or that are otherwise consistent with the requirements of the National Contingency Plan.
A2.3.31. Relocating a small number of aircraft to an installation with similar aircraft that does not result in a significant increase of total flying hours or the total number of aircraft operations, a change in flight tracks, or an increase in permanent personnel or logistics support requirements at the receiving installation. Repetitive use of this CATEX at an installation requires further analysis to determine there are no cumulative impacts. The EPF must document application of this CATEX on AF Form 813.
A2.3.32. Temporary (for less than 30 days) increases in air operations up to 50 percent of the typical installation aircraft operation rate or increases of 50 operations a day, whichever is greater. Repetitive use of this CATEX at an installation requires further analysis to determine there are no cumulative impacts.
A2.3.33. Flying activities that comply with the Federal aviation regulations, that are dispersed over a wide area and that do not frequently (more than once a day) pass near the same ground points. This CATEX does not cover regular activity on established routes or within special use airspace.
A2.3.34. Supersonic flying operations over land and above 30,000 feet MSL, or over water and above 10,000 feet MSL and more than 15 nautical miles from land.
A2.3.35. Formal requests to the FAA, or host-nation equivalent agency, to establish or modify special use airspace (for example, restricted areas, warning areas, military operating areas) and military training routes for subsonic operations that have a base altitude of 3,000 feet above ground level or higher. The EPF must document application of this CATEX on AF Form 813, which must accompany the request to the FAA.
A2.3.36. Adopting airfield approach, departure, and en route procedures that are less than 3,000 feet above ground level, and that also do not route air traffic over noise-sensitive areas, including residential neighborhoods or cultural, historical, and outdoor recreational areas. The EPF may categorically exclude such air traffic patterns at or greater than 3,000 feet above ground level regardless of underlying land use.
A2.3.37. Participating in “air shows” and fly-overs by Air Force aircraft at non-Air Force public events after obtaining FAA coordination and approval.
A2.3.38. Conducting Air Force “open houses” and similar events, including air shows, golf tournaments, home shows, and the like, where crowds gather at an Air
At 72 FR 37107, July 9, 2007, appendix B to part 989 was amended by revising “AFLSA/JAJT” to read “AFLOA/JAJT” in A3.1.1 and A3.1.2. However, the amendment could not be made because appendix B did not contain such sections.
A3.1.1. The Office of the Judge Advocate General, through the Air Force Legal Services Agency/Trial Judiciary Division (AFLSA/JAJT) and its field organization, is responsible for conducting public hearings and assuring verbatim transcripts are accomplished.
A3.1.2. The EPF, with proponent, AFLSA/JAJT, and Public Affairs support, establishes the date and location, arranges for hiring the court reporter, funds temporary duty costs for the hearing officer, makes logistical arrangements (for example, publishing notices, arranging for press coverage, obtaining tables and chairs, etc.).
A3.1.3. The procedures outlined below have proven themselves through many prior applications. However, there may be rare instances when circumstances warrant conducting public hearings under a different format, e.g., public/town meeting, information booths, third party moderator, etc. In these cases, forward a request with justification to deviate from these procedures to HQ USAF/A7CI for SAF/IEE approval.
A3.2.1. Public Affairs officers:
A3.2.1.1. Announce public hearings and assemble a mailing list of individuals to be invited.
A3.2.1.2. Distribute announcements of a hearing to all interested individuals and agencies, including the print and electronic media.
A3.2.1.3. Place a newspaper display advertisement announcing the time and place of the hearing as well as other pertinent particulars.
A3.2.1.4. Distribute the notice in a timely manner so it will reach recipients or be published at least 15 days before the hearing date. Distribute notices fewer than 15 days before the hearing date when you have substantial justification and if the justification for a shortened notice period appears in the notice.
A3.2.1.5. Develop and distribute news release.
A3.2.2. If an action has effects of national concern, publish notices in the
A3.2.2.1. Because of the longer lead time required by the
A3.2.3. The notice should include:
A3.2.3.1. Date, time, place, and subject of the hearing.
A3.2.3.2. A description of the general format of the hearing.
A3.2.3.3. The name, address, and telephone number of the Air Force point of contact.
A3.2.3.4. A suggestion that speakers submit (in writing or by return call) their intention to participate, with an indication of which environmental impact (or impacts) they wish to address.
A3.2.3.5. Any limitation on the length of oral statements.
A3.2.3.6. A suggestion that speakers submit statements of considerable length in writing.
A3.2.3.7. A summary of the proposed action.
A3.2.3.8. The location where the draft EIS and any appendices are available for examination.
The EPF makes copies of the Draft EIS available to the public at an Air Force installation and other reasonably accessible place in the vicinity of the proposed action and public hearing (e.g., public library).
The EPF arranges to hold the hearing at a time and place and in an area readily accessible to military and civilian organizations and individuals interested in the proposed action. Generally, the EPF should arrange to hold the hearing in an off-base civilian facility, which is more accessible to the public.
A3.5.1. The AFLOA/JAJT selects a hearing officer to preside over hearings. The hearing officer does not need to have personal knowledge of the project, other than familiarity with the Draft EIS. In no event should the hearing officer be a judge advocate from the proponent or subordinate command, be assigned to the same installation with which the hearing is concerned, or have participated personally in the development of the project, or have rendered legal advice or assistance with respect to it (or be expected to
A3.5.2. The primary duties of the hearing officer are to make sure that the hearing is orderly, is recorded, and that interested parties have a reasonable opportunity to speak. The presiding officer should direct the speakers' attention to the purpose of the hearing, which is to consider the environmental impacts of the proposed project. Speakers should have a time limit to ensure maximum public input to the decision-maker.
The EIS preparation team must make sure a verbatim transcribed record of the hearing is prepared, including all stated positions, all questions, and all responses. The EIS preparation team should append all written submissions that parties provide to the hearing officer during the hearing to the record as attachments. The EIS preparation team should also append a list of persons who spoke at the hearing and submitted written comments and a list of the organizations or interests they represent with addresses. The EIS preparation team must make sure a verbatim transcript of the hearing is provided to the EPF for inclusion as an appendix to the Final EIS. The officer should also ensure that all persons who request a copy of the transcript get a copy when it is completed. Copying charges are determined according to 40 CFR 1506.6(f).
Use the format outlined below as a general guideline for conducting a hearing. Hearing officers should tailor the format to meet the hearing objectives. These objectives provide information to the public, record opinions of interested persons on environmental impacts of the proposed action, and set out alternatives for improving the EIS and for later consideration.
A3.7.1. Record of Attendees. The hearing officer should make a list of all persons who wish to speak at the hearing to help the hearing officer in calling on these individuals, to ensure an accurate transcript of the hearing, and to enable the officer to send a copy of the Final EIS (40 CFR 1502.19) to any person, organization, or agency that provided substantive comments at the hearing. The hearing officer should assign assistants to the entrance of the hearing room to provide cards on which individuals can voluntarily write their names, addresses, telephone numbers, organizations they represent, and titles; whether they desire to make a statement at the hearing; and what environmental area(s) they wish to address. The hearing officer can then use the cards to call on individuals who desire to make statements. However, the hearing officer will not deny entry to the hearing or the right to speak to people who decline to submit this information on cards.
A3.7.2. Introductory Remarks. The hearing officer should first introduce himself or herself and the EIS preparation team. Then the hearing officer should make a brief statement on the purpose of the hearing and give the general ground rules on how it will be conducted. This is the proper time to welcome any dignitaries who are present. The hearing officer should explain that he or she does not make any recommendation or decision on whether the proposed project should be continued, modified, or abandoned or how the EIS should be prepared.
A3.7.3. Explanation of the Proposed Action. The Air Force EIS preparation team representative should next explain the proposed action, the alternatives, the potential environmental consequences, and the EIAP.
A3.7.4. Questions by Attendees. After the EIS team representative explains the proposed action, alternatives, and consequences, the hearing officer should give attendees a chance to ask questions to clarify points they may not have understood. The EIS preparation team may have to reply in writing, at a later date, to some of the questions. While the Air Force EIS preparation team should be as responsive as possible in answering questions about the proposal, they should not become involved in debate with questioners over the merits of the proposed action. Cross-examination of speakers, either those of the Air Force or the public, is not the purpose of an informal hearing. If necessary, the hearing officer may limit questioning or conduct portions of the hearing to ensure proper lines of inquiry. However, the hearing officer should include all questions in the hearing record.
A3.7.5. Statement of Attendees. The hearing officer must give the persons attending the hearing a chance to present oral or written statements. The hearing officer should be sure the recorder has the name and address of each person who submits an oral or written statement. The officer should also permit the attendees to submit written statements within a reasonable time, usually two weeks, following the hearing. The officer should allot a reasonable length of time at the hearing for receiving oral statements. The officer may waive any announced time limit at his or her discretion. The hearing officer may allow those who have not previously indicated a desire to speak to identify themselves and be recognized only after those who have previously indicated their intentions to speak have spoken.
A3.7.6. Ending or Extending a Hearing. The hearing officer has the power to end the hearing if the hearing becomes disorderly, if the speakers become repetitive, or for other
After all persons have had a chance to speak, when the hearing has culled a representative view of public opinion, or when the time set for the hearing and any reasonable extension of time has ended, the hearing officer adjourns the hearing. In certain circumstances (for example, if the hearing officer believes it is likely that some participants will introduce new and relevant information), the hearing officer may justify scheduling an additional, separate hearing session. If the hearing officer makes the decision to hold another hearing while presiding over the original hearing he or she should announce that another public hearing will be scheduled or is under consideration. The officer gives notice of a decision to continue these hearings in essentially the same way he or she announced the original hearing, time permitting. The Public Affairs officer provides the required public notices and directs notices to interested parties in coordination with the hearing officer. Because of lead-time constraints, SAF/IEE may waive