AFW2 Afi36 2502
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BY ORDER OF THE
SECRETARY OF THE AIR FORCE
AIR FORCE INSTRUCTION 36-2502
12 DECEMBER 2014
Incorporating Through Change 2,
14 OCTOBER 2016
Personnel
ENLISTED AIRMAN
PROMOTION/DEMOTION PROGRAMS
COMPLIANCE WITH THIS PUBLICATION IS MANDATORY
ACCESSIBILITY: Publications and forms are available on the e-Publishing website at
www.e-Publishing.af.mil for downloading or ordering
RELEASABILITY: There are no releasability restrictions on this publication
OPR: AF/A1P
Supersedes: AFI36-2503, 21 JULY 2004;
ANGI36-2502, 17 June 2010;
ANGI36-2503, 24 February
2010
Certified by: SAF/MR
(Mr. Daniel R. Sitterly)
Pages: 139
This instruction implements Air Force Policy Directive (AFPD) 36-25, Military Promotion and
Demotion. It provides guidance and procedures on promoting and demoting enlisted airmen. It
applies to Regular Air Force (RegAF), Air Force Reserve (AFR), and Air National Guard (ANG)
personnel. In collaboration with the Chief of Air Force Reserve (HQ USAF/RE) and the
Director of the Air National Guard (NGB/CF), the Deputy Chief of Staff for Manpower,
Personnel, and Services (HQ USAF/A1) develops personnel policy for enlisted promotion and
demotion programs. This Air Force Instruction (AFI) may be supplemented at any level; all
supplements must be approved by the Human Resource Management Strategic Board (HSB)
prior to certification and approval. This publication requires the collection and or maintenance
of information protected by the Privacy Act of 1974 authorized by Title 10, United States Code
(U.S.C.), Section 8013 and Executive Order 9397 (SSN), as amended by Executive Order 13478.
The applicable Privacy Act System of Records Notices F036 AF PC C, Military Personnel
Records Systems, F036 AFPC J, Promotions Document/Records Tracking (PRODART) and
F036 AFPC K, Historical Airman Promotion Master Test File (MTF) are available at
http://privacy.defense.gov/notices/usaf/ apply. Refer to Attachment 1 for glossary. The
Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 affects this instruction. Process supplements that affect any
military personnel function as shown in Air Force Instruction (AFI) 33-360, Publications
2 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
Management Programs, with AF/A1P. Ensure that all records created as a result of processes
prescribed in this publication are maintained in accordance with Air Force Manual (AFMAN)
33-363, Management of Records, and disposed of in accordance with the Air Force Records
Disposition Schedule (RDS) located in the Air Force Records Information Management System
(AFRIMS). Refer recommended changes and questions about this publication to the Office of
Primary Responsibility (OPR) using the AF Form 847, Recommendation for Change of
Publication: route AF Form 847s from the field through AF/A1PP, Military Force Policy
Division, 1040 Air Force Pentagon, Washington, DC 20330 or AF/A1P
Workflow@pentagon.af.mil.
SUMMARY OF CHANGES
This change provides updates to program policies. It provides guidance and procedures on
promoting and demoting enlisted airmen. It applies to Active Duty (RegAF), Air Force Reserve
(AFR), and Air National Guard (ANG) personnel. In collaboration with the Chief of Air Force
Reserve (AF/RE) and the Director of the Air National Guard (NGB/CF), the Deputy Chief of
Staff for Manpower, Personnel, and Services (AF/A1) develops personnel policy for enlisted
promotion and demotion programs. This Air Force Instruction (AFI) may be supplemented at
any level; all supplements must be approved by the Human Resource Management Strategic
Board (HSB) prior to certification and approval. This publication requires the collection and or
maintenance of information protected by the Privacy Act of 1974 authorized by Title 10, United
States Code (U.S.C.), Section 8013 and Executive Order 9397 (SSN), as amended by Executive
Order 13478. The applicable Privacy Act System of Records Notices F036 AF PC C, Military
Personnel Records Systems, F036 AFPC J, Promotions Document/Records Tracking
(PRODART) and F036 AFPC K, Historical Airman Promotion Master Test File (MTF) are
available at http://privacy.defense.gov/notices/usaf/ apply. The authorities to waive wing/unit
level requirements in this publication are identified with a Tier (“T-0, T-1, T-2, T-3”) number
following the compliance statement. A margin bar (|) indicates newly revised material.
Chapter 1— ACTIVE DUTY AIRMAN PROMOTION PROGRAM ELEMENTS 10
1.1. Roles and Responsibilities. ..................................................................................... 10
1.2. Air Force Personnel Center (AFPC). ...................................................................... 10
1.3. MAJCOMs, FOAs, and DRUs................................................................................ 10
1.4. Military Personnel Section (MPS) .......................................................................... 10
1.5. Promotion Authority. .............................................................................................. 10
1.6. Announcement of Promotion Dates and Quotas. .................................................... 10
1.7. Establishing Dates of Rank (DOR) and Promotion Sequence Numbers (PSN). .... 11
1.8. Determining Promotion Ineligibility. ...................................................................... 11
1.9. Accepting Promotion .............................................................................................. 11
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 3
1.10. Promotion Ceremonies ........................................................................................... 12
1.11. Declining Promotion ............................................................................................... 12
1.12. Enlisted Professional Military Education (EPME) Requirements. ......................... 12
1.13. Community College of the Air Force (CCAF) Requirements. ............................... 12
1.14. Correcting Enlistment Grades. ................................................................................ 12
1.15. Correcting Promotion Effective Dates and Dates of Rank ..................................... 12
Table 1.1. Determining Ineligibility For Promotion (see Note 1). ........................................... 13
Table 1.2. Withholding Promotion (see paragraph 4). ............................................................. 17
Table 1.3. Significant Dates of Promotion ............................................................................... 19
Chapter 2— REGULAR AIR FORCE AIRMAN PROMOTIONS TO GRADES AMN
THROUGH CMSGT 21
2.1. Airman and A1C Promotions (see Table 1. 3) ........................................................ 21
2.2. SrA Promotions (see Table 1.3): ............................................................................. 21
2.3. SrA Below-The-Zone (BTZ) Promotion Program: ................................................. 21
2.4. Central Base Board (CBB) Process. ....................................................................... 23
2.5. Supplemental BTZ Consideration. .......................................................................... 25
2.6. SSgt, TSgt, and MSgt Promotions (see Table 1. ..................................................... 25
2.7. MSgt Promotions: ................................................................................................... 27
2.8. SMSgt and CMSgt Promotions (see Table 1.3) ...................................................... 30
2.9. Supplemental Promotions for SSgt Through CMSgt. ............................................. 32
2.10. Promoting Under Stripes for Exceptional Performers (STEP). .............................. 34
Table 2.1. Minimum Eligibility Requirements for Promotion (See Note 1). .......................... 35
Table 2.2. Calculating Points and Factors for Promotion to SSgt and TSgt. ........................... 38
Table 2.3. PAFSC Skill Level Waivers to Compete for Promotion (See Note 1). .................. 40
Table 2.4. SKT Exemptions (See Note 1 and Paragraph 2.6.1.5.) ........................................... 41
Table 2.5. Authorized Reasons to Request Senior NCO Supplemental Promotion Board
Consideration (See Note 1) ...................................................................................... 42
Table 2.6. SrA Below the Zone Processing Months and Board Dates .................................... 43
Table 2.7. Calculating Weighted Points and Promotion Factors for Promotion to MSgt. ....... 44
4 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
Table 2.8. Calculating Weighted Points and Promotion Factors for Promotion to SMSgt
and CMSgt. .............................................................................................................. 45
Chapter 3— *REGULAR AIR FORCE SENIOR NONCOMMISSIONED OFFICER
EVALUATION /SUPPLEMENTAL BOARD PROCEDURES 48
3.1. General. ................................................................................................................... 48
3.2. Responsibilities. ...................................................................................................... 48
3.3. Board Membership. ................................................................................................ 48
3.4. Board Organization ................................................................................................. 48
3.5. Board Member Preparation. .................................................................................... 48
3.6. Scoring Records. ..................................................................................................... 48
Figure 3.1. Scoring Scale. Boards will use the following scale ................................................ 49
3.7. Defining "Splits". .................................................................................................... 49
3.8. Resolving "Splits". .................................................................................................. 49
3.9. New Documents. ..................................................................................................... 49
3.10. Not Fully Qualified (NFQ) for Promotion. ............................................................. 49
3.11. BP Quality Review. ................................................................................................ 50
3.12. Board Report ........................................................................................................... 50
3.13. Outbrief Board Members. ....................................................................................... 51
3.14. Board Anomalies. ................................................................................................... 51
3.15. Supplemental Boards. ............................................................................................. 51
Figure 3.2. SNCO Supplemental Decision Tree ....................................................................... 52
3.16. Disclosure of Board Proceedings. ........................................................................... 52
3.17. Summary. ................................................................................................................ 52
Chapter 4— *REGULAR AIR FORCE AIRMAN PROMOTION ACTIONS 54
4.1. Officer Training Candidates. .................................................................................. 54
4.2. Nonrecommending, Deferring, and Withholding Promotions. ............................... 55
4.3. Promotion Reinstatement. ....................................................................................... 57
4.4. Applying for Correction of Records. ...................................................................... 58
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 5
Chapter 5— THE USAF BAND ENLISTED PROMOTION AND PROPRIETY REVIEW
PROCESS 59
5.1. Premier Band. ......................................................................................................... 59
5.2. Background. ............................................................................................................ 59
5.3. Promotion Authority. .............................................................................................. 59
5.4. Promotion Objective. .............................................................................................. 59
5.5. The USAF Band Promotion Cycle. ........................................................................ 59
5.6. Promotion Quotas. .................................................................................................. 59
5.7. Eligibility Requirements. ........................................................................................ 60
5.8. Deferring, Withholding and NonRecommending Promotions................................ 60
5.9. Data Collection and Verification. ........................................................................... 60
5.10. The Promotion Board .............................................................................................. 60
5.11. Determining Selects, Promotion Sequence Numbers and Establishing Dates of
Rank. ........................................................................................................................ 60
5.12. Selection List. ......................................................................................................... 61
5.13. Supplemental Promotions. ...................................................................................... 61
5.14. Promotion Propriety Review................................................................................... 61
Table 5.1. Minimum Eligibility Requirements for The USAF Band Promotion ..................... 63
Table 5.2. Determining Ineligibility for PFE/USAFSE Testing .............................................. 63
Chapter 6— ADMINISTRATIVE DEMOTION OF ACTIVE DUTY AIRMEN 64
6.1. Demotions. .............................................................................................................. 64
6.2. Who Can Demote. ................................................................................................... 64
6.3. Reasons to Demote. ................................................................................................ 65
6.4. How to Process a Demotion. ................................................................................... 66
6.5. How to Process an Appeal. ..................................................................................... 67
6.6. How to Apply for Retirement. ................................................................................ 67
6.7. Grades to Demote Airmen. ..................................................................................... 68
6.8. How to Determine the DOR. .................................................................................. 68
6.9. When to Announce and Revoke Demotions. .......................................................... 68
6 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
6.10. How to Publish Demotion Orders. .......................................................................... 69
6.11. The Demotion Authority: ........................................................................................ 69
6.12. Documenting Demotion Actions. ........................................................................... 69
6.13. Dual Status Airmen. ................................................................................................ 70
Chapter 7— TOTAL FORCE SPECIAL PROMOTION PROGRAMS 71
7.1. Promoting RegAF Airmen in Missing Status ......................................................... 71
7.2. Promoting RegAF Medal of Honor Recipients....................................................... 71
7.3. Promoting RegAF Prior-Service Airmen and Former Officers .............................. 71
7.4. Promoting RegAF Airmen During Declared National Emergency or War ............ 71
7.5. RegAF Wounded Warrior (AFW2) Program.......................................................... 72
7.6. RegAF, USAF Reserve and Air National Guard Posthumous Promotions. ........... 73
7.7. USAF Reserve and Air National Guard Missing in Action (MIA) Promotion
during War or National Emergencies. ..................................................................... 74
7.8. Promoting USAF Reserve and Air National Guard Medal of Honor Recipients. .. 75
7.9. USAF Reserve and Air National Guard Wounded Warrior (AFW2) Program ...... 75
Chapter 8— *USAF RESERVE AIRMEN PROGRAM ELEMENTS (ONLY APPLIES TO
AFR NOT EAD) 76
8.1. Program Objectives. ................................................................................................ 76
8.2. Responsibilities. ...................................................................................................... 76
8.3. Eligibility Requirements. ........................................................................................ 76
8.4. Ineligibility for Promotion. ..................................................................................... 76
8.5. Unit Vacancy Promotion......................................................................................... 77
8.6. Air Force Reserve Stripes for Exceptional Performers I (STEP I). ........................ 77
8.7. Processing Vacancy and STEP I Promotions. ........................................................ 78
8.8. Title 10, U.S.C. Section 12310, Active Guard and Reserve (AGRs). .................... 80
8.9. Air Force Reserve Stripes for Exceptional Performers II (STEP II). ..................... 81
8.10. Airmen mobilized under Title 10, U. ...................................................................... 82
8.11. Reserve Service Commitment................................................................................. 82
8.12. Publishing Promotion Orders. ................................................................................. 82
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 7
8.13. Missing Data. .......................................................................................................... 83
8.14. Revoking Promotions. ............................................................................................ 83
Table 8.1. USAFR Promotion Authorities. .............................................................................. 83
Table 8.2. Promotion Eligibility (Notes 1, 2, 3, 10). ............................................................... 84
Chapter 9— *USAF RESERVE AIRMEN DEMOTIONS (ONLY APPLIES TO AFR NOT
EAD) 88
9.1. Demotion. ............................................................................................................... 88
9.2. Demotion Authority. ............................................................................................... 88
9.3. Reasons for Voluntary Demotion. .......................................................................... 89
9.4. Reasons for Involuntary Demotion. ........................................................................ 89
9.5. Who Notifies the Airman of Demotion Action. ...................................................... 91
9.6. Processing Demotions. ............................................................................................ 91
9.7. How to Appeal ........................................................................................................ 92
9.8. How to Apply for Retirement. ................................................................................ 93
9.9. Determining Date of Rank (DOR). ......................................................................... 93
9.10. Grades to Demote Airmen. ..................................................................................... 94
9.11. Announcing and Revoking Demotions. .................................................................. 94
9.12. Documenting Demotion Actions. ........................................................................... 94
Chapter 10— AIR NATIONAL GUARD (ANG) PROMOTION PROGRAM 95
10.1. General Promotion Information and Eligibility Criteria ......................................... 95
Table 10.1. Eligibility Criteria for ANG Enlisted Promotions. ................................................. 99
10.2. ANG Promotion Ineligibility Factors. .................................................................... 101
Table 10.2. ANG Promotion Ineligibility Factors. .................................................................... 101
10.3. ANG Position Vacancy ........................................................................................... 103
10.4. Mandatory Promotion Requirements for promotion to Amn, A1C and SrA while
attending a lengthy Technical Training School (TTS). ............................................ 104
10.5. ANG Stripes for Exceptional Performers Promotions Program (TSgt – MSgt) ..... 104
10.6. Process. ................................................................................................................... 105
Table 10.3. Supplemental Mandatory Requirements for ANG STEP I Promotions .................. 105
8 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
10.7. Officer Training Promotion Program (OTPP). ....................................................... 106
10.8. Retraining Promotion Program (RPP). ................................................................... 106
10.9. RPP Due to Unit Conversion. ................................................................................. 107
10.10. ANG Stripes for Exceptional Performers Promotion Program (SMSgt - CMSgt)
[STEP II]. ................................................................................................................. 108
Figure 10.1. ANG STEP II Authorizations Based on Allocations .............................................. 108
10.11. Process: ................................................................................................................... 109
10.12. Administrative Procedures. ..................................................................................... 110
10.13. Orders...................................................................................................................... 110
Figure 10.2. Promotion Order Examples..................................................................................... 110
10.14. Ceremonies ............................................................................................................. 111
10.15. Revocation .............................................................................................................. 111
Figure 10.3. Revocation Orders. The revocation order will be composed as follows ................. 111
Chapter 11— AIR NATIONAL GUARD ENLISTED DEMOTIONS 112
11.1. General. ................................................................................................................... 112
Table 11.1. Commander’s Action Upon Receipt of Airman’s Reply ........................................ 117
Table 11.2. Grades to Which Airmen May be Demoted............................................................ 118
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 9
Attachment 1— GLOSSARY OF REFERENCES AND SUPPORTING INFORMATION 120
Attachment 2— STATEMENT OF UNDERSTANDING – PREMIER BAND 126
Attachment 3— ENLISTED PME ATTENDANCE WAIVER FOR PROMOTION 127
Attachment 4— ANG – INSTRUCTIONS FOR COMPUTING PROMOTIONS TO TSGT
THROUGH CMSGT 128
Attachment 5— ANG - STATEMENT OF UNDERSTANDING--RETRAINING
PROMOTION PROGRAM 129
Attachment 6— ANG – STRIPES FOR EXCEPTIONAL PERFORMERS (SMSGT –
CMSGT) [STEP II] 130
Attachment 7— ANG – SAMPLE BIOGRAPHY 131
Attachment 8— ANG - STATEMENT OF UNDERSTANDING – STRIPES FOR
EXPCEPTION PERFORMERS (STEP II) 132
Attachment 9— ANG – PROMOTION CHECKLIST--LENGTHY TECHNICAL
TRAINING SCHOOL 133
Attachment 10— ANG – NOTIFICATION AND DATE OF RANK ADJUSTMENT
REQUIREMENTS 135
Attachment 11— ANG – NOTIFICATION MEMORANDUM – DEMOTION ACTION
WITHOUT PREJUDICE 136
Attachment 12— ANG – NOTIFICATION MEMORANDUM – DEMOTION ACTION
WITH PREJUDICE 137
Attachment 13— AFR – NOTIFICATION MEMORANDUM -- DEMOTION ACTION
WITHOUT PREJUDICE 138
Attachment 14— AFR - NOTIFICATION MEMORANDUM -- DEMOTION ACTION
WITH PREJUDICE 139
10 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
Chapter 1
ACTIVE DUTY AIRMAN PROMOTION PROGRAM ELEMENTS
1.1. Roles and Responsibilities.
1.1.1. US Air Force Deputy Chief of Staff for Manpower, Personnel, and Services
(AF/A1).
1.1.1.1. Develops personnel policy and guidelines for implementation/administration of
enlisted promotions/demotions.
1.1.2. Gives direction to Air Force Personnel Center Commander (AFPC/CC) for
implementation of enlisted promotion policy.
1.2. Air Force Personnel Center (AFPC). Enlisted Promotion Branch (DPSOE) provides
guidance to major commands (MAJCOM), field operating agencies (FOA), direct reporting units
(DRU), and military personnel sections (MPS). Promotion selections are accomplished by using
the Weighted Airman Promotion System (WAPS) promotion file computer system for grades
SSgt through CMSgt. (T-0)
1.3. MAJCOMs, FOAs, and DRUs . MAJCOMs, FOAs, and DRUs may establish a quality
control program to support the enlisted promotion system. (T-0)
1.4. Military Personnel Section(MPS) .
1.4.1. Ensures all Airmen meet eligibility requirements and commander recommends
promotion in writing. (T-3)
1.4.2. Updates and monitors promotion data in the Military Personnel Data System
(MilPDS). (T-3)
1.4.3. Ensures individuals receive promotion products, and assists with eligibility
requirements and commander recommendations. (T-3)
1.5. Promotion Authority.
1.5.1. The unit commander or civilian serving as unit director, in accordance with AFI 51-
604, Appointment to and Assumption of Command, promotes to grades Amn through MSgt.
Civilians in the grades of GS-09 or above, CMSgt, and SMSgt have promotion authority
when serving as detachment chiefs or as academy commandants. Deployed commanders do
not exercise promotion authority.
1.5.2. The MAJCOM, FOA, or DRU commander promotes to grades SMSgt and CMSgt.
This authority may be delegated to the vice commander, staff director, Deputy Chief of Staff
for Manpower, Personnel and Services, Numbered Air Force (NAF), or equivalent level
commander, but may not be further delegated. For unified commands, authority may be
delegated to the Air Force Element commander.
1.5.3. The Chief of Staff, CSAF, can promote any enlisted member to the next higher grade.
1.6. Announcement of Promotion Dates and Quotas. AFPC/DPSOE announces promotion
dates for SSgt through CMSgt. HQ USAF distributes promotion quotas based on fiscal and
statutory constraints, and projected vacancies in those grades. (T-0)
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 11
1.7. Establishing Dates of Rank (DOR) and Promotion Sequence Numbers (PSN).
1.7.1. AFI 36-2604, Service Dates and Dates of Rank, establishes DOR for Airmen entering
active duty. Subsequent promotions determine future DOR unless other actions take
precedence.
1.7.2. AFPC/DPSOE assigns a PSN to Airmen selected for promotion to SSgt through
CMSgt based on DOR, Total Active Federal Military Service Date (TAFMSD) and date of
birth (DOB). Supplemental selects are assigned PSNs of .9 (on increments previously
announced) or .5 (unannounced future increment). (T-0)
1.8. Determining Promotion Ineligibility. When individuals are rendered ineligible for
promotion, they cannot test, cannot be considered if already tested, and projected promotion will
be canceled. This includes selections under WAPS and fully qualified Amn - SrA. See Table
1.1 for ineligibility reasons.
1.9. Accepting Promotion . Airmen who accept a promotion are eligible for reassignment and
selective retraining in the projected grade.
1.9.1. Selects to the grade of MSgt and SMSgt with more than 18 years total active federal
military service (TAFMS) by effective date of promotion will sign an AF Form 63, Active
Duty Service Commitment (ADSC) Acknowledgement Statement or Statement of
Understanding within 10 duty days after selections are confirmed. In addition, all CMSgt
selects, regardless of TAFMS, will sign an AF Form 63 or Statement of Understanding
within 10 duty days after selections are confirmed. (NOTE: This does not apply to
individuals eligible to retire in a commissioned or warrant officer status.)
1.9.1.1. The form will acknowledge that MSgt and SMSgt selects must obtain 2 years
service retainability and incur a 2-year ADSC from the effective date of promotion to
qualify for non-disability retirement. CMSgt selects must acknowledge and obtain 3 years
service retainability and incur a 3-year ADSC from the effective date of promotion to
qualify for non-disability retirement.
1.9.1.2. Failure to withdraw an existing retirement application (approved or pending)
within 10 duty days from presentation of the AF Form 63 or Statement of Understanding
will result in removal from the selection list.
1.9.1.3. Email or fax the AF Form 63 or Statement of Understanding back to
AFPC/DPT.
1.9.2. AFPC/DPT:
1.9.2.1. Provides a list of members to AFPC/DPSOE to cancel the promotion of a
selectee who fails to withdraw any existing retirement application within 10 duty days
after confirmation of the promotion selection and to withhold the promotion of a selectee
who refuses to sign or does not acknowledge receipt of the AF Form 63 or Statement of
Understanding. (T-0)
1.9.2.2. Forwards AF Form 63 or Statement of Understanding to Automated Records
Management Systems (ARMS) for inclusion in Airman’s electronic record. (T-0)
12 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
1.10. Promotion Ceremonies . Commanders may conduct promotion ceremonies on the last
duty day before the promotion effective date, and inform the Airman that a ceremony does not
affect pay, seniority, or entitlements.
1.11. Declining Promotion . Airmen may decline a promotion in writing any time prior to the
effective date (for example, applying for a voluntary retirement). The declination letter must
include name, SSN, promotion cycle, PSN if already selected, and a statement of understanding
that reinstatement will not be authorized.
1.11.1. The MPS updates MilPDS (Grade Status Reason 3D) and sends a copy of the
declination letter to ARMS for inclusion in the Airman's electronic record (see Table 1.1,
Rule 14).
1.12. Enlisted Professional Military Education (EPME) Requirements. Airmen selected for
promotion to SSgt must complete in-residence EPME (ALS) before assuming the rank of SSgt.
Airmen must successfully complete Phase 2 distance learning prior to the AFPC suspense date
for promotion to the rank of TSgt. Airmen pending promotion consideration to the rank of
SMSgt must complete Phase 3 SNCOA or equivalent/sister service/international EPME
(correspondence or in-residence) on or before the Promotion Eligibility Cut-off Date (PECD).
PME deferments may be processed for Airmen in situations described in Table 1.2, Note 4.
(T-3). In the case that an Airman has a promotion sequence number and has not completed their
required distance learning, he or she will be placed into a promotion withhold status. The
withhold status will be removed upon course completion or it will expire at the end of the
promotion cycle where the line number will be cancelled.
1.13. Community College of the Air Force (CCAF) Requirements. Airmen eligible for
promotion to SMSgt and CMSgt must have a conferred two year CCAF degree on or before
PECD. CCAF degree may be in any discipline.
1.14. Correcting Enlistment Grades. The Skills Management Branch (AFPC/DPSOA),
approves enlistment grade corrections and AFPC/DPSOE updates MilPDS accordingly.
1.15. Correcting Promotion Effective Dates and Dates of Rank . AFPC/DPSOE corrects
promotion effective dates as a result of promotion withhold actions and supplemental promotion
selections through the Case Management System (CMS). Airmen may be authorized to
promotion effective date corrections for the following reasons: supplemental promotion
selection, PME withhold, EPME waivers, retainability withhold, investigation (military/civilian)
withhold, and Primary Air Force Specialty Code (AFSC) Skill Level waivers. Retroactive
effective date corrections are not authorized: ALS academic failure, failed to complete ALS due
to disciplinary reasons, commander non-recommended retroactive promotion due to fitness
failure. AFPC/DPSOE will decide all other retroactive effective date correction requests.
1.15.1. MPS releases (cancels) promotion withholds IAW most current Enlisted Promotion
Personnel Services Delivery (PSD) Guide. (T-3)
1.15.2. MPS submits CMS requests on retainability withhold, investigation
(military/civilian) withhold, Primary AFSC Skill Level waivers, and Fitness Program
withholds. MPS must include name, SSN, cycle and grade promoted to, new Date of Rank
(DOR), effective date and promotion sequence number, date commander approved
promotion, and reason for promotion withholding. (T-3)
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 13
1.15.3. AFPC/DPSOE will ensure all supplemental promotion selection, PME withhold, and
EPME waivers are processed approximately 45 days after promotion. (T-3).
Table 1.1. Determining Ineligibility For Promotion (see Note 1).
If on or after the promotion eligibility cutoff date,
and the Airman is
A
serving in grade of TSgt through SMSgt
Yes
B
serving in grade SrA through SSgt
Yes
C
to be promoted to grade Amn through SrA
Yes
D
to be promoted to grade SSgt and TSgt under STEP
Yes
then the Airman is ineligible for promotion during a particular cycle when he or she
(includes testing, consideration if already tested, cancellation of promotion
sequence number if previously selected)
1
has a mandatory date of separation (DOS), High Year of Tenure
(HYT), or an approved retirement before the first day of the
month promotions are incremented in that cycle (see notes 2, 3,
and 8).
X
X
2
has an approved retirement delayed for medical
or hardship/humanitarian reasons.
X
X
X
X
3
is a career Airman who applies for retirement in lieu of, or
declines to extend or reenlist to obtain service retainability for a
controlled duty assignment, permanent change of station (PCS),
TDY, or retraining; declines retraining as outlined in AFI 36-
2626, Airman Retraining Program; declines attendance to the
Senior NCO or NCO Academy. PES code C (see notes 2 and
4).
X
X
X
X
4
has been convicted by court-martial (CM), or is undergoing
punishment/suspended punishment imposed by CM, or on
appellate leave. Includes Return to Duty Program (RTDP) 12
month probationary period, completed punishment, and cases
where sentence does not include punishment. PES code F (see
notes 2, 4, and 5).
X
X
X
X
5
is on the control roster (AFI 36-2907, Unfavorable
Information File (UIF) Program). PES code G (see Note 2).
X
X
X
X
6
is serving a probationary period under AFI 36-3208,
Administrative Separation of Airmen. PES code K (see note 2).
X
X
X
X
7
declines promotion consideration/testing and has an AF Form
1566, WAPS Test Verification or written declination for
promotion consideration, on file to that effect. PES code M.
X
X
X
14 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
8
is not recommended for promotion consideration, or the
promotion authority removes the individual from a select list.
PES code N. (See paragraph 4.2.) NOTE: Non-recommend
Airmen in the grade of AB through A1C in monthly increments
from the original effective. Below-the-Zone (BTZ) selectees
removed from the selection list remain ineligible until they
meet the fully qualified promotion requirements. Non-
recommend SrA through SMSgt for pin-on or testing for one
promotion cycle at a time. (see Note 2)
X
X
X
X
9
fails to appear for scheduled testing (no-show) with or without
a valid reason as decided by FSS Commander (as appropriate—
see AFI 36-2605, Attachment 9 for dispute resolution); the
MPS Section Chief disapproves out-of-cycle testing; or Airman
fails to comply with test administration procedures. PES code
P (see paragraph 2.6.3.4).
X
X
10
is absent without leave (AWOL)/in deserter status. PES code
U (see note 2).
X
X
X
X
11
(excluding minor traffic violations) has been convicted by a
civilian court or undergoing punishment, suspended
punishment/sentence, probation, work release program, or any
combination of these or similar court-ordered conditions.
Include period of time the Airman is on probation after serving
part of a sentence or has had the sentence withheld for a period
of time.
The ineligibility period will equal the maximum confinement
for the same or most closely related offense under the manual
for CM. PES code W (see note 2). (NOTE: The promotion
ineligibility or any portion of the ineligible period may be
waived. The promotion ineligibility for Airmen convicted and
sentenced to confinement cannot be waived. The waiver
authority rests with wing or equivalent level commander.)
X
X
X
X
12
applies for voluntary retirement after promotion selection
notification, and as a result of approved retirement, does not
have sufficient retainability to meet the required ADSC.
Update grade- status-reason to 3G. No change in PES code.
X
X
13
has an approved application for separation as a conscientious
objector, or is being involuntarily separated under AFI 36-
3208, Administrative Separation of Airmen. PES code V
(see note 2).
X
X
X
X
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 15
14
is on the select list and declines promotion, or is a MSgt,
SMSgt, or CMSgt select and fails to acquire service
retainability for promotion. Update Grade Status Reason to
3D. No change in PES code.
X
X
X
15
is denied or not selected for reenlistment by commander.
PES code J (see notes 2 and 5).
X
X
X
X
16
is pending administrative demotion action under Chapter 5.
PES code H (see note 2).
X
X
X
X
17
is disqualified from a previously awarded AFSC for cause
(RI9A200 or RI9A100). PES code Q. (NOTE: Individuals
placed in RI9A200 [unclassified Airmen pending discharge]
and RI9A100 [Airmen awaiting retraining, disqualified for
reasons within control] remain ineligible for promotion until
awarded a PAFSC at a skill level commensurate with current
grade. A1C = 3 level, SrA = 5 level, SSgt = 7 level, TSgt = 7
level, MSgt = 7 level, SMSgt = 9 level. PES code Q does not
apply to Airmen serving in grades AB and Amn) (see note 7).
X
X
X
X
18
is disqualified from a previously awarded AFSC not for cause
and is awaiting discharge (RI9A300) (see note 9).
X
X
X
X
19
is undergoing a suspended reduction imposed by Uniform Code
of Military Justice (UCMJ) Article 15, PES code A (see notes 2
and 5).
X
X
X
X
20
is not recommended for entry into upgrade training; or is
withdrawn from upgrade training for failing to progress to the
next higher level (training status code “T”). PES code 1 (see
note 2).
X
X
X
X
21
has a referral report (as defined by AFI 36-2406, Officer
and Enlisted Evaluation Systems), GSR 3C and PES code
R (see notes 2 and 6).
X
X
X
X
22
fails to enroll, complete, or pass Phase 2 and/or Phase 3
(Basic) EPME DL within one year of enrollment. PES
code 2 until Phase 2 or Phase 3 requirement is met. (see
note 10).
X
X
X
23
due to a failed or non-current fitness assessment as of the
promotion eligibility cutoff date (PECD). PES code 3, GSR
3C (see note 11).
X
X
X
X
16 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
NOTES:
1. For ineligibility of Airmen entering commissioning programs, see paragraph 4.1.
2. Airmen will not receive supplemental promotion consideration for any cycle for which they
were ineligible under this rule. PES code “R” will automatically expire one-day prior to
PECD/SCOD (if no other PES code applies). Airmen exceeding Time-in-Grade (TIG)/Time-
in-Service (TIS) requirements for promotion to Amn through SrA may be promoted the day
the ineligibility condition no longer exists. Reference paragraph 4.2.2.3.
3. TSgt, MSgt, and SMSgt with a retirement date effective the 1st day of the month
promotion increments begin remain eligible for promotion consideration.
4. Promotion reinstatement is not authorized and MPS changes PES to code “X” (if no other
PES code applies). For approved withdrawal of PCS declination statement (PES code “C”),
effective date is the day AFPC approves withdrawal of PCS declination statement. For
Airmen in grades SrA through SMSgt with a court martial conviction, PES code “F” expires
12 months from date sentence is adjudged or longest period of punishment, whichever is later.
Airmen in grades A1C and below with a court martial conviction, PES code “F” will apply
only if punishment is imposed and will expire upon completion of the longest period of
punishment. Airmen convicted by court martial receiving a discharge as punishment who are
approved for the Return to Duty Program (RTDP) will undergo suspended court martial
punishment (PES code “F”) while serving a 12- month probationary period beginning the
completion date of the RTDP. While undergoing suspended court martial punishment,
Airmen are ineligible for promotion.
5. In cases where reenlistment denial appeals are successfully approved, or cases where court-
martial/Article 15 punishment is set aside (includes suspended reduction), the PES code will
revert to the original PES code unless another applies. The MPS notifies AFPC/DPSOE via
email in cases where reinstatement applies.
6. Airmen in grades AB through A1C meeting TIG/TIS promotion requirements in paragraphs
2.1. and 2.2 can be promoted no earlier than the close out date of an EPR that is not a referral,
if otherwise eligible and approved by the commander. Airmen in grades SrA through SMSgt
regain promotion eligibility for future promotion cycles only after receiving a report that is not
a referral report and closes out on or before the next PECD/SCOD, if otherwise eligible.
Reinstatement is not authorized.
7. Commanders may request waiver of PES code “Q” for TSgts meeting all requirements
for upgrade to the 7-skill level, but are awaiting attendance to 7-level school. MPS
forwards approved waiver requests to AFPC/DPSOE. (T-3).
8. Members who have an approved HYT extension are eligible for promotion, however,
member must be able to obtain the necessary retainability associated with the promotion; if
member is unable to obtain retainability then he/she is ineligible during the promotion cycle.
Promotion eligibility reinstatement is not authorized for an Airman whose approved
retirement date is withdrawn or changed (this includes HYT extensions).
9. Reinstatement of promotion eligibility is authorized if the decision to discharge is
reversed and R I9 A 3 0 0 is removed.
10. One year of enrollment begins when officially notified to enroll in DL.
11. Commanders will withhold an individual’s projected promotion following a failed or
non- current fitness assessment after the promotion eligibility cutoff date (PECD), or after
having been seselected for promotion (line number) IAW Table 1.2, item 3.
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 17
Table 1.2. Withholding Promotion (see paragraph 4).
ITEM
Withhold an Airman's
promotion when his or her name
is not removed from a select or
eligibility list and the Airman is
1
awaiting a decision on an
application as a conscientious
objector (AFI 36-3204,
Procedures for Applying as a
Conscientious Objector). PES
code S.
2
placed in the Alcohol and Drug
Abuse Prevention and Treatment
(ADAPT) Program. PES code E.
(see notes 1 & 2).
3
Commanders will withhold an
individual’s projected promotion
following a failed a fitness
assessment after the promotion
eligibility cutoff date (PECD), or
after having been selected for
promotion (line number)
4
under military/civil court charges. PES
code D. (see note 3).
5
under investigation (military/civil.) PES
code B (see note 3).
6
pending data verification and the
record is not available. Grade Status
Reason code 2D, 2M or 2P.
7
missing source document and the
AFPC cannot verify one or more
promotion factors. GSR code 2P.
18 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
8
under other reasons the commander
requests with prior approval from
the individual's wing commander.
(Do not use reasons of substandard
behavior or performance, problems
with OJT, misbehavior, etc.) GSR
code 2N.
9
selected for promotion to
MSgt/SMSgt and identified as having
18 or more years TAFMS on the
promotion effective date and does not
have 2 years retainability the day
before the promotion effective date;
selected for promotion to CMSgt
(regardless of TAFMS) and does not
have 3 years retainability before the
promotion effective date.
GSR code 2K.
10
serving in the grade of SrA, selected for
promotion to SSgt, and has not completed
resident Airman Leadership School;
serving in the grade of SSgt/ TSgt, the
projected promotion will be placed into
withhold, if the 12-month EPMPE
enrollment expires before the promotion
sequence number (PSN) consummates.
The PSN will be removed if EPMPE is not
completed by the end of the promotion
cycle (see note 4). GSR code 2T.
11
serving in the grade of SrA through
SMSgt and does not meet skill level
requirements as listed in Table 2.1. by
the effective date of promotion. GSR
2N.
Notes:1. Commanders will withhold a projected promotion of an individual in the ADAPT
Program (PES Code “E”). The Commander has the discretion to release the withhold action
at any time and either recommend or non-recommend the Airman for promotion.
2. Commanders should consider recommendations from the Treatment Team (TT).
The promotion authority retains final decision.
3. A commander will withhold an Airman's promotion if he or she is under investigation,
or the subject of a military or civil criminal law inquiry (formal or informal) which may
result in action under UCMJ or prosecution by civil authorities. The commander may
continue to withhold the promotion when the investigation or inquiry is complete but no
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 19
determination has been made as to the action the military or civil authorities will take. (T-
1).
4. For Airman Leadership School, wing commander or equivalent (Equivalent level
Commander is defined as the first Senior Rater in the rating chain) is the approval and
disapproval authority for EPME waivers (cannot be further delegated). They may defer
EPME requirements for a maximum of 179-days for Airmen who lack EPME completion
for promotion to SSgt. This waiver process does not waive any other withhold conditions.
Process these requests through the chain of command (squadron commander, group
commander, and wing commander) to AFPC/DPSOE who acts as the final approval
authority. The only exception for waivers beyond 179 days is for Airmen on
TDYs/deployments that exceed 179 days, on short tour locations with no EPME available,
and Airmen who cannot Senior Rater in the rating chain) is the approval and disapproval
authority for EPME waivers (cannot be further delegated). They may defer EPME
requirements for a maximum of 179-days for Airmen who lack EPME completion for
promotion to SSgt. This waiver process does not waive any other withhold conditions.
Process these requests through the chain of command (squadron commander, group
commander, and wing commander) to AFPC/DPSOE who acts as the final approval
authority. The only exception for waivers beyond 179 days is for Airmen on
TDYs/deployments that exceed 179 days, on short tour locations with no EPME available,
and Airmen who cannot complete required EPME before promotion due to circumstances
beyond their control (i.e., retraining, medical issues, personal hardship, EFMP, etc).
Commanders use Attachment 3 to request a promotion waiver for deserving Airmen who
meet these scenarios. Route these requests through AFPC/DPSOE. If approved,
AFPC/DPSOE will update MilPDS and, if required, will grant a retroactive effective date
IAW paragraph 1.15. Commanders may only approve one EPME waiver per Airman;
approval authority for subsequent EPME waiver requests are at the discretion of AF/A1D.
(T-3).
5. Commanders will withhold an individual’s projected promotion following a failed a
fitness assessment after the promotion eligibility cutoff date (PECD), or after having been
selected for promotion (line number). Commanders consult AFI 36-2905 for administrative
options for Airmen who fail to maintain fitness standards throughout the year. Update PES
Code “N” when the commander non-recommends promotion; update PES Code “Y” when
the commander withholds promotion. Reference paragraph 4.2 of this AFI when deferring
promotions to the grades of SSgt through CMSgt.
Table 1.3. Significant Dates of Promotion
A
B
C
D
R
U
L
E
If the promotion
is to the grade of
the cycle
designation is
the PECD is
the promotion date
is
1
Amn
the day of the month
on which TIG and
PES requirements
2
A1C
3
SrA
20 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
are met (see
paragraph 2.1. or
2.2.).
4
SSgt
E5
31 Mar
1 Sep thru 1 Aug
(see note 1).
5
TSgt
E6
31 Jan
1 Aug thru 1 Jul
(see note 1).
6
MSgt
E7
30 Nov
1 Aug thru 1 Jul
(see note 1).
7
SMSgt
E8
30 Sep
1 Apr thru 1 Mar
(see note 1).
8
CMSgt
E9
31 Jul
1 Jan thru 1 Dec
(see note 1).
NOTES:
1. These dates reflect the normal promotion cycle increment months; however, due to
budget constraints or other unforeseen actions, these dates may be extended. Anyone
promoted beyond the normal cycle will be allowed to assume the higher grade effective
the date his/her PSN is incremented. The Airman’s DOR will equal the first day of the last
month of the normal promotion cycle. Those Airmen promoted beyond a normal cycle are
not entitled to apply for correction of military records under the provisions of AFI 36-
2604, Service Dates and Dates of Rank, to have their effective date retroactively adjusted
to their DOR.
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 21
Chapter 2
REGULAR AIR FORCE AIRMAN PROMOTIONS TO GRADES AMN THROUGH
CMSGT
2.1. Airman and A1C Promotions (see Table 1. 3)
2.1.1. An AB is eligible for promotion to Amn at 6 months TIG. An Amn is eligible for
promotion to A1C at 10 months TIG.
2.1.2. Individuals initially enlisting for a period of 6 years are promoted from AB or Amn to
A1C upon completion of either technical training or 20 weeks of technical training (start date
of the 20 week period is the date of Basic Military Training (BMT) completion), whichever
occurs first. The DOR for A1C is then adjusted to the date completed BMT without back pay
and allowances.
2.1.3. The promotion authority must recommend the promotion in writing before the Airman
assumes the grade.
2.2. SrA Promotions (see Table 1.3):
2.2.1. Airmen (fully qualified) are promoted to SrA upon meeting minimum requirements in
Table 2.1, when recommended by the promotion authority in writing, and have completed 36
months TIS and 20 months TIG or 28 months TIG (whichever occurs first).
2.2.1.1. In situations where an RegAF Airman is unable to obtain their 3-skill level
before the projected promotion date and training delay was due to no fault of the Airman,
the Unit Commander must ensure retroactive promotion is requested through the MPS
upon the Airmen obtaining their 3-skill level. (T-3).
2.3. SrA Below-The-Zone (BTZ) Promotion Program:
2.3.1. SrA BTZ is a one-time promotion consideration to advance to SrA 6 months prior to
the fully qualified phase point listed in paragraph 2.2.1 above. Host wing commander (or
senior Air Force officer serving in that capacity) establishes written administrative
procedures for small units serviced by their installation, and may do so for large units if
desired. Procedures must ensure all eligible Airmen receive fair, equitable, and timely BTZ
consideration. Airmen must meet skill level requirements in Table 2.1.
2.3.1.1. Commander must review EPRs, Personal Information Files (PIF) (if available),
and discuss nominations with the member’s supervisors/rating chain prior to making a
nomination decision, regardless if the Airman is meeting a large unit or a small
unit/Central Base Board (CBB).
2.3.1.2. AF Form 1206, Nomination for Award, is required for all A1Cs being nominated
to the CBB for BTZ consideration. Note: DBH reports are no longer required or
authorized.
2.3.2. Airmen are identified during the processing month and SrA BTZ promotion selections
are made during the months indicated in Table 2.6.
2.3.3. Airmen must be “considered” by the losing unit if their report not later than date
(RNLTD) is the 1st day of the first processing month or later.
22 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
2.3.4. Personnel Systems Management Section (PSM) provides an automatic quarterly end
of month (EOM) output product to the Career Enhancement Element within the first 10 days
of the first processing month (i.e. Jan, Apr, Jul, Oct). The roster identifies all A1Cs who meet
or exceed the TIS and TIG requirements, regardless of promotion ineligibility conditions (i.e.
on the control roster, PAFSC skill level too low, undergoing Article 15 suspended reduction,
etc.), and whose grade status reason (GSR) does not equal code ―5Q (previously considered
for SrA BTZ). This output product automatically updates the GSR to ―5Q to prevent them
from appearing on future SrA BTZ listings. Remove names of those exceeding TIG/TIS
requirements. (NOTE: A1Cs with GSR “YY” or “ZZ” may not show on roster.) The
output product produces an MPS alphabetical listing and a three-part unit listing:
2.3.4.1. Part I: Identifies A1Cs with no quality indicators in their record.
2.3.4.2. Part II: Lists “questionable eligibles” (individuals with quality indicators) who
may not be qualified for BTZ promotion.
2.3.4.3. Part III: Lists A1Cs who meet the TIG and TIS requirements, but cannot be
selected due to promotion ineligibility conditions listed in Table 1.1.
2.3.4.4. Using the Military Personnel Section (MPS) listing, verify the eligibility of each
individual to ensure they meet the TIG and TIS requirements for the current quarter.
Only verify the TIG and TIS requirements and do not consider normal promotion
ineligibility conditions. This will ensure only those meeting the TIG and TIS
requirements are considered and possibly prevent someone from being considered more
than once for SrA BTZ promotion. Remove any names of those who do not meet the
current quarter TIG and TIS requirements and ensure the GSR 5Q is corrected to allow
the member to show up on a future roster. Remove any names of those exceeding TIG
and TIS requirements and determine if the member was considered during a previous
quarter’s board. If the member was serviced by the current MPS, review the previous
quarterly rosters. If not, contact the previous MPS to verify if they were considered at
that location. For individuals not considered during the quarter in which they met TIG
and TIS eligibility and are recommended by the commander, request supplemental BTZ
consideration.
2.3.4.4.1. Host wings with enough eligible students (7 or more) to earn a quota (CBB
or large unit) may request an exception to policy to hold a “student only” BTZ board.
Requests are forwarded through the MPS, Career Development Section, and MPS/CC
for approval. Technical Training locations apply. If request is not approved or there
are less than 7 eligible technical training students they will be considered at the
central base board since they contribute to the quota authorization.
2.3.4.4.2. All ROTC/USAFA eliminees who were given credit toward their DOR
(DOR is prior to the Effective Date) are ineligible for BTZ consideration. They are
eligible for SrA after 1 year on entered active duty (EAD)and have obtained a 3-skill
level.
2.3.4.4.3. All ROTC/USAFA eliminees that were NOT given credit toward their
DOR (DOR and Effective Dates are the same) are eligible for BTZ consideration.
2.3.4.4.4. Verify BTZ eligibility of all A1C departing PCS and prepare a BTZ
selection folder for airmen departing prior to the 1st processing month for the BTZ
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 23
quarter they are TIG/TIS eligible and whose RNLTD is the 1st day of the first
processing month or later.
2.3.5. SrA BTZ quotas are based on the total TIG and TIS eligible population listed on Parts
I, II, and III of the quarterly BTZ roster. Large units (7 or more eligibles) are excluded from
the eligible population when calculating the CBB quotas. Distribute CBB quotas based on
15 percent of eligibles (eligibility for distribution of quotas is based on TIG and TIS only,
regardless of normal ineligibility conditions). Obtain host wing commander approval for
CBB quota. Host wing commander may delegate approval of quota distribution no lower
than the MPS Commander. Large unit (7 or more eligibles) quotas are based on 15 percent
of their unit’s eligible population.
2.3.5.1. Units cannot aggregate above the unit level. If a unit commander (not group) is
the commander having promotion authority for more than one organization, the eligibles
are combined at the unit level and the unit remains a small unit or becomes a large unit (7
or more eligibles).
2.3.5.2. In cases where there is a large unit (7 or more eligibles based on TIG and TIS
only) and there are not enough eligibles from all the small units to meet the 1-quota
requirement based on 15 percent of the eligible population, the large unit and small units
will combine to meet at the central base board. Do not deviate from established written
procedures for these boards.
2.3.5.3. In cases where there are no large units and there are only 2-6 eligibles from all
the small units, the base is authorized to hold a central base board and allowed 1-quota.
2.3.5.4. In cases where there are no large units and there is only 1 eligible out of the
entire base population eligibles, the MPS Promotions office will notify the MPS/CC to
determine if a board should be held. The MPS/CC may authorize 1-quota.
2.3.6. Large units (7 or more eligibles) receive their own quotas and promote at unit level.
Unless the host wing commander establishes written procedures, commanders of large units
will establish written selection procedures that ensure the SrA BTZ program is fair,
equitable, and provides timely promotion consideration. Once selections are made, large unit
commanders underline the selectee(s) name, sign, date, and return the BTZ eligibility listing
to the MPS no later than the last day of the selection month (i.e. 31 Mar, 30 Jun, 30 Sep, 31
Dec).
2.3.7. Small units (6 or less eligibles) are combined into one pool of eligibles to form the
CBB population. The host wing commander will establish written BTZ selection procedures
to include method of nominating, number of nominations, time table to complete required
actions, board composition, areas to be considered, scoring scale, announcing selections and
any other required actions necessary to ensure the SrA BTZ program is fair, equitable, and
provides timely promotion consideration. The MPS, Career Development Section, will
ensure they have received all nomination packages from units with eligibles; if a unit is not
going to nominate, ensure negative reply is received.
2.4. Central Base Board (CBB) Process.
2.4.1. Units will consider all individuals meeting TIS and TIG requirements, even if they are
TDY, on leave, have PCA'd, or have a report not later than date (RNLTD) on or after the first
24 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
day of the first processing month (i.e., Jan, Apr, Jul, and Oct) for that quarter selections. All
individuals appearing on the eligibility listing must be “considered”; as stated earlier, this
means that the commander must review any EPR(s) the Airman may have, PIF, discuss the
consideration with the supervisor and chain of command, etc., before making a BTZ
recommendation. The MPS will verify BTZ eligibility of A1Cs departing PCS (determine
the quarter the individual is BTZ eligible) and ensure a BTZ selection folder is prepared prior
to PCS departure. MPS Career Development Section must coordinate on the AF Form 907,
Relocation Preparation Checklist, for all A1Cs departing PCS. When a selection folder is
not prepared prior to an individual’s PCS departure, the gaining MPS must make every effort
to obtain a copy of the individual’s AF Form 1206 and decoration citations by contacting the
losing MPS.
2.4.1.1. Adjustments will not be made to the gaining unit/base quota if the error is
discovered and an individual should have been considered by their losing base. Every
effort should be made to ensure the individual is considered by their losing unit/base. If
the losing unit/base has already announced selections, supplemental consideration (with
current commander recommendation) should be requested by the gaining base.
2.4.2. The host wing commander will establish board procedures for the CBB (see paragraph
2.3.1 and 2.3.7). (T-3)
2.4.2.1. Host wing commander may require all units under their command (not tenant
units) to nominate to the CBB. Tenant units remain large units unless host wing
commander allows them to compete at the CBB.
2.4.2.2. Commanders must review any EPR(s) the Airman may have, his/her Personal
Information File (PIF) if available, and discuss nominations with the member’s
supervisors/rating chain prior to making a nomination decision.
2.4.2.3. AF Form 1206 is required for all A1Cs being nominated to the CBB for BTZ
consideration. Note: DBH reports are no longer required or authorized.
2.4.2.4. After CBB convenes, a board report will be accomplished. The board report
should contain a list of board members, board recorder, order of merit (identifying total
score and select/nonselect status), and cutoff score. The report should be signed by the
board president and board recorder, and approved by the host wing commander, unless
the host wing commander is the board president; then only one signature is necessary.
2.4.3. If an Airman was not considered during their eligibility time frame and the error is
discovered before BTZ selections are announced, large unit commander will consider the
Airman and adjust selections accordingly. The CBB will reconvene to consider small unit
eligibles and selections are adjusted accordingly. If the error is discovered after selections
are announced, request supplemental BTZ consideration IAW paragraph 2.5.
2.4.4. Alternates may be selected in the event a selectee is removed before the effective date.
SrA BTZ promotions cannot be placed in withhold. Projected promotions must be removed
for any quality indicators listed in Table 1.1 (including under investigation). If extenuating
circumstances exist, request reinstatement in accordance with paragraph 4.3. If the first
alternate's SrA BTZ DOR has already passed, they will receive the original BTZ DOR and an
effective date of unit commander approval. MPS assists the airman in applying for a
retroactive promotion effective date according to paragraph 1.15.
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 25
2.4.5. After selections are made, unit commanders provide a written promotion
recommendation prior to the promotion effective date.
2.4.6. Update SrA BTZ promotions immediately upon receipt of selections in MILPDS in
accordance with Enlisted Promotions PSD Guide.
2.5. Supplemental BTZ Consideration.
2.5.1. Unit Commanders may request supplemental BTZ consideration for individuals who
should have been considered by a previous board and the error was not discovered until after
selections are announced or promotions are updated. Unit commanders provide justification
for members not receiving a fair consideration and forwards fully documented supplemental
request to the MPS for consideration.
2.5.2. Supplemental consideration will not be given for the following reasons:
2.5.2.1. Incorrect data reflected on the BTZ RIP.
2.5.2.2. Denied BTZ nomination due to incorrect data reflected on the BTZ output
products or in the ARMS record.
2.5.2.3. BTZ eligibility listing not returned to the MPS or individuals were overlooked
on the listing.
2.5.2.4. Nomination packages or decoration not completed/turned in/approved in time to
meet the board.
2.5.3. Supplemental BTZ nominees receive an extra quota for themselves, ONLY. If
supplemental nominee is not selected, the extra quota goes away. DO NOT give the extra
quota to other nominees.
2.5.4. Supplemental BTZ must be requested and approved prior to the next convening BTZ
board. The supplemental nominee will be considered along with the other eligibles in the
next quarter.
2.6. SSgt, TSgt, and MSgt Promotions (see Table 1. 3). Airmen compete and test under the
Weighted Airmen Promotion System (WAPS) in the Control Air Force Specialty Code (CAFSC)
held on the PECD. Table 2.2 outlines WAPS factors and formulas.
2.6.1. AFPC/DPSOE :
2.6.1.1. Makes promotion selections using WAPS (promotion file) and data in MilPDS.
Only EPRs received during each grade’s period of promotion eligibility (maximum of 3
Force Distributed reports) are used to compute the EPR weighted factor score. All
eligibles are required to have an EPR that closes out within one year of the PECD on file
to compete for promotion. If a member does not have an EPR on file, they cannot be
considered for promotion until their EPR closes out. At that time, the member will be
considered supplementally.
2.6.1.2. Considers Airmen automatically eligible (see Table 2.3, Rule 3, Note 4) if they
are in a retraining status without a PAFSC skill level (Table 2.3.) in their current grade.
2.6.1.3. Applies the quota to each promotion Air Force Specialty Code (AFSC), with the
highest scores in each AFSC selected. (T-0)
26 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
2.6.1.4. Promotes Airmen in chronic critical shortage (CCS) skills at a higher selection
rate than those of non-CCS skills. AF/A1 approves and provides promotion allocation
rates to AFPC/DPSOE for each promotion AFSC based on A1P promotion analysis and
CCS skills review prior to each promotion cycle. (T-1).
2.6.1.5. Considers Airmen with SKT exemptions in one of two promotion AFSCs
(00XXX CCS or 00XXX for non-CCS). (See Table 2.4, Note 1.) EXCEPTION:
Retrainees in AFSCs without SKTs compete along with all other Airmen in that AFSC.
2.6.1.5.1. After serving in an awarded AFSC for at least 1 year, Airmen are SKT-
Exempt for 24 months if they are determined as not fully qualified (SrA = 5
level/SSgt = 7 level) upon return to their previously awarded AFSC. Update a Date
Initially Entered Retraining (DIERT) to the date the Airman returned to the previous
AFSC. For periods of less than 1 year, ensure the Airman takes the SKT (if AFSC has
SKT for particular cycle).
2.6.1.6. Accomplishes an order of merit list in each promotion AFSC from the highest
score to lowest score and applies the promotion quota. Selects all Airmen with tied
scores at the cutoff for their AFSC. (T-0)
2.6.1.7. Conducts data verification on selects NLT 10 days after virtual promotion
release and notifies MPS when errors are identified. (T-0)
2.6.2. The MPS:
2.6.2.1. Instructs eligible Airmen to review their records in PRDA, and obtain/review
their DVR/score notices on vMPF to verify the data used in the promotion selection
process. (T-3)
2.6.2.2. Schedules and tests Airmen using the CAFSC held on the PECD. IAW AFI 36-
2605, Air Force Military Personnel Testing Program, Attachment 9, Airmen who fail to
show for scheduled promotion testing without a valid reason are ineligible for promotion
consideration during that particular promotion cycle (Table 1.1, Rule 9). Ensure the
Airman signs a statement in accordance with paragraph 1.11, or the AF Form 1566,
WAPS Test Verification, used to administer tests, to document declination. (T-3)
2.6.2.3. Notifies Airmen in writing when a data error is found during data verification
that could result in nonselection, and directs individuals to not assume the new grade
until AFPC/DPSOE confirms the selection status. (T-3)
2.6.2.4. Monitors and resolves non-weighable/“data errors” before testing window
begins as outlined in this AFI and supplementary program guidance published on myPers
and in the latest Personnel Services Delivery (PSD) Guide.
2.6.3. Unit Commanders:
2.6.3.1. Advise selects that promotions are tentative pending verification by
AFPC/DPSOE as outlined in paragraph 2.6.1.7. (T-3)
2.6.3.2. Advise Airmen not to assume the next higher grade if data verification discovers
missing or erroneous data. (T-3)
2.6.3.3. Recommend promotion in writing prior to assuming the higher grade, and
initiate nonrecommendation and removal action when necessary. (T-3)
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 27
2.6.3.4. May request rescheduling from the FSS Commander for Airmen who did not
report for testing as specified on the AF Form 1566 or RIP 1566 if convinced the Airman
did everything within his or her control to make the appointment. If rescheduling is
disapproved for first time no-shows, MPS updates the PES code to “P.” (T-3)
2.6.4. To be eligible for promotion consideration, an Airman must:
2.6.4.1. Meet all requirements in Table 2.1.
2.6.4.2. Review records in Personnel Records Display Application (PRDA),
obtain/review Data Verification Rip (DVR) on the vMPF and report any errors to the
appropriate MPS workcenter or agency for correction of errors.
2.6.4.3. Test for promotion as outlined in AFI 36-2605. Failure to report for scheduled
testing (which includes both tests, if applicable) renders an Airman ineligible for
promotion consideration unless rescheduling is approved. A second no-show
automatically renders an Airman ineligible for promotion.
2.6.5. Airman prepares for promotion testing (includes obtaining testing material, knowing
testing window and date, knowing promotion AFSC), which is solely an individual
responsibility and should not be considered an item for enlisted professional development.
Group study in any forum or format is prohibited.
2.6.6. Airman retrieves his/her WAPS score notice after promotions are announced. WAPS
score notices are a means to give Airmen a report of their relative standing in the promotion
consideration process and must never be provided to, or used by, anyone other than the
individual and his/her commander. Commanders may request an airman’s scores from the
airman or the MPS. Commanders must restrict their use of the scores to notification and
advisory counseling on the airman’s behalf and must not allow further dissemination of
scores or their use for purposes other than advisory counseling.
2.7. MSgt Promotions: TSgts eligible for promotion to MSgt compete and test under the
WAPS in the CAFSC held on the PECD. Individuals with a reporting identifier (RI) or special
duty identifier (SDI) designated as their CAFSC on the PECD will compete within that RI or
SDI. Consideration for promotion to the grade MSgt is comprised of a two-part process
consisting of WAPS factors and a central evaluation board. See Table 2.7 for WAPS factors and
formulas.
2.7.1. AF/A1:
2.7.1.1. Approval authority for the enlisted evaluation board formal charge and
promotion policy associated with convening of all enlisted evaluation boards.
2.7.1.2. Approves the formal board charge annually prior to the convening of first
enlisted evaluation board during the calendar year and any essential policy guidance for
managing evaluation boards. Review feedback from the previous Board President. (T-1).
2.7.1.3. Approves and provides promotion allocation rates to AFPC/DPSOE for each
promotion AFSC based on A1P promotion analysis and CCS skills review prior to each
promotion cycle.
2.7.2. AFPC/CC:
2.7.2.1. Appoints board members for the SNCO evaluation board. (T-1).
28 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
2.7.2.2. Convenes SNCO evaluation board. (T-1).
2.7.2.3. Approves evaluation board results. (T-1).
2.7.2.4. Notifies parent MAJCOM of eligibles rendered not fully qualified (NFQ) for
promotion by the central evaluation board. “NFQ” may be used when a record does not
reflect potential for advancement to the next higher grade. (T-1).
2.7.2.5. The Executive Director assumes these responsibilities in the commander's
absence.
2.7.3. AFPC/DPSOE :
2.7.3.1. Announces eligibility cutoff and board convening dates annually. (T-0).
2.7.3.2. Consider Airmen automatically eligible (see Table 2.3, Rule 3 Note 4) if they are
in a retraining status without a PAFSC skill level in their current grade.
2.7.3.3. For promotion to the grade of MSgt, retrainees who are SKT exempt will not be
considered in promotion in AFSC 00XXX. All retrainees will compete for promotion in
their CAFSC held as of the PECD.
2.7.3.4. After serving in an awarded AFSC for at least one year, Airmen may be SKT
Exempt for 24 months if they are determined as not fully qualified (TSgt = 7 level) upon
return to their previously awarded AFSC. Update their DIERT to the date the Airman
returned to the previous AFSC. For periods of less than 1 year, the Airman must take
their SKT (if AFSC has SKT for particular cycle).
2.7.3.5. DELETED.
2.7.3.6. DELETED.
2.7.3.7. Uses the master promotion file to rank Airmen in order of merit, within AFSC,
using the combined evaluation board score (270 to 450 points) and the weighted factor
score (Table 2.7 and Table 2.8). (T-1).
2.7.3.8. Accomplishes an order of merit list in each promotion AFSC from the highest
score to lowest score and applies the promotion quota. Selects all Airmen for promotion
whose scores are tied at the cutoff for their AFSC. (T-1).
2.7.3.9. Promotes Airmen in CCS skills at a higher selection rate (determined annually
by AF/A1P) than non-CCS skills. (T-1).
2.7.3.10. Makes promotion selections using WAPS and the Central Evaluation Board
results. (T-1).
2.7.3.11. Prepares select lists for virtual release. (T-1).
2.7.3.12. Prepares and forwards written NFQ notifications to AFPC/CC and member’s
chain of command when the board renders an Airman NFQ. For those AFSCs with only
one Airman eligible and that eligible Airman is rendered NFQ, the AFSC will be
deactivated from the promotion cycle. (T-1).
2.7.3.13. Sends NFQ memorandums to servicing MPSs for chain of command
notifications. (T-0)
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 29
2.7.3.14. Conducts data verification on selects NLT 10 days after virtual promotion
release and notifies the MPS when errors are identified. (T-0).
2.7.4. AFPC/PB :
2.7.4.1. Conducts the Central Evaluation Board in accordance with Chapter 3. (T-1).
2.7.5. The MPS:
2.7.5.1. Schedules and tests Airmen using the CAFSC held on the PECD to determine
test requirements. (T-0). Airmen who fail to show for scheduled promotion testing
without a valid reason may be ineligible for promotion consideration during that
particular promotion cycle (Table 1.1, Rule 9) IAW AFI 36-2605.
2.7.5.2. Notifies AFPC/DPSOE by message of Airmen who already tested, but later
desire to decline promotion consideration. Ensures the Airman signs a statement in
accordance with paragraph 1.11 or the AF Form 1566 used to administer tests to
document their declination. Declination letter or AF Form 1566 must be sent must be
sent to ARMS. (T-3).
2.7.5.3. Instructs Airmen to review their record in PRDA, obtain and review their DVR
before the testing window and their score notice on the vMPF to verify the data used in
the promotion process. (T-3).
2.7.5.4. Notifies unit commanders of each eligible individual's promotion status. (T-3).
2.7.5.5. Notifies Airmen in writing when a data error is found during data verification
that could result in nonselection, and directs individuals to not assume the new grade
until AFPC/DPSOE confirms the selection status. (T-3).
2.7.5.6. Monitors and resolves non-weighable conditions/“data errors” before the testing
window begins as outlined in this AFI and supplementary program guidance published on
myPers and in the latest Personnel Services Delivery (PSD) Guide. (T-3).
2.7.6. Unit Commanders:
2.7.6.1. Advise selects that promotions are tentative pending verification until
AFPC/DPSOE completes data verification as outlined above. (T-3).
2.7.6.2. Advise Airmen not to assume the next higher grade if data verification discovers
missing or erroneous data. (T-3).
2.7.6.3. Recommend promotion prior to assuming the higher grade and initiate withhold
or nonrecommendation and removal action, when necessary. (T-3).
2.7.6.4. May request rescheduling from the FSS Commander for Airmen who did not
report for testing as specified on the AF Form 1566 or RIP 1566 if convinced the Airman
did everything within his or her control to make the appointment. If rescheduling is
disapproved for first time no-shows, MPS updates the PES code to “P.” (T-3).
2.7.7. Airmen:
2.7.7.1. Meet all requirements in Table 2.1.
30 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
2.7.7.2. Review records (Selection Folder) in PRDA, obtain/review Data Verification
Rip (DVR) on the vMPF and report any errors to the appropriate MPS work center or
agency for correction of errors prior to the testing window.
2.7.7.3. Have an EPR closing out within the last 12 months prior to PECD. (T-0).
2.7.7.4. Test for promotion as outlined in AFI 36-2605. Failure to report for scheduled
testing (which includes both tests, if applicable) renders an Airman ineligible for
promotion consideration unless rescheduling is approved. A second no-show
automatically renders an Airman ineligible for promotion. (T-0).
2.7.7.5. Prepares for promotion testing (includes obtaining testing material, knowing
testing window and date, knowing promotion AFSC), which is solely an individual
responsibility and should not be considered an item for enlisted professional
development. Group study in any forum or format is prohibited. (T-0).
2.7.7.6. Retrieves his/her WAPS score notice after promotions are announced. WAPS
score notices are a means to give Airmen a report of their relative standing in the
promotion consideration process and must never be provided to, or used by, anyone other
than the individual, unless the individual provides the scores.
2.8. SMSgt and CMSgt Promotions (see Table 1.3) . Airmen compete, and are selected for
promotion, in the superintendent level (for SMSgt) or the chief enlisted manager (CEM) code
(for CMSgt) of their CAFSC. Individuals with a RI or SDI designated as their CAFSC on the
PECD will compete within that RI or SDI. Promotion selection for SMSgt and CMSgt is a two-
phase process consisting of WAPS factors and a central evaluation board. See Table 2.8 for
WAPS factors and formulas.
2.8.1. AF/A1:
2.8.1.1. Appointed as the approval authority for the enlisted evaluation board formal
charge and promotion policy associated with convening of all enlisted evaluation boards.
2.8.1.2. Approve the formal board charge annually prior to the convening of first enlisted
evaluation board during the calendar year and any essential policy guidance for managing
evaluation boards. Review feedback from the previous Board President. (T-0).
2.8.1.3. Approves and provides promotion allocation rates to AFPC/DPSOE for
application to each promotion AFSC based on A1P promotion analysis and CCS skills
review prior to each promotion cycle.
2.8.2. AFPC/CC:
2.8.2.1. Appoints board members for the SNCO evaluation board. (T-0).
2.8.2.2. Convenes SNCO evaluation board. (T-0).
2.8.2.3. Approves evaluation board results. (T-0).
2.8.2.4. Notifies parent MAJCOM of eligibles rendered not fully qualified (NFQ) for
promotion by the central evaluation board. “NFQ” may be used when a record does not
reflect potential for advancement to the next higher grade. (T-0).
2.8.2.5. The Executive Director assumes these responsibilities in the commander's
absence.
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 31
2.8.3. AFPC/DPSOE:
2.8.3.1. Announces eligibility cutoff and board convening dates annually. Sends NFQ
memorandums to servicing MPS’s for chain of command notifications. (T-0).
2.8.3.1.1. If the date of the special order is prior to the month promotion selections
are made, the decoration will automatically update the promotion master file.
2.8.3.1.2. If the date of the special order is the month selections are made or later,
send the following documents to AFPC/DPSOE: Written request with unit
commander’s recommendation, citation, DECOR 6 (both pages), amendments (if
any), documentation verifying when decoration was placed into official channels, and
documentation of corrective/follow-up action taken by the Airman.
2.8.3.2. Uses the promotion master file to rank Airmen in order of merit within AFSC or
CEM code using the combined evaluation board score (270 to 450 points) and the
weighted factor score (Table 2.7 and Table 2.8). (T-0).
2.8.3.3. Applies the quota to each promotion AFSC or CEM, with the highest scores in
each AFSC or CEM selected. (T-0).
2.8.3.4. Promotes Airmen in CCS skills at a higher selection rate (determined annually
by AF/A1P) than non-CCS skills. (T-1).
2.8.3.5. Makes promotion selections using WAPS and the Central Evaluation Board
results. (T-0).
2.8.3.6. Prepares select lists for virtual release. (T-0).
2.8.3.7. Prepares and forwards written NFQ notifications to AFPC/CC and member’s
chain of command when the board renders an Airman NFQ. For those AFSCs with only
one Airman eligible and that eligible Airman is rendered NFQ, the AFSC will be
deactivated from the promotion cycle. (T-0).
2.8.3.8. AFPC/DPSOE conducts data verification on selects prior to virtual promotion
release. When a data error is found that could result in non-selection, the Airman is
notified of the error in writing and directed not to assume the new grade until
AFPC/DPSOE confirms the selection status. (T-0).
2.8.4. AFPC/PB:
2.8.4.1. Conducts the Central Evaluation Board in accordance with Chapter 3. (T-0).
2.8.4.2. Supplemental board consideration is not provided when corrected data increases
an Airman’s weighted factor score so that the total revised promotion score is at or above
the cutoff needed for selection. In such cases, Airmen become selects without
supplemental board evaluation.
2.8.4.3. Those personnel requiring a board score greater than the maximum allowable
board score (450 points) will not be granted supplemental promotion consideration.
2.8.5. The MPS:
2.8.5.1. Schedules and tests Airmen using the CAFSC held on the PECD to determine
test requirements. Airmen who fail to show for scheduled promotion testing without a
32 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
valid reason may be ineligible for promotion consideration during that particular
promotion cycle (Table 1.1, Rule 9) IAW AFI 36-2605. MPSs notify AFPC/DPSOE by
message of Airmen who already tested, but later desire to decline promotion
consideration. Ensures the Airman signs a statement in accordance with paragraph 1.11
or the AF Form 1566 used to administer tests to document their declination. (T-3).
2.8.5.2. Notifies unit commanders of each eligible individual's promotion status. (T-3).
2.8.5.3. Instructs Airmen to review their record in PRDA, obtain and review their DVR
along with their score notice on the vMPF to verify the data used in the promotion
process. (T-3).
2.8.6. Airmen:
2.8.6.1. Must meet the eligibility criteria outlined in paragraph 2.6.4, Table 2.1, Rules 5
& 6 and have an EPR closing out within the last 12 months prior to the PECD.
2.8.6.2. Obtain and review DVRs along with score notices on the vMPF, review PRDA
selection folder to ensure data is correct, and notify the appropriate MPS workcenter or
agency for correction of any errors.
2.8.6.3. The MPS:
2.8.6.3.1. Ensures selects assigned a .9 PSN obtain the required 2 years retainability
for promotion to MSgt or SMSgt, and 3 years retainability for promotion to CMSgt
from effective date of promotion, and may apply for a change to their ETS once the
retroactive effective date is processed. (T-3)
2.8.6.3.2. Instructs commanders to make a written promotion recommendation. (T-
3)
2.8.6.4. The Unit Commander:
2.8.6.4.1. Instructs selects with a .9 PSN that they are not to assume the higher grade
until they obtain retainability (if required). (T-3)
2.8.6.4.2. Notifies selects with a .9 PSN they may assume the next higher grade on
the date of written approval, if data verification is complete and they have required
retainability. (T-3)
2.8.6.4.3. AFPC/DPSOE will grant a retroactive effective date correction to match an
Airman’s DOR in accordance with paragraph 1.14.
2.9. Supplemental Promotions for SSgt Through CMSgt. AFPC/DPSOE conducts in-system
supplemental promotion consideration monthly after initial promotion selection and announces
supplemental selection board dates for eligible Airmen. See paragraph 1.15 for DOR and
effective date corrections. Supplemental promotion consideration will not be granted if the error
or omission appeared on/in the Airman’s DVR, PRDA/ARMS record, or senior NCO selection
folder and no corrective or follow-up action was taken by the Airman prior to the promotion
selection date for SSgt through TSgt and prior to the original evaluation board for MSgt through
CMSgt. Fully documented supplemental consideration requests will be submitted in writing, to
include the Airman’s unit commander’s recommendation to the MPS. MPSs will review and
forward requests to AFPC/DPSOE via CMS. (T-3).
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 33
2.9.1. If an Airman missed one or more testing cycles (due to deployment or hospitalization,
etc.), he/she is considered retroactively. This is done using scores from the first available
WAPS tests upon return. If selected for previous cycles, the Airman will receive a retroactive
date of rank and back pay.
2.9.1.1. Airmen must complete Airman Leadership School before being considered for
STEP promotion to SSgt, or the resident NCO Academy before being considered for
STEP promotion to MSgt (this requirement cannot be waived).
2.9.1.2. A minimum of 12 months TIG is required for STEP promotion to TSgt and
MSgt; promotions to SSgt must have a minimum of 6 months TIG.
2.9.1.3. Commanders may waive other promotion eligibility requirements in Table 2.1.
(T-3)
2.9.2. A separate written request is not required when an individual has indicated his or her
desire to apply for supplemental consideration in conjunction with the EPR appeal process.
NOTE: Ensure Blocks 9 and 10, on the AF Form 948, Application for Correction/Removal of
Evaluation Reports, are completed.
2.9.3. Supplemental promotion may be granted for those individuals who are recommended
by their unit commander and are non-weighable, had a change to the weighted data elements
(see Table 2.2.) (must be effective prior to PECD), or had wrong or missing data for a
specific cycle.
2.9.3.1. A supplemental request based on a missing decoration must have a closeout date
on or before PECD, and the commander’s recommendation date on the DECOR 6 must
be before the date AFPC makes the selections for promotion. Resubmit decorations
(downgraded, lost, amended, etc.), to verify the original submission was placed into
official channels prior to the selection date.
2.9.3.1.1. If the date of the special order is prior to the month promotion selections
are made, the decoration will automatically update the promotion master file.
2.9.3.1.2. If the date of the special order is the month selections are made or later,
send the following documents to AFPC/DPSOE: Written request with unit
commander’s recommendation, citation, DECOR 6 (both pages), amendments (if
any), documentation verifying when decoration was placed into official channels, and
documentation of corrective/follow-up action taken by the Airman.
2.9.3.2. AFPC considers MAJCOMs, FOAs, and DRUs without a quota (less than 300
SrA through TSgt) and announces procedures via annual STEP message. (T-0)
2.9.3.3. Updates all STEP promotions into MilPDS. The effective date and DOR are the
date the selection authority announces the selections. (T-0)
2.9.4. MSgt thru CMSgt Supplemental Procedures: There are no automatic approvals for
supplemental promotion consideration. Table 2.5 is used to determine whether or not a
request for supplemental promotion consideration is authorized, and if so, whether or not
mandatory scoring is required. Final decisions for approval of supplemental consideration
requests rest with the AFBCMR or AFPC/DPSOE.
34 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
2.9.4.1. TSgt, MSgts, and SMSgt meeting one of the reasons in Table 2.5 may be
considered supplementally. These individuals will receive supplemental selection board
consideration, if approved in accordance with Chapter 3.
2.9.4.2. Supplemental board consideration is not provided when corrected data increases
an Airman’s weighted factor score so that the total revised promotion score is at or above
the cutoff needed for selection. In such cases, Airmen become selects without
supplemental board evaluation.
2.9.4.3. Those personnel requiring a board score greater than the maximum allowable
board score (450 points) will not be granted supplemental promotion consideration.
2.9.5. Score notices are not provided for Airmen who receive supplemental board
consideration to MSgt, SMSgt, and CMSgt, unless they were not considered by the original
board. Weighted scores only are provided (not a board score).
2.9.6. Supplemental Processing Instructions:
2.9.6.1. Individuals supplementally selected for promotion to grades SSgt through
CMSgt receive PSNs of .9 (on increments previously announced) or .5 (unannounced
future increment).
2.9.6.2. Individuals selected and assigned a .9 PSN are automatically projected for
promotion the first day of the month following the month they were considered/selected
in. This is to ensure data verification is completed and the commander recommends
promotion prior to the promotion automatically consummating.
2.9.6.3. The MPS:
2.9.6.3.1. Ensures selects assigned a .9 PSN obtain the required 2 years retainability
for promotion to MSgt or SMSgt, and 3 years retainability for promotion to CMSgt
from effective date of promotion, and may apply for a change to their ETS once the
retroactive effective date is processed. (T-3).
2.9.6.3.2. Instructs commanders to make a written promotion recommendation. (T-
3).
2.9.6.4. The Unit Commander:
2.9.6.4.1. Instructs selects with a .9 PSN that they are not to assume the higher grade
until they obtain retainability (if required). (T-3).
2.9.6.4.2. Notifies selects with a .9 PSN they may assume the next higher grade on
the date of written approval, if data verification is complete and they have required
retainability. (T-3).
2.9.6.4.3. AFPC/DPSOE will grant a retroactive effective date correction to match an
Airman’s DOR in accordance with paragraph 1.15.
2.10. Promoting Under Stripes for Exceptional Performers (STEP). This program
supplements existing Airman Promotion programs and is designed to accommodate unique
circumstances that, in the commander’s judgment, clearly warrant promotion. It is intended to
provide a means to promote Airmen for compelling, although perhaps not quantifiable, reasons.
Isolated heroic acts or specific achievements should not be the sole basis for promotion under
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 35
this program. STEP promotions are authorized to grades SSgt and TSgt. Airmen are not
supplementally considered for STEP. DOR and effective date are the date the selection authority
announces the promotion.
2.10.1.1. Airmen must complete Airman Leadership School before being considered for
STEP promotion to SSgt (this requirement cannot be waived).
2.10.1.2. A minimum of 12 months TIG is required for STEP promotion to TSgt and
promotions to SSgt must have a minimum of 6 months TIG.
2.10.2. Selections will be based on recommendations from subordinate commanders or
personal knowledge of the individual. Time consuming administrative boards are
discouraged.
2.10.3. AFPC/DPSOE:
2.10.3.1. Distributes STEP quotas to MAJCOMS, FOAs, DRUs and Air Force Elements
with 575 or more SrA and SSgts assigned. (T-1).
2.10.3.2. AFPC considers MAJCOMs, FOAs, and DRUs without a quota (less than 575
SrA through SSgt) and announces procedures via annual STEP message. (T-1).
2.10.3.3. Updates all STEP promotions into MilPDS. The effective date and DOR are the
date the selection authority announces the selections. (T-0).
2.10.4. The MPS:
2.10.4.1. Completes P-series orders and notifies AFPC/DPSOE by message of STEP
selections within 72 hours. Include name, SSN, grade promoted to, effective date,
CAFSC, assignment unit, special order number, and date. (T-3).
Table 2.1. Minimum Eligibility Requirements for Promotion (See Note 1).
R
U
L
E
If
promotio
n is to the
grade of
(see note
2)
and the
PAFSC
as of
PECD
is at the
and time in
current
grade is
computed on
the first day
of the month
before the
month
promotions
are made
and the
TAFMD is on
the first day
of the last
month of the
promotion
cycle (see note
3)
and the
Airman
has
and
following
mandatory
education
is complete
(see note 9)
then
1
SrA (see
para. 2.2.)
3 level
(see note
4)
not applicable
(see para.
2.2.1. for
requirements)
1 year (see
para. 2.2.1.
for TIG/TIS
requirements)
See note 9
the Airman is
eligible for
promotion if
recommended
in writing, by
the promotion
36 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
2
SSgt (see
Table
2.3and
para. 2.6
and notes
5, 6)
5 level
(see note
5)
6 months
3 years
See note 9
authority. He
or she must
serve on AD
in enlisted
status as of
the PECD,
serving
continuous
AD until the
effective date
of promotion,
and is not in a
condition
listed under
Table 1.1 on
or after the
PECD. The
individual
must be in
PES code X
on effective
date of
promotion
(see note 8).
3
TSgt (see
para. 2.6.)
7 level
(see
note 5)
23 months
5 years
See note 9
4
MSgt (see
para. 2.6.)
7 level
24 months
8 years
See note 9
5
SMSgt
(see
para.
2.7.)
7 level
(see
note 5)
20 months
11 years
8 yrs
cumulative
enlisted
service
(TEMSD)
creditable
for basic
pay (see
note 7)
SNCO
Academy
and
Associates
Degree
from
Community
College of
the Air
Force
(CCAF)
(see notes
10 and 11)
6
CMSgt
(see
para.
2.7.)
9 level
(see note
5)
21 months
14 years
10 yrs
cumulative
enlisted
service
(TEMSD)
creditable
for basic
pay (see
note 7)
Associates
Degree from
Community
College of
the Air
Force
(CCAF) (see
notes 10and
11)
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 37
Notes:
1. Use this table to determine standard minimum eligibility requirements for promotion
consideration. HQ USAF may announce additional eligibility requirements. The individual must
serve on enlisted AD and must have been on a continuous active duty as of PECD. (T-0)
2. The high year of tenure (HYT) policy applicable as of PECD may affect promotion eligibility
in grades SrA and above. (T-0).
3. Use years of satisfactory service for retirement in place of TAFMSD to determine promotion
eligibility for Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve Airmen ordered to extended active duty
(EAD). Exception: Active Guard Reserve (AGR or Statutory tours). Reserve or Guard Airmen
are eligible for promotion if EAD is on or after PECD. (T-0).
4. A1Cs must meet skill-level requirements by the effective date of promotion for SrA.
However, an A1C in lengthy tech school training, or in a hardship situation, who doesn’t possess
the minimum required PAFSC can be granted a skill level waiver (SLW) to pin on SrA. The
technical training squadron commander or for Airmen in a hardship/medical situation, the unit
commander may submit a request for SLW stating the extenuating circumstances (i.e., awaiting
training, medical delays, etc.) to AFPC/DPSOE. (T-0).
5. SrA must meet skill-level requirements by the PECD for SSgt, except for those individuals in
PES “Q.” SSgts test and compete for promotion to TSgt if they have a 5-skill level as of PECD;
however, they must have a 7-skill level before promotion. Commanders may waive the 7-skill 7-
level school. TSgts without the appropriate skill level are ineligible to test unless they have a
valid DIERT date. MSgts and SMSgt must meet minimum skill-level requirements listed above.
MSgt and SMSgt skill levels may be waived according to Table 2.3. to allow them to compete for
promotion. Demote Airmen promoted with a PAFSC waiver who fail to obtain or maintain grade
skill relationship as outlined in Chapter 6. (T-0).
6. Airmen demoted to SrA, SSgt, or TSgt will not have their HYT adjusted to make them eligible
to compete for promotion. Airmen who are demoted past their HYT for that grade will not be
afforded an opportunity to promotion test. If demoted, an Airman’s HYT will be established in
accordance with AFI 36-3208. (T-0).
7. Service in a commissioned, warrant, or flight officer status is creditable for pay but it cannot be
utilized to satisfy the TEMSD requirement (38 Comptroller General 598). Airmen may be
considered for promotions who meet this requirement on the 1st day of the last month promotions
are normally made in the cycle. Actual promotion does not occur earlier than the 1st day of the
month following the month the Airman completes the required enlisted service. This applies if
the select had a sequence number in an earlier promotion increment; however, if the Airman
meets the required enlisted service on the first day of the month, the DOR and effective date is
that date. (T-0).
8. If a TDY student meets the requirements of this table, but does not maintain satisfactory
proficiency, the MPS that services the Airman's TDY unit informs the MPS servicing the Airman's
unit of assignment. (T-3).
9. To satisfy promotion eligibility requirements, EPME will be completed by in-residence for
promotion to SSgt and by correspondence for promotion to SMSgt. All PME may be completed
in-residence or by correspondence. If selected, the projected promotion will be placed into
withhold, if the 12-month EPMPE enrollment expires before the promotion sequence number
(PSN) consummates. The PSN will be removed if EPMPE is not completed by the end of the
promotion cycle (T-0).
10. Completion of the United States Army Sergeants Major Academy, the United States Navy
38 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
Senior Enlisted Academy, the United States Coast Guard Chief Petty Officers Academy, United
States Marine Corps Staff NCO Academy, or approved comparable international courses are
equivalent to SNCOA. (T-0).
11. The CCAF degree can be in any discipline. Degree must be conferred (awarded) by CCAF on
or before the promotion eligibility cut-off date. (T-0).
Table 2.2. Calculating Points and Factors for Promotion to SSgt and TSgt.
R
U
L
E
A
B
If the
factor is
then the maximum score is
1
SKT
100 points. Base individual score on percentage correct (two decimal
places). (note 1).
2
PFE
100 points. Base individual score on percentage correct (two decimal
places). (note 1).
3
TIS
13 points. Award 0.05416667 points for each month of TAFMS up to 20
years, as of the last day of the last month of the promotion cycle.
Example: The last day of the last month of the cycle (31 Jul 03 minus
TAFMS date (18 Jul 96) equals 7 years 14 days (inclusive dates
considered equals 7 x 0.05416667 = 0.37 points). (note 1)
4
TIG
20 points. Award 0.16667 point for each month in grade up to 10 years,
as of the first day of the last month of the promotion cycle (count 15 days
or more as 0.16667 point; drop periods less than 15 days). Example: The
first day of the last month of the promotion cycle (1 Jul 03) minus current
DOR (1 Jan 00) equals 3 years 6 months 1 day (inclusive dates
considered) equals 42 x .0.16667 = 7.00 points. (note 1)
5
Decorations
25 points. Assign each decoration a point value based on its order of
precedence. (note 3)
Medal of Honor: 15
Air Force, Navy, or Distinguished Service Cross: 11
Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Distinguished Service Medal,
Silver Star: 9
Legion of Merit, Defense Superior Service Medal, Distinguished Flying
Cross: 7
Airman, Soldier, Navy-Marine Corps, Coast Guard Bronze Star,
Defense/Meritorious Service Medals, Purple Heart: 5
Air, Aerial Achievement, Air Force Commendation, Army
Commendation, Navy-Marine Corps Commendation, Joint Services, or
Coast Guard Commendation Medal: 3
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 39
R
U
L
E
A
B
If the
factor is
then the maximum score is
Navy - Marine Corps, Coast Guard, Air Force, Army, or Joint Service
Achievement Medal: 1
6
EPRs
250 points. Multiply each EPR’s point value (note 4), preceding the
PECD, not to exceed the last three Force Distributed EPRs in the Airman’s
current grade, by the time-weighted factor for that specific report. When
the maximum three Force Distributed EPRs are calculated the time
weighted factors begins with 50 percent (.50) for the most recent report, 30
percent (.30) for the middle or second most recent report, and 20 percent
(.20) for the bottom report (50% - 30% -20%). After calculating each
report, add the total weighted point value of each report for a sum. When
an Airman is in his/her second year of eligibility, and/or when only two
reports are calculated, the time weighted factor begins with 60 percent
(.60) for the top or most recent report and 40 percent (.40) for the bottom
report (60% - 40%). When an Airman is in his/her first year of promotion
eligibility and/or when only one EPR is calculated, the time weighted
factor is 100 percent. (notes 1, 4, and 5)
Example: EPR string (most recent to oldest): Promote Now + Must
Promote + Promote
Promote Now [250] x .50 = 125 weighted points
Must Promote [220] x .30 = 66 weighted points
Promote [200] x .20 = 40 weighted points
231 points
40 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
R
U
L
E
A
B
If the
factor is
then the maximum score is
Notes:
1. Cutoff scores after the second decimal place. Do not use the third decimal place to round
up or down. (T-0).
*2. DELETED
3. The decoration closeout date must be on or before the PECD. The signed date by the
higher official endorsing the recommendation on the DECOR 6 must be before the date HQ
AFPC announced the selections for promotion. Fully document resubmitted decorations
(downgraded, lost, etc.) and verify they were placed into official channels before the
selection date. (T-0).
4. Promote Now = 250, Must Promote = 220, Promote = 200, Not Ready Now – 150,
Do Not Promote = 50. (T-0).
5. Only count evaluations received during each grade’s period of promotion eligibility. Do
not count non-evaluated periods of performance, such as break in service, report removed
through appeal process, etc., in the computation. However, if one of the last three Force
Distributed EPR ratings have been removed or reflects a nonrated period, and the Airman is
on a third or subsequent eligibility the fourth EPR, if a Force Distributed report will become
the third EPR in the last three reports used in the weighted calculation score. (T-0).
Table 2.3. PAFSC Skill Level Waivers to Compete for Promotion (See Note 1).
R
U
L
E
A B
If the Airman does not possess the required PAFSC skill
level
then a
PAFSC skill
level waiver
is
1
and performs duties in RI or SDI (except for RI 9S100)
Authorized
(see note 2).
2
*DELETED
3
and is an A1C through SMSgt in retraining or pending
retraining consideration (RI 9A000) and would have upgraded
by the PECD for promotion to SSgt through SMSgt, or the last
day of the month for A1C eligibles for SrA were identified, had
the Airman not retrained (see note 4)
4
and is a SrA assigned to a specialty requiring lengthy formal
training and did not have sufficient time or training to upgrade
to the appropriate skill level due to the length of the formal
school
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 41
5
and is a SrA through TSgt in normal upgrade training (see note
5)
not authorized.
6
and returns to duties from an RI, SDI, or another awarded
AFSC, to another AFSC
Authorized
(see note 2).
Notes:
1. Do not allow prior service enlistees and former officers skill level waivers except as
indicated in paragraph 7.3. (T-0).
2. Process PAFSC skill-level waivers as outlined in this AFI and supplementary program
guidance published on myPers and in the latest Personnel Services Delivery Guide. (T-3).
3. Airmen in these RIs (except for RI 9S100) as of the PECD must meet skill levels
established by the Air Force Technical Applications Center (AFTAC). Airmen who fail to
meet the requirements imposed by the unit commander are ineligible for a skill-level
waiver. Airmen with these RIs as their PAFSC must meet the skill-level criteria indicated
on the certificate from AFTAC. An Airman m us t have the certificate before promotion to
MSgt. (T-3).
4. Since the majority of Airmen are in a retraining status (SSgt through MSgt) and
promotion to SMSgt and CMSgt are routinely approved for a PAFSC skill-level waiver,
the promotion record is built as "eligible" during the promotion file build. The
promotion authority may still deny the Airman promotion consideration by disapproving a
PAFSC skill-level waiver. (T-3).
5. Normally, do not permit Airmen in normal upgrade training a skill-level waiver. Grant
PAFSC skill level-waivers before PECD for significant documented interruptions (beyond
the Airman’s control) in current training that prevents the Air Airman from upgrading. (T-3).
Table 2.4. SKT Exemptions (See Note 1 and Paragraph 2.6.1.5.)
R
U
L
E
A
B
If on or before the PECD the Airman is
then an SKT
exemption is
1
performing duties in RI 9S100, 9S200 (see note 2)
not authorized.
2
disqualified (RI 9A000) and awaiting retraining
authorized.
3
in normal upgrade training (see note 3)
not authorized.
4
awaiting retraining and their CAFSC has changed to the new
AFSC as outlined in AFI 36-2101, Classifying Military
Personnel (Officers and Enlisted) (Training Status Code “M”
applies)
authorized.
5
SrA through TSgt in retraining status (see note 4)
6
returned to duty in a fully qualified AFSC from another
awarded AFSC (dual qualified) (see note 5)
7
returned to duty in another awarded AFSC not fully qualified
(see Para 2.6.1.5.)
NOTES:
42 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
1. Consider Airmen who are SKT exempt for promotion in one of two promotion AFSCs,
one for non-chronic critical skills (non-CCS) and another for CCS. When there is not an
SKT for the specialty, then all Airmen in that AFSC compete for promotion together,
regardless of their training status (i.e., retrainees, etc.). All Airmen who are SKT exempt
and are in an AFSC where an SKT exists can take the SKT by signing a statement. Once
signed, do not reverse the decision without unit commander and MPS commander
concurrence. Once the promotion test is administered, do not reverse the decision. Refer to
TCO memorandums for other SKT exemptions.
2. Airmen must fulfill PAFSC skill-level requirements according to Table 2.3.
3. Allow Airmen who return to a previously awarded AFSC for which they are not assigned
within the last year and do not have the required skill level (SrA = 5 level, SSgt = 7 level, &
TSgt = 7 level) a 24-month SKT exemption. Update a DIERT date equal to the date the
Airman returned to the previous AFSC. Approve a PAFSC skill-level waiver according to
Table 2.3.
4. Allow SKT exemptions for 24 months regardless of training status. Airmen can elect to
take the SKT by signing a statement. Do not reverse the Airman's decision to take, or not to
take, the SKT without unit commander and MPS commander concurrence. Do not reverse
the decision once the promotion test is administered.
5. MPS updates MilPDS Training Status Code (TSC) "I" with a Date Initially Entered
Retraining (DIERT) equal to the date of return into the previous awarded AFSC (ref AFI
36-2101, Classifying Military Personnel [Officers and Enlisted]) if within 6 months of
PECD. Airmen may elect to take the SKT. Do not place prior service Airmen or former
officers in TSC "I".
Table 2.5. Authorized Reasons to Request Senior NCO Supplemental Promotion Board
Consideration (See Note 1)
R
U
L
E
If the item concerns
and the correction is to
then
consideration
by
supplemental
evaluation
board is
and
rescoring
is
1
PME (see note 2)
add the Senior NCO Academy course
authorized.
Mandatory
(see note 3)
2
EPR
add, remove, or make significant
change
3
academic education
show academic degree completion
Optional
(see note
4)
correct academic specialty
change year of completion
not
authorized.
N/A
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 43
4
decoration
add a decoration (not authorized if
the citation or order was filed or if
the decoration was listed on the brief
used by the board)
authorized.
Optional
(see note 4)
5
projected retirement data
(individuals who are
eligible
and considered by
original board)
delete a projected retirement that is
not valid at the time board met
Mandatory
(see note 3)
delete a projected retirement that was
valid when the board convened but
later withdrawn
not
authorized.
N/A
change the projected retirement date
6
any eligibility factor or
erroneously considered in
the wrong AFSC
render an Airman eligible (as of the
PECD) who was erroneously
ineligible when the board convened
or correct AFSC effective prior to
PECD
authorized.
Mandatory
(see note 3)
7
projected HYT date
(individuals who were
ineligible because of an
HYT date and not
considered by the original
board)
show approved extension of HYT
date (and reason is best interest of
the Air Force)
authorized
Mandatory
(see note 3)
8
Duty history
add/correct duty history data
authorized
optional
NOTES:
1. Do not allow supplemental consideration for Airmen needing more than the maximum board score
(450 points) for selection.
2. Credit is given if the Airman takes the end of course (EOC) examination on or before the PECD
and successfully completes the course, even if it is not scored until after the PECD (HAF files will not
change, only the promotion and WAPS Information Retrieval [WIRE] files). PME was last used for
CMSgt during cycle 94E9 and for SMSgt during cycle 96E8.
3. Mandatory scoring eliminates the need for optional review; the record goes directly to a
supplemental panel to score the record.
4. Prior to rescoring the record, the panel considers the type of error, the degree of impact on the
promotion score, and the number of points needed for selection. Those records the panel considers
but chooses not to rescore are rendered nonselects.
Table 2.6. SrA Below the Zone Processing Months and Board Dates
I
T
E
A
B
C
M
Processing Months
Board/Selection Month
For promotions in
44 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
1
January/February
March
April - June
2
April/May
June
July - September
3
July/August
September
October - December
4
October/November
December
January - March
Table 2.7. Calculating Weighted Points and Promotion Factors for Promotion to MSgt.
R
U
L
E
A
B
If the
factor is
then the maximum score is
1
SKT
100 points. Base individual score on number correct (two decimal places)
(note 1). A minimum SKT score of 40 points is required (a combine score
of 90 SKT/PFE points is required (note 2). If SKT exempt, individual will
compete for promotion in the CAFSC they possess on PECD.
2
PFE
100 points. Base individual score on number correct (two decimal places).
(note 1) A minimum PFE score of 40 points is required (a combine score
of 90 points SKT/PFE is required). Airmen testing PFE only are required
to score a minimum of 45 points (note 2)
3
TIS
13 points. Award 0.05416667 points for each month of TAFMS up to 20
years, as of the last day of the last month of the promotion cycle.
Example: The last day of the last month of the cycle (31 Jul 03 minus
TAFMS date (18 Jul 96) equals 7 years 14 days (inclusive dates considered
equals 7 x 0.05416667 = 0.37 points) (note 1)
4
TIG
20 points. Award 0.16667 point for each month in grade up to 10 years, as
of the first day of the last month of the promotion cycle (count 15 days or
more as 0.16667 point; drop periods less than 15 days). Example: The first
day of the last month of the promotion cycle (1 Jul 03) minus current DOR
(1 Jan 00) equals 3 years 6 months 1 day (inclusive dates considered)
equals 42 x .0.16667 = 7.00 points (note 1)
5
Decorations
25 points. Assign each decoration a point value based on its order of
precedence. (note 3)
Medal of Honor: 15
Air Force, Navy, or Distinguished Service Cross: 11
Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Distinguished Service Medal, Silver
Star: 9
Legion of Merit, Defense Superior Service Medal, Distinguished Flying
Cross: 7
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 45
Airman, Soldier, Navy-Marine Corps, Coast Guard Bronze Star,
Defense/Meritorious Service Medals, Purple Heart: 5
Air, Aerial Achievement, Air Force Commendation, Army Commendation,
Navy-Marine Corps Commendation, Joint Services, or Coast Guard
Commendation Medal: 3
Navy - Marine Corps, Coast Guard, Air Force, Army, or Joint Service
Achievement Medal: 1
6
Board Score
450 points. Each panel member scores each record, using a 6- to 10-point
scale and half-point increments. An individual’s record may receive a
panel composite score (3 members) from a minimum of 18 (6 - 6 - 6) to a
maximum of 30 (10 - 10 - 10) points. The composite score (18 to 30
points) is later multiplied by a factor of 15, resulting in a total board score
(270 to 450). If SKT exempt, individual’s record will meet the panel for
the CAFSC they possess on PECD.
Example:
Panel composite score 8 + 8.5 + 8 = 24.5
24.5 x 15 =
367.5 Board Score
Notes:
1. Cutoff scores after the second decimal place. Do not use the third decimal place to round
up or down. (T-0).
2. Airmen that score the minimum 40 points on either the SKT or PFE (when taking both
examinations) must score a minimum of 50 on the other one, in order to meet the minimum
combine score of 90. For those testing PFE only a minimum score of 45 is required (combine
score of 90 when doubled). Airmen that fail to obtain the minimum score will be rendered a
promotion non-select. (T-0).
3. The decoration closeout date must be on or before the PECD. The signed date by the
higher official endorsing the recommendation on the DECOR 6 must be before the date HQ
AFPC announced the selections for promotion. Fully document resubmitted decorations
(downgraded, lost, etc.) and verify they were placed into official channels before the selection
date. (T-0).
Table 2.8. Calculating Weighted Points and Promotion Factors for Promotion to SMSgt
and CMSgt.
R
U
L
E
A
B
If the factor
is
then the maximum score is
1
USAFSE
100 points. Base individual score on correct (note 1). A minimum score
of 45 points is required (note 2).
46 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
2
TIS
8 points. Credit .03333333 point for each month of TAFMS, up to 25
years, computed as of the last day of the cycle (note 1).
3
TIG
20 points. Credit 0.16667 point for each month in current grade based on
DOR up to 10 years, computed as of the first day of the last month of the
cycle (note 1).
4
Decorations/
Awards
25 points. Assign each decoration a point value based on its order of
precedence as follows (note 3):
Medal of Honor: 15
Air Force, Navy, or Distinguished Service Cross: 11
Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Distinguished Service Medal,
Silver Star: 9
Legion of Merit, Defense Superior Service Medal, Distinguished Flying
Cross: 7
Airman, Soldier, Navy-Marine Corps, or Coast Guard Bronze Star,
Defense/Meritorious Service Medals, Purple Heart: 5
Air, Aerial Achievement, Air Force Commendation, Army
Commendation, Navy-Marine Corps
Commendation, Joint Services Commendation, or Coast Guard
Commendation Medal: 3
Navy - Marine Corps Achievement, Coast Guard Achievement, Air Force
Achievement, Army Achievement, or Joint Service Achievement Medal:
1
5
Board Score
450 points. Each panel member scores each record, using a 6- to 10-point
scale and half-point increments. An individual’s record may receive a
panel composite score (3 members) from a minimum of 18 (6 - 6 - 6) to a
maximum of 30 (10 - 10 - 10) points. The composite score (18 to 30
points) is later multiplied by a factor of 15, resulting in a total board score
(270 to 450).
Example:
Panel composite score 8 + 8.5 + 8 = 24.5
24.5 x 15 =
367.5 Board Score
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 47
Notes:
1. Cut off scores after the second decimal place. Do not use the third decimal place to round
up or down. (T-0).
2. A minimum USAFSE score of 45 is required to maintain promotion eligibility. Airmen
that fail to obtain the minimum score will be rendered a promotion non-select. (T-0).
3. The decoration closeout date must be on or before the PECD. The signed date by the
higher official endorsing the recommendation on the DECOR 6 must be before the date HQ
AFPC announced the selections for promotion. Fully document resubmitted decorations
(downgraded, lost, etc.) and verify they were placed into official channels before the
selection date. (T-0).
48 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
Chapter 3
*REGULAR AIR FORCE SENIOR NONCOMMISSIONED OFFICER EVALUATION
/SUPPLEMENTAL BOARD PROCEDURES
3.1. General. This chapter provides guidance and outlines operating procedures to be used in
the administration and conduct of RegAF central senior noncommissioned officer evaluation and
supplemental boards for the United States Air Force at AFPC, USAF Selection Board
Secretariat. Selection Board Secretariat personnel are responsible for conducting central
evaluation and supplemental boards for promotions to Master Sergeant, Senior Master Sergeant,
and Chief Master Sergeants on the active duty list.
3.2. Responsibilities. Board members and alternate board members should familiarize
themselves with applicable portions of this instruction. Board members will be provided a link
to the site that contains this AFI in their board member notification letter. Alternate board
members will remain on stand-by for the duration of the board.
3.3. Board Membership. Board membership will reflect the eligible population in terms of
minority and gender, MAJCOM of assignment, and career area. Career areas, when practical, are
broken into four categories: Support, Operations, Maintenance, and Medical. The largest AFSCs
within each career area garner a board member when practical.
3.4. Board Organization . Boards will be constructed with a Board President (at least a
Brigadier General) and at least one panel. Panels will consist of one colonel (current or
“graduated” group commander, when practical) and two chief master sergeants from the same
career area (defined in paragraph 3.3.). AFSCs and CEM codes will be scored by panels with
representatives from the AFSCs or CEM codes under consideration or from the same career area
as those being evaluated. All members of an AFSC or CEM code will be evaluated by the same
three board members.
3.5. Board Member Preparation. The Selection Board Secretariat will pre-brief the Board
President (BP) on the board agenda, Formal Charge, BP responsibilities, and the trial run
exercise (practice scoring session). Board recorders will conduct the first day administrative
briefing to the board. The BP will then read the Formal Charge verbatim to the board and a copy
will be provided to each board member. Each board member will initial a copy of the Formal
Charge to be maintained in the permanent record. Oaths are administered to board members and
to the recorders and administrative staff. A trial run exercise will then be conducted to
familiarize board members with the selection board records and situations the board may
encounter during actual scoring
3.6. Scoring Records. Board scores are based upon the material in each eligible’s
Noncommissioned Officer Selection Record (NSR). Board members will not have access to
objective WAPS data to include United States Air Force Supervisory Examination (USAFSE)
scores.
3.6.1. Board members will assign each eligible member a board score reflecting their
assessment of relative leadership potential. Select/Non-Select decisions are made based upon
the totality of the eligible’s scores in WAPS, not just their board score. (See Table 2.2 and
Table 2.7).
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 49
3.6.2. Scoring is by secret ballot and without benefit of discussion, unless a significant
disagreement (a "split") occurs in the scores on a particular record.
3.6.2.1. If a board member identifies a record-based matter that causes concern, he/she
will surface the matter to the board recorder who will discuss it with the BP. The BP may
approve bringing that matter to the attention of the board members. Such records may be
rescored after discussion.
3.6.2.2. Board members may discuss their own personal knowledge and evaluation of the
professional qualifications of eligible Airmen as long as they discuss only matters
documented in the NSR.
3.6.2.3. Board members may not discuss or disclose the opinion of any person not a
member of the board concerning the member.
Figure 3.1. Scoring Scale. Boards will use the following scale
Score
Potential
10.0
Absolutely superior
9.5
Outstanding
9.0
Few could be better
8.5
Strong
8.0
Slightly above average
7.5
Average
7.0
Slightly below average
6.5
Well below average
6.0
Lowest
3.7. Defining "Splits". A "split" is a significant disagreement between board members about
the score of a record. A "split" is considered a difference in a score of 1.5 or more points between
any two panel members (e.g., 6 and 7.5, or 8 and 9.5).
3.8. Resolving "Splits". All scoring stops and all voting panel members must be present and
may discuss the records involved in a "split." Only panel members with split scores may change
their scores in the process of resolving a split. A "split" is resolved when there is a difference in a
score of 1.0 or less points between any two panel members (e.g., 6 and 7.0, or 8 and 8.5).
3.9. New Documents. If new information (e.g., decoration citation, enlisted performance
report, updated SNCO evaluation brief) concerning individual records is acquired during scoring,
the affected records will be brought back to the panel for rescoring. New documents will not be
accepted after the panel has adjourned.
3.10. Not Fully Qualified (NFQ) for Promotion. Board members are charged to identify any
Airman who, in their opinion, is NFQ for advancement to the next higher grade. Board members,
when assessing the Airman’s record, may recommend to the Board President the Airman be
rendered NFQ for promotion if, in their evaluation, they do not believe the Airman has
demonstrated the potential for advancement. NFQ is a mechanism designed to preclude
promotion by default in small career fields; however, it should not normally be used to supplant
the 6 to 10 scoring methodology with a pass-fail methodology. It shall not be used to “send” a
message to the eligible or the eligible’s chain of command.
50 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
3.10.1. The Board President will review the record of any Airman a panel renders NFQ. If
the board president believes the record has been inconsistently scored, the board president
may send the record back to the panel for verification. Although a board member’s rationale
for determining an eligible to be NFQ is not releasable, he/she should be prepared to explain
the logic behind the decision to the BP. Those individuals which a majority of the panel
believes are NFQ are identified as such in the board report and are not considered for
promotion.
3.10.2. For those AFSCs with only one Airman eligible and that Airman is rendered NFQ,
the AFSC will be deactivated from the promotion cycle.
3.10.3. AFPC/PB provides a list of Airmen rendered NFQ by the board to AFPC/DPSOE. If
the board determines an Airman is NFQ based on an evaluation of the record, the
Airman is rendered ineligible for the promotion cycle.
3.11. BP Quality Review. In order to assure consistency of scoring, the Board President
reviews records from each AFSC or CEM code under consideration. To do this, the Board
Secretariat takes the following actions:
3.11.1. Prior to the board, the staff works with the Enlisted Promotion & Military Testing
Branch and the Air Staff to determine (as closely as possible) the number of projected
promotions, as well as those AFSCs and CEM codes on the Chronic Critical Shortage Skills
Listing for that promotion cycle.
3.11.2. After the panel finishes scoring each AFSC or CEM code, the Board Secretariat staff
will produce the board score relative order of merit listing for the specialty. They will then
identify the area on the order of merit corresponding to the projected promotion quota for
that specialty by:
3.11.2.1. Drawing a line at the score category that comes closest to fulfilling the
projected quota without exceeding it.
3.11.2.2. Drawing another line one score category lower on the order of merit.
3.11.2.3. The Board President will then receive the following: a representative sampling
of records directly above, below, and in the identified area; the highest scoring record in
the specialty; and any records found to be NFQ by the panel.
3.11.2.4. During his/her review, if the Board President believes one or more records
from this sampling were scored inconsistently, he/she then reviews all records from the
affected score categories involved and may direct rescore of any record he/she deems fit.
The BP will review the resulting scores and determine whether the first score or the
rescore shall be the final score for the record (the BP may only direct one rescore for a
particular record considered).
3.12. Board Report . AFPC/PB prepares board proceeding reports and handles as FOR
OFFICIAL USE ONLY, under provisions of DoD Regulation 5400.7-R_AFMAN 33-302, DoD
Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Program, and retains them for the period specified in the Air
Force Records Disposition Schedule, available on-line at
https://www.my.af.mil/afrims/afrims/afrims/rims.cfm
3.12.1. Provides a board report to AFPC/DPSOE, Enlisted Promotions and Military Testing
Branch, which will discuss the proceedings of the board and identify those Airman found to
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 51
be NFQ for promotion. Board scores will flow electronically into WAPS from the
boardroom. All board members, recorders, and administrative assistants/support personnel
will sign the board report. (T-0).
3.13. Outbrief Board Members. Board recorders out-brief board members on the rules of
disclosure of board proceedings, providing some cautions about what can and cannot be
discussed as well as collecting all notes. It is important that personal observations not jeopardize
the credibility of the board process and that Airmen receive a consistent Air Force message.
3.13.1. The Selection Board Secretariat staff will inform board members and administrative
assistants that all involved with the board process are prohibited from ever sharing their
observations of board proceedings i.e., how members voted, discussions about members’
records, lists or statistics of results, who served on which panel.
3.13.2. Board members and administrative assistants are encouraged to use the briefing
slides provided by the Board Secretariat Staff to brief the board process and structure i.e.,
numbers considered, board organization, steps followed.
3.14. Board Anomalies. Procedural anomalies occurring during a board that may require
variation from established procedures require BP resolution. During the board, the BP may bring
any matter to the attention of the CSAF or AFPC/CC, if he or she determines that such decision
is required. The need for an alternate board member being called to replace a primary board
member will be treated as an anomaly and will follow guidelines specified in this paragraph.
The Board President will make determinations on availability of a primary board member and an
alternate board member and is the authorizing official for directing that an AFPC/CC-approved
alternate replace a board member.
3.15. Supplemental Boards. The following differences in procedure apply to supplemental
boards:
3.15.1. Board Organization. Boards will be constructed with a Board President (at least a
Brigadier General) and at least one panel. Each panel will be composed of board members
from one of the four career areas. For example, one panel could have a mission support
group commander, an operations chief master sergeant, and a maintenance chief master
sergeant. Panels will not be confined to scoring specific AFSCs or CEMs. Similarly, one
panel will not necessarily see all the records from a specific AFSC or CEM.
3.15.2. Determining Select/Non-Select Status. AFPC/DPSOE determines what board score
an eligible would have needed in order to beat the promotion cutoff from the original board.
See paragraphs 2.7 and 2.6.2.
3.15.2.1. An eligible Airman’s record is compared to benchmark records. Benchmark
records are: three records with the same required score as identified in paragraph 3.15.3
(“plus” benchmark) and three records a half point below (“minus” benchmark). All
records are “aged” to appear as they would have on the original board, and all records are
scored together.
3.15.2.2. The panel compares the supplemental record against the benchmarked records
to determine selection status.
3.15.2.3. An eligible is a “Select” if he/she outscores all “minus” benchmarks and ties or
outscores at least one of the “plus” benchmarks. Unlike evaluation boards, there is no
52 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
quota on supplemental boards. The decision tree at Figure 3.2 will be used to determine
select/non-select status.
3.15.3. Differentials. When benchmark records are not available at the required “minus”
scores, AFPC/DPSOE will go to the next available lower score categories for “minus”
benchmarks. When this occurs, the point differential (difference between the required
benchmark score and the actual benchmarks used) must be accounted for when applying the
decision tree. The differential will not exceed minus 3 points.
3.15.4. Inversion. Some degree of inversion is to be expected. Only the most extreme cases
warrant a potential rescore of the records. The enlisted supplemental decision tree outlines
those cases and directs when a rescore is allowed, subject to BP approval.
3.15.5. New Documents. New documents are not applicable in the supplemental process.
Figure 3.2. SNCO Supplemental Decision Tree
3.16. Disclosure of Board Proceedings. The list of board members will be released in
conjunction with the release of the board results (approximately 3-4 weeks following board
adjournment). At that time, board members may discuss the board process and procedures,
board organization, and the number of eligibles considered. Board members may never disclose
how board members voted, who sat on each panel, or what AFSCs they scored. In addition, they
may not keep lists or statistics from the board. Board members are also prohibited from
discussing their personal observations about the strengths and weaknesses in the records.
3.17. Summary. These evaluation board procedures were developed to give all eligible Airmen
fair and equitable consideration, not for ease of administration. While it in many ways mirrors
the officer selection board process, SNCO evaluation boards are not governed by law and are not
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 53
the sole determinant of promotion and as such bear significant differences. These procedures will
remain in effect until otherwise modified in writing.
54 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
Chapter 4
*REGULAR AIR FORCE AIRMAN PROMOTION ACTIONS
4.1. Officer Training Candidates.
4.1.1. MPS:
4.1.2. Notify Airmen they are ineligible for promotion consideration when entering Air
Force commissioning programs on or before PECD. If Airmen enter an Air Force
commissioning program after PECD but before selections are made, they will not be
considered for promotion. (T-3)
4.1.3. Promote Airmen entering the Airman Education and Commissioning Program
(AECP), Officer Training School (OTS), Nurse Enlisted Commissioning Program (NECP),
Physician Assistant (PA) or Academy of Military Science (AMS) programs as follows:
4.1.3.1. Promote Airmen in grades SrA and below to SSgt effective 1 day before their
scheduled PCS or TDY departure. (T-3)
4.1.3.2. Airmen entering AECP, OTS or NECP with a projected promotion to TSgt or
above will retain PSN and be promoted when incremented regardless of whether it occurs
before or after the Airman enters the commissioning program.
4.1.4. Promote Airmen selected for the Air Force Academy with a PSN before entry. Do not
promote Airmen with PSNs after program entry; place memorandums in their records to
show selected grade, cycle, and PSN. Prior service disenrolled Airmen receive their former
grade and DOR with the effective date as the EAD date; second year disenrolled Airmen
receive the grade determined by AFI 36-2604, Service Dates and Dates of Rank. (T-3)
4.1.5. Demote eliminated Airmen to their former grades per Chapter 6, and then promote
them to the highest grades entitled effective the day following demotions. The DOR of the
higher grades are the original DORs (AFI 36-2014, Commissioning Education). (T-3)
4.1.6. Notify Airmen promotion eligibility may be reinstated (see paragraph 4.3.) if they are
eliminated from training through no fault of their own. The training facility commander
must make a recommendation for reinstatement. (T-3)
4.1.7. Discharge Airmen selected for the Airman Scholarship and Commissioning Program
(ASCP) and enlist them into the AF Reserve. Airmen with PSNs that increment prior to
entry into ASCP will be authorized to assume the grade. Place memos with PSNs in the
records of Airmen who have PSNs that will increment after entry (listing grade and cycle).
For those who do not complete ASCP, see AFI 36-2604, Service Dates and Dates of Rank, to
determine active duty grade and DOR. (T-3)
4.1.8. Airmen selected for the Technical Degree Scholarship Program (TDSP) will enlist in
the Regular Air Force for a period of 48 months, serve in the grade of A1C while completing
the degree requirement, and receive basic pay and privileges of that grade. These Airmen are
not entitled to promotion to SrA or SrA BTZ while completing the TDSP academic phase.
After completion of the degree requirement, Airmen will attend OTS and will be promoted to
SSgt effective 1 day before departure, but no earlier than 11th day before report no later than
date. Upon graduation from OTS, Airmen will be discharged from enlisted status and
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 55
tendered a commission as a Regular officer in the United States Air Force in the grade of
second lieutenant.
4.1.8.1. Eliminees from the TDSP academic phase will choose a 4-year commission or a
2-year enlistment. 2-year enlistees entitled to a grade higher than A1C due to prior
service will require grade and service date verification to determine the appropriate grade
and DOR the Airman is entitled to. 2-year enlistees with no prior service will be
promoted to A1C with a DOR equal to the Basic Military Training start date.
4.1.9. ROTC disenrollees will serve a 2-year enlistment and will be accessed to the
appropriate grade prior to entering active duty. Airmen will receive a DOR equal to date of
entry into the ROTC program and an effective date equal to the date of EAD.
4.1.9.1. After accessed, Airmen are authorized one promotion to Amn or A1C base on
their assessed DOR per TIG requirements in paragraph 2.1. The DOR and effective
date for this one promotion is the EAD. Consecutive promotions based on the accessed
grade and DOR prior to EAD are not authorized (Airmen cannot be promoted from AB to
A1C). AFPC/DPSOE updates the one promotion via CMS. Their next promotion is based
on the TIG requirement in paragraph 2.1 or 2.2. Accessed A1Cs who receive an adjusted
DOR will be eligible for SrA after 28 months TIG, but must also serve a minimum of 12
months from EAD prior to pinning on SrA. These members will not be eligible for SrA
BTZ. This also applies to United States Air Force Academy Cadet disenrollees.
4.2. Nonrecommending, Deferring, and Withholding Promotions. The action may be
initiated and approved by the unit commander or director of civilian led units for Airman in the
grades AB - TSgt. The nonrecommendation, deferral, or withhold can be initiated by the unit
commander, but is approved by the promotion authority for Airmen in grades MSgt and SMSgt
(see paragraph 1.5.).
4.2.1. Unit Commanders:
4.2.1.1. Inform Airmen of adverse actions in writing or verbally before promotion
effective date (confirm verbal notification in writing within 5 duty days). The
notification memorandum must include reasons, dates, occurrences, and duration of the
action. If the Airman is notified verbally prior to effective date, and written notification
is followed up after effective date of promotion, include a statement confirming the
Airman was verbally notified not to assume the higher grade prior to the effective date of
promotion. For actions on those in grades SrA through SMSgt, include the affected
promotion cycle. Obtain promotion authority approval for Airmen in grades of MSgt and
SMSgt. (T-3)
4.2.1.2. Obtain the Airmen’s written acknowledgment. (T-3)
4.2.1.3. Forward the written notification to the MPS to send for file in the Airman’s
ARMS record and updates MilPDS. (T-3)
4.2.2. Nonrecommending Promotion. Nonrecommendation for promotion should be used
when an Airman’s behavior does not adhere to established standards. Promotion
reinstatement is not authorized. For promotion nonrecommendation actions/ineligibility
conditions:
56 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
4.2.2.1. Separate written nonrecommendations are not required for Airmen otherwise
ineligible according to Table 1.1. (except for Rule 8, where the ineligibility condition is
specifically “nonrecommendation for promotion”).
4.2.2.2. A1Cs and below, ineligible for promotion under Table 1.1. (except for Rule 8),
will become eligible for promotion upon completion of the ineligibility condition if
otherwise eligible and recommended by the commander.
4.2.2.3. Promotion DOR will be the date the Airman became eligible and the effective
date will be the date of written recommendation by the commander for those exceeding
TIG/TIS requirements. A retroactive promotion effective date may be requested
according to paragraph 1.14.
4.2.2.4. Nonrecommend A1Cs and below in monthly increments up to 6 months (Table
1.1, Rule 8).
4.2.2.4.1. Promotion DOR and effective date will be the anniversary day of the
original promotion date, but only if the anniversary day falls after the date the
commander recommends promotion in writing. EXAMPLE: If DOR to Amn is 9
Mar 06 and commander recommends promotion in writing 10 Mar 07 or later, then
DOR to A1C is 9 Apr 07; if commander recommends promotion in writing 8 Mar 07
or earlier, then DOR to A1C is 9 Mar 07.
4.2.2.4.2. Six-year enlistees with a contract guaranteeing A1C upon completion of
Basic Military Training and Technical Training who are nonrecommended for
promotion will have their contract voided.
4.2.2.4.3. Remove BTZ selects from a selection list and inform them they remain
ineligible until fully qualified (see paragraph 2.2.). (T-3)
4.2.2.5. Nonrecommendation for Airmen in grades SrA and above (for pin-on or testing)
only applies for one promotion cycle at a time.
4.2.2.5.1. MPS must send a copy of the nonrecommendation to AFPC/DPSOE when
the promotion authority (see paragraph 1.5.) approves the nonrecommendation for
promotion (to include testing) for a MSgt or SMSgt.
4.2.3. Deferring Promotion. Deferring a promotion delays the promotion and pay past the
original effective date to allow the commander to determine if the Airman meets acceptable
behavior or performance standards. For deferring promotion to SSgt through CMSgt:
4.2.3.1. The deferral duration is for 1 to 3 months.
4.2.3.2. Wing or equivalent level commanders may approve deferring promotion beyond
3 months to SSgt through MSgt. Equivalent level commander is the first senior rater in a
commander’s position in the Airman’s reporting chain.
4.2.3.3. The promotion authority (see paragraph 1.5.) approves deferring promotions to
SMSgt and CMSgt.
4.2.3.4. The promotion authority must make a promotion decision, in writing, upon
completion of the deferral period. DOR and effective date is the 1st day of the month
after the deferral period ends and cannot be retroactive.
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 57
4.2.3.5. If a promotion is deferred and then withheld, the DOR is the 1st day of the
month after the deferral period ended and cannot be retroactive to the what the original
DOR would had been if no deferral was taken.
4.2.4. Withholding Promotion . Commanders must be advised withholding a promotion is
not used as a punishment or inducement for an Airman to conform to acceptable standards of
performance. Withholding action is taken after promotion selection but before the effective
date of promotion. For withholding promotions:
4.2.4.1. The promotion of any Airman is withheld when he or she possesses any of the
conditions listed in Table 1.2. Written commander notifications are required for all
conditions listed in Table 1.2. Commanders will clearly state specific reasons for all
withholding actions. MPS will return memorandums not stating the specific reasons for
withholding actions to commanders and reference this paragraph.
4.2.4.2. Wing or equivalent level commanders may approve withholding promotions
longer than 1 year. Equivalent level commander is the first senior rater in a commander’s
position in the Airman’s reporting chain. The promotion authority (see paragraph 1.5.)
approves withholding promotions to SMSgt and CMSgt.
4.2.4.3. Airmen receive their original DOR; the effective date is the date the commander
terminates the withhold action and recommends promotion. See paragraph 1.15 for
corrections to effective dates.
4.2.4.4. Airmen whose promotions were withheld, and later changed to a deferral, will
receive a DOR no later than the 1st day of the third month after the original promotion
effective date. NOTE: Wing/CC or equivalent must approve deferring promotion
beyond 3 months. (T-3)
4.3. Promotion Reinstatement. This procedure only applies to Airmen removed from the
control roster or who completed Article 15 suspended reduction. Reinstatement includes
promotion testing, consideration for promotion if tests are on file, or for previous selects that
become ineligible.
4.3.1. Wing or equivalent level commander (equivalent level commander is the first senior
rater in a commander’s position in the Airman’s reporting chain) may approve:
(EXCEPTION: Reinstatement to the grades of SMSgt and CMSgt must be forwarded to the
promotion authority. (see paragraph 1.5.) (T-3)
4.3.1.1. For reinstatement requests for Airmen who were found ineligible because their
records had incomplete or wrong data, the DOR is the date of original increment and
effective date is date of reinstatement approval. Individuals may request a retroactive
promotion effective date according to paragraph 1.15.
4.3.2. Commanders:
4.3.2.1. Should initiate reinstatement requests for Airmen ineligible for promotion to
grades SSgt through CMSgt for only the most deserving cases (including Airmen who
were selects), and send reinstatement requests through the MPS for processing.
4.3.2.2. Requests for reinstatement should not be approved solely because commanders
reverse decisions that originally rendered Airmen ineligible.
58 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
4.3.3. DOR and effective date for approved promotion sequence number (PSN)
reinstatements to grades SSgt through CMSgt are the 1st day of the month following the
month the commander initiated reinstatement action if promotion increment has passed.
MPS send a copy of the reinstatement to AFPC/DPSOE providing the Airman’s name, SSN,
cycle, date commander initiated reinstatement, date reinstatement was approved, and
circumstances surrounding the reinstatement. AFPC/DPSOE will provide testing instructions
if tests were not previously administered supplemental consideration if tests are on file, or
update grade data in MilPDS if the Airman was a previous select.
4.3.4. An Airman or the Airman’s unit commander may request reinstatement for reasons
not covered above. This exception is not intended for use as a rehabilitative tool for
improved behavior. Requests should be limited to those extreme cases that warrant
reinstatement. MPS forward fully documented exception to policy requests through the
Airman’s wing commander, or the promotion authority for SMSgt and CMSgt, to
AFPC/DPSOE for final decision. All levels of command may disapprove these requests and
discontinue further processing. The DOR and effective date for approved reinstatements to
grades SSgt through CMSgt are the 1st day of the month following the month the
commander initiated reinstatement action.
4.4. Applying for Correction of Records. Airmen who believe they have suffered injustice in
their promotion consideration are encouraged to exhaust all administrative remedies prior to
applying to the Air Force Board for Correction of Military Records (AFBCMR) under the
provisions of AFI 36-2603, AFBCMR. The application for correction of military records should
be filed within 3 years after discovering the alleged error or injustice; however, the AFBCMR
may waive untimely filing in the interest of justice.
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 59
Chapter 5
THE USAF BAND ENLISTED PROMOTION AND PROPRIETY REVIEW PROCESS
5.1. Premier Band. The United States Air Force Band (The USAF Band), Joint Base
Anacostia-Bolling, DC, is the Air Force’s sole Premier Band.
5.2. Background. To support CONUS and worldwide mission requirements, The USAF Band
accesses fully qualified professional musicians. The USAF Band members are by-pass
specialists who do not enter into formal upgrade training to attain craftsman (7-skill level)
designation. The USAF Band competes with the other services' premier bands and the civilian
sector in recruiting fully qualified professional musicians. While assigned to The USAF Band,
members are deferred from rotational PCS moves. Special enlisted promotion authority is
granted only for band members assigned to the USAF Band because:
5.2.1. Recruiting fully qualified professional musicians saves training costs and time.
5.2.2. Recruiting and retaining fully qualified professional musicians to The USAF Band
requires an incentive.
5.2.3. Members are deferred from rotational PCS moves and must compete for promotion to
internal vacancies rather than external quotas.
5.3. Promotion Authority. The Commander, Air Force District of Washington (AFDW/CC) is
The USAF Band promotion authority.
5.4. Promotion Objective. The objective of The USAF Band promotion process is to fill
existing and forecasted vacancies based on authorized unit manning with the best-qualified
candidates. All assigned members who have shown potential for increased responsibility and
meet the minimum eligibility requirements will be considered for promotion.
5.4.1. Due to the highly specialized nature of positions in the USAF Band, it conducts a
separate promotion process based on internal unit vacancies. Promotion to TSgt is effective
upon the day the member first reports for duty with The USAF Band and requires the
approval of the promotion authority or its designated representative. There are no TIS or
TIG requirements.
5.4.2. Promotion to the grades of MSgt, SMSgt, and CMSgt are made one grade at a time to
an existing vacancy. The number of personnel selected for promotion is based on existing
and forecasted vacancies during the promotion cycle under consideration. All selects not
promoted prior to the end of the promotion cycle will be promoted the first day of the
following month.
5.5. The USAF Band Promotion Cycle. The PECD for all cycles is 31 March. Promotion
testing for The USAF Band members will be conducted during normal scheduled Air Force
promotion testing cycles. The promotion board will meet in the month of June and evaluate the
selection records for all eligible members for MSgt, SMSgt and CMSgt. Promotion dates begin
on 1 August and end on 31 July of the following year. AFDW/A1, Director of Personnel, will
provide eligible members a copy of the promotion fact sheet.
5.6. Promotion Quotas. The USAF Band promotion quotas for each grade are determined by
AFDW/A1 based on existing and forecasted vacancies during the promotion cycle as of 31 May.
60 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
A vacancy is defined as an existing unfilled authorization. A forecasted vacancy is defined as an
authorization which will become unfilled as a result of retirement, separation, PCS, etc., during
the promotion cycle. Unforecasted vacancies which occur after 31 May are not added to the
promotion quota.
5.7. Eligibility Requirements. To be eligible for promotion under this authority, members
must possess Control Air Force Specialty Code (CAFSC) and Duty Air Force Specialty Code
(DAFSC) 3N2X1. To be eligible for the next higher grade, members of The USAF Band must
meet minimum time in service and time in grade requirements (see Table 5.1).
5.7.1. Eligibility for PFE/USAFSE Testing. Due to the variation between Air Force PECDs
and The USAF Band PECDs, different criteria must be used to determine eligibility to test.
To be eligible to test for the next higher grade, members of The USAF Band must meet the
eligibility requirements in Table 5.1 and must not be declared ineligible on the basis of
Table 5.2.
5.8. Deferring, Withholding and NonRecommending Promotions. Band members must be
recommended for promotion by The USAF Band Commander. The commander will forward the
eligibility/ineligibility roster to the AFDW/A1 staff no later than 15 April. See paragraph 4.2.
for nonrecommending, deferring, and withholding promotions.
5.9. Data Collection and Verification. Upon PECD, the AFDW A1 staff will initiate actions to
begin the promotion consideration process.
5.9.1. By 15 April, each eligible member should verify their Promotion Data Verification
Brief (DVB) by logging into vMPF on the AFPC web page. Members must identify any
discrepancies on the DVB to their servicing MPS or Base Education Office.
5.10. The Promotion Board . The promotion board is an essential element in The USAF Band
promotion process. Selection records are evaluated based on the whole person concept with a
maximum board score of 450 points. All eligible members will have their selection record
reviewed and scored by the promotion board.
5.10.1. The promotion board will be chaired by a General Officer or Brigadier General
Select (if a General Officer is unavailable, a colonel may chair the promotion board). The
three voting members of the promotion board will be a colonel from a non band AFSC, a
CMSgt from a non band AFSC and a CMSgt band manager who is not and has not been
assigned as a member of The USAF Band. The promotion board members will be nominated
by the AFDW A1 staff and appointed by the promotion authority. No board members will
serve on consecutive boards and no member assigned to The USAF Band will be appointed
to the promotion board.
5.11. Determining Selects, Promotion Sequence Numbers and Establishing Dates of
Rank. Promotion selections are based on the promotion quota (see paragraph 5.6). AFDW/A1
will release promotion sequence numbers. Selects are promoted in sequence to the first available
vacancies at the appropriate grade until all selects are promoted. Unfilled vacancies are carried
over to the next promotion cycle.
5.11.1. Promotion Dates of Rank. When vacancies occur on the first day of the month,
promotions are made on that day. When vacancies occur after the first day of the month,
promotions are made on the first day of the following month.
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 61
5.12. Selection List. The promotion selection list is prepared by the AFDW staff and routed to
the promotion authority for final approval.
5.13. Supplemental Promotions. Current Air Force policy will be used when determining
supplemental consideration. Each individual must submit a request for supplemental
consideration in writing to AFDW A1.
5.13.1. The three voting members of the supplemental promotion board will consist of the
Chief Enlisted Force Policy (HQ USAF/A1PPE), a Colonel and another CMSgt. The AFDW
A1 will appoint and convene the panel.
5.14. Promotion Propriety Review. As stated in paragraph 5.2, members of The USAF Band
are fully qualified professional musicians and are granted the privilege of promotion under the
authority of this instruction while assigned to The USAF Band. In order to be assigned to The
USAF Band, each member underwent an extensive audition and interview process. Should the
member fail to continue to meet these high standards, they may be involuntarily removed from
the organization. Any member determined by the commander to have failed to maintain The
UASF Band standards can voluntarily apply for retraining into a different Air Force Specialty.
Any member may also request a voluntary reassignment. A grade determination will be
conducted through the Promotion Propriety Review Board (see paragraph 5.14.2) for members
being reassigned voluntarily or involuntarily from The USAF Band. Members voluntarily or
involuntarily released from the band will be reclassified in accordance with AFI 36-2101,
Classifying Military Personnel (Officers and Enlisted).
5.14.1. Statement of Understanding. Members will be required to sign the Statement of
Understanding (see Attachment 2) as part of their in-processing when first assigned to The
USAF Band. This will be filed in the member's Automated Records Management System
(ARMS).
5.14.2. Promotion Propriety Review Board. The function of the Promotion Propriety
Review Board is to perform a grade propriety review (GPR) on enlisted members of The
USAF Band who will be reassigned to a new career field or to a regional band. Members
assigned to a new career field will be assigned in accordance with AFI 36-2101, Classifying
Military Personnel (Officers and Enlisted). The assessment process seeks to determine the
grade and/or date of rank (DOR) appropriate to the member upon entry into the new career
field or change of assignment.
5.14.2.1. Promotion Propriety Review Board Members. For The USAF Band, the
AFDW/CV (or their appointed colonel designate), The USAF Band Commander and
AFDW/CCC (or their appointed CMSgt designate) will comprise the Promotion
Propriety Review Board. A representative from the AFDW/A1 staff will serve as the
facilitator and a member from The USAF Band will serve as the technical representative.
5.14.2.2. Review Package. AFDW/A1 staff will prepare a review package, to be used by
the Promotion Propriety Review Board, as the basis for its assessment. As a minimum,
the review package should contain data comparing the member under review to the
USAF at large and the new career field (average Air Force time-in-grade and time-in-
service phase points), Individual Data Review RIP, Security Clearance Eligibility
Record, Assignment Notification, PCS orders to The USAF Band, copies of all
performance reports, copies of all award citations and a copy of the signed “Statement of
62 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
Understanding.” NOTE: The member under review may submit, in writing, their own
assessment to the AFDW/A1 staff for inclusion in the review package. This written
assessment should address the factors in the board’s decision.
5.14.2.3. The senior board member will forward the board’s recommendation to the
AFDW/A1, who will forward it to the band career field manager (SAF/PAR) for
coordination no later than 90 days prior to the member’s departure for the new
assignment. In turn, SAF/PAR will forward the board’s recommendation to HQ
USAF/A1PPE for final determination and approval. HQ USAF/A1PPE will inform the
AFDW/A1 of its decision. The USAF Band Commander may verbally inform the
member of the board’s recommendation upon completion of the propriety review.
5.14.3. The AFDW/A1 will notify The USAF Band Commander of the final determination
made by HQ USAF/A1PPE. The commander will immediately notify the member in writing
of the GPR determination by memorandum. The commander will forward a copy of the
notification memorandum to the AFDW A1 staff for inclusion in the member’s ARMS. The
AFDW/A1 staff will ensure demotion/date of rank adjustment orders are completed and
distributed appropriately (i.e., gaining MPS, member, AFPC/DPSOE). Grade and DOR
changes take effect on the day the member arrives at their new duty station (Date Arrived
Station).
5.14.4. GPR Objective. The GPR will be based on the whole person concept. As a
minimum, the Promotion Propriety Review Board should consider the following factors:
5.14.4.1. Has the member received the proper training to serve in the new career field at
the rank which they presently hold?
5.14.4.2. Does the member have the kinds of duty experiences at the grade level
commensurate with the new career field position?
5.14.4.3. Has the member demonstrated the leadership and management skills required
in the new career field?
5.14.4.4. Has the member achieved the average TIS and TIG, both in the new career
field and in the Air Force at large, to avoid creating an unfair promotion competition
advantage over their new career field peers? NOTE: Members being assigned to a new
career field will not retain any grade for which they do not meet the minimum Air Force
TIS requirements in Table 2.1 or be given DOR earlier than possible under those TIS
requirements.
5.14.5. GPR Board Recommendations. The Promotion Propriety Review Board may make
any of the following recommendations:
5.14.5.1. Allow the member to retain their current rank and time in grade.
5.14.5.2. Allow the member to retain their current rank, but have their DOR adjusted in
accordance with determinations made with respect to paragraph 5.14.4. NOTE: A
member’s downward-adjusted DOR may extend to any period including present date of
rank.
5.14.5.3. Demote to a rank and DOR commensurate to members with similar TIS in the
new career field or the Air Force at large. The DOR for the grade to which demoted may
be either the average date of rank held by other Airmen in that grade in the new career
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 63
field or the DOR actually held if previously promoted to the grade under other Air Force
promotion systems. NOTE: A member cannot be demoted below a grade previously
earned under the Air Force promotion system governing the gaining career field.
5.14.6. GPR Resulting Administrative Actions. AFDW/A1 staff notifies the local FSS to
publish any required demotion/DOR adjustment guidance for the gaining MPS, and
AFPC/DPSOE to project DOR.
Table 5.1. Minimum Eligibility Requirements for The USAF Band Promotion
R
U
L
E
If
promotion
is to the
grade of
and the time in
current grade
computed on the first
day of the month
before the month
promotions are made
and the TAFMS date
on the first day of the
last month of the
promotion cycle
then
1
TSgt
N/A
DAS
the Airman is eligible for
promotion if recommended,
in writing by the promotion
authority
2
MSgt
24 months
6 years
3
SMSgt
(see note)
20 months
10 years
4
CMSgt
(see note)
21 months
14 years
NOTE:
SNCO Academy (correspondence or in-residence) and Associates Degree from Community College
of the Air Force (CCAF) must be completed prior to PECD for promotion eligibility.
Table 5.2. Determining Ineligibility for PFE/USAFSE Testing
The Airman is ineligible to test for promotion during a particular cycle when he or she:
A
Does not meet minimum Time In Service requirement by the first day of the last month of the
promotion cycle.
B
Does not meet minimum Time In Grade requirement by the first day of the month before the
month promotions are made.
C
Has a mandatory date of separation (DOS), high year of tenure (HYT), or an approved
retirement before the first day of the month that promotions are incremented in that cycle (1
August).
D
Has declined promotion consideration/testing and has an AF Form 1566, WAPS Test
Verification, on file to that effect.
E
Is denied or not selected for reenlistment.
F
Has declined to attend appropriate resident PME.
G
Non-recommended by commander or has other quality factor rendering them ineligible.
64 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
Chapter 6
ADMINISTRATIVE DEMOTION OF ACTIVE DUTY AIRMEN
6.1. Demotions. Do not use administrative demotions when it is more appropriate to take
actions specified by the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ).
6.1.l. The home station unit commander recommends demotion action to the demotion authority
(paragraph 6.2). Deployed commanders must send demotion actions to the home station unit
commander for action. The home station unit commander will complete coordination with the
appropriate demotion authority. (T-0).
6.1.2. Do not demote Airmen who have separated.
6.1.3. Begin administrative demotion for action during the term of enlistment when the
reason for the action occurred, except when the commander is not aware of the facts and
circumstances until after that term of enlistment expires.
6.1.4. If the commander has sufficient reason to initiate demotion action, use the entire
military record in deciding whether demotion is appropriate.
6.1.5. When appropriate, give Airmen an opportunity to overcome their deficiencies before
demotion action is initiated. Commanders should maintain supporting documentation of all
rehabilitation and probationary actions.
6.1.6. Do not suspend administrative demotions. The demotion authority, with
administrative jurisdiction, can restore the individual’s original grade. If the demotion
authority restores the Airman’s original grade following the demotion, he or she must do so
sometime between 3 months and 6 months after the effective date of the demotion.
6.1.6.1. Restoring grade should be an uncommon occurrence. The effective date and the
date of rank (DOR) are the date on which the demotion authority approves restoration in
writing.
6.1.6.2. Do not revoke demotion orders. File the demotion order in the Airman’s ARMS
record along with the memorandum approving the restoration. Create a CMS case and
include restoration package/memorandum and refer the case to AFPC/DPSOE. (T-0).
6.1.6.3. Initiating restoration beyond 6 months after the effective date of demotion will
require an exception to policy. This exception is not intended for use as a rehabilitative
tool for improved behavior. Requests should be limited to those extreme cases that
warrant restoration. MPS forward fully documented exception to policy requests initiated
by the demotion authority through the Airman’s wing commander with coordination from
JA (if they are not the demotion authority) to AFPC/DPSOE for final decision by
AF/A1P. All levels of command may disapprove these requests and discontinue further
processing. (T-1).
6.2. Who Can Demote.
6.2.1. The group commander, or equivalent level commander, may demote MSgts and
below. Equivalent level commander is defined as a senior Air Force officer in the grade of
colonel. EXAMPLE: An Air Force officer in charge of an Air Force Element or a
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 65
commander above the squadron level. NOTE: Higher levels of command may also demote,
but group commander is the lowest level of authority.
6.2.2. The MAJCOM commander, FOA commander and DRU commander, may demote
those in the grades of SMSgt and CMSgt. This demotion authority may be delegated to the
MAJCOM vice commander, Deputy Chief of Staff for Manpower, Personnel and Services,
Numbered Air Force (NAF), or equivalent level commanders, but may not be further
delegated.
6.2.3. The appellate authority is the next higher level commander and handles demotion
appeals.
6.2.4. The Secretary of the Air Force (SECAF) may demote to significantly reduce strength,
grade levels, or both.
6.3. Reasons to Demote.
6.3.1. Student Status Termination. Airmen are demoted to their former grade when their
student status ends if they were promoted in anticipation of completing additional training, or
to obtain a commission.
6.3.1.1. Demote officer trainees or pipeline students to their former grade if they are
eliminated from training.
6.3.1.2. Delay the demotion when an Airman would lose authorization to ship household
goods, move dependents, or both, until he or she arrives at the new duty location
(permanent change of station [PCS]). The gaining commander completes demotion
action using the effective date as the date when the Airman arrives at the new duty
location.
6.3.1.3. Demote Airmen attending temporary duty (TDY) Air Force schools to their
former grade when the school commandant informs the base that their student status is
terminated.
6.3.2. If a member is promoted to SSgt, TSgt, or SMSgt with an approved EPME waiver and
later is dismissed for cause, declines DL or in residence PME.
6.3.3. Demotion Based on Skill Levels. Demote Airmen, when appropriate, to a grade that
corresponds to their skill level.
6.3.3.1. Demote Airmen, including Airmen promoted with a Primary Air Force Specialty
Code (PAFSC) waiver, if they cannot achieve a skill level appropriate to their grade.
6.3.3.2. Demote Airmen to the highest possible grade allowed for the skills they have if
their Air Force specialty (AFS) skill level is downgraded for substandard performance.
Use the date their skill level was reduced as the effective date of demotion.
6.3.4. Failure to fulfill Responsibilities. Airmen may be demoted for failing to fulfill
Airman, noncommissioned officer (NCO), or senior noncommissioned officer (SNCO)
responsibilities under AFI 36-2618, The Enlisted Force Structure, Chapters 3 through 5.
6.3.5. Failure to Keep Fit. Airmen may be demoted for failing to maintain or demonstrate
the ability and willingness to attain physical standards, according to AFI 36-2905, Fitness
Program.
66 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
6.3.6. Failure to Perform. Demote Airmen under the policies of the Personnel Support
Division (AFDW/A1K), and this instruction, if they do not perform at USAF or USAF Space
Command bands standards (applies to AFSC 3N2X1).
6.3.7. Voluntary Reassignment or Reclassification. Demote Airmen under the policies and
procedures established by AFDW/A1P if they volunteer for reassignment or reclassification
out of AFSC 3N2X1.
6.4. How to Process a Demotion.
6.4.1. The Unit Commander:
6.4.1.1. Signs the notification memorandum informing the Airman of intent to demote.
6.4.1.2. Cites this instruction, the specific paragraph, demotion authority if other than
initiating commander, the recommended grade for demotion, the specific reasons for
demotion, and provides a summary of the facts.
6.4.1.3. Ensures the following information is included in the notification memorandum:
6.4.1.3.1. “I (concur)(do not concur) with the proposed demotion; I (will or have)
(will not or have not) (submit or submitted) written materials on my behalf. I
(request)(waive) a personal hearing before the initiating commander. I (have)(have
not) consulted with counsel.”
6.4.1.4. Advises the Airman that he or she may seek legal counsel. The unit commander
provides the name and number of the local Area Defense Counsel who can assist with
written and oral statements.
6.4.1.5. Informs the Airman (if eligible) of the right to apply for retirement in lieu of a
demotion, effective no later than the 1st day of the 4th month following the initial
notification of demotion, as follows:
6.4.1.5.1. Within 3 working days of Airman’s acknowledgement of demotion
memorandum, if eligible to retire, indicate the member understands the option to
apply for retirement in lieu of demotion. Also indicate whether Airman is applying
for retirement in lieu of demotion.
6.4.1.5.2. Member must have completed at least 20 years of active duty service by
the 1st day of the 4th month after the initial notification date of demotion.
6.4.1.5.3. Member must apply for retirement within 3 working days of receipt of
demotion notification memorandum, or the demotion will take effect as the date the
demotion authority approved the demotion. The unit commander may approve, in
writing, an extension of time to submit the retirement application. See paragraph 6.6.
and contact AFPC/DPSOR for additional instructions on applying for and processing
an application for retirement in lieu of demotion.
6.4.1.6. Makes sure the Airman endorses the demotion when he or she receives it. The
Airman must agree or disagree within 3 working days.
6.4.1.7. Informs the Airman that if he or she does not agree, statements may be
presented, orally or written, within 3 work days after receiving this. The unit commander
may approve extensions, in writing.
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 67
6.4.2. The Initiating Commander:
6.4.2.1. After receiving the Airman's acknowledgment, the commander decides whether
or not to terminate the demotion action or continue processing it.
6.4.2.2. If the commander terminates the demotion process, he or she needs only to
inform the Airman.
6.4.2.3. If the commander decides to continue processing the demotion action, he or she
notifies the affected Airman of the decision in writing. The commander summarizes the
written or oral statements, and sends the entire case file to the servicing MPS for
processing.
6.4.3. Demotion Authority:
6.4.3.1. The demotion authority can take additional grade reductions other than the
initiating commander's recommendation. Request a written legal review from the
servicing staff judge advocate (SJA) before deciding the demotion. Return the entire case
file to the Airman's servicing MPS.
6.4.4. MPS:
6.4.4.1. The MPS informs the Airman's unit commander, in writing, of the demotion
decision and gets the Airman's written acknowledgment. (T-3)
6.4.5. The Commander:
6.4.5.1. Informs the Airman that his or her current grade is retained if the demotion is not
approved. (T-3)
6.4.5.2. Informs the Airman of the grade to which he or she is demoted, including the
DOR and the effective date. (T-3)
6.4.5.3. Informs the Airman that he or she must acknowledge the decision within 3
working days. (T-3)
6.4.5.4. Informs the Airman that he or she can appeal the demotion to the appellate
authority within 3 working days. (T-3)
6.4.6. The Airman:
6.4.6.1. Acknowledges receipt by endorsing the document.
6.4.6.2. Includes the date.
6.4.6.3. Indicates if he or she will appeal the decision.
6.5. How to Process an Appeal. The MPS forwards the case to the demotion authority for
review. The demotion authority can reverse the previous decision and restore the Airman’s
original grade, or forward the case to the appellate authority without comment. If the appellate
authority approves the appeal, the appellate authority directs the MPS to restore the Airman’s
previous grade and revoke demotion orders.
6.6. How to Apply for Retirement. An Airman eligible for voluntary retirement as set out in
paragraph 6.4.1.5.2 can elect to “retire in lieu of demotion.” The requested effective date of
retirement will be no later than the 1st day of the 4th month following the date the Airman
received the initial demotion notification. An application to retire in lieu of demotion must be
68 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
processed to Secretary of the Air Force Personnel Council (SAFPC) for final
approval/disapproval.
6.6.1. An application to retire in lieu of demotion is not submitted through vMPF. Airmen
apply to retire in lieu of demotion using a hardcopy AF 1160. When an Airman submits an
AF Form 1160 to retire in lieu of demotion, all demotion action stops until SAFPC acts on
the retirement application. Contact AFPC/DPSOR for additional instructions on applying for
and processing retirement in lieu of demotion application..
6.6.2. The demotion process is terminated if SAFPC approves the retirement in lieu of
application. If SAFPC disapproves the retirement in lieu of application, the demotion
process continues.
6.7. Grades to Demote Airmen.
6.7.1. Demote a SrA or higher no lower than Airman First Class (A1C). EXCEPTION:
Airmen under paragraph 6.3.1. can be demoted to the grade of AB.
6.7.2. Demote an A1C no lower than Amn.
6.7.3. Demote an Amn to AB.
6.7.4. Demote by three or more grades only when no reasonable hope exists that the Airman
will ever show the proficiency, leadership, or fitness that earned the initial promotion.
6.8. How to Determine the DOR.
6.8.1. DOR for Airmen demoted under paragraph 6.3.1. is the first date served in reduced
grade (i.e., original date of rank).
6.8.2. DOR for Airmen who are demoted under paragraph 6.3.2 is the original date of rank
and the effective date is the date the commander approves the demotion.
6.8.3. DOR for Airmen demoted under paragraphs 6.3.3. through 6.3.5. is the effective date
of the demotion action (i.e., the date the demotion authority approves the demotion).
6.8.4. AFDW/A1P determines the DOR for Airmen demoted under paragraphs 6.3.6. and
6.3.7.
6.9. When to Announce and Revoke Demotions.
6.9.1. Publishing Orders. The MPS publishes orders after the demotion authority (not the
appellate authority) approves the demotion, but not earlier than 4 working days after the
Airman acknowledges it. Forward one copy of each demotion order under this instruction to
AFPC/DPSOE.
6.9.2. What to do if the Airman is Eligible to Retire in Lieu of Demotion. Publish orders
only if the Airman does not submit an application for retirement within 3 working days
following acknowledgment (not including the date of acknowledgment).
6.9.2.1. Stop demotion proceedings for an Airman who applies for retirement pending
the outcome of the application.
6.9.2.2. If SAFPC turns down the application for retirement in lieu of demotion, publish
the demotion orders after the demotion authority approves the demotion. The effective
date and DOR of the demotion are the approval date of the demotion.
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 69
6.9.3. Revoking Demotion Orders. Revoke demotion orders and restore the Airman’s
original grade, DOR and effective date if the demotion authority determines that the order
was published without basis of authority.
6.10. How to Publish Demotion Orders. The special order series is “AA” for administrative
demotions.
6.10.1. The MPS:
6.10.1.1. Gets written confirmation of verbal order as soon as possible.
6.10.1.2. Publishes the administrative demotion special order. Include:
6.10.1.2.1. Grade, name, SSN, unit, major command, and address of unit.
6.10.1.2.2. Grade from which he or she was demoted, showing that the grade was
permanent.
6.10.1.2.3. Grade to which he or she is demoted, showing that the grade is
permanent.
6.10.1.2.4. Effective date and DOR of the grade demoted to.
6.10.1.2.5. Paragraph under which the Airman was demoted. EXAMPLE: Demotion
of An Airman: SSGT OZZIE R. TOOLE, 123-45-6789, 56th Logistics Support
Squadron ACC, Langley AFB VA, is demoted from permanent grade of SSgt to
permanent grade of SrA effective and with date of rank 15 August 1992. Authority:
AFI 36-2502, paragraph 6.3. (Reference sub-paragraph referring to specific demotion
reason).
6.10.1.2.6. Why orders were not requested in advance. EXAMPLE: The verbal
orders of the commander on (date) are confirmed; circumstances prevented written
orders in advance.
6.10.1.3. Distributes the demotion order to the individuals and organizations on the
order.
6.10.1.4. Forwards one copy of the demotion order to AFPC/DPSIRR, 550 C Street
West, Suite 21, Randolph AFB TX 78150-4723 for ARMS.
6.11. The Demotion Authority:
6.11.1. Directs revoked demotion orders published under this instruction if the appellate
authority determines that demotion action is inappropriate. EXAMPLE: Paragraph 4.10. of
Special Order AA-141, this HQ, 10 August 1992, purporting to demote SSGT EARL
TRAVER, 123-45-6789, this HQ, to grade of SrA, which has been determined by
Commander, AETC, to be without original basis and null and void, is revoked. Authority:
AFI 36-2502, paragraph 6.3. (reference sub-paragraph referring to specific demotion reason).
6.11.2. Retains demotion orders if the Airman’s grade is restored according to paragraph
6.1.6.
6.12. Documenting Demotion Actions. The MPS:
70 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
6.12.1. Updates the demotion in the personnel data system (MilPDS) according to the
Enlisted Promotions PSD guide immediately after the demotion authority (not appellate
authority) approves the demotion. (T-3)
6.12.2. Sends a copy of the entire case file to AFPC/DPSIRR, 550 C Street West Ste 21,
Randolph AFB TX 78150-4723 to have documents scanned into ARMS. (T-3)
6.13. Dual Status Airmen. Airmen can also hold a commission as an officer in the Air Force
Reserve. If demoted, the MPS forwards the completed demotion report with the commander’s
recommendation regarding termination of appointment (AFI 36-3209, Separation and
Retirement Procedures for Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve Members), directly to HQ
Air Reserve Personnel Center (ARPC), Separations Branch (DPTTS), 18420 E. Silver Creek
Avenue, Bldg 390 MS68, Buckley AFB, CO 80011.
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 71
Chapter 7
TOTAL FORCE SPECIAL PROMOTION PROGRAMS
7.1. Promoting RegAF Airmen in Missing Status . For Airmen declared “missing in action”
(MIA) or “prisoner of war” (POW), the MPS forwards the unit commander's promotion
recommendation or nonrecommendation to ARMS for inclusion in member’s electronic record,
forwards a copy to AFPC/DPSOE, determines promotion eligibility using Table 2.1, and waives
all other requirements. The AFPC Commander (Executive Director in the Commander's
absence) determines promotion for these Airmen. AF/A1PP determines promotion for other
categories of Airmen declared in a missing status.
7.1.1. AFPC/DPSOE:
7.1.1.1. Promotes recommended Airmen in the grades of A1C and below when they
meet TIG and TIS requirements in paragraphs 2.1. and 2.2. (T-0)
7.1.1.2. Considers SrA through SMSgt for promotion during the first or next normally
scheduled cycle based on the TIG and TIS eligibility requirements. The Airman's TIG
and TIS must meet or exceed the average TIG and TIS phase points for those selected in
their AFSC or CEM code. Selects those meeting or exceeding TIG and TIS for
promotion, if recommended by the unit commander, and assigns a PSN. (T-0)
7.2. Promoting RegAF Medal of Honor Recipients. AFPC/DPSOE automatically promotes
Medal of Honor recipients one grade unless they currently serve in the grade of CMSgt. The
effective date is the 1st day of the month following the date of the order. If the Airman is on a
promotion selection list, the effective date of the additional promotion is the 1st day of the month
following the normal selection list promotion.
7.3. Promoting RegAF Prior-Service Airmen and Former Officers . AFPC/DPSOA (Skills
Management Branch) initially classifies Airmen and identifies their skill-level on entry to active
duty. NOTE: Initial classification and later skill-level upgrade are the only basis for satisfying
the skill level requirement in Table 2.1. However, those personnel in the grades of SrA through
TSgt returned to duty in an AFSC skill level that does not make them eligible to test for
promotion (SrA = 5 level, SSgt = 5 level, and TSgt = 7 level) are authorized a DIERT date equal
to their EAD. The DIERT date will expire 24 months from their EAD.
7.4. Promoting RegAF Airmen During Declared National Emergency or War . The Air
Force uses Title 37, U.S.C., Section 201; DoDD 1304.20; War and Mobilization Plan, Volume 1
(WMP-1), Annex G; Deputy Chief of Staff for Manpower and Personnel (DCS/P) Emergency
Actions Book (EAB) to determine enlisted promotions under emergency or war conditions.
7.4.1. The Air Force Combat Operations Staff/Contingency Support Staff, Military
Personnel Readiness Center (AFCOS/CSS MPRC), with AFPC Personnel Readiness Center
(PRC), implement instructions by priority message. Use the staff guidance and preformatted
messages outlined in the DCS/P EAB whenever possible.
7.4.2. AF/A1PP may:
7.4.2.1. Suspend existing promotion programs and accelerate existing promotion
increments to meet emergency wartime grade requirements.
72 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
7.4.2.2. Initiate a decentralized system of temporary promotions. The selection authority
is the MAJCOM commander, who may further delegate this authority. See Table 2.1. for
minimum TIG and TIS at the time of promotion to determine eligibility.
7.4.2.3. Select Airmen on a best-qualified basis subject to limitations or requirements
specified by the MAJCOM commander. HQ USAF specifies any changes from current
eligibility requirements. Make promotions to fill vacancies (unit, wing commander, or
MAJCOM, depending on the level promotion authority delegated) in approved wartime
grade requirements. Reservists mobilized from the inactive status list and recalled
retirees must serve a minimum of 6 months continuous active duty following recall to be
eligible for promotion. The DOR for promotion will equal the effective date.
7.5. RegAF Wounded Warrior (AFW2) Program.
7.5.1. Promotion to SSgt, TSgt and MSgt will use the following procedures:
7.5.1.1. Once awarded RI 9W200 IAW 36-2101, AFPC/DPSOE will consider AFW2s
for promotion provided they are promotion eligible and they WAPS test. The status of RI
9W200 will be verified by AFPC/DPSOE through AFPC/DPF prior to the testing
window for each cycle. The AFW2s will compete for promotion with other Air Force-
wide Specialty Knowledge Test (SKT) exempt Airmen; testing only on the Promotion
Fitness Examination (PFE). At any time an AFW2 may decline their SKT exemption,
they will be required to take the SKT commensurate within their most recent Control Air
Force Specialty Code (CAFSC); SKT exemption elections will be annotated on AF Form
1566.
7.5.1.1.1. For Promotion to MSgt, regardless of testing status, the AFW2 selection
record will meet the central evaluation board and compete for promotion among other
AFW2s. In the event an AFW2 is selected for promotion, AF/A1 must approve the
promotion action prior to public release.
7.5.1.2. The MPS/TCO must provide a copy of the AFW2’s AF Form 1566 to
AFPC/DPSOE for them to make appropriate changes in WAPS/WIRE. Once the
promotion test has been administered, the decision (to elect PFE only, or PFE and SKT
testing) cannot be reversed. NOTE: When there is not an SKT for the specialty, then all
Airmen in that AFSC compete for promotion together, regardless of their status, testing
on the Promotion Fitness Examination.
7.5.1.3. AFPC/DPSOE will assist the AFW2’s nearest MPS to schedule testing and help
meet the AFW2’s testing needs, IE., if physically incapable of WAPS testing alone, yet
desiring to test. MPS will contact AFPC/DPSOE for additional guidance and approval.
7.5.1.4. DELETED
7.5.2. Special promotion considerations to SSgt and TSgt.
7.5.2.1. To ensure AFW2s are considered for promotion and are promoted along with
their peers, the following promotion procedures will apply if the AFW2 is promotion
eligible, but cannot WAPS test as documented by a medical authority due to catastrophic
injuries. A catastrophic injury is defined as a permanent, severely disabling injury,
disorder, or disease that compromises the Service Member’s ability to carry out the
activities of daily living to such a degree that the Service Member or Veteran (SM/V)
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 73
requires personal or mechanical assistance to leave home, bed, and/or requires constant
supervision to avoid physical harm to themselves or others. The medical authority’s
documentation identifying a SM/V with a catastrophic injury must be processed through
AFPC/DPF to AFPC/DPSOE. Additionally, unit commander promotion
recommendation with wing commander approval must accompany the medical
authority’s documentation.
7.5.2.1.1. AFPC/DPSOE considers each AFW2 (if unable to test as documented by
competent medical authority) for promotion based on RI 9W200 and select them for
promotion upon reaching the average TIG of selectees in their CAFSC. The AFW2
must be eligible for promotion and meet minimum eligibility requirements as outlined
in Table 2.1 to be considered for promotion
7.5.2.1.2. AFPC/DPSOE verifies AFW2 promotion eligibility and ensures
individuals meet the minimum TIG and TIS requirements. If the AFW2’s TIG as of
the most recent PECD, meets or exceeds that of selectees in their most recent
CAFSC, the AFW2 is eligible for promotion consideration by AF/A1. If approved
for promotion, the DOR and effective date will be the first day of the month
following AF/A1 written promotion approval. AFPC/DPSOE will make promotion
approval notification to the AFW2’s wing and unit commander.
7.5.2.1.3. DELETED
7.5.3. Promotion to MSgt, SMSgt, and CMSgt will use the following procedures:
7.5.3.1. Once awarded RI 9W200, AFPC/DPSOE will consider the AFW2 for
promotion. Regardless of testing status, if the AFW2 is promotion eligible their selection
record will meet the promotion evaluation board and compete for promotion among other
AFW2 personnel in their respective grade using WAPS eligibility factors. AFW2’s who
are declared fit to test and meet the promotion evaluation board will be considered for
evaluation board separately from those AFW2’s who only meet the evaluation board and
who are declared unfit to test. If the member is the only promotion eligible, the
promotion evaluation board will determine if the member is fully qualified. AF/A1 and
AF/CCC through AF/A1P, will approve promotion results for AFW2 MSgt, SMSgt, and
CMSgt selects prior to public release.
7.5.4. Rare and exceptional cases may be considered as an exception to this policy by AF/A1
with AF/CCC coordination.
7.5.5. Eligible Airmen may receive promotion consideration in multiple grades while they
are participating in the AFW2 Program.
7.5.6. Active Duty Service Commitment requirements for promotion of an AFW2 are
automatically waived.
7.6. RegAF, USAF Reserve and Air National Guard Posthumous Promotions.
7.6.1. Reg AF Airmen due for promotion to grades Amn through SrA who die within 30
days of their originally projected promotion date are eligible for posthumous promotion.
RegAF Airmen selected for promotion to grades SSgt through CMSgt who die before their
projected promotion date, are eligible for posthumous promotion. Any circumstance outside
of this guidance will require considered under an exception to policy. Submit requests to
74 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
AFPC/DPSOE through AF/A1P to AF/A1 for final approval. The MPS will publish special
orders, following unit commander posthumous promotion recommendation with wing
commander’s approval. Then the MPS will email the orders to: afpc.casualty@us.af.mil
immediately upon notification of posthumous promotion approval from wing commander.
The actual date the Airman is declared deceased becomes the effective date cited in the
promotion order. No financial benefits accrue as a result of a posthumous promotion.
7.6.1.1. WAPS tests will not be scored for Airmen in the grades of SrA through SMSgt
who die prior to promotion release. WAPS scores are only releasable once considered a
matter of record, which is after the promotion release date.
7.6.2. USAF Reserve Airmen who become deceased before being promoted and have been
officially recommended for promotion are eligible for posthumous promotion. Such
promotion is authorized only if it is known they would have been promoted under normal
circumstances. The MPS or ARPC publishes special orders and forwards five copies to Air
Force Reserve Center/A1KP (AFRC/A1KP) immediately upon notification.
7.6.2.1. The actual date the Airman is declared deceased becomes the effective date cited
in the promotion order. No financial benefits accrue as a result of a posthumous
promotion.
7.6.3. Air National Guard Eligibility. Airmen are authorized such promotion when all
criteria in Table 10.1 have been met prior to death.
7.6.3.1. This promotion requires approval by TAG. Further delegation to the State AAG
for Air is not authorized for posthumous promotions. The effective Date of Rank (DOR)
cited in the order is the date the airman died. The State Headquarters will publish
promotion orders in accordance with ANGI 33-101. The following statement is a
mandatory entry on the special orders: “No financial benefits accrue as a result of this
posthumous promotion.”
7.6.3.2. The commander or Casualty Assistance Representative (CAR) must counsel the
Next of Kin (NOK) in writing that no financial benefits accrue as a result of a
posthumous promotion.
7.6.3.3. Under no circumstances will a posthumous promotion be updated in the military
personnel data system.
7.7. USAF Reserve and Air National Guard Missing in Action (MIA) Promotion during
War or National Emergencies. These provisions apply to Airmen captured or kidnapped while
performing duties overseas.
7.7.1. AF Reserve. For Airmen declared MIA or captured, the immediate commander's
promotion recommendation or non-recommendation is filed in the Airman’s UPRG and a
copy is forwarded to AFRC and ARPC. AFRC/A1KP verifies promotion eligibility using
Table 8.2 and identifies and forwards waiver requirements as needed. The AFRC commander
or designated representative is the promotion authority for these Airmen. (T-0)
7.7.2. Air National Guard (ANG). Immediate commanders may recommend Airman
declared MIA or captured for promotion to the next higher grade provided they meet all
promotion eligibility criteria identified in Table 10.1. Request for promotion must be
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 75
endorsed by NGB/A1P prior to the airman being promoted by the appropriate approval
authority.
7.7.3. Guard and Reserve Commanders or Program Managers will ensure that Airmen, who
are returned to their units after being in an MIA or captured status, retain their ranks as an
overage, or by assignment to another position in the higher grades.
7.8. Promoting USAF Reserve and Air National Guard Medal of Honor
Recipients. AFRC/CC and NGB/CF may automatically promote Medal of Honor recipients one
grade unless they currently serve in the grade of CMSgt. The effective date is the 1st day of the
month. If the Airman is on a promotion selection list, the effective date of the additional
promotion is the 1st day of the month following the normal selection list promotion.
7.9. USAF Reserve and Air National Guard Wounded Warrior (AFW2) Program .
Members who have been awarded the appropriate Reporting Identifiers (RIs) of 9W200, 9W300,
or 9W400 as secondary or tertiary AFSC (IAW 36-2010) are eligible for promotion unless they
currently serve in the grade of CMSgt. AFW2 must meet all component specific eligibility
criteria and requirements. Approval authority for an AFR member is AFRC/CC. Approval
authority for ANG members is identified in paragraph 10.1.2., but must be endorsed by
NGB/A1P. Reserve service commitment, fit for duty determination and fitness requirements for
promotion of an AFW2 are automatically waived.
76 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
Chapter 8
*USAF RESERVE AIRMEN PROGRAM ELEMENTS (ONLY APPLIES TO AFR NOT
EAD)
8.1. Program Objectives. A promotion is advancement to a higher grade based on past
performance and future potential. There are four enlisted promotion categories: Unit Vacancy,
Stripes for Exceptional Performers I (STEP I), Stripes for exceptional Performers II (STEP II),
and Other (e.g. Medal of Honor, Missing in Action (MIA), AFW2, and Posthumous).
8.2. Responsibilities. Promotion responsibilities will be identified throughout this chapter.
Table 8.1 identifies the appropriate promotion authority. Only the Promotion Authority may
approve a promotion. However, any commander in the Airman’s command channel may
disapprove a promotion.
8.3. Eligibility Requirements. (See Table 8.2) Airmen in grades E-5 and above must meet
eligibility requirements as of the last day of the month prior to the promotion cycle. The Airman
must also be the incumbent in a higher graded position.
8.3.1. The Airman must be performing satisfactorily based on his or her assigned position
and not have any unexcused absences within the previous 12-month period from the
promotion effective date. Additionally, the most recently completed R/R year must be
satisfactory (AFI 36-2254VI, Reserve Personnel Participation).
8.3.2. Individuals awaiting technical school after Basic Military Training graduation will
remain eligible for promotion and must meet the requirements in Table 8.2.
8.3.3. The Promotion Authority makes the final determination on promotion eligibility of
any member. Only AF/RE can approve requests for waivers to establish promotion
eligibility. Process all waiver requests through the appropriate command channels to AF/RE.
(T-0)
8.4. Ineligibility for Promotion. AFRC will suspend promotion to any grade or grades if
AFRC determine that the assigned strength in a particular grade or grades will exceed the
number authorized. HQ Individual Reservist Readiness and Integration Organization (IR/RIO)
Program Managers will provide input through IR/RIO on promotion suspensions within the
command they service. (T-1). The following circumstances preclude promotion:
8.4.1. Grades E-6 and above within 12 months of BRAC, unit deactivation or other
programmatic actions. (Note: Enlisted promotions through the grade of E-5 will be allowed
to continue until final closure of the losing organization).
8.4.2. Airmen projected for reassignment to an inactive status, separation, or retirement
within six months of promotion date.
8.4.3. Airmen in Training Status Code “T”, Failure to Progress.
8.4.4. Airmen who are within one year of the date of a court-martial order or the end of the
longest period of punishment, whichever is later.
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 77
8.4.5. Airmen within one year of a referral Enlisted Performance Report (EPR) or a rating of
“2” or less, unless a new EPR is rendered with an overall rating of “3” or higher, whichever
occurs first.
8.4.6. Airmen above the grade of SSgt in an overage/overgrade code for their position.
8.4.7. Airmen (E-6 through E-9) in retraining status; ineligible until after attaining the 3-
level in the new Air Force Specialty Code (AFSC). A member must also hold the required
skill level listed in Table 8.2 in his or her Primary AFSC (PAFSC). Promote retrainees only
once while in retraining status. Subsequent promotion eligibility is authorized once a
member is no longer in a retraining status until either the member has been fully upgraded in
the retraining AFSC, or has returned to perform duty in the awarded PAFSC.
8.4.8. Airmen with UIF Code 2 or 3.
8.4.9. Airmen whose Reserve Component Physical Health Assessment (RCPHA) or Dental
exam is not current.
8.4.10. Airmen with unexcused absences within the previous 12-month period.
8.4.11. Airmen (E-6 through E-8) that are within 24 months of HYT. (Note: Members must
have 24 months retainability before being considered for promotion to E-7 through E-9).
8.5. Unit Vacancy Promotion. A vacancy exists within an AFSC for unit/IR(Individual
Reservist) (excluding prefix and suffix) if the number assigned in the next higher grade in that
AFSC is less than the number authorized and the member is moved into the position and is the
incumbent.
8.5.1. An Airman assigned as an overage to a position projected for vacancy (due to
retirement, separation, or reassignment of the incumbent) becomes eligible for promotion in
the promotion cycle after the incumbent physically retires, separates or is reassigned and
member drops off files, provided all other promotion eligibility criteria are met. Do not
change incumbent position number or move current incumbent as an overage in another or
current position for the purpose of promoting the new Airman assigned.
8.5.2. United States Air Force Reserve (USAFR) Unit Assigned. The Numbered Air Force
will compute their own vacancies. Consider geographically separated units separately when
determining vacancies. Compute authorized and assigned for Air Reserve Technicians
(ART) separately.
8.5.3. ARPC/DPAA must verify that grade ceilings are not exceeded for Active Guard and
Reserve (AGR) promotions to SMSgt and CMSgt.
8.5.4. Promotion to the grades of Amn through SSgt does not depend on vacancies. The
Airman is eligible for promotion if he or she meets the eligibility requirements of Table 8.2.
8.5.5. Do not count overage code “R”(retired-regular active duty members) in the assigned
strength for promotion purposes, for a period of 2 years from date the Airman is accessed.
8.6. Air Force Reserve Stripes for Exceptional Performers I (STEP I).
8.6.1. This program authorizes promotion to the rank of TSgt (AFRC unit members, IR and
Participating Individual Ready Reserve (PIRR) for a member who meets the criteria in Table
78 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
8.2 (except a vacant position) and to whom the following criteria apply: (Note: STEP I does
not apply to AGR members.)
8.6.1.1. Completed 16 years of satisfactory service for retirement as of the last day of the
month prior to the promotion cycle.
8.6.1.2. Blocked from promotion under the unit vacancy program. For PIRR members,
unit vacancy promotion is not an option; STEP I is available. Note: SSgts assigned to
SSgt or SrA positions are eligible for consideration.
8.6.1.3. Meets all other eligibility criteria specified in this chapter and Table 8.2 and
have the approval of the Promotion Authority specified in Table 8.1.
8.6.2. For unit assigned members, the MPS updates overgrade code L and grade status
reason code “7G” to all STEP I selectees. IR/RIO staff performs/provides this function for
IMAs and PIRR.
8.6.3. All personnel promoted under this program must be leveled to an equal or higher
graded position when a vacancy exists in accordance with AFI 36-2115, Assignments within
the Reserve Components. The overgrade code “L” is removed at the time the member is
reassigned/leveled to a position of equal or higher grade.
8.7. Processing Vacancy and STEP I Promotions.
8.7.1. AFRC Units. Promote unit-assigned Airmen selected for ART positions to SrA or the
Unit Manpower Document (UMD) grade, whichever is lower, concurrent with their
assignment to the Air Reserve Technician positions. If they are serving in a higher grade and
the UMD ART position reflects a grade equal to or higher than the grade in which currently
serving, retain the current grade. The MPS will verify the information on the promotion
roster and the AF Form 224, Recommendation and Authorization for Promotion of Airman as
Reserve of the Air Force. (Note: This paragraph does not apply to NPS enlistees attending
BMT or technical training school. See paragraph 8.8 for AGRs).
8.7.1.1. Identify Airmen eligible for promotion by using a monthly promotion eligibility
product/tool. Use Table 8.2 to determine promotion eligibility.
8.7.1.2. The unit commander lines through the name(s) of Airmen not recommended for
promotion, annotates the reason for non-recommendation on the roster, and notifies the
Airmen in writing.
8.7.1.3. The unit commander will forward the roster and the AF Form 224 to the MPS as
established by unit procedures.
8.7.1.4. The MPS:
8.7.1.4.1. Identifies Airmen eligible for promotion each month by using a promotion
eligibility product to determine eligibility. (T-3)
8.7.1.4.2. Certifies the information on the promotion eligibility product and the AF
Form 224. (T-3)
8.7.1.4.3. Forwards the promotion eligibility product and AF Form 224, as
applicable, to the Promotion Authority for approval. (T-3)
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 79
8.7.1.4.4. Authenticates Section IV following the Promotion Authority signature. (T-
3)
8.7.1.4.5. Processes Reserve Service Commitment (RSC) contracts for promotions to
the rank of MSgt through CMSgt. (T-3)
8.7.1.4.6. Processes the monthly promotion eligibility product and AF Form 224
prior to the first day of the promotion month. (T-3)
8.7.1.4.7. Updates MilPDS. Open Case Management System case for Unit AGRs.
(T-3)
8.7.2. IRs and Participating IRR (PIRR). The listing of all individuals eligible for promotion
is based on the data available in the Military Personnel Data System (MilPDS) file. ARPC
will provide and suspense the promotion eligibility EOM products to IR/RIO for distribution
to the appropriate Detachment Commanders identifying Airmen eligible for promotion
monthly. The detachment commander will validate the eligibility of the Reservists included
on the product. The Detachment commander will line through the names of any members
who are not eligible for consideration based upon applicable AFIs and cite the reason(s) the
member(s) is/are ineligible and the duration of their ineligibility. The detachment
commander forwards a copy to the appropriate detachment staff for forwarding to the unit of
assignment/attachment commander to notify the Airmen in writing the reason of non-
recommendation. (T-3).
8.7.2.1. The IR/RIO will suspense the product to the appropriate detachment staff to
meet IR/RIO/IC’s suspense. (T-0).
8.7.2.2. The supervisor of assigned IR’s and PIRRs verifies eligibility criteria and
recommends or non-recommends their members to their unit commander. If MilPDS
does not accurately reflect any items, the supervisor will contact the appropriate
detachment staff to ensure update of items in MilPDS and will provide source documents
with the returned product, unless the member does not meet the basic eligibility
requirements of this instruction. (T-0).
8.7.2.2.1. The unit commander lines through the name of the IR or PIRR member not
approved for promotion, and briefly states the reasons for non-approval. (T-0).
8.7.2.2.2. If the supervisor wants to promote a member not on the eligibility product
and the member meets all requirements, the unit commander will add the
individual(s) NAME, SSN, promote-to GRADE, and identify any missing criteria and
the date it was met above the certification statement and provide source documents.
8.7.2.2.3. The unit commander signs the product and forwards it and any required
source documents and the RSC contract, if required, to the appropriate detachment
staff to ensure the document arrives by the suspense date.
8.7.2.2.4. The IC verifies eligibility of those approved for promotion by the unit
commander. If the detachment commander finds any member ineligible, the
detachment staff will return the product to the unit commander for removal from the
list or resolution of criteria. (T-0).
8.7.2.2.5. The detachment staff sends the unit CC-signed roster to ARPC/DPTTRA
by the 25th of each month. (T-0).
80 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
8.7.2.3. ARPC/DPTSC verifies the master promotion eligibility product, updates the
personnel data system as indicated on the product, and publishes and distributes orders.
(T-0).
8.7.2.4. The IC provides a copy to the member’s Unit Reserve Coordinator who will
distribute to the member and assigned RegAF unit commander. (T-0).
8.7.3. Non Prior Service (NPS) enlistees. The Promotion Authority may promote NPS
enlistees ordered to initial active duty training (IADT) after completion of basic military
training to the next higher grade, provided the members meets the requirements in Table 8.2.
The Time in Service (TIS) calculation for promotion begins on the date the enlistee entered
IADT. The effective date of promotion is the date member met eligibility conditions in
Table 8.2., unless the order specifies a different date.
8.8. Title 10, U.S.C. Section 12310, Active Guard and Reserve (AGRs).
8.8.1. AFRC Assigned AGRs. AFRC Directors approves or disapproves all promotion
recommendations for all TSgts and below assigned to AFRC. AFRC/A1 approves or
disapproves all promotion recommendations for MSgt and above assigned to AFRC. The
immediate supervisor recommends promotion on an AF Form 224 for Airmen who meet
eligibility requirements in Table 8.2 and sends to AFRC/A1KP, no later than the 10th day of
the month proceeding the month the promotion is effective. Promotion to the grade of
SMSgt and CMSgt must be coordinated with ARPC/DPAA for grade ceiling and strength
limitations. (T-0). For the Airmen not recommended for promotion: The respective
Director annotates the reason for non-recommendation on the AF Form 224 and notifies the
Airmen in writing.
8.8.1.1. AFRC/A1KP verifies the AF Form 224, ensures AFRC assigned AGR Airmen
meet all eligibility requirements, ensures packages were forwarded through command
channels to the commander for quality force review and forwards it to AFRC/A1 for
promotion approval/disapproval. Promotions to the grade of MSgt through CMSgt
require an RSC contract and must be signed prior to promotion. Upon
approval/disapproval, AFRC/A1KP will update MilPDS, then publish and distribute
orders.
8.8.2. ARPC assigned AGRs. ARPC/CC approves or disapproves all promotion
recommendations for personnel assigned to ARPC. ARPC/DPTSC obtains the list of
assigned ARPC enlisted AGRs from ARPC/DPX monthly and verifies eligibility. (T-1).
8.8.2.1. DELETED
8.8.2.2. Directorate prepares and signs the AF Form 224 with desired promotion date in
blank Section IV, and coordinates the form for all required signatures. The Director
submits the completed and signed AF Form 224 to ARPC/DPTSC for processing. RSC
contracts for MSgt through CMSgt promotions will accompany the AF Form 224.
Promotions to the grades of SMSgt and CMSgt must be coordinated with ARPC/DPAA
for grade ceiling and strength limitations at least one month prior to promotion effective
date. ARPC/DPTSC will update MilPDS, and publish and distribute orders.” (T-0).
8.8.3. AFRCRS (Recruiters). Coordinate with AFRC/RSO on individual recruiter
production.
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 81
8.8.3.1. Retrieve the promotion list and verify eligibility.
8.8.3.2. Receive recommendations from Senior Recruiters and NAF Flight Commanders.
8.8.3.3. AFRCRS (Recruiters). AFRCRS/CC approves or disapproves all promotions for
personnel assigned to the recruiting Service. AFRCRS Commander Support Staff will
accomplish the following:
8.8.3.4. Coordinate recommendation/non-recommendation with AFRCRS/CCF on
quality force issues.
8.8.3.5. Coordinate recommendations of promotions to the ranks of SMSgt and CMSgt
with ARPC/DPAA for grade ceiling and/or strength limitations.
8.8.3.6. Complete the AF Form 224, sign the MPS verification, and forward to
immediate supervisor for signature and return. Promotions to the grade of MSgt through
CMSgt require an RSC contract and must be signed prior to promotion.
8.8.3.7. Provide all recommendations/non-recommendations to AFRCRS/CC for
approval/ disapproval. For Airmen not recommended for promotion: The AFRCRS/CC
annotates the reason for non-recommendation on the AF Form 224 and notifies the
Airman in writing.
8.8.3.8. Update MilPDS, publish and distribute promotion orders.
8.8.4. HQ IR/RIO AGRs. IR/RIO/CC approves or disapproves all promotion
recommendations for enlisted personnel assigned to IR/RIO. The immediate supervisor
recommends promotion on an AF Form 224 for an Airman who meets eligibility
requirements in Table 8.2 and forwards through his or her chain of command for quality
force review prior to the desired promotion month. Promotion to the rank of SMSgt and
CMSgt must be coordinated with ARPC/DPAA for grade ceiling and strength limitations.
(T-0).
8.8.4.1. IR/RIO verifies the AF Form 224, ensures IR/RIO assigned AGR Airmen meet
all eligibility requirements, and forwards the form through command channels to
IR/RIO/CC for promotion approval/disapproval. Promotions to the grade of MSgt
through CMSgt require an RSC contract and must be signed prior to promotion. Upon
approval/disapproval, IR/RIO will forward all required documents to ARPC/DPQA for
MilPDS updates.
8.8.5. AGR Airmen not assigned to AFRC, Recruiting, ARPC or IR/RIO . The
MAJCOM/FOA/DRU A1 sends promotion recommendations to ARPC/DPAA for staffing to
AF/RE for approval/disapproval. Promotion recommendations for AF/RE Promotion
Authority must arrive at ARPC/DPAA not later than the 10th day of the month proceeding
the month the promotion is effective. ARPC/DPAA verifies grade ceilings for SMSgt and
CMSgt promotions, processes RSC contracts for MSgt through CMSgt promotions, updates
MilPDS, and prepares and distributes promotion orders. For those Airmen not recommended
the AF/RE lines through the name(s) of Airmen not recommended for promotion, and
annotates the reason for non-recommendation on the form/roster, and notifies the Airmen in
writing.
8.9. Air Force Reserve Stripes for Exceptional Performers II (STEP II). STEP II authorizes
promotion of outstanding, well-deserving Airmen one grade over the Unit Manning Document
82 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
(UMD) position grade to which assigned; or members in a higher graded position who are being
blocked for promotion who are otherwise eligible can be considered for STEP II. Note: PIRR
while not assigned to a position are eligible for STEP II.
8.9.1. Members must meet the following criteria for STEP II consideration:
8.9.1.1. Meet eligibility requirements as outlined in Table 8.2, with the exception of
being in a higher graded position. This requirement does not apply to PIRR. However, a
member in a higher graded position blocked for promotion who is otherwise eligible for
promotion is also eligible to be considered for STEP II.
8.9.1.2. Have no unexcused absences within the preceding 12 month period.
8.9.1.3. Be nominated by the immediate supervisor and have first endorsement by the
unit commander or designated representative.
8.9.1.4. Not be an AGR.
8.9.2. A member may be promoted no more than one grade over the authorized position
grade. Since PIRR do not occupy a position with an authorized grade, only one STEP II
promotion is allowed while in the PIRR.
8.9.3. STEP II promotion boards will be held annually, with a promotion effective date of 1
October.
8.9.4. STEP II promotees will be assigned overgrade code L, and will be leveled by the
squadron, group, wing commander, or PM as soon as possible. PIRR members, while not in
a UMD position, require the code to identify a STEP II promotee.
8.9.4.1. When a STEP II promotee is reassigned to a position of equal or higher grade,
remove overgrade code L from the system.
8.9.5. Do not use STEP II promotions when computing vacancies for unit vacancy
promotions.
8.9.6. A central board process at ARPC/DPA determines promotions to the grades of TSgt
through CMSgt.
8.9.7. AFRC/A1 establishes yearly promotion quotas as approved by AFRC/CC or designee.
8.10. Airmen mobilized under Title 10, U. S.C. Section 12304 (Presidential Reserve Call Up)
or Section 12302 (Partial Mobilization compete for promotion within the normal Reserve
promotion program.
8.11. Reserve Service Commitment. Promotion to the ranks of MSgt, SMSgt, and CMSgt
require 2-years of retainability. If the Airman is unable to obtain the full 2-year retainability, he
or she is not authorized the promotion to the next higher grade. This is not waiverable. The unit
forwards the RSC contract to the MPS, if applicable for Unit Reservists, or IR/RIO for
IMAs/IRRs for updating and distribution. (T-0).
8.12. Publishing Promotion Orders. MPS or ARPC publishes and distributes all orders. MPS
or ARPC prepares composed or computer generated orders on an AF Form 224 or AF Form
2096, Classification/On-the Job Training Action (for unit assigned Reservists).
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 83
8.12.1. Computer generated order will include grade, name, SSN, Date of Rank, Effective
Date, Personnel Accounting Symbol (PAS), and the authority. Appropriate blocks on the AF
Form 224, must be completed.
8.12.2. Use AF Form 224 for promotions made under Title 10, U.S.C. Section 12310, and
for AFRC unit assigned Reservists promoted to SMSgt and CMSgt.
8.13. Missing Data. The commander may ask ARPC/DPTSC to provide information from the
master personnel record group or the Automated Records Management System (ARMS) system
for promotion eligibility information not reflected in MILPDS. MPS or ARPC enters
information into MilPDS.
8.14. Revoking Promotions. When the Promotion Authority requests to revoke promotions,
the request must include the following:
8.14.1. The effective date of promotion and the reason the promotion was not halted prior to
the effective date.
8.14.2. Identification of the training periods the Airman was paid in the higher grade, if
applicable. To allow Reservists to retain pay already received, add the date the Airman was
told of the erroneous promotion action and statement to show that the Airman actually
discharged the higher grade’s function in good faith and served without knowledge of the
error in the promotion. Refer to DFAS-DEM 7073-3, Air Reserve Forces Pay and
Allowance [ARPAS] and DoD Military Pay and Allowances Entitlement for further
information.
8.14.3. Copy of the MilPDS Report on Individual Person (RIP) and a copy of the promotion
order.
8.14.4. Unit Assigned Airman and AGRs. Send requests for revocation to AFRC/A1KP for
approval/disapproval. AFRC/A1 sends the revocation to the MPS for processing. The MPF
publishes and distributes AF Form 973, Request and Authorization for Change of
Administrative Orders. The unit advises the member of the revocation request approval or
disapproval. Wing commander recommendation on requests for revocation and submits
them to HQ AFRC/A1KP for approval/disapproval. HQ AFRC/A1KP sends the revocation
to the MPS for processing. The MPS published and distributes AF Form 973, Request and
Authorization for Change of Administrative Orders. The unit advises the member of the
revocation request approval or disapproval.
8.14.5. IMA and PIRR Airmen. The unit commander initiates the request for revocation and
forwards it to the PM. The PM endorses it and forwards it to IR/RIO for coordination and to
AFRC/A1KP for approval/disapproval. Approved revocations are forwarded to IR/RIO/DPP
for processing. IR/RIO publishes and distributes the AF Form 973. The Promotion Authority
will notify and provide a copy of the AF Form 973 to the member. (T-0).
Table 8.1. USAFR Promotion Authorities.
RULE
Assignment
Affected Individuals
Authority
1
USAFR Unit Members
SMSgt and CMSgt
Wing or detached group
Commander
84 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
(Note 1)
Amn through MSgt
Commander of unit of assignment. May
delegate promotion authority to
detachment unit commander
2
Title 10 U.S.C. Section
12310 AGR
AFRC RS Assigned
personnel
AFRC RS/CC (Notes 1,3)
(Note 2)
Amn assigned to AFRC,
except Recruiters
AFRC/A1, MSgts and above (Notes 1, 3)
AFRC, TSgts and above (Notes 1, 3)
Amn assigned to ARPC
ARPC/CC (Note 3)
Unit Level AGR
Amn through MSgt
Group or Squadron Commander
Unit Level AGR
SMSgt and CMSgt
Wing or detached Group
Commander
(Note 3)
Amn assigned to IR/RIO
IR/RIO/CC (Note 3)
Others
USAF/RE (Note 3)
3
IMAs and PIRR
Amn through CMSgt
Unit Commander
4
STEP II
TSgt and MSgt
Wing/NAF/IR/RIO Commander
SMSgt and CMSgt
AFRC/CC
Notes:
1. NAF commanders may delegate promotion authority to Vice commander or Director of Staff for unit personnel
reporting directly to the NAF. Designate all authority delegations in writing and provide them to the servicing
MPS Chief. Commanders/Directors of MAJCOM, FOA, DRU may delegate the authority to approve a promotion,
in writing. AFRC/A1 will retain a copy of delegations.
2. Individuals assigned as Title 10 U.S.C. Section 12310 are Reservists on AD and remain under the AFR
promotion system for AGRs.
3. Promotion to the grade of SMSgt and CMSgt must be coordinated with AFRC/DPAA for grade ceiling and
strength limitations.
Table 8.2. Promotion Eligibility (Notes 1, 2, 3, 10).
R
A
B
C
D
E
F
U
L
E
If promotion is
to the grade
and the
PAFSC is
(Note 2)
and TIG
is (Note
3)
and
enlisted
service is
(Note 4)
and
satisfactory
years for
retirement
are (Note
5)
and
following
mandatory
education is
completed
(Note 6)
1
Amn (Note 1,
7, 10)
N/A
6 months
N/A
N/A
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 85
2
A1C (Note 1,
7, 10)
6 months
N/A
3
SrA (Note 1,
10)
3 skill lvl
8 months
1 year
4
SSgt (Note 1,
10)
5 skill lvl
(3 lvl if
AFSC
does not
have 5 lvl)
12 months
N/A
4 years
(Note 8)
5
TSgt (Note 1,
10)
7 skill lvl
24 months
6 years
N/A
6
MSgt (Note 1,
10)
7 skill lvl
24 months
8 years
8 years
(Note
9)
7
SMSgt (Note
1, 10)
7 or 9 skill
lvl
10 years
11 years
SNCO
Academy
and
Associates
Degrees
from CCAF
(Notes 6,11,
12,
13, 14)
8
CMSgt (Note
1, 10)
9 skill lvl
14 years
COC or
AFRCCO
and
Associates
Degree from
CCAF
(Notes 11, 12,
13, 14)
86 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
Notes:
1. All eligibility requirements stated in paragraph 8.3 Eligibility Requirements, apply as
well as the information listed in this Table. Local promotion boards are not authorized to
select enlisted members for unit vacancy promotions. The Promotion Authority may solicit
input from supervisors/chain of command officials. The Promotion Authority makes final
decision on the promotion approval. For Airmen not recommended for promotion, the
commander annotates the reason for non-recommendation and notifies the individual in
writing. Promotion effective date is the first day of the month except for promotions to E-2
through E-4. The effective date for those grades is the date in which all eligibility
conditions are met. (This note applies to all Rules, i.e. Rule 1 – 8 of Table 8.2.)
2. The Promotion Authority may waive the PAFSC skill level requirement for Airmen
performing in a Special Duty Identifier (SDI, for example: SDI 8R000 Recruiter). On
reassignment from duty in SDI, Airmen must qualify for the skill level required in Column
B, within the time limits specified in AFI 36-2201, Volume 3, Air Force Training Program,
On-the-Job Training Administration. (T-0).
3. Airmen must complete basic military training. TIG for Airmen enlisted in the grades of
AB, Amn, or A1C begins on the date the Airman entered IADT. (T-0).
4. This includes AD and non-AD enlisted service. Do not credit service in a commissioned,
warrant, or flight officer status. This does not count for enlisted promotions.
5. Includes AD and non-AD service. Credit service in a commissioned, warrant, or flight
officer status. PIRR must accrue 50 retirement points in the preceding R/R year to be
recommended for promotion, under STEP I or STEP II.
6. All PME may be completed in-residence or by correspondence. Completion of the
United States Army Sergeants Major Academy, the United States Navy Senior Enlisted
Academy, the United States Coast Guard Chief Petty Officers Academy, or United States
Marine Corps Staff NCO Academy is equivalent to SNCOA. All E-8’s meeting eligibility
requirements for placement into a valid E-9 position must complete COC (Chief Orientation
Course) prior to being promoted to E-9.
7. Promotion Authority may promote an AB on IADT to Amn or Amn to A1C. The
Airman must maintain a satisfactory scholastic record in the course and be otherwise
eligible for promotion. (T-3).
8. SSgt. The NCO Preparatory Course (MilPDS code X), the NCO Leadership School
(MilPDS code U), the Airman Leadership School (MilPDS code O), or the NCO
Orientation Course (MilPDS code 8).
9. MSgt. The NCO Academy (in-residence or correspondence). Exception: The Airman
was promoted when the PME was not required, satisfactorily served in the higher grade,
and completed the SNCO Academy course.
10. Members are required to comply with Air Force Fitness standards IAW AFI 36-2905.
Commanders should use AFI 36-2905, Attachment 14 (Tables A14.1. and A14.2.), for
administrative and Personnel Actions for Failing to Attain Physical Fitness Standards. (This
note applies to all Rules, i.e. Rule 1 – 8 of Table 8.2.). (T-0).
11. Effective date of this publication, any personnel selected to fill SMSgt/CMSgt
authorizations are required to have completed the SNCOA (in-residence or by
correspondence) prior to assignment to the higher graded position. This policy is to be
implemented without exception. (T-0).
12. Effective date of this publication, any enlisted member of the AFR currently holding
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 87
the grade of E-7 or E8 will not be promoted to the next higher grade (E8 and E9
respectively), without successful completion of a CCAF degree. The CCAF credit/degree
can be in any discipline and must be updated in MilPDS for promotion eligibility. (T-0).
13. Effective the date of this publication, any enlisted member of the AFR currently
holding the grades of E-6, E-7 or E-8 or E-9 will not be MOVED/PLACED into or against
positions graded of E8 and E9 without prior successful completion of a CCAF degree. The
CCAF degree can be in any discipline must be updated in MilPDS prior to placement in the
higher graded position. (T-0). Waiver authority for this policy is AF/RE or AF/RE
designated authority.
14. E-8 or E-9 in a valid position commensurate with their current grade prior to the date of
this publication, are not required to have a completed CCAF degree and are deemed to have
met requirements in their current valid position, to retain their current grade. However,
current E-8's and E-9's will not be PLACED into or against any positions graded E-8 or E-9
other than the position they are currently assigned without prior successful completion of a
CCAF degree. These members are highly encouraged to complete their CCAF degree
enabling them to be promoted from E-8 to E-9 and compete for higher leadership position.
Any E-8 who does not complete their CCAF degree will not be authorized promotion to the
grade of E-9. (T-0).
88 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
Chapter 9
*USAF RESERVE AIRMEN DEMOTIONS (ONLY APPLIES TO AFR NOT EAD)
9.1. Demotion. Demotions are administrative and apply to Reserve Airmen in the ranks of Amn
through CMSgt. Do not use demotions actions when action under the Uniform Code of Military
Justice (UCMJ) is jurisdictionally authorized and when punitive action is more appropriate.
9.1.1. Do not demote Airmen who have separated.
9.1.2. Initiate administrative demotion action during the term of enlistment in which the
reason(s) for the action first occurred, unless the facts and circumstances are not discovered
until the next enlistment period.
9.1.3. If the commander has sufficient reason to initiate demotion action, use the Airman’s
entire military record in deciding whether demotion action is appropriate.
9.1.4. When appropriate, give an Airman an opportunity to overcome his or her deficiencies
before demotion action is initiated. Commanders should maintain supporting documentation
of all rehabilitation and probationary actions.
9.1.5. Do not suspend administrative demotions. However, for those Airmen who have been
recalled to Active duty under 10 U.S.C. 12310, if the demotion authority decides to restore
the Airman’s original grade following demotion, he or she must do so sometime between 3
and 6 months after the effective date of the original demotion. Restoring an Airman’s earlier
grade should be an uncommon occurrence. The effective date and the date of rank in such
cases are the date on which the demotion authority approves restoration in writing.
9.1.6. Do not reassign an Airman for whom a demotion is in process until after completing
the demotion. If an Airman’s participation is unsatisfactory, consider demotion before
reassigning or separating the Airman. Demote Airmen to grades in accordance with
paragraph 9.10.
9.2. Demotion Authority. For Airmen serving in the ranks of Amn through MSgt, the
commander in the chain of command succeeding the initiating commander is the demotion
authority.
9.2.1. For voluntary demotion under paragraph 9.3., the Wing commander is the Demotion
Authority. For IR/RIO personnel, the demotion authority is the IR/RIO commander.
9.2.2. For Airmen in the ranks of SMSgt and CMSgt, AFRC/CC is the demotion authority.
The demotion authority may be delegated to NAF or equivalent level commanders in writing
but may not be further delegated except for demotion cases that fall under paragraph 9.2.1.
9.2.3. For Airmen serving on 10 U.S.C. 12310 tours (except recruiters and Air Guard
Reserve (AGR), the AFRC/A1 is the demotion authority.
9.2.4. For AFRC Recruiters, AFRCRS/CC is the demotion authority.
9.2.5. For Airmen assigned to the following categories, the demotion authority is ARPC/CC:
PAS S7 Personnel including Non Participating IRR, Inactive Status List Reserve Section,
Ready Reinforcement Personnel Section (RRPS) and Non-Affiliated Reserve Section
(NARS) (Key Federal Employees). This may be delegated to ARPC/DPTSC.
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 89
9.2.6. For Individual Mobilization Augmentees (IMAs) and Participating Individual Ready
Reservists (PIRRs) who are in the rank of MSgt and below, the member’s immediate
commander initiates demotion action, and the demotion authority lies with IR/RIO/CC.
9.2.7. For IR/RIO assigned staff members including AGRs, ARTs, IMAs and PIRRs
assigned to IR/RIO, its detachments and OLs, the IR/RIO/CC is the demotion authority.
9.3. Reasons for Voluntary Demotion.
9.3.1. Demote Airmen when they volunteer for reassignment to a position with an authorized
grade below what they currently hold. If the Airman accepts reassignment to a lower grade,
the Airman confirms such acceptance in writing as follows: “The lower grade [state grade]
with DOR of [list DOR in accordance with AFI 36-2604, Service Dates and Dates of Rank]
is accepted.” Advise the Airman that the demotion action will not preclude promotion under
Chapter 8 of this instruction.
9.3.2. For Airmen who apply for an Air Reserve Technician (ART) position that has a lower
grade, the following process applies:
9.3.2.1. The initiating commander forwards a copy of the Airman’s application
memorandum to the servicing MPS directing the demotion.
9.3.2.2. The MPS publishes a demotion order after receiving the Airman’s acceptance
statement.
9.3.2.3. The losing MPS ensures that the Airman receives and signs the voluntary
demotion statement before issuing orders or updating MilPDS.
9.3.3. For Airmen who apply for positions other than ART positions, including submitting
any applications for voluntary recall to extended active duty, the losing MPS publishes
demotion orders.
9.3.4. For an Airman assigned to AGR positions the MPS forwards the signed statement and
the last two promotion orders to ARPC/DPAA. ARPC/DPAA forwards the package to
ARPC/PBO for update and publication of the demotion order.
9.3.5. For an Airman reassigned from a nonparticipating Reserve section to an AFRC unit
position, the gaining MPF forwards the signed statement to ARPC/DPSRA, 6760 E.
Irvington PL, Denver CO 80280-3200.
9.3.6. Reorganization or Mission Change. When an Airman’s position is downgraded,
unfunded or eliminated because of a command or Air Force organization or mission change,
the overgrade Airman will receive a waiver, take a voluntary demotion, retrain, or accept
reassignment to a nonparticipating reserve section. Ensure that these actions comply with
this instruction and AFI 36-2115, Assignments Within the Reserve Components.
9.4. Reasons for Involuntary Demotion.
9.4.1. Unsatisfactory Participation in Reserve Training. Demote unsatisfactory participants
holding a grade higher than Amn. (NOTE: After five unexcused absences (Category “A”
unit program) or one unsatisfactory participation year (Category “B” IMA or category “E”
PIRR), the commander sends the Airman a certified memorandum, return receipt requested,
stressing the seriousness of the situation and advising the demotion action is being initiated.
The demotions will be effected as soon as practicable after the Airman has been provided the
90 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
opportunity to exercise his or her rights as defined in the memorandum advising of the intent
to demote. The demotion action must be completed prior to separating the Airman). For
demotion purposes only:
9.4.1.1. For Category “A” reservists, unsatisfactory participation is defined as accruing
five or more unexcused periods from scheduled Unit Training Assemblies (UTAs) (4
hours per UTA period) within any continuous 12-month period. Prior to demotion, the
unit must have complied with the provisions of AFI 36-2254VI, Reserve Personnel
Participation, paragraph 4.14.2, by making every reasonable effort to locate the absent
Airman during each scheduled UTA period in which the Airman has been absent.
9.4.1.2. For Category “B” IMA s and Category “E” PIRR reservists, unsatisfactory
participation is based on their FY obligation as defined in AFI 36-2254VI ,Table 1.1. and
paragraph 1.3.2.1 and 1.3.2.2. (one unsatisfactory participation year). After confirmed
unsatisfactory year, initiate notification procedures as defined in paragraph 9.4.1.
9.4.2. Failing to Fulfill NCO Responsibilities. Demote Airmen who do not fulfill
noncommissioned officer (NCO) responsibilities under AFI 36-2618, The Enlisted Force
Structure. In the demotion memorandum, site the specific reasons regarding how the Airman
did not fulfill NCO responsibilities and the applicable paragraphs of AFI 36-2618.
9.4.3. Failing to Complete Training. Demote an Airman to the previous grade if the Airman
was promoted as an officer trainee under AFI 36-2201, Air Force Training Program, or AFI
36-2013, Officer Training School (OTS) and Enlisted Commissioning Programs(ECPS) or
because the Airman was expected, and failed, to complete other training. Demote Non-Prior
Service Airman to the rank of A1C prior to reclassification or separation.
9.4.3.1. The commander of the relevant Armed Forces school demotes officer trainees or
pipeline students eliminated from training to the grade previously held.
9.4.3.2. For an Airman attending Armed Forces schools in a TDY status, the school
commandant informs AFRC if his or her student status terminates. The Airman’s
commander takes appropriate action to demote the Airman to the grade previously held.
NOTE: Delay the demotion when an Airman would lose authorization to ship household
goods, move dependents, or both, until he or she arrives at the new duty location or TDY
station. The losing MPS includes a cover memorandum or notes on PCS orders that a
demotion is pending against the Airman. The gaining commander completes demotion
action using the effective date as the date when the Airman arrives at the new duty
location.
9.4.4. Failing to Achieve or Maintain Skill Levels. Demote Airman if he or she:
9.4.4.1. Does not achieve or maintain a current skill level appropriate to his or her grade.
9.4.4.2. Was promoted or enlisted with a PAFSC waiver and does not qualify for the
PAFSC award at the indicated skill level.
9.4.4.3. Was reclassified to a skill level below the awarded AFSC. See AFI 36-2101,
Classifying Military Personnel (Officer and Enlisted). Demote the Airman to the highest
possible grade for the reduced skill level.
9.4.4.4. Failed to qualify in the specialty for which he or she was trained or is being
trained. Prior to demoting an Airman for failure to qualify (e.g., two-time Career
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 91
Development Course failure), unit leadership must have complied with the rehabilitative
provisions of AFI 36-2201.
9.4.5. Failure to Keep Fit.
9.4.5.1. Airmen may be demoted when, after entry into the fitness program, they do not
maintain fitness standards as outlined in AFI 36-2905, Fitness Program. Specifically, an
Airman may be demoted if he or she fails to attain or maintain Air Force fitness standards
after three unsatisfactory tests. If an Airman has been administratively demoted in grade,
and is still failing to make satisfactory progress, the unit commander must make a
recommendation to the wing commander to retain or initiate separation action of a
member on his or her fourth fitness failure and each subsequent unsatisfactory fitness
test.
9.4.5.2. Airmen may be demoted for failing to maintain or demonstrate the ability and
willingness to attain physical standards.
9.5. Who Notifies the Airman of Demotion Action. The initiating commander consults with
the servicing SJA and informs the Airman in person or by certified mail, return receipt requested,
of the intention to recommend demotion, or to demote.
9.5.1. The memorandum will (see Attachment 13 for example demotion letter without
prejudice, see Attachment 14 for example demotion letter with prejudice): (T-0).
9.5.1.1. Contain specific reasons and a complete summary of the supporting facts.
9.5.1.2. Contain instructions for acknowledging receipt of the notification memorandum
within 30 calendar days.
9.5.1.3. Notify the Airman that, if he or she disagrees with the proposed action, he or she
may submit a statement, and can request a personal hearing before the initiating
commander. Advise the Airman that he or she must pay all travel and other expenses for
a personal hearing.
9.5.1.4. Advises the Airman that he or she may seek legal counsel, military or civilian
(civilian at the Airman’s own expense). Provides the name and number of the Reserve
Area Defense Counsel, who can assist with written and oral statements.
9.5.1.5. Inform the Airman (if eligible) of the right to apply for retirement in-lieu of the
demotion. If retirement is approved, the Airman must retire not later than the 1st day of
the 4th month after the first demotion notification.
9.6. Processing Demotions. The Airman acknowledges receipt of the demotion notification
memorandum within 30 calendar days of receipt. The Airman should indicate if he or she
concurs or non-concurs, and may submit an application to retire in-lieu-of the demotion, if he or
she qualifies.
9.6.1. At the end of the 30 calendar day period (or sooner if the Airman responds before the
end of the 30 calendar days), the following actions occur.
9.6.1.1. Airman Concurs. After receiving the Airman’s acknowledgement, the initiating
commander forwards the entire case file to the servicing MPS (IR/RIO/DP for IMAs or
PIRRs) for processing by the demotion authority.
92 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
9.6.1.2. Airman Non-concurs. The Airman can submit materials, or request a personal
hearing, or both. The initiating commander considers all materials presented by the
Airman before recommending further action to the demotion authority. The initiating
commander notifies the Airman, in writing, of the decision to continue or terminate the
demotion.
9.6.1.3. Airman Applies for Retirement. If the Airman elects to apply for retirement, the
effective date of retirement will be the 1st day of the 4th month after the first demotion
notification. The Airman must submit the retirement application no later than 30
calendar days after the demotion action was initiated to avoid publication of the demotion
orders. The retirement application is processed in compliance with AFI 36-3203, Service
Retirements. The demotion process terminates if the retirement application is approved.
The demotion process continues if the retirement application is disapproved.
9.6.1.4. No Response. If the Airman does not respond, process the demotion as if he or
she concurs; the demotion action goes to the demotion authority. The demotion package
will state that the Airman was provided the opportunity to submit statements, but that he
or she has not done so.
9.6.2. Demotion Action Continues. The initiating commander writes a summary of the
personal hearing (if any), which becomes a part of the case file. He or she forwards the
entire case file to the servicing MPS (or IR/RIO for IMAs/PIRRs) for processing by the
appropriate demotion authority. The demotion authority obtains a written legal review from
the servicing SJA before making a final demotion decision.
9.6.3. Demotion Authority Approves the Demotion. The demotion authority notifies the
Airman’s servicing MPS by letter. The MPS (IR/RIO for IMAs/PIRRs), endorses the
demotion authority’s memorandum and sends it to the initiating commander.
9.6.3.1. The initiating commander informs the Airman in writing by certified mail or in-
person of the grade to which he or she is demoted, to include the date of rank (DOR) and
effective date.
9.6.3.2. The initiating commander informs the Airman that he or she must acknowledge
receipt of the demotion decision within 30 calendar days and indicate to the MPS/CC (or
IR/RIO/CC for IMAs/PIRR) whether he or she intends to appeal the final decision, or, if
eligible, submit an application to retire in lieu of the demotion to avoid publication of
demotion orders. (T-0).
9.6.3.3. The Airman acknowledges receipt of the memorandum within 30 calendar days
by endorsing the memorandum to include the date he or she acknowledges receipt,
indicating he or she will appeal the decision and, if he or she intends to submit an
application, to retire in lieu of demotion as applicable.
9.6.4. Demotion Authority Disapproves the Demotion. The demotion authority writes to the
Airman’s servicing MPS or to IR/RIO, as applicable. The authority notifies the Airman
through the initiating commander by endorsing the document. For IMAs/PIRRs, the
demotion authority notifies the Airman through the member’s IR/RIO, Program Manager
and/or Airman’s active duty commander.
9.7. How to Appeal .
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 93
9.7.1. Demoted Airmen. A demoted Airman must state his or her intention to appeal in
writing.
9.7.2. USAFR Unit Assigned. Members will submit any written appeals to the servicing
MPS commander within 30 calendar days after acknowledging the final demotion decision,
unless the initiating commander authorizes an extension.
9.7.2.1. The servicing MPS commander sends the case file to the demotion appellate
authority. The demotion appellate authority obtains a written legal review before acting
on the appeals.
9.7.2.1.1. For USAFR enlisted members in grades Amn through MSgt, AFRC/CV is
the demotion appellate authority (unless AFRC/CV has delegated demotion authority
to someone subordinate to their position of AFRC/CV).
9.7.2.1.2. For USAFR enlisted members in the ranks of SMSgt and CMSgt, the
AFRC/CC is the demotion appellate authority (unless AFRC/CC has delegated
demotion authority to someone subordinate to their position of AFRC/CC).
9.7.3. IMAs and Participating Individual Ready reserve (PIRR) will submit an appeal
through the initiating commander to the Program Manager. This action must be sent by the
member to the demotion authority within 30 calendar days after acknowledging the final
demotion decision, unless there is an authorized delay from the initiating commander. The
demotion authority sends the case file to the appellate authority.
9.7.4. Notification procedures. When the appellate authority disapproves the Airman’s
appeal, the servicing MPS or IR/RIO notifies the Airman in writing, via command channels,
and the initiating commander endorses the notice.
9.7.5. Appeal Approval. When the appellate authority approves the appeal, he or she directs
the servicing MPS or IR/RIO to restore the Airman’s grade and revoke the demotion order.
Through the initiating commander, the MPS or IR/RIO sends a memorandum notifying the
Airman that the appellate authority approved the appeal and that the Airman’s previous grade
was restored.
9.8. How to Apply for Retirement. An Airman eligible to retire may elect to apply for
“retirement in-lieu-of demotion.” The effective date of retirement will be no later than the 1st
day of the 4th month after initial notification of demotion action. The retirement application is
processed in compliance with AFI 36-3209.
9.8.1. When an Airman submits an application to retire in-lieu-of demotion, all demotion
action stops until the authorities act on the retirement application.
9.8.2. The retirement application is processed in compliance with AFI 36-3203.
9.8.2.1. The demotion process terminates if the retirement application is approved.
9.8.2.2. The demotion process continues if the retirement application is disapproved.
9.9. Determining Date of Rank (DOR). MPS are required to ensure they comply with AFI 36-
2604 when completing an adjusted DOR for members who are voluntarily demoted. Use the
adjusted DOR for Airmen demoted voluntarily under paragraph 9.3. Determine the DOR of
Airmen demoted involuntarily under paragraph 9.4 in accordance with AFI 36-2604. (T-3)
94 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
9.10. Grades to Demote Airmen.
9.10.1. Demote SrA or higher no lower than A1C. EXCEPTION: Airmen demoted under
paragraph 8.10.4. may be demoted to AB.
9.10.2. Demote an A1C no lower than Amn.
9.10.3. Demote an Amn to AB.
9.10.4. Demote by three or more grades only when no reasonable hope exists that the
Airman will ever show the proficiency, leadership, or fitness that earned the initial
promotion.
9.11. Announcing and Revoking Demotions.
9.11.1. The applicable organization announces demotions in Reserve orders. Use the day
prior to reassignment to a lower grade position as the effective date of voluntary demotion.
9.11.2. The applicable organization revokes demotion orders only when the demotion
authority determines orders were published without a proper basis as well as when the
demotion authority has granted an Airman’s appeal.
9.11.2.1. The MPS of a unit requests authority to revoke a demotion order through
command channels to AFRC/A1KP for Airmen assigned to that unit.
9.11.2.2. For IMAs/PIRRs, IR/RIO/CC requests authority to revoke a demotion order to
AFRC/A1KP.
9.11.2.3. The request will include:
9.11.2.3.1. Effective date of the demotion.
9.11.2.3.2. Reason for demotion.
9.11.2.3.3. Training periods during which the Airman was paid in the lower grade, if
applicable, to allow Reservists to recoup pay not received, at the appropriate pay
grade.
9.11.2.3.4. Date the Airman was told of the erroneous demotion action.
9.11.2.3.5. Copies of the report of individual personnel and the demotion order for
Airmen assigned to AFRC units.
9.12. Documenting Demotion Actions. The MPS or ARPC:
9.12.1. Updates the grade data in MilPDS. (T-3)
9.12.2. Files a copy of the demotion order in the Airman’s UPRG in accordance with AFI
36-2608, Military Personnel Records Systems. (T-3)
9.12.3. Forwards the completed demotion case file (including AF Form 2096, with
appropriate AFSCs and training data after demotion) to ARPC/DPTAR for filing in the
automated records management system. (T-3)
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 95
Chapter 10
AIR NATIONAL GUARD (ANG) PROMOTION PROGRAM
10.1. General Promotion Information and Eligibility Criteria
10.1.1. Program Objectives.
10.1.1.1. The fact a member meets each of the eligibility criteria outlined in this
instruction does not automatically guarantee promotion to the next higher grade. Meeting
minimum eligibility criteria only indicates that a member can be considered eligible for
promotion. Promotion is not a reward for past performance, but recognition of the
member’s potential to successfully serve in the higher grade.
10.1.1.2. A promotion recommendation must be based upon a period of time sufficient to
permit a substantive evaluation of the airman's total performance. An essential part of
this evaluation includes the airman's attendance at Unit Training Assemblies (UTA) and
Annual Training (AT). Before recommending promotion, the commander must also
ensure that the airman's duty performance and training progress clearly indicate the
member’s potential to serve at the higher grade.
10.1.1.3. In the Noncommissioned Officer (NCO) grades, particular emphasis must be
placed on demonstrated technical skills, present and future supervisory skills, willingness
to accept more responsibility and leadership potential.
10.1.1.4. Each promotion to TSgt and above must be considered in light of its impact on
the unit and state force management plans in addition to the immediate and long range
potential of the member to serve in the higher grade.
10.1.1.5. When assessing a member’s potential to assume the next higher grade,
commanders should refer to AFI 36-2618, Enlisted Force Structure, for responsibilities
of the specific enlisted tier and grade.
10.1.2. Authority.
10.1.2.1. The authority to promote ANG airmen as Reserves of the Air Force is
delegated to The Adjutant General (TAG) of the State or Territory in accordance with
policies and procedures established by this instruction.
10.1.2.2. The authority to promote through the grade of TSgt may be delegated to wing
or equivalent commanders.
10.1.3. Wing or equivalent commanders may further delegate this authority to each
individual group, unit or squadron commander.
10.1.3.1. The authority to approve promotions to the grades of MSgt, SMSgt, and CMSgt
is TAG. TAG may delegate authority to promote airmen in these grades to the State
Assistant Adjutant General for Air (AAG for Air). However, the AAG for Airman
delegate this authority to the State Director of Staff (DoS). This authority cannot be
delegated below the DoS. There will be no exceptions to this policy.
10.1.4. First Sergeants or immediate supervisors will not have promotion authority.
96 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
10.1.5. The authority to promote airmen serving on a Statutory Tour in accordance with
ANGI 36-6, The ANG Statutory Tour Program, rests with the Air National Guard Readiness
Center Commander (ANGRC/CC)and may be further delegated, in conjunction with state
approval.
10.1.6. Disapproval Authority. Any command level may deny promotion for their assigned
members.
10.1.7. Responsibilities.
10.1.8. NGB/A1. The National Guard Bureau (NGB), Directorate, Manpower, Personnel
and Services NGB/A1 has overall responsibility for providing guidance on this instruction
and for monitoring overall promotion statistics and data.
10.1.9. The Adjutant General (TAG):
10.1.9.1. TAG is responsible for implementing the policies and procedures within the
state as outlined in this instruction. (T-0)
10.1.9.2. TAG may establish additional eligibility criteria to provide an additional basis
for comparison and evaluation. Criteria may not be added that would result in, or have
the appearance of resulting in, a promotion based upon favoritism rather than upon
performance.
10.1.10. State Headquarters:
10.1.10.1. Will monitor and effectively manage promotions to the grades of Technical
Sergeant (TSgt) through Chief Master Sergeant (CMSgt) using Attachment 4, ensuring
that each unit within their State does not exceed the manning percentages prescribed in
ANGI 36-2101, Assignments Within the Air National Guard. (T-0)
10.1.10.2. Will review the promotion eligibility on all promotion requests to the grades
of Master Sergeant (MSgt), Senior Master Sergeant (SMSgt) and Chief Master Sergeant
(CMSgt) prior to their submission to TAG, AAG for Air or DoS for approval. Promotion
requests to these grades not meeting the promotion criteria outlined in this instruction
will be disapproved and returned with explanation to the appropriate Wing Commander.
(T-0)
10.1.10.3. Will ensure each unit within the state is within strict compliance with the
requirements of this instruction. (T-0)
10.1.11. Commanders:
10.1.11.1. Will serve as the recommendation authority for all enlisted promotions. (T-3)
10.1.11.2. Will ensure their personnel meet all promotion criteria as outlined in this
instruction prior to promotion. (T-3)
10.1.11.3. Will execute a well-conceived, viable personnel force management to
equitably distribute the progressive development and upward mobility of their assigned
personnel. (T-3)
10.1.12. The Force Support Squadron (FSS).
10.1.12.1. Will ensure each unit assigned is complying with this instruction. (T-3)
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 97
10.1.12.2. Will ensure all airmen recommended for promotion meet eligibility
requirements. (T-3)
10.1.12.3. Will processes and monitor all enlisted promotion actions submitted by a
commander. (T-3)
10.1.12.4. Will ensure members are counseled regarding Air National Guard (ANG)
Service Agreements/Commitments in accordance with appropriate instruction for Air
National Guard Assignments. The personnel or administrative technician also counsels
members assigned to Geographically Separated Units (GSUs). (T-3)
10.1.12.5. Files a copy of the promotion order or AF IMT 2096, Classification On-The-
Job Training Action and Air National Guard Service Agreement in the Automated
Records Management System (ARMS) viewed by the Personnel Records Display
Application (PRDA). (T-3)
10.1.13. Commander Support Staff (CSS):
10.1.13.1. Assists FSSs with eligibility requirements and commander recommendations.
(T-3)
10.1.13.2. Advises airmen not to assume the grade until final approval is received or as
required in paragraph 1.7. (T-3)
10.1.14. Human Resource Office (HRO). The state HRO is responsible for monitoring the
promotions of Active Guard/Reserve (AGR) members in accordance with the requirements
of ANGI 36-101, The Active Guard/Reserve (AGR) Program. (T-3)
10.1.15. Eligibility Requirements.
10.1.15.1. Must be the sole occupant to the valid UMD position for promotion to TSgt
and above.
10.1.15.2. Must be assigned to a valid UMD position with an authorized grade greater
than or equal to the grade for which the member is being recommended, except as
indicated in paragraph 10.5, ANG STEP I Promotion Program and 10.9, ANG STEP II
Promotion Program.
10.1.15.3. Must not be assigned excess or overgrade, or dual status as outlined in ANGI
36-2101, with the exception as noted in Table 1.1., Rule 11, Note 2.
10.1.15.4. Airmen may not be promoted more than one grade at a time, except if
promoted to Staff Sergeant (SSgt) to attend a commissioning program or as authorized
upon graduation from high school in accordance with appropriate Air National Guard
enlistment instruction.
10.1.15.5. In each state, promotions are limited to the grade ceilings specified in the
appropriate instruction for Air National Guard assignments. A promotion that will cause
a state to exceed the grade ceiling is not authorized. No waivers or exceptions will be
permitted.
10.1.15.6. A force management plan must be in place so that promotions under the STEP
I Promotions (see paragraph 10.5.) do not prevent the promotion of eligible NCOs,
occupying valid vacancies, under the unit vacancy promotion program.
98 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
10.1.15.7. Airman must be eligible and willing to enter ANG service commitment for
retainability requirement for promotions to the ranks of MSgt thru CMSgt in accordance
with the appropriate ANG assignments instruction.
10.1.15.8. Promotion of the replacement SMSgt or CMSgt is authorized providing the
following requirements are met.
10.1.15.8.1. All promotion criteria has been met.
10.1.15.8.2. The promotion will not cause the state to exceed their authorized grade
10.1.15.8.3. Traditional guard members may be assigned as replacement of the
10.1.15.8.4. Promotions to the grades of SMSgt and CMSgt will be accomplished
under the position vacancy promotion program and percentages calculated in
accordance with (IAW) Attachment 4. (T-0)
10.1.15.8.5. AGR personnel may not be promoted above the maximum UMD
authorized grade or the military duty grade authorized except as indicated in
paragraph 10.5, ANG STEP I Promotion Program. (T-0)
10.1.15.8.6. No enlisted member (regardless of their grade) will be reassigned as an
excess or overgrade to create a position vacancy in order to promote another ANG
member. (T-0)
10.1.15.8.7. No enlisted member (regardless of their grade) will be reassigned to a
higher UMD position vacancy for promotion purposes and then returned back to a
lower UMD position creating an overgrade or excess condition. (T-0)
10.1.15.8.8. Airmen promoted to a grade of TSgt or below do not incur ANG service
commitments.
10.1.15.9. DELETED
10.1.15.10. DELETED
10.1.15.11. DELETED
10.1.15.12. DELETED
10.1.15.13. DELETED
10.1.15.14. DELETED
10.1.15.15. DELETED
10.1.15.16. DELETED
10.1.16. Wounded Warrior (WW2) Promotions. Those members classified as WW2 are
eligible for promotion provided they meet all other mandatory requirements other than
worldwide qualification and fitness.
10.1.17. An airman must hold a PAFSC at the skill level appropriate for the grade to which
being promoted (See Table 10.1. Column B) with the following exceptions:
10.1.18. TAG or AAG for Air may grant a grade/ skill level waiver or delegate this authority
for an Airman (Amn), or Airman First Class (A1C) or Senior Airman (SrA) when all
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 99
requirements for award of a 3-skill level AFSC have been met, with the exception of the
appropriate security clearance.
10.1.19. This requirement does not apply to members whose preceding assignment was
considered a Special Duty with an appropriate Special Duty Identifier (SDI) such as 8B000,
Military Training Instructor; 8B100, Military Training Leader; 8F000, First Sergeant; 8R000,
Enlisted Accessions Recruiter; 8R200, Second-Tier Recruiter; 8T000, Professional Military
Educational Instructor; or Reporting Identifiers (RI) 9W200, Wounded Warrior; 9S100,
Scientific Applications Specialist
10.1.20. First Sergeants. TSgts selected as First Sergeants will be promoted to MSgt under
the provisions of paragraph 10.2.5, Retraining Promotion Program (RPP), before attending
the First Sergeant Academy. They must attend and successfully complete the First Sergeant
Academy within one year of appointment as First Sergeant. Failure to meet this requirement
will result in demotion in accordance with Chapter 10 of this instruction.
10.1.21. Security Clearance. The necessary request for an investigation must have been
initiated at the Defense Investigative Agency (DIA), as evidenced by the Security Forces
Squadron using the appropriate Automated Security Clearance Accounting System notice.
Table 10.1. Eligibility Criteria for ANG Enlisted Promotions.
A
B
C
D
E
F
R
U
L
E
Promotion
To
Required
PAFSC
Time in
Service
(TIS) of at
least (Note
5)
Time in
Grade (TIG)
of at least
(Note 5)
Mandatory
education
requirements
Promoti
on
retainab
ility
require
ment
1
E-2
(Amn)
3-skill level
6 months
(Note 4)
6 months
Initial Active Duty
for Training (IADT)
(Note 9)
None
2
E-3
(A1C)
12 months
(1 year)
(Note 4)
6 months
(Note 4)
3
E-4
(SrA)
24 months
(2 years)
(Notes 2 and 4)
12 months
(1 year)
(Notes 2 and 4)
100 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
4
E-5
(SSgt)
5-skill level
(or 3-level
when no 5-
level exists in
the AFSC)
48 months
(4 years)
(Note 3)
12 months
(1 year)
ALS (Note 6)
5
E-6
(TSgt)
7-skill level
72 months
(6 years)
(Note 3)
24 months
(2 years)
6
E-7
(MSgt)
108 months
(9 years)
(Note 3)
24 months
(2 years)
NCOA
AGR –
24 months
(2 years)
All
others –
12
months
(1 year)
7
E-8
(SMSgt)
7-skill level
(Note 1)
132 months
(11 years)
(Note 3)
STEP
II:
204 months
(17 years)
24 months
(2 years)
SNCOA and
Associates Degree
from CCAF (Notes
7, and 8, and 10)
24 months
(2 years)
STEP II:
36 months
(3 years)
8
E-9
(CMSgt)
9-skill level
(Note 1)
168 months
(14 years)
(Note 3)
STEP
II:
204 Months
(17 years)
24 months
(2 years)
Associates Degree
from CCAF (Note 8
and 10 )
24 months
(2 years)
STEP II:
36 months
(3 years)
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 101
Notes
1. Promotion of the State Recruiting and Retention Superintendent (RRS) requires 9-skill level
certification by the commander. (T-0).
2. Effective 1 April 2006, any member accessed into the ANG must have 12 months TIG as an
A1C (E-3) and 24 months TIS to be promoted to SrA (E-4). (T-0).
3. TIS computations for all promotions will be based on satisfactory years of service for
retirement.
4. TIS/TIG is computed from the date the member enters IADT status. The source document for
determining IADT is the IADT order or a completed DD Form 214. For members having a
break- in-training, their TIS/TIG will continue during the period of break.
5. Only satisfactory years of service for retirement will be used to meet TIS/TIG requirements.
(T-0).
6. This requirement applies to ANG members enlisted from other branches of the Armed Forces,
regardless of the level of PME attained during their prior service.
7. Completion of the United States Army Sergeants Major Academy, the United States Navy
Senior Enlisted Academy, the United States Coast Guard Chief Petty Officers Academy, or
United States Marine Corps Staff NCO Academy is equivalent to SNCOA.
8. Effective 1 Oct 2015, CCAF degree is required for promotions to SMSgt and CMSgt.
CCAF degree may be in any area of study. (T-0).
9. Completion of IADT is not applicable for promotion authorized under paragraph 10.4.
10. Effective 1 October 2015, exceptions to policy for CCAF requirements may be submitted
through NGB/A1PP for NGB/CF for approval. Exceptions will not be permitted for members
who do not possess a minimum of an associate’s degree as documented in PDS. Exceptions must
be coordinated through Wing/State/Territory CCMs and have the endorsement of TAG. Members
without a CCAF may not be promoted without an approved ETP. (T-0).
10.2. ANG Promotion Ineligibility Factors. The following table will be used to determine
ineligibility for promotion.
Table 10.2. ANG Promotion Ineligibility Factors.
RULE
An airman is not eligible for promotion if he/she:
1
Is pending a fitness determination through the Disability Evaluation System (DES), Medical
Evaluation Board (MEB), or Physical Evaluation Board (PEB). (Note 1)
2
Fails to complete medical/dental requirements
3
Is currently waiting to attend Basic Military Training (BMT)
4
Is currently in a break-in-training. Completed BMT, returned to their unit and are currently
waiting to attend a 3-skill level awarding Technical Training School.
5
Fails to meet passing fitness requirement.
102 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
6
Is not recommended for retention by their immediate commander.
7
Is recommended for promotion and is unable or unwilling to reenlist or extend to meet
retainability requirement as defined in Table 9.1. and as outlined in ANGI 36-2101, for
promotion to MSgt, SMSgt or CMSgt prior to separation or retirement.
8
Has any unexcused absence for last 12 months.
9
Is undergoing administrative demotion action under Chapter 11 of this instruction.
10
Has requested voluntary retirement or separation (including joining another military
component and State-to-State Transfers).
11
Is in an excess or over grade status. (Note 2)
12
Has an approved application for separation as a conscientious objector.
13
Is being considered or processed for an involuntary discharge or separation under AFI
36-3209, Separation and Retirement Procedures for ANG and AFR Members.
14
Has been convicted by court-martial (CM), and is undergoing punishment/ suspended
punishment imposed by CM.
15
Is absent without leave (AWOL)/ in deserter status.
16
Is under investigation, the subject of a military or civil law inquiry (formal or informal)
which may result in action under UCMJ or prosecution by civil authorities. The commander
may continue to withhold the promotion when the investigation or inquiry is complete but
no determination has been made as to the action the military or civil authorities will take.
17
Is pending a military or civil conviction.
18
Has been convicted by a civilian court (excluding minor traffic violations) or undergoing
punishment, suspended punishment/sentence, probation, work release program, adverse
adjudication, or any combination of these or similar court-ordered conditions. Include
period of time the Airman is on probation after serving part of a sentence or has had the
sentence withheld for a period of time. The ineligibility period will equal the maximum
confinement for the same or most closely related offense under the manual for CM. (Notes 1
and 4)
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 103
19
Is undergoing a punishment imposed by UCMJ
Article 15 or State Code and will remain ineligible for at least one year from date punishment
was imposed.
20
Is disqualified from a previously awarded AFSC for cause.
21
Is not recommended for entry into upgrade training or is withdrawn from upgrade training for
failing to progress to the next higher level.
22
Has a referral (rating of “2”) on their current Enlisted Performance Report (EPR).
23
Will become senior in grade to their immediate supervisor or cause a grade inversion by being
promoted.
24
Is ineligible for a security clearance or clearance has been rescinded or revoked.
25
Does not meet the requirements listed in Paragraph 9.1.4. or Table 9.1. of this instruction for
the grade to which being considered for promotion.
26
Is not assigned to a valid Unit Manpower Document (UMD) position.
27
Is not recommended for promotion by Unit CC.
Notes:
1. Commanders should use discretion when promoting members with physical profiles or members
who have been convicted (civilian or military).
2. Members in an excess status will not be promoted above the grade of SSgt (E-5) unless authorized
by current fiscal year ANG Recruiting and Retention Initiatives. (T-3).
3. Individuals pending separation/ discharge, awaiting retraining, or disqualified for reasons within
their control remain ineligible for promotion. Members disqualified from previously awarded AFSC
remain ineligible until awarded a PAFSC at a skill level commensurate with current grade.
4. Members are ineligible for promotion for one year from date of conviction (civilian or military).
10.3. ANG Position Vacancy Promotions Program.
10.3.1. Position Vacancy Promotion (PVP). For the purpose of this instruction, a position
vacancy is a personnel assignment condition in which the total number of valid manpower
104 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
positions in a unit (by AFSC and grade) does not exceed the number of personnel assigned to
a unit in the same AFSC and grade (to include overgrade assignments in a higher grade in the
same AFSC).
10.3.1.1. Eligibility .
10.3.1.2. Airman must meet all eligibility requirements as defined in Table 10.1.
10.3.1.3. For promotions above the grade of SSgt, a position vacancy must exist in the
specific AFSC in the grade to which promotion is contemplated, and the individual must
be the sole occupant of that valid manpower position.
10.3.2. Process.
10.3.2.1. Unit commanders will forward their recommendation through their servicing
FSS no earlier than 30 days prior to the requested effective date. This allows sufficient
lead-time for administrative processing for promotion recommendation.
10.4. Mandatory Promotion Requirements for promotion to Amn, A1C and SrA while
attending a lengthy Technical Training School (TTS).
10.4.1. Eligibility.
10.4.2. An AB, Amn or A1C attending a lengthy technical training school in excess of 139
days (BMT length not included) who has not had sufficient time or training to upgrade to the
appropriate 3-skill level may be promoted while at technical training school provided all
other criteria in Table 10.1 has been met.
10.4.3. Their military and technical training school scholastic record must be at least
satisfactory and the Airman must demonstrate leadership potential by being an Airman leader
or in a signified leadership position by the wearing of an Airman rope (chapel assistant, drill
team, band or special activities team).
10.4.4. Their military and TTS scholastic record must be verified in writing by the technical
training center using the Lengthy Technical Training School – Promotion Checklist in
Attachment 9 which is forwarded to the ANG Liaison.
10.4.5. Process.
10.4.5.1. To verify military and TTS scholastic records, the promotion approving
authority at the unit will contact the Base Education Training Manager (BETM) within
the servicing FSS. The BETM must contact the ANG Liaison at the appropriate TTS
center approximately 60 days prior to the member’s eligibility for promotion.
10.4.5.2. The promotion recommendation will not be processed by the unit until receipt
of the approved promotion checklist.
10.4.5.3. Under no circumstances will a member be promoted prior to completion of
each of the requirements above. In the event a member is erroneously promoted prior to
arrival at TTS, the state will revoke the erroneous promotion action. No waivers or
exceptions to this policy will be authorized.
10.5. ANG Stripes for Exceptional Performers Promotions Program (TSgt – MSgt) [STEP
I]. This program was developed to provide a promotion opportunity only for those highly
qualified and most deserving based on demonstrated potential. ANG STEP I promotions
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 105
must be reserved for a very limited number of truly outstanding and deserving members
who have demonstrated potential for positions of increased responsibility. A deserving airman
promotion is not a reward for past service, nor is it authorized solely due to an airman’s
attainment of the minimum eligibility requirements. This program allows members to be
promoted to TSgt or MSgt without regard to the UMD authorized grade. A force management
plan must be in place so that promotions under the STEP I do not prevent the promotion of
eligible NCOs, occupying valid vacancies, under the unit vacancy promotion program. This
program does not apply to members serving on a full-time Statutory Tour.
10.5.1. Eligibility. (All of the non-waiverable criteria must be met)
10.5.2. The airman must be the sole occupant of a UMD position with an authorized grade
identical to their current grade (e.g., a TSgt being considered for deserving airman promotion
to MSgt must be the sole occupant of the TSgt position, no waivers or exceptions). The
airman must be immediately assigned to the first available compatible UMD position (must
be equal to or higher to their STEP I grade) that will resolve the overgrade status.
10.5.3. The airman must be fully qualified in the Duty Air Force Specialty Code (DAFSC)
to which assigned.
10.5.4. The promotion must not result in the airman becoming senior in grade to their
immediate supervisor.
10.5.5. The airman must meet the requirements listed in Table 10.1. in addition to those
listed in Table 10.3 (STEP I) This also applies to AGR promotions under this program.
10.5.6. Airmen previously involuntarily demoted from the grade of TSgt or MSgt are not
eligible for promotion under the STEP I promotion program.
10.5.7. Airmen previously promoted under this program may not be deserving airmen
promoted to the same grade.
10.5.8. Promotions resulting from this program must be within the manning constraints of
ANGI 36-2101.
10.6. Process.
10.6.1. The ANG STEP I promotion will not to be used as a substitute for position vacancy
promotions. As this promotion action will cause an overgrade assignment, commanders must
have a force management plan in effect to resolve this condition by the member’s ETS or 24
months, whichever is less.
10.6.2. Commanders must objectively evaluate and rank order all ANG STEP I nominees so
that only truly deserving airmen are promoted.
Table 10.3. Supplemental Mandatory Requirements for ANG STEP I Promotions
Promotion to
the grade of
Status
The minimum TIS is
and must have served in
the ANG for a minimum
time of
106 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
TSgt
Military Technician or
Traditional Guard
144 months
(12 years)
of Satisfactory Service
for retirement
24 months
(2 years)
AGR
144 months
(12 years)
of Total Active Federal
Military Service
(TAFMS)
MSgt
Military Technician or
Traditional Guard
216 months
(18 years)
of Satisfactory Service
for retirement.
36 months
(3 years)
AGR
216 months
(18 years)
TAFMS
10.7. Officer Training Promotion Program (OTPP).
10.7.1. Promote airmen in grades SrA and below accepted for the Academy of Military
Science (AMS) or the Flight Screening Program (FSP) to SSgt without regard to the
requirements listed in Table 10.1 or UMD authorization. Such promotions will be effective 1
day before departure, but no earlier than the 11th day before the established report no later
than date to training.
10.7.2. Airmen who eliminated or not commissioned will be demoted to their previously
held grade concurrent with termination of their student status in accordance with Chapter 11
of this instruction. The DOR will be the former DOR. The effective DOR will be the date of
the demotion action.
10.8. Retraining Promotion Program (RPP). This program was developed to provide
commanders the ability to recommend promotion for airman who are new to the career field but
have demonstrated the ability to serve in the next higher grade
10.8.1. Eligibility.
10.8.2. The airman must be the sole occupant of the position. In addition, the overall unit
manning, including the airman, must not exceed the authorized grade ceiling.
10.8.3. Airman must meet all eligibility requirements as defined in Table 10.1.
10.8.4. Any airman who is retraining may be promoted on the basis of his or her currently
held PAFSC, subject to the following:
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 107
10.8.5. The airman must be fully qualified in the previous AFSC, be approved by the
commander for retraining, and obtain a 3-skill level in their current DAFSC prior to
promotion recommendation.
10.8.6. Process.
10.8.6.1. Airman must be accepted by the unit commander into a valid UMD position
vacancy.
10.8.6.2. Airman must sign the statement of understanding (Attachment 5).
10.8.6.3. Unit commanders will forward their recommendation, including member’s
completed statement of understanding through their servicing FSS no earlier than 30 days
prior to the requested effective date. This allows sufficient lead-time for administrative
processing for promotion recommendation.
10.8.6.4. Failure to Meet Requirement of RPP.
10.8.6.5. Airmen promoted under RPP will retain the grade if, for reasons beyond their
control, the AFSC into which they have retrained is deleted (e.g., NGB Directed Unit
Realignment or Reorganization, not a commander directed reassignment).
10.8.6.6. Airmen promoted under this provision will be demoted to the previously held
grade in accordance with Chapter 11 of this instruction under the following conditions:
10.8.6.7. Voluntarily leave the AFSC in which being retrained.
10.8.6.8. Involuntarily reassigned by a commander for documented and/or substantiated
performance related reasons.
10.8.6.9. Voluntarily separate or retire before attaining the required grade/skill level.
10.8.6.10. Fails to obtain the required skill level by the time limit approved by the
commander.
10.9. RPP Due to Unit Conversion.
10.9.1. Eligibility.
10.9.1.1. The Airman must be the sole occupant of the position.
10.9.1.2. Airman must meet all eligibility requirements as defined in Table 10.1.
10.9.1.3. The overall unit manning, including the Airman, must not exceed the
authorized grade ceiling.
10.9.1.4. Airman may be promoted on the basis of his or her currently held PAFSC and
be approved by the commander for retraining prior to promotion recommendation.
10.9.2. Process.
10.9.2.1. The unit must have a new Unit Manning Document for conversion in place
10.9.2.2. Airman must be accepted by the unit commander into a valid UMD position
vacancy.
10.9.2.3. The member must have a request for a 3 level Technical Training School (TSS)
on file.
108 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
10.9.2.4. Airman must sign the statement of understanding (Attachment 5).
10.9.2.5. Unit commanders will forward their recommendation, including member’s
completed statement of understanding and a copy of the 3 level TSS request through
their servicing FSS no earlier than 30 days prior to the requested effective date of
promotion. This allows sufficient lead-time for administrative processing for promotion
recommendation.
10.9.2.6. Failure to Meet Requirement of RPP Due to Unit Conversion
10.9.2.7. Airmen promoted under RPP due to unit conversion will retain the grade if, for
reasons beyond their control, the AFSC into which they have retrained is deleted (e.g.,
NGB Directed Unit Realignment or Reorganization, not a commander directed
reassignment).
10.9.2.8. Airmen promoted under this provision will be demoted to the previously held
grade in accordance with Chapter 11 of this instruction under the following conditions:
10.9.2.9. Voluntarily leave the AFSC in which being retrained.
10.9.2.10. Involuntarily reassigned by a commander for documented and/or substantiated
performance related reasons.
10.9.2.11. Voluntarily separate or retire before attaining the required grade/ skill level.
10.9.2.12. Fails to obtain the required 3-skill level in the AFSC for which the Airman is
being retrained within 36 months.
10.10. ANG Stripes for Exceptional Performers Promotion Program (SMSgt - CMSgt)
[STEP II]. This program was developed to provide promotion opportunity to SMSgt and
CMSgt for truly exceptional traditional guard enlisted leaders where vacant UMD authorizations
do not exist (All of the non-waiverable criteria must be met). This program is based on calendar
year and each STEP II promotion must be executed in the current calendar year in accordance
with figure 10.1. This program does not apply to members serving on full-time Statutory Tour.
10.10.1. Authorization. The following categories are provided regarding the authorizations
for STEP II promotions per state or territory and apply to authorized positions only. Under
no circumstances will the STEP II authorizations be increased based on excess assignments.
Figure 10.1. ANG STEP II Authorizations Based on Allocations
Category
Total Military Authorizations
STEP II Allocations
A
Up to 2,200
One E8 and One E9
B
2,201 to 4,000
Two E8’s and Two E9’s
C
Over 4,000
Three E8’s and Three E9’s
10.10.2. States are authorized to substitute an E-9 allocation for an E-8 allocation.
Substitution of an E-8 allocation for an E-9 allocation is not authorized.
10.10.3. Eligibility. All eligible nominees must meet the following criteria in addition to the
eligibility requirements set in Table 10.1. State JFHQ is responsible for ensuring all member
nominated and selected for promotion under STEP II are eligible.
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 109
10.10.4. . STEP II promotion program is a state controlled program and allocations do not
count against each state’s E-8 and or E-9 authorized billets.
10.10.5. The following assignment criteria are non-waiverable and will be used to determine
eligibility for this promotion program:
10.10.6. Nominees must be the sole occupant of the position.
10.10.7. This promotion program applies to traditional guard members only. Military
technicians (including Temporary Technicians) and AGR (including Occasional AGR)
personnel are not eligible for promotion under STEP II.
10.10.8. Nominees must meet the minimum TIG and TIS requirements, and be fully
qualified in their DAFSC at submission.
10.10.9. Nominees must have completed the SNCOA.
10.10.10. The nominees will not be excess to unit requirements or become excess within the
subsequent three years following promotion.
10.10.11. Nominees selected under STEP II cannot be promoted to a position two grades
above the UMD authorization.
10.10.12. Nominees must be within three years of qualifying for a reserve retirement at the
time of submission with 17 years of satisfactory service.
10.10.13. Nominee must have three years of retainability prior to reaching age 60 and must
agree to remain in the ANG for three years subsequent to the promotion.
10.10.14. Nominees must complete a statement of understanding prior to processing the
promotion recommendation (see Attachment 5).
10.10.15. The nominees must acknowledge that they must transfer to the retired reserve or
be discharged on the third anniversary of the promotion, unless assigned to a valid UMD
vacancy commensurate with the member’s current grade of E-8 or E-9.
10.10.16. A demotion action at the completion of the three-years is not an option. A waiver
or exception to policy is not authorized.
10.10.17. Nominees serving in an assignment requiring a Special Duty Identifier (SDI ex.
8F000) may not be promoted more than once under this program while serving in the same
SDI.
10.11. Process: Each State Command Chief or equivalent will develop STEP II promotion
program competitive selection process that is executable and accountable. (T-0)
10.11.1. The STEP II submission package must include the following (plus any additional
state requirements):
10.11.2. The categories to be addressed in the competitive process are outlined in
Attachment 6. Each of the categories will be addressed in writing by the recommending
authority using AF Form 1206, Nomination for Award. (T-0).
10.11.3. A biography on the nominee in the format at Attachment 7.
10.11.4. A Virtual Military Personnel Flight (vMPF) Record Review on the nominee.
110 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
10.11.5. It is recommended that a state use a selection panel consisting of, at a minimum, the
Wing Command Chief Master Sergeants (CCMs). States may conduct their boards at any
time during the calendar year.
10.11.6. Upon approval by TAG of the board recommendations, the promotion order may be
published.
10.11.7. States must provide a copy of approved orders through Case Management System
(CMS) for all STEP II promotions to NGB/A1PP within 20 days of the promotion effective
date. (T-0)
10.11.7.1. NGB/A1PP will update the MILPDS with the proper overgrade code not to
exceed three years from promotion effective date. (T-0)
10.12. Administrative Procedures. As a minimum, these procedures will include verification
of eligibility by the CSS and servicing FSS, review of Unit Personnel Management Roster
(UPMR) to identify positions being downgraded or deleted, and verification of adjusted
effective manning percentage as prescribed in Attachment 10. Administrative procedures for
effecting the promotion of ANG airmen will be as prescribed by TAG.
10.12.1. Dates. Promotions are effective the date of the promotion order or AF IMT 2096
and will not be retroactively granted. Every caution must be taken to prevent administrative
errors. If an error / oversight occurs, MPS will submit a request for correction via Case
Management System to NGB/A1PP. All requests must contain the appropriate source
document to support the request for correction.
10.12.1.1. The (DOR) of an airman promoted to a grade not previously held is the
effective date of the promotion.
10.12.1.2. The DOR of airmen previously demoted as a result of a voluntary change of
assignment will be adjusted upon promotion to give credit for previous time satisfactorily
served in that grade. For example, a prior Master Sergeant who voluntarily accepted
demotion to Staff Sergeant would have his or her date of rank adjusted to give credit for
previous time upon promotion again to Technical Sergeant and Master Sergeant.
10.13. Orders. Promotions are announced using an AF IMT 2096, or composed special orders
(examples in figure 10.2) published by the FSS or other orders issuing authority in accordance
with ANGI 33-101, Air National Guard Administrative Orders.
Figure 10.2. Promotion Order Examples
Promotion Order for Multiple Airmen
The following named airmen, 162 FW, AZ ANG, Tucson IAP, AZ 86706-6028, are
promoted in the AZ ANG as a Reserve of the Air Force to the grade indicated, effective date
as indicated and DOR as indicated. Authority: ANGI 36-2502.
TO CMSGT (E-9)
SMSGT JOHN E. JONES, 000-00-0000, HQ AZ ANG,
EFFECTIVE DATE: 1 JUN 09, DOR: 1 JUN 09.
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 111
TO TSGT (E-6)
SSGT SALLY E. SLATE, 000-00-0000, 162 CF,
EFFECTIVE DATE: 1 JUN 09, DOR: 1 JAN 07.
Promotion of One Enlisted Airman
TSGT VINCENT A. PEREZ, 000-00-0000, 162 CF, AZ ANG, Tucson IAP, AZ 86706-
6028, is promoted to MSGT (E-7) in the AZ ANG as a Reserve of the Air Force effective
and with DOR 1 Jun 09. Authority: AFI 36-2502.
Posthumous Promotion
SSGT GLENN B. CARTER, 000-00-0000, 162 CF, AZ ANG, Tucson IAP, AZ ANG,
Tucson IAP, AZ 86706-6028 is posthumously promoted to TSGT (E-6) in the AZ ANG
effective 1 Jun 09, without monetary benefit. Authority: AFI 36-2502.
10.14. Ceremonies . Commanders should hold ceremonies appropriate to the grade to which
the airman has been promoted. Commanders may conduct ceremonies on the last duty day
before the promotion effective date and inform the member that ceremonies do not affect pay,
seniority, or entitlements.
10.15. Revocation . Promotion orders authorized by a commander without promotion authority
or for a member who is later found to be ineligible for the promotion will be revoked only upon
specific approval by TAG or AAG for Air.
10.15.1. In such cases, determination must be made that the facts clearly and
unmistakably show the AF IMT 2096 or original promotion order was without basis of
authority.
Figure 10.3. Revocation Orders. The revocation order will be composed as follows
Paragraph____________Special Order__________, this headquarters____________, dated
________ approving the promotion of [(name, Social Security Number (SSN), Unit (of the
airman concerned)] has been determined by the Adjutant General of or AAG for Air
(State/Territory) to be without original basis of authority, is null and void, and is hereby revoked.
112 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
Chapter 11
AIR NATIONAL GUARD ENLISTED DEMOTIONS
11.1. General.
11.1.1. Program Objective.
11.1.1.1. Do not use administrative demotions when it is more appropriate to take
actions specified under the applicable state military code or the Uniform Code of Military
Justice (UCMJ), when applicable.
11.1.1.2. Do not demote airmen who have separated. An administrative demotion
action cannot be initiated unless the reason for the action occurred during the current
enlistment (including extensions). EXCEPTION: The facts and circumstances were not
known by the commander until after reenlistment. If the commander has sufficient
reason to initiate the demotion action, consider the entire military record in deciding
whether demotion is appropriate.
11.1.1.3. When appropriate, airmen will be given an opportunity to overcome their
deficiencies before demotion action is initiated. Commanders will maintain supporting
documentation of all rehabilitation and probationary actions
11.1.1.4. Suspended demotions are not authorized under this instruction. Once
demoted, that action reflects the member’s appropriate grade and may not be suspended
conditioned on future conduct.
11.1.1.5. Other than demotion under paragraphs 11.1.4.1.1., 11.1.4.1.2., 11.1.4.2.1,
11.1.4.2.2., to authorize demotion of an enlisted ANG member, the demotion authority
must be convinced by a preponderance of the evidence that such action is warranted. The
demotion authority may consider all matters in the case that, in their judgment, have
probative value and need not be influenced by the possibility that some of those matters
may not be admissible in a judicial proceeding.
11.1.2. Authority. The unit commander may recommend the demotion of an enlisted ANG
member under his/her command.
11.1.2.1. Unit Level Airmen. The authority to demote enlisted ANG members as
Reserves of the Air Force is vested in The Adjutant General (TAG) of the State according
to the policies and procedures stated herein. TAG will exercise demotion authority for
enlisted members serving in the ranks of Master Sergeant (MSgt), Senior Master
Sergeant (SMSgt), and Chief Master Sergeant (CMSgt). This authority may be delegated
to the Assistant Adjutant General (AAG) for Air. (T-0)
11.1.2.1.1. Demotion authority for enlisted ANG members serving in the ranks of
Technical Sergeant (TSgt) and below may be further delegated to the Wing/ Group/
Base commander or the commander of a geographically separated unit (GSU), and
may not be further delegated. (T-3)
11.1.2.2. Statutory Tour Airmen. The authority to demote enlisted Statutory Tour
members serving on extended active duty (Title 10 United States Code (USC) 12310)
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 113
with the National Guard Bureau (NGB) will be the Director, Air National Guard, with the
concurrence of the appropriate State TAG. (T-0)
11.1.2.3. Depending on an ANG enlisted member’s military status, a member reduced in
grade by court martial, judicial or non-judicial punishment under the UCMJ or State
Military Code, is demoted to the same grade as a Reserve of the Air Force in the Air
National Guard of the United States (ANGUS).
11.1.2.4. Demotion Reasons
11.1.2.4.1. Voluntary Demotions.
11.1.2.4.1.1. Voluntary Change of Assignment.
11.1.2.4.1.1.1. A voluntary change of assignment to a UMD position which
has a lower grade authorization than that currently held by the airman will
result in demotion to the lower UMD grade. Demotions IAW this paragraph
is affected by the publication of demotion orders by appropriate authority.
Orders affecting voluntary demotions will contain the phrase “without
prejudice.” There will be no waivers or exceptions to this policy.
11.1.2.4.1.1.2. Demotion to a lower grade resulting from a voluntary change
of assignment. An airman must acknowledge in writing that the lower
military grade (state specific grade) is accepted. The demotion will not
preclude subsequent promotion under Chapter 10 of this instruction.
11.1.2.4.1.2. Completion of First Sergeant Tour for Full-Time Airmen.
11.1.2.4.1.2.1. The maximum tour length for full-time personnel serving as a
first sergeant is outlined in the appropriate Air National Guard assignments
instruction. Upon completion of the tour as a first sergeant, the member must
be reassigned to a compatible military position. When such a reassignment
(either prior to or at the completion of the maximum tour) results in a
demotion, that demotion will be considered voluntary.
11.1.2.4.1.2.2. The demotion order will cite this paragraph as the authority for
the demotion. Orders effecting voluntary demotions will contain the phrase
“without prejudice.”
11.1.2.4.1.2.3. If such reassignment is based on substandard performance,
demotion would then be effected under 11.1.2.4.2. of this instruction.
11.1.2.4.2. Involuntary Demotions.
11.1.2.4.2.1. Failure to Complete Training.
11.1.2.4.2.1.1. Enlisted ANG members attending the Flight Screening
Program (FSP), the ANG Academy of Military Science (AMS), or the Air
Force Reserve Officer Training Course (AFROTC), who fail to complete such
training for any reason will be demoted to the last grade satisfactorily held.
11.1.2.4.2.1.2. Airmen promoted under Retraining Promotion Program (RPP)
in accordance with Chapter 10 of this instruction, must qualify for the new
Air Force Specialty Code (AFSC) within the time limits specified by the
114 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
commander or be demoted to the last grade satisfactorily held.
11.1.2.4.2.1.3. Airmen promoted to grade E-3 while on initial active duty for
training (IADT) must qualify for the AFSC within the time limits specified or
be demoted to the last grade satisfactorily held.
11.1.2.4.2.2. Failure to Attain Grade/ Skill Relationship.
11.1.2.4.2.2.1. Demote an airman who fails to qualify, within the time limits
specified by the commander, for the award of the AFSC that corresponds to
the grade in which enlisted. Demote the airmen to the highest grade that
corresponds to the skill level awarded at the time of enlistment.
11.1.2.4.2.2.2. Reclassification to a lower skill level. Demote airmen to the
highest possible grade allowed for the skills they have if, under Air Force
Instruction (AFI) 36-2101, Classifying Military Personnel (Officers and
Airmen), Chapter 4, their Air Force Specialty is downgraded for
substandard performance. As the effective date of demotion, use the date on
which their skill level was downgraded.
11.1.2.4.2.3. Unsatisfactory Participation.
11.1.2.4.2.3.1. For demotion purposes only, unsatisfactory participation is
defined as having six or more unexcused absences from scheduled unit
training assembly [UTA] periods [4 hours per UTA period] in any continuous
12-month period.
11.1.2.4.2.3.2. After six unexcused absences, the commander may send the
airman a certified memorandum (Attachment 12), return receipt requested,
stressing the seriousness of the situation and advising that demotion action is
being initiated.
11.1.2.4.2.3.3. The demotion will be effected as soon as practicable after the
airman has been given the opportunity to exercise his or her rights as defined
in the memorandum advising of the intent to demote. Pending demotion
actions will be completed prior to the administrative separation of Airman.
11.1.2.4.2.4. Active Guard Reserve (AGR) Priority Placement Program
Position Declination.
11.1.2.4.2.4.1. In accordance with (IAW) ANGI 36-101, The Active
Guard/Reserve (AGR) Program, an overgrade full-time military duty member
who declines a position offered under the priority placement program must be
reduced in grade to that authorized by his or her Unit Manpower Document
(UMD) no later than 30 days after declination position.
11.1.2.4.2.4.2. Orders effecting this reduction will contain the statement
“without prejudice.”
11.1.2.4.2.5. Overgrade Assignment Expiration.
11.1.2.4.2.5.1. When an authorized period of overgrade assignment expires in
accordance with the Assignments instruction for the Air National Guard and
no other assignment option is available, the airman must be demoted.
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 115
11.1.2.4.2.5.2. Orders effecting this demotion will contain the statement
“without prejudice”.
11.1.2.4.2.6. Failure to Fulfill Responsibilities.
11.1.2.4.2.6.1. An airman may be demoted if he or she fails to fulfill
responsibilities prescribed in AFI 36-2618, The Enlisted Force Structure.
11.1.2.4.2.6.1.1. Substandard (Unsatisfactory) Performance.
11.1.2.4.2.6.1.2. Failure to perform assigned duties properly.
11.1.2.4.2.6.1.3. A progressively downward trend in performance. Failure
to make the effort necessary to meet ANG standards of conduct and duty
performance.
11.1.2.4.2.6.1.4. Standards. Failure to maintain standards of dress and
personal appearance or military deportment see AFI 36-2903, Dress and
Personal Appearance of Personnel.
11.1.2.4.2.6.1.5. Personal Finances. Irresponsibility in the management of
personal finances.
11.1.2.4.2.7. Failure to attain and maintain fitness standards.
11.1.2.4.2.7.1. Failure to meet the requirements of AFI 36-2905. An airman
may be demoted after unsatisfactory fitness assessments within a 36 month
period as prescribed in AFI 36-2905.
11.1.3. Process.
11.1.3.1. Notifying Airman of Impending Action. (See Attachment 11 and 12)
11.1.3.1.1. After consulting with the servicing Staff Judge Advocate (SJA), the
immediate commander will inform the airman in writing to the airman’s last known
address, either by personal delivery (with written receipt acknowledged) or by
certified mail (return receipt requested), of the intent to recommend demotion, or to
demote if the unit commander is also the demotion authority. If the airman does not
acknowledge receipt within the specified time or if the memorandum is returned as
undeliverable, the unit commander may proceed to process the demotion action. The
memorandums will contain the following information:
11.1.3.1.1.1. Specific reasons for the proposed action and applicable paragraphs
of this instruction. (T-3)
11.1.3.1.1.2. A complete summary of the supporting facts. (T-3)
11.1.3.1.1.3. Instructions that the airman will acknowledge (in writing) the
notification memorandum within five calendar days of receipt by certified mail or
immediately upon receipt if personally delivered by the commander or his
designated representative. (T-3)
11.1.3.1.1.4. Instructions that the airman will either concur or non-concur, in
writing, with the proposed action no later than the end-of-day roll call following
the second UTA (4-hour period) after acknowledgment of the memorandum.
116 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
11.1.3.1.1.5. An explanation that the airman may consult with counsel before
electing to concur or non-concur with a recommendation for demotion. Counsel
will be provided by the SJA, appointed by the airman’s immediate commander,
and identified by name in the initial notification memorandum. Counsel may also
assist in preparing a written response by the individual if the member so elects.
Expenses incurred in connection with the appearance or assistance of civilian
counsel on behalf of the airman is the responsibility of the airman and will not be
paid by the government. Airmen being considered for demotion will be offered
representation by counsel who is either:
11.1.3.1.1.5.1. A military lawyer (within the meaning of article 27(b)(1) of
the UCMJ or designated Judge Advocate (JA) under Title 10 USC 8067(g),
different from the military counsel advising the commander, if available; or
(T-3)
11.1.3.1.1.5.2. If a military lawyer is not available, a disinterested officer
from the unit other than the airman’s unit. This officer must, in the
commander’s judgment, possess the knowledge and judgment necessary to
provide comprehensive and accurate advice to the airman on the procedures
and alternate courses of action available. If possible, the officer should be
well versed in personnel matters. (T-1)
11.1.3.1.2. If the airman non-concurs with the proposed demotion action then he
must decide whether or not to submit documentation on his or her behalf. If the
decision is to submit documentation, it must be received within 20 calendar days
after the date the airman responds indicating his or her decision to non-concur with
the demotion action.
11.1.3.1.3. An explanation that the airman may request a personal interview with the
immediate commander. If the airman chooses to make an oral presentation, counsel
may be present during the interview.
11.1.3.1.4. Explanation that a lack of response will be construed as concurrence by
the individual. Failure to respond will be construed as a waiver to both the right to
appear before the airman’s immediate commander and representation by counsel.
11.1.3.1.5. An explanation that the airman, if eligible, may request resignation or
retirement IAW AFI 36-3209, Separation Procedures for Air National Guard and Air
Force Reserve Members, in lieu of demotion at any time before publication of
demotion orders. Obligors or airmen who have incurred service commitments are not
eligible to resign or retire.
11.1.3.2. Action by the Immediate Commander after Receipt of Airman’s Reply or
if the Airman Fails to Respond to the Notification of Intent to Demote. (See Table
11.1)
11.1.3.2.1. If the airman concurs with the demotion action or fails to respond to the
notification of intent to demote, and if the immediate commander is the demotion
authority, the commander will obtain a legal review of the case file from the servicing
SJA. (T-3)
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 117
11.1.3.2.1.1. If it is determined that the case file is legally sufficient for demotion
the immediate commander will proceed with the demotion action. (T-3)
11.1.3.2.1.2. If the immediate commander is not the demotion authority, forward
the package and demotion recommendation through channels to the appropriate
demotion authority. (T-3)
11.1.3.2.1.3. If the airman non-concurs with the demotion action and submits
matters on his or her behalf, or requests a personal interview, or both, the
immediate commander will consider all matters presented by the airman.
11.1.3.2.2. An immediate commander who is also the demotion authority will
consider each and all of the matters presented and then:
11.1.3.2.2.1. Terminate the demotion action; or (T-3)
11.1.3.2.2.2. Request SJA review for legal sufficiency prior to effecting the
demotion. If the SJA determines there is legal sufficiency to support a
finding for demotion, the immediate commander may proceed with the
demotion action. If the case lacks legal sufficiency, it will be terminated and the
airman advised in writing by certified mail or by personal delivery. (T-3)
11.1.3.2.3. An immediate commander who is not the demotion authority will
consider each and all of the matters presented and then:
11.1.3.2.3.1. Terminate the demotion action, or (T-3)
11.1.3.2.3.2. Prepare a written summary of that personal interview (if any),
include that summary in the case file, and forward the case file to the demotion
authority with an appropriate recommendation. The immediate commander will
immediately notify the airman in writing by certified mail or by personal delivery
of the decision to continue processing the demotion action or to terminate it. (T-
3)
Table 11.1. Commander’s Action Upon Receipt of Airman’s Reply
R
U
L
E
If commander
determines airman
should
and commander
is the demotion
authority
then commander
1.
not be demoted
yes
notifies the airman in writing of decision,
thus closing the case
2.
no
endorses case through channels to the
demotion authority
3.
be demoted
yes
acts IAW paragraph 11.1.5
4.
no
endorses correspondence through channels to
the demotion authority recommending lower
grade that commander believes appropriate
for the airman’s skill and abilities
11.1.3.3. Action by the Demotion Authority Who is Not the Airman’s Immediate
Commander:
118 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
11.1.3.3.1. The demotion authority will obtain a legal review from the
servicing SJA before rendering a final decision on the immediate commander’s
demotion recommendation. (T-3)
11.1.3.3.2. The demotion authority will notify the airman and servicing Force
Support Squadron (FSS) in writing of the decision to concur or non-concur with the
immediate commander’s demotion recommendation. The FSS will then notify the
airman of the decision by endorsement through the airman’s immediate commander.
(T-3)
11.1.4. Administrative Actions.
11.1.4.1. Announcing and Revoking Demotions:
11.1.4.1.1. Demotions are announced in special orders published by the appropriate
headquarters in IAW ANGI 33-101, Air National Guard Administrative Orders. The
effective date for the demotion is the date specified by the demotion authority.
11.1.4.1.2. Demotion orders may be revoked only with the approval of TAG when it
has been determined that the order was published without the proper authority.
Revocation orders are published in accordance with ANGI 33-101.
11.1.4.1.3. Instructions regarding voluntary demotions are found in paragraph
11.1.4.1.
11.1.4.2. Notifying the Airman of an Approved Demotion Action. The demotion
authority (who is not the airman’s immediate commander) will notify the airman’s
immediate commander in writing through the FSS of the decision to effect the demotion.
The airman’s commander will then notify the airman in writing by certified mail or
personal delivery of the decision. A copy of the demotion order will be included with the
notification. If the immediate commander is not available, the next higher commander
in the chain of command (up to and including the demotion authority) will notify
the airman.
11.1.4.3. Grades to Which Airman May be Demoted. See Table 11.2.
Table 11.2. Grades to Which Airmen May be Demoted
R
U
L
E
If airman is
then demotion will be to a grade no
lower than
1
E-4 or higher
E-2
2
E-3
E-1
11.1.4.3.1. A reduction of three or more grades should only be used in an
extraordinarily unique case when there appears to be no reasonable hope that the
airman will again exhibit the proficiency, leadership, or fitness previously possessed.
In this case, commanders may consider separation or discharge action under AFI 36-
3209.
11.1.4.4. Date of Rank DOR will be determined in accordance with Attachment 10.
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 119
DANIEL R. SITTERLY, SES
Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary
(Manpower and Reserve Affairs)
120 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
Attachment 1
GLOSSARY OF REFERENCES AND SUPPORTING INFORMATION
References
Title 10, United States Code, Armed Forces, Section 517, Authorized Daily Average: members in
pay grades E-8 and E-9
Title 10, United States Code, Armed Forces, Section 12310, Reserves: for organizing,
administering, etc., reserve components
Title 37, United States Code, Pay and Allowances of the Uniformed Services, Section 201, Pay
Grades: assignment to; general rules
DoD Directive 1304.20, Enlisted Personnel Management System, July 28, 2005
DoD Directive 1304.30 I, Enlisted Personnel Management Plan Procedures, March 14, 2006
DoD Regulation 5400.7-R/AFMAN 33-302, DoD Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Program,
October 21, 2010
DFAS-DEM 7073-3, Air Reserve Forces Pay and Allowance
AFI 33-328, Administrative Orders, 16 January 2007
AFI 33-332, Air Force Privacy and Civil Liberties Program, 12 January 2015
AFI 33-360, Publications and Forms Management, 1 December 2015
AFPD 36-25, Military Promotion and Demotion, 7 May 2014
AFI 36-2013, Officer Training Skills (OTS) and Enlisted Commissioning Programs (ECPS), 23
October 2008
AFI 36-2014, Commissioning Education Program, 16 February 2011
AFI 36-2101, Classifying Military Personnel (Officer and Enlisted), 18 November 2013
AFI 36-2115, Assignments within the Reserve Component, 8 April 2005
AFI 36-2132, Full-Time Support (FTS) Active Guard Reserve (AGR) Program, 19 April 2005
AFI 36-2201, Air Force Training Program, 15 September 2010
AFI 36-2254, VI, Reserve Personnel Participation, 26 May 2010
AFI 36-2406, Officer and Enlisted Evaluation Systems, 15 April 2005
AFI 36-2603, Air Force Board for Correction of Military Records, 5 March 2012
AFI 36-2604, Service Dates and Dates of Rank, 2 December 2004
AFI 36-2605, Air Force Military Personnel Testing System, 24 September 2008
AFI 36-2606, Reenlistment in the United States AF, 9 May 2011
AFI 36-2618, The Enlisted Force Structure, 27 February 2009
AFI 36-2626, Airman Retraining Program, 3 June 2013
AFI 36-2905, Fitness Program, 21 October 2013
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 121
AFI 36-2907, Unfavorable Information File (UIF) Program, 17 June 2005
AFI 36-3203, Service Retirements, 8 September 2006
AFI 36-3204, Procedures for Applying as a Conscientious Objector, 15 July 1994
AFI 36-3208, Administrative Separation of Airmen, 9 July 2004
AFI 36-3209, Separation and Retirement Procedures for Air National Guard and Air Force
Reserve Members, 14 April 2005
AFI 51-604, Appointment and Assumption of Command, 4 April 2006
AFMAN 33-363, Management of Records, 1 March 2008
Air Force Records Disposition Schedule (RDS) at
https://www.my.af.mil/afrims/afrims/afrims/rims.cfm
Prescribed Form
AF Form 224, Recommendation & Authorization for Promotion of Airman as Reserve of the AF
Adopted Forms
AF Form 847, Recommendation for Change of Publication
AF Form 948, Application for Correction/Removal of Evaluation Reports
AF Form 1566, WAPS Test Verification
AF Form 2096, Classification/On-the-Job Training Action
AF Form 63, Active Duty Service Commitment (ADSC) Acknowledgement Statement
Abbreviations and Acronyms
AB—Airman Basic
AAG—Assistant Adjutant General
A1C—Airman First Class
AECP—Airman Education and Commissioning Program
AFCSM—Air Force Communication System Manual
AFBCMR—Air Force Board for Correction of Military Records
AFI—Air Force Instruction
AFMAN—Air Force Manual
AFPC—Air Force Personnel Center
AFR—Air Force Reserve
AFRC—Air Force Reserve Command
AFRC COC—Air Force Reserve Command Chief Orientation Course
AFRIMS—Air Force Records Information Management System
AFROTC—Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps
122 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
AFSC—Air Force Specialty Code
AFTAC—Air Force Technical Applications Center
AFW2—Air Force Wounded Warrior
AGR—Active Guard Reserve
ALS—Airman Leadership School
AMN—Airman
ANG—Air National Guard
ANGI—Air National Guard Instruction
ANGUS—Air National Guard of the United States
ARMS—Automated Records Management System
ASCP—Airman Scholarship and Commissioning Program
AT—Annual Training
AWOL—Absent Without Leave
BIT—Break in Training
BMT—Basic Military Training
BP—Board President
BPZ—Below-the-Promotion-Zone
BTZ—Below-the-Zo
CAFSC—Control Air Force Specialty Code
CAR—Casualty Assistance Representative
CC—Commander
CCM—Command Chief Master Sergeants
CCS—Chronic Critical Shortage Skill
CEM—Chief Enlisted Manager
CMSgt—Chief Master Sergeant
COC—Chief Orientation Course
CSS—Commander’s Support Staff
DCS/P—Deputy Chief of Staff for Personnel
DIA—Defense Investigative Agency
DIERT—Date Initially Entered Retraining
DoD—Department of Defense
DoDD—Department of Defense Directive
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 123
DOR—Date of Rank
DPSOE—Enlisted Promotions
DRU—Direct Reporting Unit
DVR—Data Verification Record
EAB—Emergency Action Book
EAD—Extended Active Duty
EPR—Enlisted Performance Report
ESO—Equal Selection Opportunity
FOA—Field Operating Agency
FSP—Flight Screening Program
FSS—Force Support Squadron
GPA—Grade Point Average
GS—General Schedule
GSU—Geographically Separated Unit
HRO—Human Resource Office
HYT—High Year Tenure
IAW—In Accordance With
IADT—Inactive Duty for Training
IC—Integration Cell
IDT—Inactive Duty For Training
IMT—Information Management Tool
IR—Individual Reservist
HQ RIO—HQ Individual Reservist Readiness and Integration Organization
MAJCOM—Major Command
MEB—Medical Evaluation Board
MPerRGp—Military Personnel Records Group
MPS—Military Personnel Section
MSgt—Master Sergeant
NCO—Noncommissioned Officer
NCOA—Noncommissioned Officer Academy
NFQ—Not Fully Qualified
NGB—National Guard Bureau
124 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
NOK—Next of Kin
NSR—Noncommissioned Officer Selection Record
OJT—On-the-Job Training
OTS—Officer Training School
OTPP—Officer Training Promotion Program
PA—Physician Assistant
PAFSC—Primary Air Force Specialty Code
PAS—Personnel Accounting Symbol
PCS—Permanent Change of Station
PDS—Personnel Data System
PEB—Physical Evaluation Board
PECD—Promotion Eligibility Cutoff Date
PES—Promotion Eligibility Status
PFE—Promotion Fitness Examination
PIRR—Participating Individual Ready Reserve
PME—Professional Military Education
PSN—Promotion Sequence Number
PVP—Position Vacancy Promotion
RSC—Reserve Service Commitment
RDP—Recommendation for Decoration Printout
RDS—Records Disposition Schedule
RI—Reporting Identifier
RRS—Recruiting and Retention Superintendent
SDI—Special Duty Identifier
SKT—Specialty Knowledge Test
SMSgt—Senior Master Sergeant
SNCO—Senior Noncommissioned Officer
SNCOA—Senior Noncommissioned Officer Academy
SrA—Senior Airman
SSgt—Staff Sergeant
STEP—Stripes For Exceptional Performers
STEP I—Stripes For Exceptional Performers (TSgt – MSgt)(ANG ONLY)
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 125
STEP II—Stripes For Exceptional Performers (SMSgt – CMSgt)(ANG ONLY)
SSN—Social Security Number
TAFMS—Total Active Federal Military Service
TAFMSD—Total Active Federal Military Service Date
TAG—The Adjutant General
TEMSD—Total Enlisted Military Service Date
TDSP—Technical Degree Scholarship Program
TDY—Temporary Duty
TIG—Time-in-Grade
TIS—Time-in-Service
TSC—Training Status Code
TSgt—Technical Sergeant
TTS—Technical Training School
UCMJ—Uniform Code of Military Justice
U.S.C—United States Code
UIF—Unfavorable Information File
UMD—Unit Manpower Document
USAF—United States Air Force
USAFR—United States Air Force Reserve
USAFSE—Unites States Air Force Supervisory Exam
UPMR—Unit Personnel Management Roster
v MPF—Virtual Military Personnel Flight
WAPS—Weighted Airman Promotion System
WMP—1 - War and Mobilization Plan, Volume 1
126 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
Attachment 2
STATEMENT OF UNDERSTANDING – PREMIER BAND
Figure A2.1. Statement of Understanding
1. Because my rank upon entry into The United States Air Force Band is governed by AFI 36-
2502, Airman Promotion/Demotion Programs, I understand that if I no longer meet the
performance standards of The USAF Band or if I voluntarily request transfer from AFSC 3N2X1
(3N200), I will be considered for administrative demotion or date of rank (DOR) adjustment.
2. If demoted, I may be demoted to the average grade held by other Airmen with similar time-in-
service (TIS) in the new AFSC, but not below an enlisted grade previously earned under regular
promotion programs. If demoted, my DOR in the grade to which demoted will be determined by
the recommendation of the Promotion Propriety Review Board with the concurrence of HQ
USAF/A1PP.
3. I understand that I may not be permitted to retain any grade for which I do not meet the
minimum Air Force TIS requirements for consideration under general promotion programs.
These TIS requirements (contained in AFI 36-2502, Table 2.1) are Total Active Federal Military
Service of 1 year for SrA, 3 years for SSgt, 5 years for TSgt, 8 years for MSgt, 11 years for
SMSgt, and 14 years for CMSgt.
______________________________________________________________________________
Member’s Printed Name (Last, First, MI) Signature Date
______________________________________________________________________________
Witness' Printed Name (Last, First, MI) Signature Date
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 127
Attachment 3
ENLISTED PME ATTENDANCE WAIVER FOR PROMOTION
Figure A3.1. Sample Request for PME Attendance Waiver for Promotion
(Letterhead Required)
MEMORANDUM FOR AFPC/DPSOE
DATE
FROM: (Member’s Unit)
SUBJECT: Enlisted PME Attendance Waiver for Promotion, MSgt Xxxxx X. Xxxxx, 123-45-6789
1. I request an Enlisted PME (EPME) promotion waiver for MSgt Xxxxx X. Xxxxx who is unable
to attend the Senior NCO Academy (SNCOA) prior to his/her projected Senior Master Sergeant
(SMSgt) promotion. In accordance with Headquarters Air Force message dated 191915Z Dec 05,
“Airmen must not be penalized with a promotion delay as a result of missing PME when it is no
fault of their own.”
2. MSgt Xxxxx was notified of his promotion selection to SMSgt on X March XX. He/She was
deferred from SNCOA class xx-x (x Xxx – x Xxx XX) to support INSERT REASON that required
his/her involvement. MSgt Xxxxx was deferred from the next class xx-x (x Xxx- x Xxx XX) by the
AFSNCOA due to his/her medical limitations. He/She is currently scheduled to attend AFSNCOA
Class xx-x (x Xxx - xx Xxx xx). The following information is provided:
CURRENT
NAME SSAN AFSC RANK/DOR PROJ GRADE/DOR
Xxxxx X. Xxxxx 123-45-6789 XXXXX MSgt/1 Xxx XX SMSgt/1 Xxx XX
3. I have reviewed MSgt Xxxxx’s records and there are no other factors that disqualify him for
promotion. Please contact me with any questions at DSN XXX-XXXX or commercial at (123)
XXX-XXXX.
XXX X. XXXX, Col, USAF
Chief, Xxxxxxxx Division
1st Ind, AF/AXXX
MEMORANDUM FOR OL-P, 11 MSS/A1PS
Recommend approval.
XXX X. XXXX, Brigadier General, USAF
Director of Xxxxxxxx
128 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
Attachment 4
ANG – INSTRUCTIONS FOR COMPUTING PROMOTIONS TO TSGT THROUGH
CMSGT
A4.1. Use the following sample matrix table to compute the promotion opportunities for your
State. The authorized/ assigned figures below are for example only and simply demonstrate the
arithmetic process. Replace these figures with current authorized/assigned strengths by grade in
your State, Wing or Unit including all over grades and excesses. Do not count those members
promoted under ANG STEP I and ANG STEP II.
Table A4.1. Sample Matrix Table to Compute the Promotion Opportunities.
Grade
Authorized
Assigned
Allowable
Percentage
(ANGI 36-2101)
Adjusted Effective
Manning
Percentages
CMSgt
10(a)
8(b)
100
80% (b divided by a)
SMSgt
17(c)
18(d)
100
96% total of
b+d(26)divided by
total of a+c (27)
MSgt
25(e)
30(f)
120
108% total of a+c+e
(52)
TSgt
40(g)
56(h)
125
122% total of
b+d+f+h+(112)
divided by total of
a+c+e+g (92)
A4.2. To determine if the State in this example can promote a member to MSgt, divide the total
number assigned in grades MSgt, SMSgt, and CMSgt by the total authorized in grades MSgt,
SMSgt, and CMSgt. In the above example, 56 divided by 52 equals 108%. Since this is below
the 120% maximum allowable for MSgt, this member may be promoted. To determine if this
State can promote a member to TSgt, we total the authorized and assigned figures for TSgt
through CMSgt and then divide the total assigned (112) by the total authorized (92). The
adjusted effective manning percentage is 122%. Since this is below the 125% maximum
allowable for TSgt, this member may be promoted. These percentages must be recomputed with
each promotion or demotion, each change in assigned strength, and each change in authorized
strength.
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 129
Attachment 5
ANG - STATEMENT OF UNDERSTANDING--RETRAINING PROMOTION
PROGRAM
Figure A5.1. Sample Statement of Understanding
130 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
Attachment 6
ANG – STRIPES FOR EXCEPTIONAL PERFORMERS (SMSGT – CMSGT) [STEP II]
Figure A6.1. 1206 STEP II Compentecies
The following list of competencies for promotion under STEP II will be addressed on each
nominee using the AF IMT 1206.
LEADERSHIP AND JOB PERFORMANCE IN PRIMARY DUTY: Describe significant
leadership accomplishments and how well the member performed assigned primary and
additional duties. Define the scope and level of responsibilities and the impact on the work-
center, subordinates, mission and unit. Include any new initiatives or supervisory techniques
developed by the member that positively impacted the work-center, subordinates, unit and/ or the
mission. Include results of Air Force, MAJCOM, Numbered Air Force-level inspections and/ or
evaluations. Include awards received, e.g., NCO of the Quarter, Maintenance Professional of the
Year, etc.
SIGNIFICANT SELF-IMPROVEMENT: Show how the member developed or improved skills
related to primary duties, e.g., formal training, certifications, off-duty education related to
primary duties, etc. Include completion of any PME as well as awards earned during in-
residence attendance. Include any off-duty education not directly related to primary duties, e.g.,
class, course, degree enrollment and/ or completion, grade point average. Cite any other relevant
training or activity that significantly enhanced the member’s value as a military citizen. List all
military awards earned during the period.
BASE OR COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: Define the scope and impact of the member’s
positive leadership and involvement in both the military and civilian community. Include
leadership, membership, or participation in unit advisory councils, professional military
organizations, associations, and events, e.g., President of Top 3, enlisted dining-out committee,
member of the Air Force Sergeants Association, Sunday school teacher, youth soccer coach, etc.
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 131
Attachment 7
ANG – SAMPLE BIOGRAPHY
Figure A7.1. Sample Biography
MASTER SERGEANT JOHN Q. DOE
AFSC: 2E171, Satellite, Wideband, and Telemetry Systems Craftsman
Master Sergeant John Q. Doe has been in the military for over 17 years starting with a 4-year
tour of Active Duty in the United States Air Force in which he served in Saudi Arabia during
Desert Storm. After active duty, Sergeant Doe joined the Mississippi Air National Guard, 255th
Air Control Squadron, in Gulfport Mississippi where he currently serves as a Satellite,
Wideband, and Telemetry Systems Craftsman. Sergeant Doe was born on 11 July 1964 in
Geraldine, Alabama. He is 41 years old. He attended Geraldine High School, graduating as
class salutatorian in May 1982. He lettered each year in football, basketball, and baseball. He
served as student body president and was a member of the math and science club. Sergeant Doe
serves as a church council officer for Woolmarket Baptist Church in Biloxi Mississippi.
Sergeant Doe is an active member of the Big Brothers Association and assisted in his unit’s
Thanksgiving dinner to feed the homeless this past year. His military awards include the Air
Force Achievement Medal with 3 devices, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with 1 device, AF
Good Conduct Medal with 1 device, Air Reserve Forces Meritorious Service Medal with 3
devices, National Defense Service Medal with 1 device, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal,
Southwest Asia Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Medal, AF Overseas Ribbon Short
Tour, AF Longevity with 2 devices, Armed Forces Reserve Medal with 1 device, USAF NCO
PME Graduation Ribbon with 1 device, AF Training Ribbon, Kuwait Liberation Medal Kingdom
of Saudi Arabia, Kuwaiti Liberation Medal Government of Kuwait, Mississippi Medal of
Efficiency, Mississippi War Medal, and the Mississippi Longevity Ribbon with 1 device.
Sergeant Doe has his Community College of the Air Force degree in Electronic Systems
Technology and is currently working towards a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration
from the University of Southern Mississippi in Gulfport MS.
NOTE: Single-space the narrative portion of the biography. Double space between name, SSN,
and AFSC.
132 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
Attachment 8
ANG - STATEMENT OF UNDERSTANDING – STRIPES FOR EXPCEPTION
PERFORMERS (STEP II)
A8.1. The nominee prior to processing the promotion recommendation must complete this
statement.
Figure A8.1. Sample Statement of Understanding
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 133
Attachment 9
ANG – PROMOTION CHECKLIST--LENGTHY TECHNICAL TRAINING SCHOOL
Figure A9.1. Sample Promotion Checklist
This checklist will constitute the process of submitting a recommendation from the ANG Liaison
for promotion. You must have this checklist completed by your Instructor (or Instructor
Supervisor) and the Military Training Flight for a records check. When this checklist is
completed return it directly back to the ANG Liaison office.
1. Information on Air National Guard member to be considered for promotion: Name, Rank:
Course Number:
Course Title: Class Start Date:
Class Graduation Date: BMT Class Start Date:
2. Member’s Statement of Understanding for Promotion Consideration:
______ I understand as part of my promotion recommendation, I will not sew on my
new grade until I receive official notification from the Air National Guard Liaison
Office.
______ I understand that I will not contact my Air National Guard Unit Commander or
Supervisor regarding possible promotion to the next higher grade.
______ I understand that my failure to follow the above instruction could result in
my non- recommendation for promotion.
ANG Member’s Name, Rank, Signature, and Date
3. Instructor (Instructor Supervisor): This Airman has a Grade Point Average (GPA)
of over blocks of instruction.
Instructor’s Name, Rank, Signature, and Date
4. Force Support Squadron Training Squadron
This member IS / IS NOT a Student Leader:
______ This Airman has no behavioral problems documented or pending.
______ This Airman has behavioral problems documented or pending. (Please
contact Liaison)
134 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
Military Training Leader Name, Rank, Signature, and Date
5. Air National Guard Liaison (Initials):
_____ This Airman MEETS all requirements.
______ This Airman DOES NOT MEET all requirements.
I RECOMMEND this airman for promotion to
I DO NOT RECOMMEND this airman for promotion to
ANG Liaison Name, Rank, Signature, and Date
***** LIAISON USE ONLY *****
Date of Records Check: Eligibility Date:
Personnel Accounting Symbol (PAS): Date ANG unit was notified:
Unit Point of Contact: Phone Number: Remarks:
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 135
Attachment 10
ANG – NOTIFICATION AND DATE OF RANK ADJUSTMENT REQUIREMENTS
Table A10.1. Notification and DOR Adjustment Requirements. (T-0).
R
U
L
E
If the demotion
is to be effected under
paragraph
The airman’s commander
must formally advise the
airman of the
recommendation to
demote IAW paragraph
11.1.3, this instruction.
and if
affected, the
airman’s
DOR is the
date of the
order
and if affected,
the airman’s
DOR is
adjusted (see
Note 1 and 2)
1.
11.1.2.4.1.1
N
X
2.
11.1.2.4.1.2.
N
X
3.
11.1.2.4.2.1.
Y
X
4.
11.1.2.4.2.2
Y
X
5.
11.1.2.4.2.3.
Y
X
6.
11.1.2.4.2.4
N
X
7.
11.1.2.4.2.5.
N
X
8.
11.1.2.4.2.6.
Y
X
9.
11.1.2.4.2.7.
Y
X
Notes:
1. The DOR will be adjusted to include any breaks in service.
2. If demotion is to a grade not previously held by the airman, the DOR will be the date the
member last began active service (could be initial entry on IADT).
136 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
Attachment 11
ANG – NOTIFICATION MEMORANDUM – DEMOTION ACTION WITHOUT
PREJUDICE
A11.1. Commander may use this attachment to make notification if required under the Table in
Attachment 10 in paragraphs.1.2.4.1.1, 11.1.2.4.1.2, 11.1.2.4.2.4, and 11.1.2.4.2.5.
Figure A11.1. Sample Demotion Action Notification Memorandum without Prejudice.
(Appropriate Letterhead)
MEMORANDUM FOR (Individual Concerned) Date
FROM: CC / (Unit Designation, Unit Address)
SUBJECT: Notification of Intention to Demote (Without Prejudice)
1. You are hereby advised that under the provisions of Chapter 11 of AFI 36-2502, paragraph
, I intend to recommend to the Commander (Organization and Station of demoting authority)
that you be demoted to the grade of(or) I intend to demote you to the grade of. This demotion
action is not to be interpreted as derogatory in nature. This demotion action is without prejudice.
2. The specific reason for this proposed action follows:
3. Documents that support this action are available for your review should you desire.
4. I direct that upon receipt of this memorandum you acknowledge such receipt on the attached
prepared endorsement within five calendar days. I will also interpret any failure to meet this
suspense date as concurrence with my demotion recommendation. You must also decide
whether you concur or non-concur with the proposed demotion. When you have made your
decision, initial the appropriate paragraph on the enclosed endorsement accordingly. You may
defer making a decision to concur or non-concur until the next scheduled UTA on when you may
consult with legal counsel as is your right. However, if you seek counsel, your decision to
concur or non-concur must be received by me no later than the end-of-day roll call following the
second UTA (4 hour period) .
5. Upon receipt of your acknowledgment or expiration of your suspense to respond this
demotion action will continue until complete. Time frame for completion is within 30 calendar
days from receipt or suspense expiration date.
Unit Commander Signature Block
Attachments:
1. Receipt Endorsement
2. Privacy Act Statement
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 137
Attachment 12
ANG – NOTIFICATION MEMORANDUM – DEMOTION ACTION WITH PREJUDICE
A12.1. This attachment applies to the following reasons for demotion paragraphs 11.1.2.4.2.2.,
11.1.2.4.2.3., 11.1.2.4.2.6., and 11.1.2.4.2.7 that is a result of an involuntary action.
Figure A12.1. Sample Demotion Action Notification Memorandum with Prejudice.
(Appropriate Letterhead)
MEMORANDUM FOR (Individual Concerned) FROM: CC/(Unit Designation), Unit Address
SUBJECT: Notification of Involuntary Demotion Action
Date
1. You are hereby advised that under the provisions Chapter 11 of AFI 36-2502, paragraph, I
intend to recommend to the Commander (Organization and Station of demoting authority) that you
be demoted to the grade
of (or) I intend to demote you to the grade of .
2. The specific reason for this proposed action follows:
3. Documents that support this action are available for your review should you desire.
4. I direct that upon receipt of this memorandum you acknowledge such receipt on the attached
prepared endorsement within five calendar days. I will also interpret any failure to meet this
suspense date as concurrence with my demotion recommendation. You must also decide
whether you concur or non-concur with the proposed demotion. When you have made your
decision, initial the appropriate paragraph on the enclosed endorsement accordingly. You may
defer making a decision to concur or non-concur until the next scheduled UTA on _______, when
you may consult with legal counsel, as is your right. However, if you seek counsel, your decision
to concur or non-concur must be received by me no later than the end-of-day roll call following
the second UTA (4 hour period) on .
5. If you concur with the proposed demotion, you will be notified in writing of the demotion
authority’s decision. If there is no response from you, I am authorized to process your case as if
you had concurred. If you non-concur with the proposed demotion, you may present statements
on your own behalf. Written statements to support your position will be submitted within 20
calendar days after you respond indicating your decision. If you desire to present oral statements,
your request to do so will accompany the nonoccurrence, and a personal interview with me will be
scheduled. You may seek military or civilian legal counsel (civilian counsel will be at your own
expense) in preparing your oral or written presentation, and counsel may be present during the
personal interview. If travel to the personal interview is required, all costs of your civilian counsel
will be at your own expense.
Unit Commander Signature Block
138 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014
Attachment 13
AFR – NOTIFICATION MEMORANDUM -- DEMOTION ACTION WITHOUT
PREJUDICE
A13.1. Commander may use this attachment to make notification if required under paragraph
9.3 through paragraph 9.3.6 inclusive, which is a result of a voluntary action.
Figure A13.1. Sample Demotion Action Notification Memorandum without Prejudice.
(Appropriate Letterhead)
MEMORANDUM FOR (Individual Concerned) Date
FROM: CC / (Unit Designation, Unit Address)
SUBJECT: Notification of Intention to Demote (Without Prejudice)
1. You are hereby advised that under the provisions of Chapter 9 of AFI 36-2502, paragraph _______, I intend to
recommend to the Commander (Organization and Station of demoting authority) that you be demoted to the grade of
_______ (or) I intend to demote you to the grade of _______. This demotion action is not to be interpreted as
derogatory in nature. This demotion action is without prejudice.
2. The specific reason for this proposed action follows.
3. Documents that support this action are available for your review should you desire.
4. I direct that upon receipt of this memorandum you acknowledge such receipt on the attached prepared
endorsement within five calendar days. I will also interpret any failure to meet this suspense date as concurrence
with my demotion recommendation. You must also decide whether you concur or non-concur with the proposed
demotion. When you have made your decision, initial the appropriate paragraph on the enclosed endorsement
accordingly. You may defer making a decision to concur or non-concur until the next scheduled UTA on _______,
when you may consult with legal counsel, as is your right. However, if you seek counsel, your decision to concur or
non-concur must be received by me no later than the end-of-day roll call following the second UTA (4 hour period)
on.
5. Upon receipt of your acknowledgment or expiration of your suspense to respond this demotion action will
continue until complete. Time frame for completion is within 30 calendar days from receipt or suspense expiration
date.
Unit Commander Signature Block
Attachments:
1. Receipt Endorsement
2. Privacy Act Statement
AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 139
Attachment 14
AFR - NOTIFICATION MEMORANDUM -- DEMOTION ACTION WITH PREJUDICE
A14.1. This attachment applies to the following reasons for demotion paragraph 9.4.1. through
paragraph 9.4.5.2. inclusive, that is a result of an involuntary action.
Figure A14.1. Sample Demotion Action Notification Memorandum with Prejudice.
(Appropriate Letterhead)
MEMORANDUM FOR (Individual Concerned)
FROM: CC/(Unit Designation), Unit Address
SUBJECT: Notification of Involuntary Demotion Action Date
1. You are hereby advised that under the provisions of AFI 36-2502, Enlisted Airman Promotion/Demotion
Programs, paragraph __________________, I intend to recommend to the Commander (Organization and Station of
demoting authority) that you be demoted to the grade of__________________ (or) I intend to demote you to the
grade of______________.
2. The specific reason for this proposed action follows:
3. Documents that support this action are available for your review should you desire.
4. I direct that upon receipt of this memorandum you acknowledge such receipt on the attached prepared
endorsement within five calendar days. I will also interpret any failure to meet this suspense date as concurrence
with my demotion recommendation. You must also decide whether you concur or non-concur with the proposed
demotion. When you have made your decision, initial the appropriate paragraph on the enclosed endorsement
accordingly. You may defer making a decision to concur or non-concur until the next scheduled UTA _______, on
when you may consult with legal counsel, as is your right. However, if you seek counsel, your decision to concur or
non-concur must be received by me no later than the end-of-day roll call following the second UTA (4 hour period)
on _____________.
5. If you concur with the proposed demotion, you will be notified in writing of the demotion authority’s decision. If
there is no response from you, I am authorized to process your case as if you had concurred. If you non-concur with
the proposed demotion, you may present statements on your own behalf. Written statements to support your position
will be submitted within 20 calendar days after you respond indicating your decision. If you desire to present oral
statements, your request to do so will accompany the nonoccurrence, and a personal interview with me will be
scheduled. You may seek military or civilian legal counsel (civilian counsel will be at your own expense) in
preparing your oral or written presentation, and counsel may be present during the personal interview. If travel to the
personal interview is required, all costs of your civilian counsel will be at your own expense.
Unit Commander Signature Block
