AF Form 4370: CMSAF Air Force Retirement Certificate

AF Form 4370: CMSAF Air Force Retirement Certificate – Retiring from the United States Air Force after years of dedicated service is a significant milestone. For many senior enlisted leaders, the AF Form 4370, officially known as the Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force (CMSAF) Retirement Certificate, provides a special token of appreciation. This certificate recognizes the retiree’s contributions to the Air Force and the nation.

Whether you’re an active-duty Chief Master Sergeant, a member of the Air Force Reserve or Air National Guard, or even a Department of the Air Force civilian preparing for retirement, understanding AF Form 4370 helps ensure you receive this meaningful honor during your transition.

What Is AF Form 4370?

AF Form 4370 is the Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force Retirement Certificate. It serves as an official document presented to retiring personnel to honor their long and honorable service. Unlike the standard DD Form 363AF (Certificate of Retirement from the Armed Forces of the United States), the AF Form 4370 comes specifically from the office of the Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force, adding a layer of senior enlisted recognition.

The certificate acknowledges the recipient’s dedication to the United States Air Force and the nation. It is available to:

  • Regular Air Force members
  • Air Force Reserve
  • Air National Guard
  • Department of the Air Force civilians

This form is part of the broader retirement recognition package outlined in official Air Force guidance. It often accompanies other items, such as the standard retirement certificate, a U.S. flag, and (if applicable) a spouse certificate of appreciation (AF Form 4369).

Purpose and Significance of the CMSAF Retirement Certificate

The primary purpose of AF Form 4370 is to express gratitude for a career of exemplary service, particularly highlighting the leadership and sacrifice typical of senior enlisted Airmen. It symbolizes the Air Force’s appreciation for the retiree’s role in defending the nation and mentoring future generations.

This certificate holds special meaning for those who have reached the highest enlisted ranks or served in demanding positions. It is frequently presented during formal retirement ceremonies, adding a personal touch from the top enlisted leader of the Air Force.

Guidance for its use comes from AFPAM 36-2870 (Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force Certificate of Appreciation Upon Retirement), which details preparation and distribution. The most recent version of related policies appears in DAFI 36-3203, Service Retirements.

Who Receives AF Form 4370?

Eligibility extends broadly:

  • Retiring members of the Regular Air Force, Reserve, and Air National Guard.
  • Department of the Air Force civilians.
  • It is not limited only to those who held the CMSAF position; it recognizes general service contributions in a manner endorsed by the CMSAF’s office.

The member’s servicing Military Personnel Flight (MPF) or Commander’s Support Staff (CSS) prepares and distributes the form. Units should coordinate this well in advance of the retirement date to ensure timely presentation.

Note: Retirees with 30+ years of creditable service (or those qualifying under special categories, such as former CMSAF) may also receive a Presidential Letter of Appreciation, but AF Form 4370 is a distinct Air Force-specific honor.

How to Prepare and Obtain AF Form 4370?

Preparation follows strict guidelines in AFPAM 36-2870:

  1. The MPF or CSS enters the retiree’s full grade (spelled out), first name, middle initial, and last name.
  2. Specific font requirements apply (e.g., Shelly Allegro Script 32 pt or Monotype Corsiva as an alternative).
  3. The certificate is typically presented in a official binder (NSN 7510-00-1348179) for preservation.

Important: AF Form 4370 is not a fillable form available for direct public download like many standard AF forms. It is an official certificate prepared internally by personnel specialists. Contact your local MPF, CSS, or refer to the Retirements Personnel Services Delivery (PSD) Guide on myPers for exact procedures.

For the latest official guidance:

  • Review AFPC Retirement resources at afpc.af.mil/Retirement.
  • Consult DAFI 36-3203 and AFPAM 36-2870 on the Air Force e-Publishing site (e-publishing.af.mil).

Download Links for Related Documents (PDF and EPUB formats for guidance):

These links point to official publications that may include details on certificate preparation.

Presentation During Retirement Ceremonies

Air Force retirement ceremonies traditionally include several recognition items:

  • DD Form 363AF – Standard Certificate of Retirement.
  • U.S. Flag.
  • Any awards, decorations, or letters of appreciation.
  • AF Form 4370 (CMSAF Retirement Certificate).
  • AF Form 4369 (CMSAF Spouse Certificate, if applicable).

Commanders or designated officers present these items personally if a formal ceremony is not possible. The AF Form 4370 adds a distinctive senior-enlisted perspective to the celebration of service.

Tips for Retiring Airmen

  • Start Early: Coordinate with your MPF or CSS at least 6–12 months before your retirement date.
  • Review Your Records: Ensure your service history is accurate so the certificate reflects your correct grade and name.
  • Check for Updates: Forms and signatures may update with changes in leadership (e.g., new CMSAF). Always use the current version from e-Publishing.
  • Preserve the Certificate: Use the recommended binder to protect this keepsake for future generations.

For additional retirement benefits, visit the official Air Force Personnel Center (AFPC) retirement page or myAirForceBenefits.

Conclusion: Honoring a Lifetime of Service

The AF Form 4370 Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force Retirement Certificate represents more than paper—it embodies the Air Force’s gratitude for decades of leadership, sacrifice, and excellence. As you transition to civilian life, this document serves as a lasting reminder of your contributions to the world’s greatest Air Force.

If you’re preparing for retirement, reach out to your servicing personnel office today to ensure AF Form 4370 and all other recognition items are ready for your special day.

Official Sources:

  • Air Force Personnel Center (AFPC) Retirement page
  • DAFI 36-3203, Service Retirements
  • AFPAM 36-2870, Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force Certificate of Appreciation Upon Retirement
  • Air Force e-Publishing (e-publishing.af.mil)

This article is for informational purposes only and is based on publicly available official U.S. Air Force publications as of 2026. Policies can change; always verify with your chain of command or AFPC for the most current information.