AF Form 39: Response to Query – Download Official PDF

AF Form 39: Response to Query – Download Official PDF – If you serve in the U.S. Air Force or support Public Affairs (PA) operations, you need to know AF Form 39, officially titled Response to Query. This form provides a standardized way to document and respond to questions from the public, news media, or internal stakeholders.

Download the latest official AF Form 39 PDF here:
https://static.e-publishing.af.mil/production/1/saf_pa/form/af39/af39.pdf

What Is AF Form 39?

AF Form 39 (also called AF IMT 39) is a simple yet essential administrative tool used primarily by Air Force Public Affairs professionals. Its main purpose is to log and track responses to external or internal queries, especially those from the media or the general public.

The form falls under the Privacy Act of 1974. Its authority comes from 5 U.S.C. 301, 10 U.S.C. 8012 and 8034, and Executive Order 9397. The principal purpose is “to provide response to the public or news media inquiries.” Routine use is limited, and it is not intended to collect or store personal data without proper notification and consent.

Although the base form edition dates to January 1, 1979 (with updates reflected in current digital versions), it remains the go-to document for media query logging in many Air Force units.

Why AF Form 39 Matters in Air Force Operations?

Public Affairs teams receive dozens or hundreds of queries annually. Using AF Form 39 ensures:

  • Accurate logging of the query source, date, time, and specifics.
  • Proper coordination and clearance of the proposed response.
  • Accountability and traceability for compliance with DoD and Air Force information release policies.
  • Faster, more professional replies to reporters and the public.

Defense Public Affairs guidance specifically recommends the Air Force use AF IMT 39 (or an equivalent Response to Media Query form) to document incoming questions and track deadlines.

When to Use AF Form 39?

  • Media interviews or press inquiries about unit activities, incidents, or operations.
  • Public requests for information that require an official Air Force response.
  • Internal coordination when preparing answers that need review by the commander, higher headquarters (HHQ), or subject-matter experts.
  • Crisis communication or high-visibility events where every query must be tracked.

Note: It is not a substitute for formal Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) processing or Privacy Act requests. For those, refer to the appropriate DAFI and routing procedures.

How to Fill Out AF Form 39 (Step-by-Step Guidance)?

While the exact layout is best viewed in the official PDF, typical blocks include:

  1. Query Details — Date and time the query was received, name and affiliation of the requester (reporter, member of the public, etc.), contact information, and deadline for response.
  2. Description of Query — A clear summary of the questions asked.
  3. Proposed Response — Draft or final answer prepared by the PAO or action officer.
  4. Coordination — Signature blocks for required reviewers (e.g., commander, legal, security, HHQ PA).
  5. Final Approval and Release — Date the response was provided, method of delivery, and any remarks.
  6. Remarks / Additional Notes — Space for follow-up actions or attachments.

Best Practices:

  • Record queries as soon as they arrive (use the form “as time permits” during fast-moving situations).
  • Always note the reporter’s deadline.
  • Coordinate thoroughly before releasing information.
  • Forward queries to higher headquarters for logging when required by local or MAJCOM policy.
  • Keep responses clear, concise, and free of unnecessary jargon.

Many units maintain a digital or local tracker in addition to the physical or PDF form.

  • DAF Public Affairs policies (formerly AFI 35-101 series) emphasize timely, accurate responses and proper documentation.
  • Media Query Response Guide (DoD-level) recommends logging on AF Form 39 for Air Force personnel.
  • Tongue and Quill (AFH 33-337) provides broader guidance on official Air Force writing and communication.
  • Local supplements or base-level PA instructions may add specific procedures.

Always check the latest versions on the official Air Force e-Publishing site: www.e-publishing.af.mil.

Tips for U.S. Air Force Personnel and PAOs

  • Download directly from the secure e-Publishing link provided above to ensure you have the current authorized version.
  • Train new PA staff on proper use of AF Form 39 during onboarding.
  • Integrate the form into your unit’s media query standard operating procedure (SOP).
  • For high-volume or crisis situations, combine the form with an electronic tracker or events log.

Proper use of AF Form 39 helps protect the Air Force’s reputation, ensures compliance with information security and privacy rules, and demonstrates professionalism when engaging with the media and American public.

Need the form right now?
→ Download AF Form 39 PDF

If you have questions about filling out the form or your unit’s specific procedures, contact your local Public Affairs office or refer to current Department of the Air Force instructions on the e-Publishing portal.

This article is for informational purposes and references publicly available official sources. Always verify the most current guidance through official Air Force channels.