AF Form 3654: Emergency Action Message (Download PDF)

AF Form 3654: Emergency Action Message (Download PDF) – AF Form 3654, officially titled Emergency Action Message, is a critical U.S. Air Force form used to document and transmit Emergency Action Messages (EAMs) within Air Force command and control (C2) operations. These messages support high-priority strategic communications, including those related to nuclear command, control, and communications (NC3), force direction, and time-sensitive operational orders.

For U.S. Air Force command post personnel, 1C3X1 specialists, and anyone involved in emergency actions or operational reporting, understanding AF Form 3654 is essential for mission readiness and compliance with governing instructions like AFMAN 10-207 (Command Posts).

What Is an Emergency Action Message (EAM)?

Emergency Action Messages are high-priority communications used by the Department of Defense and U.S. Air Force to transmit critical orders to operational forces. They are frequently associated with:

  • Nuclear command and control procedures
  • Presidential or national-level direction to strategic forces
  • Time-critical instructions for launch, recall, diversion, or execution of emergency war orders
  • Worldwide dissemination via systems like the High Frequency Global Communications System (HFGCS)

EAMs are typically short alphanumeric strings (often a 6-character preamble repeated, followed by additional content) but can vary in length. They are processed with the highest urgency—often requiring receipt, authentication, decoding, and action within strict time standards.

Note: Not every EAM is a “launch order.” Many serve as routine or exercise messages to maintain positive control and readiness of nuclear-capable and strategic forces. The form AF 3654 helps standardize documentation of these messages in Air Force command posts.

Purpose of AF Form 3654

The primary purpose of AF Form 3654 is to provide a standardized record for documenting Emergency Action Messages received or transmitted by Air Force units. Key uses include:

  • Logging receipt of EAMs in the command post
  • Recording authentication, decoding, and dissemination actions
  • Supporting accountability and after-action reviews
  • Ensuring compliance with strict handling and positive control procedures for sensitive command authorities

Command Posts serve as the sole authorized agency at the wing/installation level for receiving and processing EAMs. They act as the direct representative of the commander for C2 activities during routine operations, contingencies, and increased readiness conditions.

This form supports the core competencies outlined in AFMAN 10-207: mission monitoring, Emergency Actions, emergency management, and operational reporting.

Who Uses AF Form 3654?

  • Command Post Controllers (1C3X1 Career Field)
  • Wing and Installation Command Posts
  • Personnel assigned to Emergency Actions sections
  • Units supporting nuclear surety, strategic operations, or global C2 missions
  • Training and evaluation personnel for EAM processing drills

Tenant units on host installations typically coordinate EAM handling through the host command post via memoranda of agreement.

How to Use and Fill Out AF Form 3654?

While the official fillable PDF provides section-specific blocks, typical fields on AF Form 3654 (Emergency Action Message) include elements such as:

  • Message identification (preamble, time of receipt, station or callsign)
  • Authentication data
  • Action taken (decoded, relayed, logged, etc.)
  • Personnel involved (controller initials, supervisor review)
  • Date/time group (DTG) and transmission details
  • Remarks or follow-on actions required

Best practices for completion:

  1. Process the live message first according to your unit’s Emergency Actions checklist and AFMAN 10-207 procedures.
  2. Complete the form promptly and accurately while maintaining two-person integrity or required controls for classified material.
  3. Ensure all required fields for authentication and chain-of-custody are filled.
  4. File and safeguard the completed form per records management and COMSEC policies.

Always refer to the instructions printed on the form itself and your local command post operating instructions (OI) or emergency action procedures. Training on proper EAM handling is mandatory and includes encoding/decoding, authentication, and secure dissemination.

Pro Tip: Command Post personnel must maintain proficiency in voice and record copy systems for EAM processing. Regular drills and self-assessments help ensure compliance.

  • AFMAN 10-207, Command Posts — Primary reference for EAM processing, command post organization, and emergency actions.
  • CJCSI 5721.01H — Organizational Messaging Service, which addresses EAM as the highest priority for NC3 support.
  • DoD Nuclear Weapon System Safety Rules and related surety documents — Emphasize positive control and the role of authenticated EAMs in weapon release authorization.
  • AFI 10-401 (Operations Planning and Execution) and associated publications for broader C2 context.

EAM procedures integrate with broader systems such as the Organizational Messaging Service (OMS) and ensure messages reach forces with minimal delay (often targeting 2 minutes or less for highest-priority handling).

Why Proper EAM Documentation Matters?

Accurate use of AF Form 3654 contributes to:

  • Nuclear surety and positive control
  • Mission assurance during crises
  • Auditability and legal/compliance requirements
  • Effective training and readiness evaluations

Failures in EAM processing can have strategic consequences, which is why command posts emphasize strict adherence to checklists, two-person concepts where required, and continuous training.

Download and Access Official Resources

Security Note: EAM-related materials and completed forms are typically classified or handled under strict COMSEC protocols. Only authorized personnel with proper clearances and need-to-know should access or process them.

Stay Prepared

U.S. Air Force command post teams play a vital role in national defense by ensuring reliable receipt and execution of Emergency Action Messages. Regular review of AF Form 3654 procedures, combined with realistic training, keeps units ready for any scenario—from daily operations to national-level contingencies.

For the most current guidance, always consult official .mil sources and your unit’s publications. If you are a command post professional, maintain your certifications and stay current with evolving NC3 and C2 doctrine.

This article is for informational and educational purposes for U.S. Air Force personnel and authorized users. It is not a substitute for official instructions or training.

Keywords: AF Form 3654, Emergency Action Message, Air Force EAM, AFMAN 10-207, command post, 1C3X1, nuclear C2, EAM form download.