DAF Form 1306A: Air & Space Civilian Award for Valor

DAF Form 1306A: Air & Space Civilian Award for Valor – The Department of the Air Force (DAF) recognizes extraordinary acts of civilian heroism through the Air and Space Civilian Award for Valor. For scenarios requiring two signature lines on the certificate—such as higher-level approvals or specific presentation protocols—DAF Form 1306A serves as the official certificate.

U.S. Air Force and Space Force civilian employees who demonstrate exceptional courage by voluntarily risking their personal safety beyond the call of duty qualify for this prestigious honor. It highlights bravery in dangerous situations, whether on or off duty, such as rescuing individuals from a burning aircraft or other life-threatening emergencies.

What Is the Air and Space Civilian Award for Valor?

This Secretary of the Air Force-level award honors civilian employees of the Department of the Air Force (including support for U.S. Space Force missions) for acts of heroism involving great personal risk. It ranks among the highest civilian honorary awards, above the Meritorious Civilian Service Award in precedence for valor-specific actions.

Key criteria include:

  • Voluntary risk of personal safety in hazardous situations.
  • Acts demonstrating courage far beyond normal duties (e.g., entering danger to save lives).
  • Eligibility for individuals or groups, including posthumous awards.

A related but distinct award, the Air and Space Command Civilian Award for Valor (DAF Form 1307), recognizes courageous acts in emergencies that may not fully meet the higher departmental threshold. The main Valor award carries stronger recognition for life-risking heroism.

The associated medal is gold-colored, featuring the DAF thunderbolt symbol on an equilateral triangle, with an Air Force eagle above a scroll inscribed “Valor” over an olive wreath. Recipients typically receive the medal, certificate, and lapel pin during a formal presentation.

DAF Form 1306 vs. DAF Form 1306A: Understanding the Difference

  • DAF Form 1306: Standard certificate for the Air and Space Civilian Award for Valor, typically with a single primary signature line (e.g., for the Secretary of the Air Force or designated authority).
  • DAF Form 1306A: Version specifically formatted with two signature lines. This accommodates protocols requiring dual approvals or signatures, such as from senior DAF leadership or combined Air Force/Space Force authorities. It ensures flexibility in high-visibility or joint presentations.

Both forms are prescribed under DAFI 36-1004, Civilian Recognition Program (which implements DoDI 1400.25 Volume 451, updated December 18, 2023). The “A” variant provides administrative adaptability without changing the award’s criteria or prestige.

Sample Citation Language

Citations for the award follow a structured format. A sample from DAFI 36-1004 reads:

“In recognition of [his or her] [heroic action or act of bravery] as [position], [organization], on [date]. On that date, [narrative description of the act]. This single act of compassion for mankind of (Mr. or Ms.) [Name] reflects great credit upon himself/herself and the Department of the Air Force.”

Nominations often use DAF Form 1206 (or narrative performance statements) routed through the chain of command, with detailed justification of the heroic act.

Who Can Receive the Award and Approval Process?

Eligible recipients are DAF civilian employees (appropriated fund) whose actions reflect great credit on themselves and the Department. The award supports both Air Force and Space Force missions.

Approval authority typically rests at high levels, such as the Secretary of the Air Force, Chief of Staff, or designated major command leaders, depending on the scope. Nominations flow through supervisory channels and servicing Civilian Personnel Sections (CPS) or Human Resources for processing, documentation in official personnel records, and presentation.

Posthumous and group awards are authorized when criteria are met.

How to Download DAF Form 1306A?

Official fillable versions are available through the Department of the Air Force e-Publishing system:

Always access forms from the official e-Publishing.af.mil site to ensure you have the current version compliant with DAFI 36-1004. Local Civilian Personnel Offices can assist with proper completion, routing, and coordination for signatures on the two-line variant.

Note: Forms and instructions may update; verify the latest on e-Publishing or consult your local HR/CPS for guidance specific to your installation or command.

Why This Award Matters?

The Air and Space Civilian Award for Valor underscores the Department of the Air Force’s commitment to recognizing civilians as vital members of the Total Force. In high-risk environments supporting national defense and space operations, civilian contributions often involve real personal danger. This award publicly honors that bravery, boosting morale, retention, and a culture of excellence.

For supervisors and HR professionals preparing nominations, focus on clear, factual narratives that detail the risk, actions taken, and impact. Strong packages include eyewitness statements and chain-of-command endorsements.

  • DAF Form 1166: Meritorious Civilian Service Award (for sustained outstanding service).
  • DAF Form 1307: Air and Space Command Civilian Award for Valor (lower-tier valor recognition).
  • DAF Form 1310/1310A: Decoration for Exceptional Civilian Service (highest non-valor honorary award).

For full program details, refer to DAFI 36-1004 (available on e-Publishing.af.mil).

Ready to nominate a deserving civilian? Contact your local Civilian Personnel Section for nomination templates, processing timelines, and assistance with DAF Form 1306A. Recognizing valor strengthens the entire Department of the Air Force team.

This article is for informational purposes and based on official DAF publications as of the latest available guidance (DAFI 36-1004, December 2023). Always consult current official sources and your servicing HR office for award-specific advice.