DAF Form 2251A: Distinguished Flying Cross (Heroism) Certificate

DAF Form 2251A: Distinguished Flying Cross (Heroism) Certificate – The DAF Form 2251A is the official Department of the Air Force certificate used for the Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC) awarded specifically for heroism (often denoted with a “V” device). It features two signature lines, distinguishing it from other DFC certificate variants designed for achievement or single-signature use.

U.S. Air Force and U.S. Space Force personnel, along with veterans and their families, frequently search for this form when preparing for award presentations, updating records, or obtaining replacement certificates. This guide explains its purpose, proper use, eligibility criteria for the underlying Distinguished Flying Cross, and how to access the official download.

What Is the Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC)?

The Distinguished Flying Cross is one of the U.S. military’s highest decorations for aerial operations. Authorized by an Act of Congress on July 2, 1926, it recognizes heroism or extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight. For the heroism version (the focus of DAF Form 2251A), the act must be entirely distinctive, involve voluntary action in the face of danger, and stand well above routine operations or actions expected of others in similar circumstances.

Key points about DFC criteria:

  • Heroism (“V” device eligible): Awarded for acts involving direct exposure to enemy hostilities and personal risk. The “V” device has been authorized on the DFC since January 7, 2016, to denote valor in combat.
  • Not for sustained operations: The award is reserved for specific, standout acts—not routine flight hours or repeated missions without exceptional distinction.
  • Applies to officers and enlisted members of the U.S. Armed Forces (including Air Force and Space Force) while serving in any capacity during aerial flight.
  • The DFC ranks as the fourth-highest award for heroism in the U.S. military hierarchy and the highest purely for extraordinary aerial achievement.

The Secretary of the Air Force (SECAF) typically retains approval authority for DFC recommendations, though processing flows through the chain of command and Air Force Personnel Center (AFPC) channels.

Purpose of DAF Form 2251A

DAF Form 2251A serves as the formal certificate presented to the recipient when the Distinguished Flying Cross is awarded for heroism. The “Two Signature Lines” version accommodates scenarios requiring dual authentication—commonly for higher-prestige or formal presentations involving both the approving authority and a senior commander or presenter.

This form is listed in official Department of the Air Force guidance, including DAFMAN 36-2806 (Awards and Decorations Program), which details the full range of DAF forms for personal military decorations such as the Silver Star, Airman’s Medal, and various DFC certificate variants (e.g., DAF Form 2251 series for heroism and achievement).

Important distinctions:

  • DAF Form 2251A → Heroism (Two Signature Lines)
  • Other variants exist for achievement-only DFC citations or single-signature formats.

These certificates are produced and signed as part of the official award package once the recommendation is approved. They become part of the member’s official military personnel records and are often framed for display.

Who Needs DAF Form 2251A?

  • Active-duty, Reserve, and Guard Airmen/Space Force Guardians preparing or processing heroism-based DFC awards.
  • Veterans seeking replacement certificates for previously awarded DFCs.
  • Military personnel offices (MPFs), commanders, and awards & decorations specialists handling nomination packages.
  • Families of recipients requesting copies for memorials or historical purposes.

Note: The form itself is not used to nominate the award. Nominations typically use supporting documentation such as a DECOR6 or narrative justification routed through the chain of command to AFPC.

How to Download the Official DAF Form 2251A?

The most reliable source for current, fillable versions of Department of the Air Force forms is the official Air Force e-Publishing website (www.e-publishing.af.mil).

Direct download links (provided as physical/PDF and EPUB formats for accessibility):

Always verify the latest version directly on e-Publishing.af.mil by searching for “DAF Form 2251A” or checking the forms catalog under the AF/A1 or AFPC publications. Using unofficial copies can lead to formatting or authentication issues during official processing.

Pro tip: Forms in the 2250 series are specialized certificate templates. They are generally completed by the awards approval authority or designated personnel once the decoration is approved—not filled out by the individual member.

For full procedures on recommending, approving, and presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross:

  • Consult DAFMAN 36-2806 (Awards Program) — the primary manual governing DAF awards.
  • Refer to DAFI 36-2803 (Military Decorations and Awards Program) for broader policy.

Recommendations must enter official channels promptly (ideally within 3 years of the act) and meet strict timelines and character-of-service requirements. For valor awards like the DFC with “V” device, higher-level coordination (including potential invitations to senior leaders for presentation) may apply.

Questions about specific cases should be directed to your unit’s awards and decorations representative or AFPC/DPSTTC (Recognition Process) at [email protected].

Why the Distinguished Flying Cross Matters?

Since its establishment in 1926, the DFC has honored legendary aviators and countless lesser-known heroes whose extraordinary actions in the air saved lives, turned the tide of missions, or demonstrated unparalleled skill and courage. From World War II bomber crews to modern combat operations in contested airspace, the DFC continues to represent the highest standards of Air Force and Space Force aerial professionalism and valor.

For those eligible, receiving a DFC (and the accompanying DAF Form 2251A certificate) is a lifelong recognition of service above and beyond.

Ready to access the form?
Download the official DAF Form 2251A here:
• PDF Download
• EPUB Download

For the most current policy, always cross-reference the latest editions of DAFMAN 36-2806 and related instructions on e-Publishing.af.mil.

This article is for informational purposes and is based on official Department of the Air Force publications. Award decisions rest solely with appropriate approval authorities. Veterans with questions about their records should contact the National Personnel Records Center or AFPC.