DAF Form 2258: Air Force Cross Certificate (No Signatures) – The Air Force Cross (AFC) stands as the U.S. Air Force’s second-highest military decoration for valor, awarded for extraordinary heroism in combat against an opposing armed force. It ranks just below the Medal of Honor and recognizes acts of bravery that set recipients apart in aerial or ground operations.
DAF Form 2258 serves as the official certificate template for the Air Force Cross in scenarios involving action against an “opposing armed force,” with a “no signatures” variant designed for specific presentation or restricted use cases. This form appears in official Department of the Air Force guidance as part of the standardized awards and memorialization program.
What Is the Air Force Cross?
Established by Congress in 1960, the Air Force Cross recognizes heroism not justifying the Medal of Honor but still involving extreme risk of life. It typically applies to combat actions against an enemy or opposing armed force, such as in conflicts where U.S. forces engage hostile military entities.
Recipients include pilots, aircrew, special operations personnel, and other Airmen (and now Guardians) who demonstrate gallantry in the face of great danger. The associated medal features a bronze cross with an American bald eagle and a ribbon of light blue with narrow red and white stripes.
The certificate formally documents the award, often presented alongside the medal during ceremonies conducted by the Secretary of the Air Force or other high-level authorities.
Understanding DAF Form 2258
DAF Form 2258 is the designated certificate form for the Air Force Cross under the “opposing armed force” category. The “(No Signatures)” version likely accommodates restricted or specific issuance protocols, such as:
- Display or archival purposes where formal signatures are omitted.
- Replacement or duplicate certificates.
- Controlled distribution for security or administrative reasons.
Official DAF guidance lists DAF Form 2258 as “Air Force Cross (restricted)” alongside variants like forms for “Armed Enemy” scenarios. These distinctions ensure the certificate language accurately reflects the nature of the heroic action (e.g., against a formal opposing armed force versus other enemy contexts).
The form is part of a broader series of decoration certificates managed under DAFMAN 36-2806, Awards and Memorialization Program, which details procurement, preparation, and issuance of awards certificates for the Department of the Air Force (including the U.S. Space Force).
Note on Download Links: Official DAF forms and publications are hosted on the Air Force e-Publishing site (www.e-publishing.af.mil). The provided links point to physical.pdf and physical.epub formats, which may contain the certificate template or related guidance. Always verify and download current versions directly from the official e-Publishing portal to ensure compliance with the latest standards. Unauthorized commercial reproductions are not official.
How to Obtain or Replace an Air Force Cross Certificate?
- Active Duty / Current Service Members — Submit requests through the chain of command with a copy of the special order announcing the award. Units procure certificates via the Department of the Air Force Order Portal.
- Veterans and Next of Kin — Contact the Air Force Personnel Center (AFPC) or use the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC) for replacement certificates. Provide the award order number and proof of entitlement.
- Replacement Procedures — For lost or damaged certificates, annotate the new document with the original special order number and the words “Replacement Certificate.” Enter the current date where required.
Certificates should not be purchased commercially if an official version is available, as commercial items are unofficial commemoratives only.
Related Forms and Awards Context
- DAF Form 2258 variants — Include versions for different enemy/opposing force contexts (e.g., AF Form 2260 for “Armed Enemy” in older numbering).
- Other valor certificates in the series cover the Silver Star, Distinguished Flying Cross, and similar decorations.
- The full awards program is governed by DAFMAN 36-2806 and DAFI 36-2803, which outline approval authorities, criteria, and processing for all Department of the Air Force decorations.
The Air Force Cross remains rare and highly prestigious. Fewer than 200 have been awarded since its inception, underscoring the exceptional nature of the actions it recognizes.
Why Proper Documentation Matters?
For veterans, retirees, and families, the official certificate serves as a tangible record of extraordinary service. It supports VA claims, shadow box displays, memorial services, and historical documentation. Ensuring you use the correct DAF Form 2258 variant maintains the integrity and accuracy of the award citation.
Important: Always use official sources for forms and guidance. The Department of the Air Force e-Publishing website provides the authoritative versions of DAF forms and manuals. Contact AFPC/DP3SP for policy questions regarding awards processing.
Additional Resources (U.S. Air Force & Veterans)
- Air Force e-Publishing: www.e-publishing.af.mil (search for DAFMAN 36-2806 and related forms)
- Air Force Personnel Center Awards: afpc.af.mil
- National Archives / NPRC for veteran records
If you are a recipient, veteran, or family member seeking a replacement Air Force Cross certificate using DAF Form 2258, start with your local Force Support Squadron or the official e-Publishing portal for the most current template and instructions.
This article is for informational purposes only and is based on publicly available Department of the Air Force publications as of 2026. Award policies can be updated; consult official DAF channels for the latest guidance.