DAF Form 2273D: Air and Space Achievement Medal (2026)

DAF Form 2273D: Air and Space Achievement Medal (2026) – The Air and Space Achievement Medal (ASAM), formerly known as the Air Force Achievement Medal, recognizes outstanding achievement or meritorious service by Department of the Air Force (DAF) personnel that does not rise to the level required for the Air and Space Commendation Medal.

DAF Form 2273D serves as the automated version of the certificate used specifically within the myDecs application (now myDecs Reimagined) for processing these awards. This form streamlines the awards process for currently serving Air Force and Space Force members.

What Is the Air and Space Achievement Medal?

Authorized by the Secretary of the Air Force on October 20, 1980, the medal honors Airmen and Guardians for meritorious service or outstanding achievement performed specifically on behalf of the Air Force or Space Force. It may also recognize acts of courage that fall short of those warranting the Air and Space Commendation Medal.

The medal features a distinctive design with an outer border of 11 cloud-like shapes. The obverse centers a medallion with thunderbolts and wings, adapted from the Seal of the Air Force, symbolizing aerospace power. The reverse bears the inscription “Air Force Meritorious Achievement.” On November 16, 2020, the Secretary of the Air Force renamed it the Air and Space Achievement Medal to reflect the integrated Air and Space Force mission.

Who Qualifies for the Air and Space Achievement Medal?

The ASAM targets junior personnel:

Officers in pay grade O-4 and below
Enlisted members in grades E-6 and below (typically emphasized for those below E-7)

It rewards achievements or meritorious service that do not meet the higher standards of the Air and Space Commendation Medal. Local commanders hold approval authority, giving units flexibility in recognizing contributions. The medal applies to non-combat meritorious service (including in combat zones when not directly tied to combat actions) and supports both active duty, reserve, and certain attached personnel.

Devices:

“C” device: For exceptionally meritorious service or achievement under combat conditions (authorized since January 7, 2016).
“R” device: For direct hands-on employment of a weapon system with immediate impact on combat or military operations.
Oak Leaf Clusters for subsequent awards.

Do not award the ASAM for aerial achievement (use the Aerial Achievement Medal instead) or as a retirement decoration.

DAF Form 2273D Explained: The Automated Version

DAF Form 2273D is the specific form for the Air and Space Achievement Medal (myDecs use only). It differs from:

DAF Form 2273C (two-signature-line version for manual processing)
Earlier AF Form 2273 variants

The “D” designation indicates its integration with the myDecs Reimagined system on the myFSS platform. This automated tool handles recommendations for several lower-level decorations, including the Air and Space Achievement Medal, Air and Space Commendation Medal, and others.

Key benefits of the automated process:

Single-page experience with ad-hoc routing to any myFSS user.
Reduced reliance on Military Personnel Flights (MPFs) for filing approved decorations.
Faster processing and improved efficiency for unit-level awards.

The Department of the Air Force launched myDecs Reimagined in January 2024 to modernize and streamline decorations processing.

How to Submit a Recommendation Using DAF Form 2273D?

Access myDecs Reimagined — Log into myFSS and select “myDecs.”
Initiate the Recommendation — Supervisors or commanders start the package for the Air and Space Achievement Medal. The system generates the appropriate fields equivalent to DAF Form 2273D.
Write a Strong Citation — Focus on specific, quantifiable achievements. Use strong action verbs and emphasize impact on the mission. Keep the narrative concise yet impactful (typically 14–18 lines or as guided by local policy; older guidance sometimes referenced around 13 lines for similar awards).
Route for Approval — The system handles routing based on approval authorities outlined in DAFI 36-2803 and DAFMAN 36-2806.
Final Processing — Once approved and signed, the system updates records with minimal manual intervention.

For full procedural details, refer to DAFMAN 36-2806, Awards and Decorations Program and DAFI 36-2803, Military Decorations and Awards Program, available on the official e-Publishing site.

Download the Form:
Official versions of DAF Form 2273D (and related forms) are accessible via the Department of the Air Force e-Publishing portal at https://www.e-publishing.af.mil. Direct links often include PDF and EPUB formats for reference:

Always verify the latest version directly on e-publishing.af.mil, as forms and policies update periodically.

Tips for a Successful Air and Space Achievement Medal Package

Be Specific: Highlight concrete examples of outstanding performance, innovation, or mission impact rather than generic statements.
Emphasize Junior Talent: The medal especially recognizes contributions from Airmen and Guardians early in their careers.
Follow Current Guidance: Check DAFMAN 36-2806 (updated as of 2022 with later changes) for myDecs processing instructions and Attachment 6.
Avoid Common Pitfalls: Do not use the ASAM for routine duties or achievements that clearly warrant a higher award. Limit to one per 12-month period except in extraordinary cases.
Devices Matter: If applicable, justify the “C” or “R” device with clear evidence of combat or remote operations impact.

Why the Automated Process Matters?

The shift to myDecs Reimagined reflects the Department of the Air Force’s commitment to efficiency. By automating lower-tier awards like the ASAM, units can recognize excellence faster while reducing administrative burden. This supports retention, morale, and a culture of recognition across the Air Force and Space Force.

For the most current criteria, approval authorities, and processing steps, consult the official sources:

AFPC Fact Sheet on the Air and Space Achievement Medal
DAFMAN 36-2806 (full manual on e-Publishing)
DAFI 36-2803

Need Help? Contact your unit’s awards and decorations representative or the servicing Force Support Squadron. For policy questions, reach out to AFPC/DP3SP.

This article provides general guidance based on official Department of the Air Force publications and fact sheets as of 2026. Policies can change—always verify with primary sources on e-publishing.af.mil and myFSS for your specific situation.

Serving members should use myFSS/myDecs for submissions and consult chain of command for unit-specific procedures.