DAF Form 35: Download Announcement of Appointment to Command – The Department of the Air Force (DAF) Form 35, titled Announcement of Appointment to/Assumption of Command, serves as the primary document for formally recording and announcing changes in military command. It supports clear lines of authority and accountability within the U.S. Air Force (USAF) and United States Space Force (USSF).
This form replaced older versions (such as the legacy AF IMT 35) and was introduced to simplify the process for G-series orders related to command succession. It applies across the Total Force, including Regular Air Force, Air National Guard, Air Force Reserve, and Space Force personnel.
What Is DAF Form 35 Used For?
Command succession occurs in two primary ways:
- Appointment to command — Preferred method where a superior competent authority (the appointing authority) formally appoints an officer to command a unit.
- Assumption of command — An officer assumes command based on their position or orders (e.g., senior officer present or specific attachment for command purposes).
DAF Form 35 officially documents these events. It ensures legal compliance, maintains clear command authority, and supports administrative processes like updates in personnel systems. Use of the form is highly encouraged but optional—a properly signed memorandum can serve as an alternative. Incorrect completion or non-use does not invalidate a valid command change.
Key governing publication: DAFI 51-509, which prescribes DAF Form 35 and outlines procedures for appointment to and assumption of command, including legal reviews and G-series orders.
Who Uses DAF Form 35?
- Appointing authorities (superior competent authorities, such as Numbered Air Force or wing commanders) who appoint subordinate commanders.
- Unit personnel (often Military Personnel Sections or Force Management) responsible for preparing and publishing the orders.
- Staff Judge Advocate (SJA) offices for legal review.
- Incoming and outgoing commanders during change of command or assumption ceremonies.
The unit assuming the new commander typically handles production and publication of the orders.
Key Features and How to Complete DAF Form 35
The form includes standardized blocks for:
- Appointing authority information.
- Incoming commander details (name, rank, etc.).
- Unit/organization being commanded.
- Effective date of the appointment or assumption.
- Type of action: Appointment (preferred) or assumption, with specific blocks for each scenario (e.g., blocks 3(a)/3(b) for appointment; 3(c)/3(d) for assumption).
- Additional fields for temporary vs. permanent changes, TDY/detail attachments, and signatures.
Detailed block-by-block instructions appear in Attachment 2 of DAFI 51-509 (Figure A2.1 provides preparation guidance). Before signing, the appointing authority and SJA must complete required legal and eligibility checks.
Important notes:
- Do not issue new orders when a permanent commander returns from temporary absence if an interim commander was appointed—the return automatically rescinds temporary orders.
- Appointment is always preferred over simple assumption to ensure unambiguous authority.
- The form supports both permanent changes and temporary appointments.
Official Download: Access the current fillable PDF directly from the Department of the Air Force e-Publishing site: DAF Form 35 PDF.
The Assumption of Command Ceremony
While DAF Form 35 handles the administrative documentation, the assumption of command ceremony is a longstanding military tradition that publicly transfers authority. It often includes:
- Reading of the orders (frequently referencing the DAF Form 35 or equivalent memorandum).
- Passing of the unit guidon or colors.
- Remarks from the outgoing and incoming commanders.
- Protocol elements outlined in DAFMAN 35-106 (Music, Ceremonies, and Accessions).
These ceremonies reinforce unit cohesion, morale, and the gravity of command responsibility. When there is a gap between the outgoing commander’s departure and the incoming commander’s arrival, it becomes a pure “assumption of command” ceremony.
Why Proper Documentation Matters?
Accurate use of DAF Form 35:
- Establishes clear command authority under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) and DAF policy.
- Supports manpower, personnel, and pay systems.
- Ensures compliance during inspections and audits.
- Protects the integrity of the chain of command.
Failure to follow procedures can create confusion over authorities, though minor form errors do not typically invalidate the underlying appointment or assumption.
Tips for Command Teams and Personnel Sections
- Start early — Draft the form and route it through the chain for legal review (SJA) and coordination.
- Verify eligibility — Confirm the officer meets all requirements for command (rank, security clearance, etc.).
- Use the official source — Always download the latest version from e-Publishing.af.mil to ensure you have the current form.
- Coordinate with Public Affairs — For ceremony support, bands, photography, and announcements.
- Retain records — File copies appropriately per records management policies.
For the most current guidance, consult DAFI 51-509 (available on the official e-Publishing website) alongside DAF Form 35.
Download DAF Form 35
Additional Resources:
- DAFI 51-509 (Command succession and G-series orders).
- DAFMAN 35-106 (Ceremonies guidance).
- Air Force e-Publishing (e-publishing.af.mil) for all official forms and publications.
This form and associated processes help maintain the disciplined, accountable leadership structure essential to the Department of the Air Force mission. Command teams and support staff should familiarize themselves with DAFI 51-509 for full procedural details.
This article is for informational purposes and is based on official Department of the Air Force publications. Always refer to the latest versions on e-publishing.af.mil for authoritative guidance.