DAF Form 3538E: Enlisted Retention Recommendation Guide – The DAF Form 3538E, officially titled Enlisted Retention Recommendation Form (ERRF), is a critical Department of the Air Force (DAF) document used in the enlisted retention and quality force management process. Commanders and senior raters use it to provide a performance-based recommendation on whether an enlisted Airman should be retained or considered for separation during specific review boards.
Air Force Personnel Center (AFPC) officials emphasize that this form helps differentiate Airmen based on their overall record, potential, and value to the service, particularly when manning or force-shaping decisions require tough choices.
What Is DAF Form 3538E Used For?
DAF Form 3538E supports involuntary separation or retention boards, such as:
- Enlisted Retention Board (ERB)
- Quality Force Review Board (QFRB)
- Other force-shaping or selective continuation processes (used at the discretion of the Secretary of the Air Force)
The form documents a commander’s or senior rater’s assessment of an Airman’s suitability for continued service. It includes a direct retention recommendation, stratification (ranking among peers), and bullet comments highlighting unique qualities, skills, and justification for retention.
Note: This form is distinct from the officer version (DAF Form 3538, Retention Recommendation Form). It applies specifically to enlisted members (AB through CMSgt). The form is removed from the board file after the board convenes and stored electronically for historical, legal, or appeal purposes only.
Key Guidance from DAFI 36-2406
Detailed procedures for the Enlisted Retention Recommendation Form appear in DAFI 36-2406, Officer and Enlisted Evaluations Systems (current as of 2024/2026 updates). This instruction governs how evaluators prepare, submit, and manage the ERRF in conjunction with HQ AFPC.
The form is not used for routine reenlistment decisions under DAFI 36-2606 (Reenlistments and Extensions of Enlistment). It is reserved for board-driven retention actions where performance differentiation is required.
How to Complete DAF Form 3538E?
The form is largely self-explanatory but requires careful review of the Airman’s entire record. Commanders and senior raters must:
- Assess overall performance and conduct.
- Provide a clear retention recommendation.
- Stratify the Airman relative to peers (ranking those best suited for retention).
- Include concise, impactful bullets (often limited to three) that convey unique value, skills, leadership, or contributions that support retention.
Important sections typically include:
- Member identification data
- Rater/senior rater information
- Retention recommendation category (e.g., “Retain,” “Do Not Retain,” or other options depending on the specific board)
- Stratification statement
- Justification bullets
- Senior rater comments (especially for “Do Not Retain” recommendations, which may constitute a referral evaluation requiring additional due process)
“Do Not Retain” recommendations are treated as referral evaluations and require specific senior rater comments. Airmen receive a copy of the completed form and have an opportunity to respond in many cases.
Evaluators should reference the latest version of DAFI 36-2406 (available on the official e-Publishing site) for block-by-block instructions, as formatting and requirements can be updated.
Official Download Link
You can download the current DAF Form 3538E directly from the Department of the Air Force e-Publishing website:
Always use the official source to ensure you have the most current version. Forms are fillable PDFs for easier completion.
Who Completes and Submits the Form?
- Primary responsibility: Commanders and senior raters of eligible Airmen.
- Submission: Forms are provided to the Airman and forwarded to AFPC by established suspense dates for the specific board (deadlines vary by board cycle).
- Review: Boards use the ERRF alongside the Airman’s Enlisted Performance Reports (EPRs), decorations, training records, and other documentation to make retention decisions.
Tips for Airmen Facing a Retention Board
- Maintain a strong record: Exceptional duty performance, professional military education (PME), fitness standards, and leadership directly influence the recommendation.
- Review your records: Ensure your EPRs, awards, and other documents accurately reflect your contributions.
- Understand the process: If you receive a negative or “Do Not Retain” recommendation, you may have rights to submit a response or appeal through proper channels (see DAFI 36-2406 and DAFI 36-2603 for correction of records).
- Seek guidance: Contact your Chain of Command, Military Personnel Flight (MPF), or legal assistance for board-specific advice.
Related Air Force Retention Resources
- AFPC Retention Page: Information on reenlistment, Selective Retention Bonuses (SRB), and continuation policies.
- DAFI 36-2606: Reenlistment and Extension of Enlistment.
- DAFI 36-3211: Military Separations.
- myFSS: Primary portal for Airmen to access board information, forms, and personnel actions.
Retention in today’s Air Force is competitive and performance-driven. The DAF Form 3538E plays a key role in ensuring the service retains high-quality enlisted Airmen who meet mission needs and embody Air Force values.
Bottom line: Strong performance, documented leadership, and demonstrated potential are the foundation of a positive retention recommendation on DAF Form 3538E.
For the absolute latest policy, always consult the current DAFI 36-2406 and official AFPC guidance on the e-Publishing and myFSS portals, as board processes and force management priorities can evolve with Department of the Air Force needs.
This article is for informational purposes only and is based on publicly available Department of the Air Force publications and guidance. It is not a substitute for official military advice from your chain of command or servicing personnel office.