How to Write the Air Force Commendation Medal Citation

Write the citation. This is the text that will be read during the presentation of the award. It can only be 11 - 13 lines long (depending on local guidance) so it's not that hard. Below is guidance for the Air Force Commendation Medal.

General Instructions:

Prepare citations on 8-1/2 by 11 inch plain bond paper (landscape) or AF Form 2274.

Use Times New Roman 12 point font.

Use the mandatory opening and closing sentences listed below.

Final text must be perfect with no corrections.

Citations must capture the substance of the decoration with dignity and clarity.

The narrative is a short description of the act, achievement, or service. Be specific on facts and limit to no more than two sentences, if possible. Emphasize the individual's mission contribution and use active voice and forceful verbs.

The use of common exercise or code names (such as Roving Sands, etc.) is acceptable in citations . Do not use any abbreviations other than Jr., Sr., II, etc. Do not use symbols (the exception is the dollar sign) and do not use abbreviations. Even common abbreviations should be spelled out (USAF, DoD, AFB, etc).

Do not use zeros in front of single-digit dates (ex. 1 Jan 06).

For compound grade titles, such as First Lieutenant and Staff Sergeant, spell out the complete grade title in the opening sentence and then use the short title (Lieutenant, Sergeant, etc) in the remainder of the citation.

Do not separate the rank from the name. They should be always listed together.

Opening Sentence:

Staff Sergeant Crystal A. Smith distinguished herself by (meritorious service) OR (outstanding achievement) OR (an act of courage) as (duty assignment and office) OR (while assigned to _____(office) from _____to _____).

OR

Staff Sergeant Crystal A. Smith distinguished herself by (outstanding achievement) OR (an act of courage) (at or near) on (date).

Narrative Description:

For Service or Achievement: During this period, the professional skill, leadership, and ceaseless efforts of Sergeant Smith contributed to the effectiveness and success of Air Force programs. Here's where you add two or three sentences describing the person's accomplishment!

OR

For an Act of Courage: On that date, Sergeant Smith arrived on the scene of an automobile accident which seriously injured the driver of the vehicle. Without hesitation, Sergeant Smith went to the aid of the injured victim, expertly administered first aid, and remained with him until arrival of professional assistance.

Closing Sentence:

The distinctive accomplishments of Sergeant Smith reflect credit upon herself and the United States Air Force.

OR

Act of Courage. By her prompt action and humanitarian regard for her fellowman, Sergeant Smith has reflected credit upon herself and the United States Air Force.

OR

Retirement Award. The distinctive accomplishments of Sergeant Smith culminate a (long and) distinguished career in the service of her country and reflect credit upon herself and the United States Air Force.

OR

Separation Award. The distinctive accomplishments of Sergeant Smith while serving her country reflect credit upon herself and the United States Air Force.

OR

Posthumous Award. The distinctive accomplishments of Sergeant Smith in the dedication of her service to her country reflect credit upon herself and the United States Air Force.