LOR Rebuttal
Third PT Failure

23 March 2012

MEMORANDUM FOR LT. COL. X

FROM: SSGT X

SUBJECT: Response to Letter of Reprimand, dated 20 March 2012

1. I would like to express my gratitude to my Commander for allowing me the opportunity to respond to the LOR I received for my third PT failure in 18 months. I am aware of the importance that PT plays in my role as an Air Force member, and I am aware of how important this next PT test will be for my career. I love being an Air Force member, and the last 11 years have been some of the best of my life. This is the first LOR I have received in the AF, and I take it very seriously. I acknowledge that I made mistakes regarding my fitness, but I assure you that I have been and will continue to make lasting changes. I am also keeping better track of PT using the AF IMT 1975.

2. I would like to note that these failures were not consecutive. From Feb 2010 to Feb 2012 I had passing tests between each of my failing tests, for a total of 4 passing and 3 failing. The first two times I failed, I waived my right to the 42-90 day reconditioning period per AFI 36-2905, in an attempt to retest as soon as possible in order to be in good standing in the unit. In one case I took the test after 27 days to be immediately deployed. If I had taken the full 90 days then, both times, then I would not be facing the potential now for a 4th failure within the 24 month window.

3. I understand that every member should be ready to deploy at a short notice. I would like to explain my circumstances regarding this last failure in February. I was in the middle of [official class], studying 8+ hours a day to pass the [test]. I also took my WAPS/SKT test and my CDC s End of Course at this time, and I was out-processing to deploy for nearly a year long deployment. I was also preparing my wife, children, and home for my extended absence. One week before deploying, I was told that I had to take my PT test two months earlier than expected. I was not prepared for the test, as I was anticipating taking it at my training base in April.

4. I have made significant improvement to ensure that I do not have further PT failures now or for the rest of my career. I am now living a lifestyle that allows me to eat a very healthy diet, and I am incorporating more exercise and activities into my routine. Since my most recent failure in February, I have lost 17 pounds and dropped 3 inches on my waist. My run time, pushups, and sit-ups are all improving as well. Also, in the last 18 months I have lost at total of 27 lbs. This is a positive and significant trend and I intend to continue improving.

5. If you have any questions, please contact me at DSN XXX or commercial XXX.

X, SSGT, USAF