AF Form 104. Service Medal Award Verification

AF 104 is a form used to verify the eligibility of a military service member for an award of the Service Medal. The main purpose of this form is to provide a standardized process for verifying and approving awards based on a service member's actions.

The form consists of several parts, including personal information such as name, rank, and social security number, along with details about the service member's duties and accomplishments that qualify them for the Service Medal. It also requires the signature of the commanding officer, who verifies the accuracy of the information provided.

When filling out the form, it is important to provide accurate and complete information, as any errors or omissions may delay or even disqualify the award. Additional documentation may be required, such as copies of orders, commendations, or other official records.

Examples of when this form may be necessary include recognizing outstanding performance during a deployment, extraordinary acts of bravery or heroism, or exceptional meritorious service over an extended period.

Strengths of the AF 104 form include its standardized format, which ensures consistency and fairness in awarding medals across different units and branches of the military. Weaknesses may include the potential for errors or delays if the form is not completed correctly or if there is a backlog of requests.

Alternative forms or analogues may include similar forms used by other branches of the military, or more specific forms for different types of awards. Differences may include varying criteria or requirements for each award, such as length of service or level of achievement.

Submitting the form typically involves routing it through the appropriate chain of command for approval before being forwarded to the relevant awarding authority. Once approved, the form and any accompanying documentation are likely stored in the service member's personnel file for future reference.

In conclusion, the AF 104 form plays an important role in recognizing and rewarding the hard work and sacrifice of military service members. By providing a standardized process for verifying and approving awards, it helps ensure fairness and consistency in awarding medals. However, it is important to carefully follow the instructions and provide accurate information to avoid delays or disqualifications.