DAFORMFILLABLE.COM | DA FORM 4980-9, also known as the Air Medal Certificate, is an official document issued by the United States Army to recognize military personnel for meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight. The form was published on October 1, 2011, and remains active under the proponent G-1. It is prescribed by AR 600-8-22 and carries the Pub/Form PIN 049385.
DA FORM 4980-9 – Air Medal Certificate
| Form Number | DA Form 4980-9 |
| Form Title | Air Medal Certificate |
| Form Date | 10/01/2011 |
| Form Proponent | G-1 |
Purpose and Importance
Recognition of Achievement
The Air Medal Certificate is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional performance in aerial flight operations. The recognition highlights the dedication and bravery of military personnel who contribute significantly to aerial missions, which are often conducted under challenging and dangerous conditions.
Official Documentation
As an official military document, DA FORM 4980-9 serves as permanent evidence of the recipient’s achievements. It is a vital part of the military’s award and decoration system, ensuring that meritorious actions are formally acknowledged and recorded.
Prescribing Directive
AR 600-8-22
The prescribing directive for the Air Medal Certificate is AR 600-8-22, the Army Regulation governing military awards. This directive outlines the criteria and procedures for awarding the Air Medal, ensuring consistency and fairness in the recognition process.
Sensitive Forms
DA FORM 4980-9 is classified under sensitive forms, indicating that it contains sensitive information that must be handled with care. Despite this classification, the form is unclassified and approved for public release, with distribution being unlimited.
Key Elements of the Form
Form Identification
The Pub/Form Number for the Air Medal Certificate is DA FORM 4980-9. The Pub/Form IDN is 990001, which is used for identification and cataloging purposes within military records.
Distribution and Accessibility
The Distribution Restriction Code A denotes that the form is approved for public release. This means that it can be distributed widely without restriction, making it accessible to all eligible military personnel and their respective units.
Utilization in Professional Activities
Award Process
Military personnel seeking to understand or utilize DA FORM 4980-9 should familiarize themselves with the award process as outlined in AR 600-8-22. This includes understanding the submission procedures, approval criteria, and the roles of various officials involved in the process.
Record Keeping
Proper record keeping is crucial when handling the Air Medal Certificate. Units must ensure that all awarded certificates are accurately documented and stored in the recipient’s military personnel file. This practice not only preserves the integrity of the award but also ensures that the recipient’s achievements are formally recognized in their military career.
Conclusion
The DA FORM 4980-9 – Air Medal Certificate plays a significant role in recognizing the outstanding contributions of military personnel in aerial operations. By adhering to the guidelines set forth in AR 600-8-22, the Army ensures that these commendable actions are properly acknowledged and recorded. For military professionals, understanding the importance, utilization, and distribution of this form is essential in maintaining the integrity and honor of military awards and decorations.