AFMD12 — United States Air Force Academy (usafa)

AFMD12 governs the mission, command relationships, and assigned duties of the United States Air Force Academy.

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  • Publication number: AFMD12
  • Title: UNITED STATES AIR FORCE ACADEMY (USAFA)
  • Date: 2025-01-16

View AFMD12 on armypubs.army.mil


It defines the Academy’s mission, leadership structure, command relationships, and Superintendent authorities. It also establishes goals and practices for developing, graduating, and commissioning cadets, including leadership, culture, and climate priorities.

Topics covered

  • United States Air Force Academy mission
  • Command relationships
  • Superintendent authorities
  • Cadet leadership development
  • Cadet culture and climate
  • Officer commissioning

Questions and answers

What is the mission of the United States Air Force Academy?

The mission of the United States Air Force Academy is to forge leaders of character, motivated to a lifetime of service, and developed to lead our Air Force and Space Force as we fight and win our Nation’s wars. (paragraph 1)

Who is the direct superior to the United States Air Force Academy Superintendent?

The United States Air Force Academy is assigned to the Chief of Staff of the Air Force who serves as the direct superior to the United States Air Force Academy Superintendent as directed by Department of the Air Force Policy Directive 36-35. (paragraph 2)

What administrative control does the Superintendent exercise?

Exercises administrative control over assigned personnel, including cadets and preparatory school cadet candidates. (paragraph 36-35)

What command and governance authority does the Superintendent have?

Exercises military command, control, and governance over the United States Air Force Academy and the United States Air Force Academy reservation in accordance with Department of the Air Force Instruction 36-3501. Is the decision authority for all internal governing bodies unless such authority is further delegated. (paragraph 36-35)

What does the Academy Board advise the Superintendent about?

Appoints an Academy Board which advises the Superintendent, USAFA on all matters concerning the academic aspects of the academic, military, physical, and character development programs at USAFA (including standards); cadet performance evaluations in the academic, military, physical, and character development programs; and graduation and reappointment requirements. (paragraph 36-35)

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