DAFPD90-12 — Protocol

DAFPD90-12 governs protocol, decorum, and customs and courtesies for Department of the Air Force official functions.

Search DAFPD90-12

  • Publication number: DAFPD90-12
  • Title: PROTOCOL
  • Date: 2024-04-16

View DAFPD90-12 on armypubs.army.mil


It addresses etiquette, manners, military life, official relationships, ceremonies, honors, distinguished visitors, and official-function planning. It requires compliance with specified funding authorities and assigns protocol responsibilities to senior Air Force officials and commanders.

Topics covered

  • Military protocol
  • Official functions
  • Customs and courtesies
  • Distinguished visitors
  • Military decorum
  • National flag at half-staff

Questions and answers

What does protocol encompass in daily military life?

Protocol encompasses the customs and courtesies, etiquette, and manners of daily military life, preservation of diplomatic and other official relationships, and celebratory ceremonies. (paragraph 1)

What honors and courtesies are required at official functions?

Give appropriate honors and courtesies with due respect to position, title, and rank/grade precedence for all official functions. (paragraph 2)

How must official functions and distinguished visitors be handled?

Plan and execute official functions and the hosting of distinguished visitors in a manner that reflects the professionalism of DAF members and honors the customs, courtesies, and traditions of the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Space Force, and other (including foreign) Military Services. (paragraph 2)

When may commanders display the national flag at half-staff?

The SecAF further assigns responsibility and delegates authority to Commanders, including but not lower than, installation, delta, post, and station commanders, to display the national flag at half-staff at designated buildings or grounds under their jurisdiction for occasions they consider proper and appropriate. (paragraph 3)

Who provides oversight of the DAF protocol program?

The SAF/DS advocates for resources, develops policy, and provides guidance, direction, and oversight of the DAF protocol program. (paragraph 3)

Ask Reggie.Bot a question about DAFPD90-12