The United States Air Force Commander’s Public Service Award was established so that civilians whose service or achievements significantly contributed to the accomplishment of a mission of an Air Force command, staff agency, or command. Candidates for the honor are civilians who are not employed by the Department of the Air Force and who have either aided in realizing specific achievements, major projects, or assisted in an Air Force unit reach a major milestone; providing support for a unit or base over a period of time can also qualify.
In any event, the service must plainly reflect how the candidate’s commitment and dedication actually and significantly contributed to improvements of conditions for servicemembers, of a mission, or at a facility. Only voluntary services are recognized with this honor; under no circumstances can a recipient have profited from their contributions, and they may not be in any type of profit-making enterprise with the Department of Defense. And while civic leaders are eligible to be honored with the medal more than once, there must be a five-year period in between awards.