BY ORDER OF THE AIR FORCE INSTRUCTION 36-2109

AFI36-2109 5 JANUARY 20217Chapter 2COMMAND CHIEF MASTER SERGEANT (CCM)2.1. Position. The CCM is the key senior enlisted leader in the wing, numbered Air Force (NAF),major command (MAJCOM), direct reporting unit (DRU), field operating agency, or other similarorganization and has a significant impact on all facets of the enlisted force. CCM positionauthorizations are subject to CMSAF review and approval by the AF/A1.2.1.1. MAJCOMs may establish CCM positions only as follows:2.1.1.1. One CCM for each MAJCOM headquarters.2.1.1.2. One CCM for Headquarters National Guard Bureau (NGB/CFC). The Director ofthe ANG (DANG) establishes an ANG CCM position on the command staff and setsprocedures for additional positions at subordinate organizations. The selection and tourlength is determined by the DANG. (T-1).2.1.1.3. One CCM for each NAF, war fighting headquarters (HQ) or Air Force center witha command level of brigadier general or higher. When NAFs, war fighting HQs, Air Forcecenters only have one wing equivalent assigned, only one CCM is authorized for bothorganizations. In cases where the CCM serves more than one organization, the member’srater is the senior commander.2.1.1.4. A maximum of two CCMs can be assigned to the Joint Force Headquarters(JFHQs) for each state, territory, and the District of Columbia. Note: JFHQs may haveone state CCM and one state (Air or Army) Command Senior Enlisted Leader (CSEL). (T1).2.1.2. Joint DoD agencies and other organizations not otherwise authorized a CCM positionmay process requests through the Directorate of Manpower, Organization, and Resources(AF/A1M), with coordination through AF/A1LE and CMSAF, and are subject to approval bythe Deputy Chief of Staff for Manpower, Personnel, and Services (AF/A1).2.1.3. US unified commands, subunified commands, and defense agencies may request aCCM to perform duties as their senior enlisted leader. AF/A1LE coordinates with AF/A1Mand CMSAF to process requests.2.1.4. The following agencies are responsible for review of all CCM authorizations every twoyears to ensure they continue to meet established guidelines:2.1.4.1. RegAF: AF/A1LE and AF/A1.2.1.4.2. AFR: AFRC/CCC and AFRC Director of Personnel (AFRC/A1).2.1.4.3. ANG: ANG CCM (NGB/CFC) and NGB/SELMO. (T-1).2.1.5. AF/A1LE, AFRC/CCC, and NGB/CFC approve the award of reporting identifier 9E000and the duty title “Command Chief Master Sergeant” for their respective components.Approved CCMs wear distinctive chevrons. (T-1).

8AFI36-2109 5 JANUARY 20212.1.6. The duty title “Command Chief Master Sergeant” and the distinctive CCM chevron isonly be used by CMSgts awarded reporting identifier 9E000 who are currently assigned to avalid CCM authorization. The proper term of address is “Chief Master Sergeant” or “Chief.”2.1.6.1. CMSgts assigned to a joint organization are prohibited from using the duty title“Command Chief Master Sergeant” unless working in reporting identifier 9E000 in one ofthe organizations listed in paragraph 2.1.3 Command Chief Master Sergeant is a titlecommonly used to identify CCMs and their sister service equivalents within the jointenvironment.2.1.6.2. Retired CMSgts whose terminal assignment was as a CCM may wear the CCMchevron in all instances where the wear of the uniform is appropriate, according to AFI 362903, Dress and Personal Appearance of Air Force Personnel. Retiring CMSgts, whoseterminal assignment was not as a CCM but who honorably completed a CCM tour, mayrequest an exception to policy to wear the CCM chevron through:2.1.6.2.1. RegAF: AF/A1LE.2.1.6.2.2. ANG: NGB/SELMO.2.1.6.2.3. AFR: AF/REG.2.1.6.3. Retired CCMs still performing day-to-day duties in uniform in a retired status,such as high school JROTC instructors, cannot wear the CCM chevron while performingthose specific duties.2.1.7. All approved CCM positions use “CCC” as the standard functional office symbol(except those in unified commands). The ANG CCM position uses “CFC” as the functionaloffice symbol to align with the DANG. (T-1).2.1.8. Organizations establishing new CCM positions ensure those office symbols areincluded in address indicating group 9360.2.1.9. CCMs serving in reporting identifier 9E000 and performing duties in an authorizedposition are eligible to receive special duty assignment pay (SDAP). SDAP levels are set bythe SDAP review board and are reviewed, validated, and adjusted as appropriate. Those fillingthe CCM role as an additional duty or temporary capacity are ineligible to receive SDAP.2.2. CCM Selection Process.2.2.1. Eligibility. CMSgts selected for CCM duty are exceptionally well qualified with a broadbreadth of experience, significant supervisory and leadership experience and:2.2.1.1. Have a physical appearance and military image in all uniform combinations thatmeet the highest standards expected of the most professional CMSgts.2.2.1.2. Meet AF standards of good physical health and demonstrated consistent fitnesslevels at or above the minimum standard. Initial selection: CMSgts must have scored 80 orabove on last two fitness tests, or 90 or above on most recent fitness test; no failure on anyportion within the last 12 months. (T-1).2.2.1.3. Have the ability to speak clearly and distinctly.2.2.1.4. Must be worldwide qualified (both deployment and assignment) and not have apermanent assignment limitation code “C3.” (T-1).

AFI36-2109 5 JANUARY 202192.2.2. RegAF Selection Process.2.2.2.1. Central Screening Board. AF/A1LE conducts analyses and recommends time-ingrade and time-in-service requirements prior to each CCM screening board process basedon the expected requirements and the pool of eligible CMSgts. Recommended eligibilityrules are approved by AF/A1 and the CMSAF.2.2.2.2. Once the list of eligible candidates is prepared, the list is forwarded to the owningorganization to receive senior rater approval to compete for the selection board. Seniorraters should conduct personal interviews and recommend, or non-recommend withjustification, each CMSgt that meets eligibility based solely on suitability for CCM dutyand mission requirements. Volunteer preferences should not be considered when makingthe decision to recommend. Recommendations by senior raters are made on the Chief’senlisted performance report.2.2.2.3. AF/A1LE conducts the annual CCM screening board to create a formal candidatelist.2.2.2.4. Currently serving CCMs are considered “graduated” CCMs after successfullyserving 12 months in the position. Graduated and currently serving CCMs are exempt fromthe screening board process. After coordination with AF/A1LE and the MAJCOM CCM,their commanders may make them available for CCM reassignment.2.2.2.5. Graduated CCMs transitioning to non-CCM duty remain candidates for futureCCM opportunities, provided the member is a volunteer for worldwide CCM reassignment(meets CCM eligibility criteria) with current senior rater concurrence. A CCM removedfor cause or who did not successfully complete a CCM tour is not allowed to re-competethrough the screening process.2.2.2.6. CCMs selected for developmental positions remain eligible for future CCMopportunities while serving in the developmental position.2.2.2.7. CCM candidate lists expire when the new CCM list is produced the followingcalendar year. Candidates already referred to commanders prior to the published list remaineligible until the hiring authority selects their CCM.2.2.3. ANG Selection Process.2.2.3.1. The DANG establishes component selection criteria and sets procedures to meetthe needs of the organization. The DANG selects a Chief Master Sergeant to performduties as the ANG CCM through a nominative process. The ANG CCM reports directlyto the DANG and is a member of DANG’s staff. (T-1).2.2.3.2. The adjutant general (TAG) selects the state CCM. The state CCM reportsdirectly to TAG and is a member of TAG’s staff. (T-2).2.2.3.3. The wing commander selects the wing CCM. The wing CCM reports directly tothe wing commander and is a member of the wing commander's staff. (T-2).2.2.3.4. TAGs or wing commanders are expected to select CCMs from a panel process.When selecting the wing CCM, the state CCM should be a voting member of the selectionpanel with additional members added at the discretion of TAG or the wing commander.(T-2).

10AFI36-2109 5 JANUARY 20212.2.3.5. CCM positions are advertised utilizing the state JFHQ processes to ensure alleligible candidates have an opportunity to apply. TAG determines package contents formembers requesting consideration as a state CCM. The wing commander determinespackage contents for members requesting consideration as a wing CCM. (T-2).2.2.3.5.1. All CCM candidates must possess an associate’s degree or higher from anationally or regionally accredited academic institution. (T-1)2.2.3.5.2. All CCM Chief Master Sergeant candidates must have previously attendedthe ANG Chief Master Sergeant Orientation Course (ANG CMSOC). (T-1).2.2.3.6. CCMs must be experienced and well broadened. Promotion-eligible SeniorMaster Sergeants will be considered on a case-by-case basis and only after all other optionshave been exhausted. (T-2).2.2.3.6.1. Selection of a promotion-eligible Senior Master Sergeant to serve as a CCMrequires a waiver request memorandum outlining the justification for the Senior MasterSergeant to serve in the capacity of 9E000. (T-1).2.2.3.6.2. The waiver request memorandum for the promotion-eligible Senior MasterSergeant is required from the wing commander for wing CCM selections or TAG forstate CCM selection through NGB/SELMO to the ANG CCM. (T-1).2.2.3.6.3. Senior Master Sergeants with an approved waiver must be promoted to ChiefMaster Sergeant prior to being assigned or assuming duties as a CCM. (T-1).2.2.3.6.4. Senior Master Sergeants with an approved waiver must attend the ANGCMSOC no later than six months from assignment to the 9E000 position. (T-1).2.2.3.6.5. (Added) The waiver request memorandum for the promotion-eligibleSenior Master Sergeant selected to serve as a CCM must include the requestingorganization’s force management and development plan. (T-1).2.2.3.7. Currently serving CCMs are considered “graduated” CCMs after serving 18months in the position. (T-1).2.2.4. AFR Selection Process. The AFR selection process aligns with the RegAF process withthe following addition:2.2.4.1. Effective upon the implementation date of the Air Force Reserve Command CCMscreening board process, AFRC/CCC, in coordination with AF/REG, solicits applicationsfrom qualified CMSgts.2.2.4.2. Currently serving CCMs are considered “graduated” CCMs after serving 18months in the position.

AFI36-2109 5 JANUARY 2021112.3. RegAF Assignment Process.2.3.1. AF/A1LE coordinates with owning or gaining senior raters as vacancies open.2.3.2. CMSgts on the CCM candidate list remain eligible for other assignments and personnelactions in their core chief enlisted manager (CEM) code(s).2.3.3. AF/A1LE provides hiring authorities at the wing level with a tailored list of candidatesor graduated CCMs based on background and desired experiences. The hiring authority mayrequest a CMSgt on the CCM list or a graduated CCM for by-name consideration.2.3.4. Assignment Selection. AF/A1LE opens positions in Senior Leader Career ManagementSystem (SLCMS) and notifies MAJCOM CCMs for nominations.2.3.4.1. MAJCOM CCMs add or decline nominations (within 5 duty days).2.3.4.2. Candidates only compete for one CCM position at a time.2.3.4.3. AF/A1LE locks the names in SLCMS.2.3.4.4. Owning MAJCOM CCMs review each candidate and tailor the list as necessary(within 5 duty days).2.3.4.5. AF/A1LE verifies eligibility, deconflicts names and notifies hiring authority andMAJCOM CCM that names are available in SLCMS within 3 duty days.2.3.4.6. Hiring authority has 10 days to consider the nominees and make a selection.2.3.4.7. Hiring authorities should select CCMs from the nominees provided by AF/A1LEunless a by-name consideration is made. Commanders should coordinate hiring withMAJCOM CCMs. Exceptions must have CMSAF, MAJCOM commander (CC) andMAJCOM CCM concurrence. (T-1).2.3.5. CCMs serving at the MAJCOM, NAF and center levels are sourced through anominative process. AF/A1LE requests nominations of qualified CMSgts from individualMAJCOMs and COCOMs. All MAJCOM and COCOM nominations are combined to form anominative slate which is forwarded to the office of the CMSAF for review then forwarded tothe hiring authority for vetting and selection.2.3.5.1. All CCMs being nominated for joint or combined command SEL positions areapproved by the MAJCOM CC prior to being nominated to AF/A1LE.2.3.5.2. CMSgts who decline selection for a specific CCM assignment will retire orseparate in lieu of assignment. See AFI 36-2110, Total Force Assignements, for furtherguidance. (T-1).2.3.6. AF/A1LE is responsible for coordinating and announcing all CCM selections.

12AFI36-2109 5 JANUARY 20212.4. ANG Assignment Process.2.4.1. Candidates selected for assignment to a 9E000 position must attend the first availableANG Command Chief Master Sergeant Training Course (CCMSTC) no later than six monthsfrom assignment. (T-1). Selectees are authorized to wear the CCM chevron upon receiving aconfirmed ANG CCMSTC training line number. (T-1).Table 2.1. Funding for ANG Command Chief Master Sergeants (9E000).FundingSelection9E000 (CCM) Positions are funded for:TAG may select 9E000 (CCM) positions from:ANG Enlisted – Resource Identifier Code (RIC) ANG Enlisted – Drill Status Guardsman RIC 0128ANG Enlisted – Active Guard and Reserve RIC 0148ANG Title 32 – Civilian Technician RIC 01702.4.2. Selection by TAG of ANG enlisted Active Guard and Reserve (AGR) RIC 0148 orANG Civilian Technician RIC 0170 requires reallocation of funding to meet the 9E000authorization change. Further guidance on assignment placement is contained in AFI 36-2110.For assistance with funding exceptions, contact NGB/A1M, Manpower, Organization andResources Division. For assistance with technician assignments, contact J1-TCP, TechnicianPersonnel Management Division. (T-2).2.4.3. Upon CCM selection, assigned state Military Personnel Management Office (MPMO)will send selection notification to NGB/SELMO. The state MPMO will ensure all AF Form2096, Classification/On-the-Job-Training Action, requirements for assignment areaccomplished. (T-1).2.4.4. Upon assignment, the control and duty Air Force Specialty Codes (AFSCs) shouldreflect 9E000. CCMs are not permitted to perform duty outside of the 9E000 reportingidentifier. (T-1).2.5. AFR Assignment Process.2.5.1. Air Force Reserve Senior Leader Management (AF/REG), in coordination withAFRC/CCC, coordinates with owning or gaining senior raters as vacancies occur.2.5.2. CMSgts on the CCM candidate list remain eligible for other assignments and personnelactions in their core Chief Enlisted Manager (CEM) Code(s).2.5.3. AF/REG, in coordination with AFRC/CCC, provides hiring authorities a list ofcandidate selection options and recommendations, including a tailored list of candidates andgraduated CCMs based on background and experience.2.5.4. Hiring authorities are expected to select CCMs from the provided candidate list.2.5.5. AF/REG is responsible for coordinating and announcing all CCM selections.

AFI36-2109 5 JANUARY 2021132.5.6. CMSgts selected for assignment to a CCM position must attend the first available AFRor RegAF CCM orientation course no later than 12 months from selection. (T-1). Selectees areauthorized to wear the distinctive CCM chevron upon assignment into an authorized CCMposition.2.6. CCM Nominations to Joint and Combined Commands.2.6.1. CCMs (current and past) and CCM candidates may be considered for joint andcombined command SEL (CSEL) positions.2.6.2. AF/A1LE tasks MAJCOM CCMs for input and CMSAF coordinates on all AFnominations for joint and combined command SEL positions.2.6.3. If an AF nominee is selected as the joint and combined command SEL, CMSAF andAF/A1LE coordinate actions to establish an AF CMSgt authorization for the position.2.6.4. CCMs being nominated for joint and combined command SEL positions are vetted bythe CMSAF prior to being nominated.2.6.4.1. ANG.

CHIEF MASTER SERGEANT OF THE AIR FORCE 1.1. Overview. The CMSAF is the senior enlisted leader (SEL) in the United States Air Force. 1.1.1. The Chief of Staff, United States Air Force (CSAF) selects a Chief Master Sergeant (CMSgt) to perform duties as the CMSAF. Tenure of the CMSAF is det