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Chief of Air Force Commendation

Chief of Air Force Commendation

Overview

The Chief of Air Force (CAF) has a personal commendation badge that can be awarded to personnel who perform to an ‘excellent' level either over a sustained period or during a specific event or project. This award recognises performance that would be unlikely to meet the criteria for a New Zealand State Honour.  

Description

The commendation features an eagle and two stars on a dark blue background, with single diagonal light blue and red stripes. The eagle and stars represent the Office of the CAF. 

The commendations are presented with a manuscript narrative outlining the reason for the award.

Eligibility

This commendation covers both Unit and individual recognition. All RNZAF units, personnel, Civil Staff employees of the RNZAF, and others deemed appropriate by the CAF, of all ranks are eligible for the award of the CAF Commendation. This award recognises contributions to the RNZAF by those personnel and units who deserve formal recognition but which may not be covered by the criteria for the awards from the sovereign.

Note: There is no Royal Warrant for this commendation. Administration instructions are included in the Regulations.

Queries & requests

  • Wearing this commendation

    Commendations are not included in the New Zealand Order of Wear.  The Chief of Air Force Commendation is to be worn on the right breast of the uniform shirt, Service Mess Dress Jackets, and 1.5 cm above the name tag. Where applicable, the award of two or more commendations is denoted by a gilt metal border to the insignia.

    For more information on the wear and care of honours, medals, and awards:

  • Nominating someone for this commendation

    Nominations for commendations are made by submitting an MD592 through Single Service chains of command.  Self-nominations for these awards will not be accepted.  

  • Checking if this commendation was issued

    Honours, medals, and awards bestowed on an individual for service in the New Zealand Armed Forces are recorded in their individual service record.  NZDF Personnel Archives and Medals holds a collection of about 1.5 million service records relating to 420,000 New Zealand service personnel who served in New Zealand’s Military Forces after the First World War.

    Service records are not currently digitised, but we can locate it and find the information you might be looking for or help you book a time for you to see the records in Trentham by completing the form on the Service Record page. 

    Request a service record