LOR Rebuttal Examples

The term commonly used to describe the response to the LOR, the rebuttal, implies a strong negative response or argument. But a "rebuttal" is nothing more than a written reply. It may agree with the LOR or disagree or present information not previously known.

Letters of Reprimand are normally not written unless there is ample evidence to support them and, because of that, they are more difficult to refute. LORs can have a very negative effect on your career and serve as justification for more serious punitive action. If you received one unfairly or without justification, don't waste time. You should challenge it with a rebuttal as soon as possible.

Normally, when you receive a letter of reprimand, the form has a line at the bottom that you mark Yes or No to indicate whether you intend to submit any paperwork in response to the LOR. Check yes. If you didn't check yes initially, but later changed your mind and now want to submit something, you can. But any paperwork submitted must be submitted in a timely manner, generally within 3 days of receipt of the LOR. When you submit a response or rebuttal, it is required to be attached to or stored with the LOR as long as it exists.

Below are examples of LOR rebuttals. Use the personal letter or official memorandum format and make sure you date and sign it. The overall tone must be civil and considerate. Not only will your supervisor read it but the Commander and his staff and your future supervisors may read it as well. The goal is to be conciliatory and persuasive. The first paragraph should be positive. Start off with a positive statement such as "I appreciate the opportunity to respond to the letter of reprimand I received on 1 April 12 and would like to express my sincere support of the squadron by providing any clarification of the issues described that I am able to" or some other positive remarks.

In the second paragraph, explain the situation in detail but as briefly as possible. No one has time to read two or three type-written pages. Maintain a neutral tone and state the facts that led up to the LOR. And don't ramble. Use a logical, chronological method to describe the events and get right to the point. Then explain why you think the LOR wasn't completely justified or provide previously unknown information.

In the final paragraph, make sure you call attention to your positive record. If you've been in the Air Force for five years without receiving any kind of disciplinary action, say so. If you have been in trouble in the past, avoid mentioning that and concentrate on positive accomplishments such as your involvement in the Honor Guard or Selection as Amn of the Quarter, etc.

It may help to mention the IG in a positive way. I don't mean that you should threaten to go to the IG if the LOR isn't withdrawn. That will only make management dig in their heels and make damn sure the LOR stays in your records forever. Instead, you should mention the IG in a polite way to let the reader know that you're aware of your options and resources. Something like I appreciate my supervisor's guidance and faith in my potential and am more committed to my career and the Air Force than ever before. I will make every effort to adhere to standards and improve my performance. To that end, I will make an appointment with the Area Defense Counsel to ensure I understand my responsibilities on and off-duty and fulfill my responsibilities. When management thinks that the situation will be reviewed by people outside the organization, they will take another look and make sure the LOR is deserved and supportable. And they may quietly withdraw it without even telling you.

Use the last paragraph for closing comments. This will likely be the only time that you'll be invited to state your opinion on this matter so make sure everything you want to say is addressed. Let a friend proofread it to make sure it's understandable to a stranger. Make two copies and keep one for your records. Give the original to the supervisor who gave you the LOR or his representative.

It's your right to go to the Inspector General's office on your base if you feel that you've been unfairly treated. If you intend to visit the IG, you should make every effort to let your supervisor know and give him or her a chance to withdraw the LOR before you go. Normally, if you indicate in your answer that you're considering going to the IG, the LOR will receive serious review and be withdrawn if it isn't fully supportable.

LOR Rebuttal Examples

MEMORANDUM FOR XXX

FROM: A1C I MESSED UP, (UNIT)

SUBJECT: Response to Letter of Reprimand

1. I am writing in response to the LOR I received on 09 March 2017 for unauthorized cellular device use on post. My actions were in direct contrast to the training received and I admit my fault in doing so. I understand that there is no excuse for having done this, and do not wish to make any for myself.

2. I have served honorably in the Air Force for over two years with this being the first incident of disciplinary action. I bear sole responsibility for my Air Force career and wish to convey my contrition for the lack in judgement on my part. I have full intentions to continue with my career, having this incident as a reminder, with professionalism and compliance of the responsibilities delegated unto me.

3. In conclusion I wish to express this as an isolated incident that does not portray the actions I wish to continue in my career. I appreciate the opportunity to respond and apologize for my actions. Henceforth I will exercise the greatest attention to my military responsibilities and execution thereof.

MEMORANDUM FOR 633 CPTS/CC

FROM: SSgt John Doe

SUBJECT: Rebuttal for Letter of Reprimand (LOR), dated 22 Feb 13

1. I am writing in response to the LOR I received on 22 February 2013 for failure to pass my PT test on 11 February 2013, by 5 sit-ups and 3 seconds on my run. I would like to note that while this was my second failure since I’ve been in the Air Force, they were not consecutive. Since my first failure in September 2010 I’ve had two tests in which I received satisfactory grades. I respectfully request that you consider the following information.

2. I understand that as members of the Air Force, we must meet the standards set for us in AFI 36-2905. I also understand fitness is a way of life in the Air Force and will take steps to ensure this lapse in my readiness as an Airman never happens again. Since the missteps on the PT test, I’ve taken action to improve my overall fitness. I have been doing daily workouts that include sit-ups, running and other cardio. I’ve also worked with the First Sergeant to hopefully be enrolled in the Back-to-Basics class offered by the health and wellness center.

3. I’ve served honorably in the Air Force for nearly seven years now, including a year served in Afghanistan and a hand-picked assignment as a photographer for the recent Presidential Inauguration. The Air Force has afforded me many opportunities and taught me many valuable skills I would not have otherwise received. I have also given my life to the Air Force and maintained a high degree of professionalism at all times and received constant kudos from leadership along the way. I will continue to maintain my positive attitude, dedication to the mission, and unwavering loyalty to the Air Force and my unit, despite this setback.

4. In conclusion, I plan on attacking and correcting this issue by taking advantage of all the help available to me. I thank leadership for the chance to correct this issue and respond to this LOR.

Respectfully,
John Doe, SSgt, USAF

24 March 2013

MEMORANDUM FOR (UNIT)

FROM: Oopsi Daisy, A1C, USAF, (Unit)

SUBJECT: Rebuttal to Letter of Reprimand

This statement concerns the LOR I received on 21 March 2013. I respectfully submit the following for your consideration.

On 21 March 2013, I was issued an LOR by SSgt "They Read It". The following is my account of the occurrences as they happened and my thought process:

I received this LOR on 21 March 2013 for having failed to properly perform the duties of an on-call (job title) on 14-15 March 2013. I understand that there is zero excuse for having done this, and do not wish to attempt to make any for myself. I failed to properly perform my duties, and completely understand that there must be consequences for such actions.

I am a new airman, new to the military life. I am attempting to make sense of the life I have chosen to join, and I simply stumbled in doing so. I am going to take this as a learning experience, and not repeat the mistake. I know that my job as a (job title) is extremely important, and that people can die if I am not available to do my job when I am needed. I now am consciously aware of the need to keep the on call phone at my side at all times when I am on call, and the things that I can and cannot do when I am on call. I apologize for not keeping that in mind when I made this mistake, and I am only grateful that no one was hurt. I will take every precaution to make sure that this never happens again while I am on call. I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to correct my mistake, and I will not let that opportunity go to waste.

With the Utmost Respect,

(space to sign)

Oopsi E. Daisy, A1C, USAF
Job Title

MEMORANDUM FOR 633 CPTS/CC

FROM: SSgt John Doe

SUBJECT: Rebuttal for Letter of Reprimand (LOR), dated 22 Feb 13

4. In conclusion, I plan on attacking and correcting this issue by taking advantage of all the help available to me. I thank leadership for the chance to correct this issue and respond to this LOR.

Respectfully,
John Doe, SSgt, USAF

Rebuttal Comments: MEMORANDUM FOR XXXXXX

FROM: SSGT XXXXXXX

SUBJECT: Response to Letter of Reprimand, dated 30 November 2012

1. I am writing in response to the Letter of Reprimand I received on 30 November 2012. The letter is stating that I was negligent in my role as an NCO in the Central Storage section. I respectfully request that you consider the following information.

2. I acknowledge that the issue document should have been logged in and should check with SrA XXXXXXX later after she processed the issue for the customer to sign. As an NCO in Central Storage, I should be setting the example by exceeding the standard. I sincerely apologize for this and will strive to become a better all-around NCO to make up for my downfall.

3. When I was given the 2005 with the location on it I went in the vault to pull the part so SrA XXXXXXXX could be sure we have the part before she processed the issue. She said she would bring the document back to me after the customer signed for it but she put it in the Customer Service box because she was told to by someone there. When I later found out why she did that I told her not to do that and just bring the document back to Central Storage. I was told that we are a night shift cell and that we should work together as a team so I trusted her as a member of the team. The customer now has the part to complete the mission. It was stated that this could of lead to a double pull but we were zero balance after I pulled the part. If someone went to pull the part again they would see that there is nothing there and do the right research to find out that there is already a signed document for it. Also it was brought up that I have had double pulls with my name on them before. There have been other double pulls because people didn’t check the logs after a previous person printed out the document off the CTH on night shift and then on day shift the computer room would print it out again. When day shift gets the documents people didn’t make sure it wasn’t pulled again. There have not been double pulls with my name on it because I didn’t log the documents in and if so please show me. A LOC in my opinion is not justified because it’s based on mistakes made with a missed appointment and not signing off the front door of the vault that we never needed to have signed in the first place. We have all made mistakes in this section but it seems this mistake is being pointed out for why things have been done wrong.

4. In conclusion, I would like to take this opportunity to again apologize to my fellow airmen, supervision, and flight leadership. I have already taken corrective actions upon myself to improve my section and even the morale of my co-workers that talk to me in private on the weekend or on swing shift to discuss what they go through just in this section. This mistake is completely unacceptable and despite the potential negative impact that this issue could have had on my section, I will use it as an opportunity to better myself and move forward. I appreciate you taking the time to review this response and hope that you know that I have not let you, my flight, my squadron or my fellow airmen down and don’t plan to ever.

XXXXXXX, SSgt, USAF

13 October 2012

MEMORANDUM TO COL RED

FROM:

SUBJECT: RESPONSE TO LOR

My name is SrA Yellow. I work as an optometry assistant and would like to respond to the LOR I recently received. I appreciate the opportunity to present my side of the story and would like to express my thanks for the consideration shown by my supervisor and the squadron to allow me this opportunity to refute and shed light on the incidents surrounding these allegations.

I have been in the military for three years now, and it has had such a positive influence on my life that I cannot imagine what or who I would be if it wasn't for the Air Force and the inspiring personnel around me. I have had several positive experiences throughout my time in service. I wish to carry myself to my final date on good terms.

1. On 4 August 2012, it was stated that I left my place of duty without permission. While I cannot specifically recall exactly where I was at 0915 on that day, I can assure you that the only reasons I would have left the optometry office would have been to fulfill official work-related duties or simply use the restroom. On any given Saturday in the morning hours during drill, our section always has no less than fifteen patients waiting outside our door. I never would have left the section for anything besides professional duties unless I had permission from a supervisor.

2. On 5 August 2012, it was stated in the LOR that I was granted a one hour lunch, but returned one hour and thirteen minutes later. I recall that incident because Sgt Green mentioned to me that I was late returning from lunch. I informed her that I returned from lunch as directed one hour later, but upon arrival back to the squadron, I stopped to use the restroom and engaged in a conversation with an officer at the front desk. When I made it back to my optometry section, it was 1313 and I was now late. I sincerely apologize for my actions. I acknowledge responsibility for my error in judgment, and realize that I had several better options available to me at the time that I failed to use. While I agree that I was definitely in the wrong, I strongly disagree with the severity of my punishment.

3. On 29 August 2012, during the text messaging exchange with Sgt Green, I was in a state of emergency due to Hurricane Isaac, myself and my family was in a house with no power, and my elderly grandparents were fighting off rising floodwaters by themselves and communication with them was intermittent due to the extent of the weather. Their safety during those critical hours was my top priority. In the height of my hysteria, I noticed a missed call from Sgt Green. Because of the sensitivity and volatility of this situation, I opted to send her a text message to quickly assess the importance of the issue for which she was contacting me. During this time, I was completely unaware that SSgt Green was my direct supervisor. I understand the exchange could have and was misinterpreted as disrespectful, but I can assure you I in no way meant for that to be disrespectful. Tone is easy to misconstrue via text message. An understanding of the severity and stress brought on by the state of emergency that I was in needs to be considered. I was literally coordinating rescue efforts to get my grandparents out of the rising floodwaters at the same time I was engaged in the text message exchange with Sgt. Green. I realize until 30 August 2012 that Sgt. Green felt I was blatantly disrespectful. I apologize profusely because I never want to make a supervisor (or any member of the Air Force) feel offended or disrespected as a result of my words or actions It does not reflect well on my commitment to and understanding of the mission of the Air Force.

4. On 30 August 2012, it has been stated that I disobeyed a lawful order. This LOR does not clearly explain what and how I disobeyed a lawful order. I merely explained to Sgt Blue that I did not wish to speak to Sgt Green unless she was my supervisor at which point during the verbal conversation I was officially informed that Sgt Green is in fact my new supervisor. I further explained to Sgt Adams that I was unaware up until our conversation that she was my new supervisor. I immediately understood where his frustration and discord was coming from. I was not offered the opportunity to give my side of the story during our conversation, but instead listen to his verbal reprimand on how I need to put my military commitment first and prioritize my life as well as respect to my superiors. During this thorough shaming, I was advised by Sgt Blue to reconsider my career by disassociating from the Air Force or going inactive due to my recent alleged actions. I was very discontent when our conversation ended and I had no chance to interject and extinguish the flames. I then sent Sgt Blue the text message that was stated in the LOR. The mere suggestion that I should consider separating from the Air Force regarding an allegation, for which Sgt. Blue did not wish to hear the circumstances, was infuriating to me. I have worked very hard to secure and maintain my Air Force career and I have full intentions of it being a long and successful one. Those implications coupled with dealing with the aftermath of the storm, including hosting many displaced relatives clouded my judgment. Although I was offended by his words and tone, I should have never made those comments to my superior like that.

If you look back in my three year career with the Air Force Reserves, I have had no previous transgressions related to insubordination, disrespect, or refusing an order from any superior. This LOR brings forth four serious allegations in less than a one month time span. (4 Aug 2012-30 Aug 2012) This concerns me gravely and makes me weary of the security of my future career.

MEMORANDUM FOR LT. COL. XYZ

FROM: SSGT ABC

SUBJECT: Response to Letter of Reprimand, dated 6 September 2012

1. I am writing in response to the Letter of Reprimand I received on 6 September 2012. I was late on several occasions and my whereabouts were not communicated to the correct people or at all in some cases.

2. I acknowledge that it is I and I alone, that am responsible for my failure to adhere to Air Force standards. As an NCO, I should be setting the example by exceeding the standard. I have failed my fellow airmen with my previous actions. This reflects poorly on me and my judgment. I sincerely apologize for this and will strive to become a better all around NCO to try and make up for my downfall.

3. I have been in the military for almost seven years now, and it has had such a positive influence on my life that I cannot imagine what or who I would be if it wasn't for the Air Force and the weather personnel around me. I have had several positive experiences throughout my time in service. I wish to carry myself to my final date on good terms.

4. In conclusion, I would like to take this opportunity to again apologize to my fellow airmen, supervision, flight leadership, and to you as my squadron commander. I have already taken corrective actions upon myself to improve my timeliness and accountability. This neglectful behavior is completely unacceptable. Despite the negative impact that this issue has had on my reputation and career, I will use it as an opportunity to better myself and move forward. I appreciate you taking the time to review this response and hope that you know that I will not let you, my flight, my squadron or my fellow airmen down again.

ABC, SSgt, USAF
Some Job Title

xx August 20xx

MEMORANDUM FOR 123 XXX/XXX

FROM: TSGT JOHN F. DOE

SUBJECT: Response to Letter of Reprimand, dated xx August 20xx

1. This statement concerns the letter of reprimand I received on xx August 20xx for failing to go to ATSO training. I respectfully request that you consider the following information.

2. I would first like to acknowledge that I bear sole responsibility for my training, readiness, and career in the United States Air Force. I would never willingly miss any training that I was scheduled to attend. I understand the impact that missing such training has on my Unit.

3. On x August 20xx, I had an appointment with my PCM (Major Big Dog) to discuss a knot on my left heel which resulted in the area being lanced and frozen. I was told that I should be fine and not need to be put on a profile for the treatment. The next day I called Major Big Dog to request a profile due to intense pain and sensitivity to the area. I informed him of my scheduled PT test on xx August 20xx so that the required paperwork for a profile would be generated in time so that I could complete my PT test. After trying to contact SSgt Boogieman (UFPM) on Wednesday and Thursday of that week, I was finally notified that he was on leave and given the name of his alternate. On xx August 20xx, after contemplating the importance of my ability to be successful on my PT test, I decided that getting in contact with the alternate UFPM to either confirm my profile was forwarded to the HAWC or to reschedule my PT test was paramount due to the 24 hour notice required by the HAWC. I unfortunately missed a valuable training session to get this accomplished. It was at this training session that everyone was told of the ATSO Rodeo on xx August 20xx. I did not get informed of it therefore I was not in attendance for the Rodeo. No emails were generated and no word-of-mouth notification was given about the Rodeo.

4. I regret that my actions/decisions have affected my Unit’s readiness for the upcoming ORI. Had I discussed my issues about my PT test with my supervisor, I could have been better advised on what actions to take. I have prided myself on 14 years of service with no adverse actions or comments made about my conduct or character. While I feel that this LOR is harsh for the circumstances I, as an NCO, understand that actions must be taken to prevent further infractions like this from occurring. I am respectively requesting that this be downgraded to a Letter of Counseling. Thank you for your consideration of my response.

JOHN F. DOE, TSgt, USAF
Screwball Manager, 123 XXX/XXXX

1 Aug 2012

MEMORANDUM FOR: ?? LRS/LGRF

FROM: A1C Dirty Harry

SUBJECT: Letter of Reprimand Response

1. On 26 July, 2012, after the night shift transfer operation was completed, I was immediately tasked to leave the facility at 5A, and return to the main facility to begin the morning CEPS receipt. In my haste to adhere to the timelines, I failed to close the receipt valve for tank 52. This was an error soley on my behalf. This mistake was caught in ample time, but caused a delay in the CEPS receipt. There was no resulting loss of fuel from my slip-up. I am reminded that safety is first and foremost, along with adhering to standards. From this time forward, I will strictly comply with all checklist procedures, and I will no longer rush any process.

2. I would like to apologize for letting down all of my co-workers, my supervision, and my commander. Despite the negative impact this incident has had on my outstanding reputation, I will not let it hinder my career in the Air Force. I will learn from this mistake so that I can better myself as an Airman and an individual.

3. During my Air Force career, I was selected as a BMT Honor Graduate, I was a Student Leader during technical school, I earned a “firewall five” on my initial EPR, and I have actively volunteered for my military community on and off duty during my tour at Ramstein Air Base.

4. This is the first time I have failed to comply with standards, and I have not been cited with any other form of misconduct. I am requesting that this be downgraded to a letter of Counseling.

5. Thank you for your consideration of my response. If you have any questions or need further information I can be reached at XXX-XXXX.

Dirty Harry, A1C, USAF
Fuels Hydrant Operator

MEMORANDUM FOR SMSGT STERN

SUBJECT: Response to Referral LOE

1. I am writing in response to a referral LOE I received on 26 April 2012. During my deployment, I was in direct violation of General Order number one and Article 92 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice: Dereliction in the performance of duties.

2. I would first like to acknowledge that it is I, and I alone, that am responsible for my failure to adhere to Air Force standards. As a veteran Senior Airmen, this is solely my fault. I have failed my wingmen, my flight members and my Flight Chief. I have not been the best Airman I know I can be on this deployment and in doing so have hindered the security of my squadron, my wing, and my base along with the assets. I sincerely apologize for my actions. I have not only let down ELRS, I have also let down my home station and my squadron commander. This is by far the worst mistake I have made in my career. It reflects poorly on me and my judgement. I sincerely apologize and want to push and dig deeper than ever to recover out of the proverbial hole I have dug for myself.

3. I have been in the military for almost five years now, and it has had such a positive influence on my life that I cannot imagine what or whom I would be if it wasn't for the Air Force and the LRS personnel around me. I have had nothing but positive re-enforcement and experiences throughout my time in service. I wish to carry myself to my final date on good terms.

4. In conclusion, I would like to take this opportunity to again apologize to my co-workers, supervision and to you as my flight superintendent. I have already taken corrective actions upon myself to improve my decision making. This neglectful behavior is totally unacceptable. Despite the negative impact that this issue has had on my reputation and career, I am using it as an opportunity to better myself and move forward. I appreciate you taking the time to review this response and hope that I have convinced you that I will not let you, my flight, my squadron or my wingmen, down again.

Respectfully,
SRA Kobe Bryant, USAF

23 March 2012

MEMORANDUM FOR LT. COL. X

FROM: SSGT X

SUBJECT: Response to Letter of Reprimand, dated 20 March 2012

1. I would like to express my gratitude to my Commander for allowing me the opportunity to respond to the LOR I received for my third PT failure in 18 months. I am aware of the importance that PT plays in my role as an Air Force member, and I am aware of how important this next PT test will be for my career. I love being an Air Force member, and the last 11 years have been some of the best of my life. This is the first LOR I have received in the AF, and I take it very seriously. I acknowledge that I made mistakes regarding my fitness, but I assure you that I have been and will continue to make lasting changes. I am also keeping better track of PT using the AF IMT 1975.

2. I would like to note that these failures were not consecutive. From Feb 2010 to Feb 2012 I had passing tests between each of my failing tests, for a total of 4 passing and 3 failing. The first two times I failed, I waived my right to the 42-90 day reconditioning period per AFI 36-2905, in an attempt to retest as soon as possible in order to be in good standing in the unit. In one case I took the test after 27 days to be immediately deployed. If I had taken the full 90 days then, both times, then I would not be facing the potential now for a 4th failure within the 24 month window.

3. I understand that every member should be ready to deploy at a short notice. I would like to explain my circumstances regarding this last failure in February. I was in the middle of [official class], studying 8+ hours a day to pass the [test]. I also took my WAPS/SKT test and my CDC’s End of Course at this time, and I was out-processing to deploy for nearly a year long deployment. I was also preparing my wife, children, and home for my extended absence. One week before deploying, I was told that I had to take my PT test two months earlier than expected. I was not prepared for the test, as I was anticipating taking it at my training base in April.

4. I have made significant improvement to ensure that I do not have further PT failures now or for the rest of my career. I am now living a lifestyle that allows me to eat a very healthy diet, and I am incorporating more exercise and activities into my routine. Since my most recent failure in February, I have lost 17 pounds and dropped 3 inches on my waist. My run time, pushups, and sit-ups are all improving as well. Also, in the last 18 months I have lost at total of 27 lbs. This is a positive and significant trend and I intend to continue improving.

5. If you have any questions, please contact me at DSN XXX or commercial XXX.

X, SSGT, USAF

02 Oct 2011

MEMORANDUM FOR: Msgt. Rooftop, Guy D

FROM: SRA Snuffy, Dog G

SUBJECT: Response to Letter of Reprimand, dated 02 Oct 2011

1. This statement concerns the letter of reprimand I received on 02 Oct 2011 for failing to be mobile in my assigned sector, Air Force Security Forces General Order number one, and Article 92 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice: Dereliction in the performance of duties.

2. I would first like to acknowledge that as a Patrol Leader in Security Forces (SF), I am responsible for my patrol. As a veteran Senior Airmen, this is solely my fault. I have failed my wingmen, my flight members and my Flight Chief. I have not been the best Airman I know I can be today and in doing so have hindered the security of the base along with the assets. I sincerely apologize for my actions. I have not only let down the Air Force, but SF members around the world. This is by far the worst mistake I have made in my career. It reflects poorly on me and my flight. I feel horrible and want to push and dig deeper than ever to recover out of the proverbial hole I have dug for myself.

3. I have been in the military for almost six years now, and it has had such a positive influence on my life that I cannot imagine what or whom I would be if it wasn't for the Air Force or SF and the personnel around me. I have had nothing but positive re-enforcement and experiences throughout my time in service. I wish to carry myself to my final date on good terms.

4. In conclusion, I want to state that I have let everyone down. I express my sincerest apologizes to everyone in my unit and my flight especially. I have already taken corrective actions upon myself to improve security. This neglectful behavior is totally unacceptable. I will continue to strive for excellence and prove my worth on this flight. Thank you sir, for taking the time out of your busy shift to read over and consider my statements.

Snuffy, Dog G, SrA, USAF
Leader, Security Forces

5 May 2011

MEMORANDUM FOR COL BLANK A. BLANK

FROM: SRA JOHN F. DOE

SUBJECT: Response to Letter of Reprimand, dated 2 May 2011

1. This statement concerns the letter of reprimand I received on 2 May 2011 for failing to meet minimum standards on my Fitness Assessment (FA). I respectfully request that you consider the following information.

2. I would first like to acknowledge that it is I, and I alone, that am responsible for my failure to adhere to Air Force standards. My workcenter and my wingmen have been more than supportive in my attempts to become more physically fit. I apologize for letting, not only myself down, but my co-workers as well. All of the time and energy they put in to helping me pass my previous FA was thrown away due to my lack of commitment and motivation. I know that by failing to meet physical standards I am also failing to adhere to one of the Air Force Core Values; Excellence in all we do. It should not have taken a single failure, let alone three, to make me realize this. As such, I would once again like to express my deepest apologies to you and all of my fellow Airmen and state for the record that I have no intention of ever letting this happen again. This entire situation reflects upon my character and has inspired me to push myself even harder to ensure I pass this, and every other FA I will ever have.

3. I have been in the military for almost four years now, and it has had such a positive influence on my life that I cannot imagine where I would be had I not enlisted. Until recently I was unsure as to whether or not I planned on staying in the Air Force. Now that I am certain, I will not allow something like this to stand in my way.

4. In conclusion, I would like to take this opportunity to apologize to my co-workers and supervision and assure them that I will never again fail to meet physical fitness standards, nor any other Air Force standards. I have already begun a vigorous exercise program to see that this never happens again. Despite the negative impact that this issue has had on my reputation and career, I am using it as an opportunity to better myself and move forward. I appreciate you taking the time to review this response and hope that I have convinced you that I will not let you, myself, or my workcenter, down again.

JOHN F. DOE, Senior Airman, USAF
Technician, TIF Maintenance

Rebuttal Comments: MEMORANDUM FOR XXX/CC

FROM: XXXXX

SUBJECT: Response to Letter of Reprimand and Unfavorable Information File Action

1. This statement concerns the Letter of Reprimand and Unfavorable Information File action that was given to me on 22 September 2011 for my fourth Fitness Assessment (FA) failure. I respectfully request you consider the following information.

2. Sir, I would first like to acknowledge it is I, and I alone who is responsible for my failure to adhere to Air Force standards. My work center and my wingmen have been more than supportive in my attempts to become more physically fit. I apologize for letting not only myself down, but my co-workers as well. All of the time and energy they put into helping me pass my previous FA was thrown away due to my lack of commitment and motivation. I know by failing to meet physical standards I am also failing to adhere to one of the Air Force Core Values; Excellence in all we do. It should not have taken a single failure, let alone four, to make me realize this. As such, I would once again like to express my deepest apologies to you and all of my fellow Airmen. This entire situation reflects upon my character and has inspired me to push myself even harder to ensure I strive to live a healthier life.

3. I have been in the military for nine and a half years now, and it has had such a positive influence on my life. I cannot imagine where I would be had I not enlisted. I did plan on serving in the Air Force up to my date of separation (XX XX XXXX), but due to my FA failures, I understand this will not occur. I do understand the AFI governing FA failures and the options available to you. With this being said, it is my hope that you will take into consideration the honorable service I have given over the past nine and a half years and my impeccable work ethic. As you make your decision regarding my future in the Air Force, I want you to know that it is my desire to stay in the Air Force; however, I would much rather be discharged with an honorable service characterization than be demoted and retained at the lower rank.

4. In conclusion, I would like to take this opportunity to again apologize to my co-workers, supervision and to you as my commanding officer. Despite the negative impact this issue has had on my reputation and career, I am using it as an opportunity to better myself and move forward. I appreciate you taking the time to review this response and hope that you will take my request into consideration.

Very Respectfully Submitted,

XXXXXX, USAF