Public Affairs
What PA Operations Do
PA Purpose
As stated in AFI 1-1, the purpose of Public Affairs (PA) operations is to communicate timely, accurate, and useful information about USAF activities to:
- Department of Defense
- The USAF
- Domestic and international audiences
PA Representative
PA = Commander's Spokesperson
The PA representative is the commander's principal spokesperson and advisor, and a member of the personal staff.
What PA Advises On
PA Advisory Role
PA advises the commander on the implications of command decisions, actions, and operations on foreign and domestic public perceptions.
PA Activities
PA Activities
PA plans, executes, and evaluates activities and events to support overall operational success.
Real-Time Resources
Real-Time Resources
The PA representative must have the resources to provide information, including visual information, to:
- The staff
- Public
- Media
- Subordinate units
…in near real time.
PA Integration
PA Integration
PA should be involved in:
- Planning
- Decision-making
- Training
- Equipping
- Executing operations
…as well as integrating PA activities into all levels of command.
Reference
PA Reference
Additional information regarding public affairs can be found in AFI 35-101, *Public Affairs Operations*, 20 November 2020.
Negative Perception Risk
Negative Perception Risk
Although briefly covered in standards of conduct, it is important to mention that any activity not in alignment with good order, discipline, and national security may intentionally or unintentionally generate a negative perception of the USAF.
Commander Authority
Commander Authority + Member Rights
Commanders have the authority and responsibility to address situations that could be perceived negatively, while also being mindful of preserving the service member's right of expression within these interests.
Reference
Political Activities Reference
More specific information on permitted and prohibited activities can be found in DAFI 51-508, *Political Activities, Free Speech and Freedom of Assembly*.