Expert: Rod Powers - 11/11/2009

Question
Hello Mr. Powers,

I have some questions for you regarding AF PFA.
I have read a lot that upon failing your PFA three times, you become eligible for discharge. Also, I have read that the type of discharge comes down to your individual performance and your commander.

For starters, my next PFA is coming up soon and I gave myself an evaluation using the Air Force's newest PFA grading scale (eff Jan 10). Using this scale I drop over 11 points from the previous scale putting me up for failure due to my run time. In the past I did have some admin issues involving 2 LOR's. I currently have 2 LORs in my record. One for being late twice and another for a open container violation on base (I was not the driver, only a passenger). Besides those 2 incidents I have 2 LOC's, one from being involved in a conflict (wrong place/wrong time scenario) and another LOC from missing a dental appt.

I have been working hard on reducing my run time lately, however I develop sharp pain in my legs and back that can, most likely, only be associated with stress fractures/shin splints. I have not had this diagnosed since I have not been to the clinic on base to have it looked at. However I have an appt made to speak to someone at the HAWC about what the possibilities could be. A concern of mine is a slipped disc in my back since my father is prior military and also had the same issues/symptoms at my age and now has a slipped disc in his back. Although I am unsure and don't want to speak ahead of myself on medical terms.

My question to you is, if I do fail my PFA and still can't manage to pass it within 3 or 4 tries, then what possibilities are out there for discharge and the type of discharge? I read that usually Honorable discharges are given for failed PFA's although I am not too sure if what I read was true. What are your thoughts on this given my previous record involving paperwork? Also I am currently going on my 4th year out of 6 years in service (first term) and never had issues with passing my PFA previously on the AF's old grading scale. Average PFA scores are around 80-85 using the older grading scale. Using the new grading scale I can't get my score over 69 regardless of how hard I push the run. I max my BMI/pushups/situps but it is only the run that hurts me.  

Answer
Hi Keith,

Whether you are discharged for PFA failure, and what your discharge characterization will be (likely either honorable or general) is completely up to your commanding officer.

However, the new Air Force PT test is the new "big thing" in the Air Force, so I expect that they will take failures very seriously.

Possibly because of your medical problems, the folks at the hospital will give you a running waiver. That way you would not have to run, but would be required to walk the 1.5 miles.

For more information about the United States Military, feel free to visit my US Military information site at: http://usmilitary.about.com

Hope this helps!

Rod Powers
About.com US Military Guide
http://usmilitary.about.com