CSAF's Vector - Political Activities Published Oct. 21, 2008 Minot Air Force Base Public Affairs MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- The following is Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Norton A. Schwartz's new CSAF Vector pertaining to political activities and voting. As the November elections approach, I encourage all Air Force personnel - active duty, National Guard, Reserve and civilian employees - to participate in our Nation's political process to the maximum permissible extent. It is important, however, that in doing so we all comply with the rules regulating the political activities of DoD personnel. These rules - rooted in U.S. law - are intended to strike the proper balance between a government employee's involvement in the political process while avoiding an improper appearance of official DoD endorsement of a particular political party, candidate, cause or issue. Recent incidents involving military members attending political events have focused greater attention in this area. The individuals involved appear to have done everything correctly in full compliance with the applicable rules, yet their presence at the events raised questions. These incidents illustrate the sensitive nature of this subject, and compel greater awareness of the rules by all Airmen to ensure that none of us inadvertently step over the line from appropriate civic duty to improper official endorsement. All Airmen should be familiar with the rules contained in DOD Directive 1344.10, Political Activities by Members of The Armed Forces on Active Duty, as amplified in the 28 January 2008 SECDEF message, DoD Public Affairs Policy Guidance Concerning Political Campaigns and Elections. Prior to engaging in any activity related to the political process, all Airmen must review the applicable rules to ensure a full understanding of the extent and limitations of appropriate involvement prior to engaging in any political activity. Remember also that campaign activities on military installations are strictly prohibited. If you have any questions about what is appropriate, ask for guidance from your local legal office and obtain any required approvals prior to engaging in the activity. I strongly encourage you to vote and exercise your civic rights responsibly. Thank you for your continued service to this great Nation.