Which date is fundamental for calculating the officer service date (OSD) in the USAF?

The officer service date (OSD) in the United States Air Force (USAF) is fundamentally tied to the commissioning date. This date marks when an individual is officially commissioned as an officer in the Air Force, establishing the start of their active duty service and career progression as an officer.

The significance of the commissioning date lies in the fact that it is the reference point for numerous important calculations, such as eligibility for promotion, retirement, and other benefits associated with service length. It is the foundational date that reflects the beginning of an officer's service under the commission, distinguishing their status from other dates that may pertain to various aspects of military service, such as enlistment for enlisted personnel or promotion milestones. This understanding is critical for both the officers and the administrative staff involved in managing officer records and career progression within the Air Force.