(This was sent to all IMAs and PIRRs 19 May 2026. If you did not receive it in your personal email, please log in to the vMPF and make sure you have a good personal email in that system.)
RIO Buzz Vol 119
Individual Reservists,
HQ RIO will be closed Friday, 23 May and Monday, 26 May in observance of Memorial Day. As we head into the holiday weekend, we remember and honor the service members who gave their lives in defense of our nation. Please review the updates below for important participation, readiness, travel, and personnel information.
UNABLE TO COMPLETE AT? YOU MAY STILL HAVE PARTICIPATION OPTIONS
If you are unable to complete Annual Tour (AT) this fiscal year, you may still have options to maintain participation and earn a satisfactory year toward retirement.
Participation / Substitution Waivers
Members should coordinate with their assigned unit and chain of command regarding participation requirements and the potential use of participation or substitution waivers, as applicable.
Unpaid IDTs
Members may perform unpaid IDTs to earn retirement points if the primary concern is obtaining a satisfactory retention/retirement (R/R) year.
Alternative Duty Opportunities
Members may also work with their assigned unit to determine whether MPA or RPA opportunities are available.
The HQ RIO participation webpage includes additional information on:
- FY participation requirements
- AT and IDT requirements
- Earning a “good year” for retirement (50 retirement points during your R/R year)
BAH RECERTIFICATION REQUIRED
Deadline: 1 Jul 26
All Individual Reserve Airmen are required to recertify their BAH status, including those who are single and do not claim dependents.
Complete
DAF Form 594 (version 20221207) and submit it through myFSS.
For instructions on how to complete your BAH recertification, use the BAH Quick Guide.
Submit your completed recertification via myFSS.
IR OF THE YEAR NOMINATIONS DUE 29 MAY 26
Nominations for Individual Reservist of the Year awards are due
29 May 26.
These awards recognize outstanding Individual Reservists for superior performance, leadership, and mission impact across the force.
Additional eligibility information, nomination guidance, and submission instructions are available on the HQ RIO website.
More information
HERE.
NONCONVENTIONAL LODGING IS NOT REIMBURSABLE
We are seeing an increase in members booking unauthorized lodging facilities, including LLC-managed properties and non-public listings, and then requesting reimbursement.
Per existing SAF/FM policy and Joint Travel Regulation (JTR) guidance, lodging booked through non-public platforms or unverified facilities is not authorized for official government travel and will not be reimbursed.
This includes lodging such as:
- Airbnb
- VRBO
- Crash pads
- LLC-managed properties
- Privately arranged rentals not publicly listed
- Similar non-traditional lodging arrangements
These facilities cannot be verified as required for fire, safety, and security standards.
To avoid out-of-pocket expenses:
- Book lodging through DTS or your servicing Travel Management Company (TMC)
- Ensure lodging is publicly listed and compliant with JTR requirements
Members who use unauthorized lodging facilities will be responsible for those costs.
NCR RESERVE TRAINING ASSEMBLY – 29-30 JUN 26 AT ANDREWS AFB
Individual Reservists assigned to or living in the National Capital Region (NCR) are encouraged to attend the NCR Reserve Training Assembly on
29-30 Jun 26 at Andrews AFB.
The event will include:
- One day focused on China-related topics
- One day focused on Reserve issues
- Networking and mentorship opportunities
Registration link:
https://forms.osi.apps.mil/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=jbExg4ct70ijX6yIGOv5tMGtdHH88QhNlCks7m0lL5RUNDU5NktBTk5LRk9CNTMwUEhDN1VOMUUzSS4u
For additional information, contact:
FLU SHOT REQUIREMENT UPDATE
The annual flu shot requirement for military members has changed.
The annual influenza vaccine is now voluntary for all Department of the Air Force (DAF) personnel, including Active and Reserve Component Service members and civilian personnel.
Members should continue to monitor official guidance and coordinate with their servicing medical organization regarding individual medical readiness requirements.
IR ADVISORY COUNCIL APPLICATIONS OPEN 1 JUNE 26
HQ RIO will open the application period for new IR Advisory Council members on
1 Jun 26.
The IR Advisory Council provides a direct line from the field to HQ RIO leadership. Members help identify issues affecting the IR community, test new processes, and develop solutions that improve the IR program.
Who can apply:
- IMAs, MAs, and PIRRs
- All ranks and AFSCs
What to expect:
- Two-year volunteer term (additional duty)
- Quarterly virtual meetings via Microsoft Teams
The application window will remain open from 1 June through 30 July 2026.
Additional application instructions will be provided in a future RIO Buzz.