Allegations surface, faith in promotion tests remains high

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WASHINGTON (AFPN) --  A number of Airmen at several bases have been implicated recently in the possible compromise of Weighted Airmen Promotion System testing material. Despite this finding, Air Force officials expressed confidence in the integrity of the system and testing continues across the Air Force.

"For more than three decades the Weighted Airmen Promotion System has given our (Airmen) a fair and equitable way to rise through the enlisted ranks," said Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force Gerald R. Murray. "We have full faith and confidence in this system and those Airmen who are deservedly promoted through WAPS."

Once the scope and impact of any compromise are fully understood, Air Force Personnel Center officials will notify Airmen who may have been unfairly affected and provide them with information on how they can be considered for retroactive promotion.

Each year, the Air Force administers more than 220,000 tests to more than 100,000 Airmen. Airmen take different tests based on their rank and career field. There are 290 Specialty Knowledge Tests and 20 Promotion Fitness Examinations/United States Supervisory Examinations. Airmen will not be directly affected by alleged cheating unless it occurred on the specific test for their rank and career field.

Air Force Office of Special Investigation officials are still investigating these cases, which are not expected to invalidate tests from the recently concluded testing cycle or delay the next cycle.

As investigations are completed, they will be turned over to commanders for possible disciplinary action. In some cases, charges have already been preferred and more investigations are expected, officials said.