During the period 1976 through 1979, the United States Air Force was adversely affected by excessive, unprogrammed voluntary separations by rated officer personnel. That situation produced a rated retention problem which threatened the combat capability of the force. This study presents data, facts and an analysis of the rated retention problem within the United States Air Force, 1976 through 1979. An explanation of the nature and magnitude of the problem and consequences associated with the problem are identified. Through a report, "Conference on TAC Aircrew Concerns" the reasons for the problem are identified and analyzed. An appraisal of the problem is rendered using the psychological theories of Maslow, Maier and Herzberg. The conclusions identify the rated retention problem as extensive and complex; point out a solution that should stop the loss of rated personnel and change those factors which cause the retention problem. This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact, and remains as true to the original work as possible. Therefore, you will see the original copyright references, library stamps (as most of these works have been housed in our most important libraries around the world), and other notations in the work. This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work. As a reproduction of a historical artifact, this work may contain missing or blurred pages, poor pictures, errant marks, etc. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.