To whom should Airmen refer to handle media inquiries?

Airmen should refer media inquiries to the Public Affairs Office (PAO) because this office is specifically responsible for managing communication between the military and the media. The PAO is trained to handle media relations effectively, ensuring that information shared with the public is accurate, timely, and in alignment with military policies. This helps maintain operational security and proper representation of the Air Force.

The other options are not designated roles for handling media inquiries. The Legal Advisory Board focuses on legal matters and advice, which is not relevant to media relations. While peers may provide informal support, they do not have the authority or training necessary for responding to media inquiries. Human Resources deals primarily with personnel management and administrative functions, not media communications. Thus, directing media inquiries to the PAO is the appropriate and authorized action for Airmen.