Personnel information file (PIF) contents are available to everyone except which entity?

• A. Office of Special Investigation
• B. Area Defense Council
• C. First Sergeant
• D. Commander

Answer: (B)

Access to the personnel information file is restricted to those with a legitimate need to know for official duties. The file contains sensitive personal and performance data, so leaders and investigators—such as the commander, the first sergeant, and investigative offices like the Office of Special Investigation—have access to review it as part of their roles. The Area Defense Council, while serving as the member’s attorney, does not automatically receive full PIF contents; disclosure typically requires the member’s consent or a specific legal order. Because of these privacy protections, the Area Defense Council is not granted automatic access, making it the correct choice.