LANGUAGE USE AWARD

• Document Type: CREST
• Collection: General CIA Records
• Document Number (FOIA) /ESDN (CREST): CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
• Release Decision: RIPPUB
• Original Classification: U
• Document Page Count: 41
• Document Creation Date: December 22, 2016
• Document Release Date: June 1, 2011
• Sequence Number: 12
• Publication Date: July 25, 1986
• Content Type: MEMO

Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
ADP"~IISTRATIVE - INTERNAL USE ' 'LY D/Fb15 ChYoho
CTOTFRr-
ROUTING AND RECORD SHEET
DATE
erector, o,Foreign Broadcast
Deputy Director for
Science and Technology
Room 6E45 - Headquarters
STA
OFFICER'S
INITIALS
COMMENTS (Number each comment to show from whom
to whom. Draw a line across column after each comment.)
for Production Group.`'I hope you
ADMINISTRATIVE ' INTFRNAI I IcI: ntiiV M
Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
 Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
AD' '!VISTRATIVE - INTERNAL USE %JALY
FBIS-0245/86
25 July 1986
MEMORANDUM FOR: Deputy Director for Science and Technology
erector, Foreign Broadcast Information Service
SUBJECT: Language Use Award
1. In accordance with your request I have defined a program of
grade advancement for those individuals in danger of losing the Language
Use Award. This has been computed for full compensation and, as an
alternative, 70% compensation. The annual dollar impact is also
provided. Convinced that canceling the award is wrong and against the
trend elsewhere in the Government, I have attached additional material
in the hope that the Executive Director can be persuaded to change his
mind on this issue.
2. One hundred and fifty-two Production Group FBIS Intelligence
Officers, ranging from GS-07 to GS-13, currently receive a Language Use
Award. The most obvious step to compensate these employees for termina-
tion of the Award would be to advance them to a level on the pay scale
so that their base pay would approximate the compensation they are now
receiving with base pay plus Award. This is summarized by grade and
numbers of employees as follows:
2 employees - GS-07 within grade step increases
$ 4,158
0
- promotions from GS-07 to GS-08
2
- GS-08 within grade step increases
9,870
0
- promotions from GS-08 to GS-09
8
- GS-09 within grade step increases
39,985
1
- promotion from GS-09 to GS-10
7,007
11
- GS-10 within grade step increases
39,200
1
- promotion from GS-10 to GS-11
7,644
10
- GS-11 within grade step increases
42,192
1
- promotion from GS-11 to GS-12
7,521
58
- GS-12 within grade step increases
221,944-
22
- promotions from GS-12 to GS-13
114,968
ADMINISTRATIVE - INTERNAL USE ONLY
Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
 Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
AC INISTRATIVE - INTERNAL USE "NLY
SUBJECT:
Language Use Award
30 - GS-13 within grade step increases
116,529
6 - promotions from GS-13 to GS-14
24,588
Total cost per year (100%)
$635,606
Note: The current LUA system is costing approximately $730,000 per
year. The difference between this figure and $635,606 is due to the fact
that in calculating the appropriate step for each employee receiving 100%
of the award amount, the step closest to, but not exceeding the award
amount plus base salary, was used.
3. As an alternative, an identical analysis based on 70%
compensation results in the following:
2 employees - GS-07 within grade step increases
2,910
0
- promotions from GS-07 to GS-08
2
- GS-08 within grade step increases
6,909
0
- promotions from GS-08 to GS-09
9
- GS-09 within grade step increases
32,894
0
- promotions from GS-09 to GS-12
12
- GS-10 within grade step increases
32,791
0
- promotions from GS-10 to GS-11
11
- GS-11 within grade step increases
34,801
0
- promotions from GS-11 to GS-12
67
- GS-12 within grade step increases
192,256
13
- promotions from GS-12 to GS-13
43,649
34
- GS-13 within grade step increases
92,560
2
- promotions from GS-13 to GS-14
6,216
Total cost per year (70%)
$444,986
4. If such procedure is approved I recommend using the 70%
solution. This analysis was done because an increase in the base pay of
these employees potentially represents a sizable increase in their retire-
ment high-three salary and thus a considerably higher annuity. The 30%
reduction in the LUA they are receiving now would be offset by the
ADMINISTRATIVE - INTFRNAI IICG nRn v
Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
 Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
A.r^'INISTRATIVE - INTERNAL USf )NLY
SUBJECT: Language Use Award
increased retirement annuity. This solution has the further advantage of
requiring few administrative allocations at a higher grade. If there is
still some concern with advancing individuals to GS-14--one grade higher
than our most senior non-supervisory grade--individuals who would be
affected could be granted Special Achievement Awards in lieu of being
advanced on the pay scale.
5. The PHILADELPHIA INQUIRER, 22 June 1986 (Attachment #1), carries
a detailed article reporting and documenting the adverse effect the
shortage of qualified linguists has on sensitive U.S. Government opera-
tions. It quotes Adm. Bobby Inman as saying this situation represented
"a major hazard to our national security." Craig Wilson, DoD's director
of intelligence personnel and training, cites a "dismal ignorance" of
Third World languages. Senior DIA officers are also quoted decrying the
language shortage in the Intelligence Community. The article also points
to steps being taken by the Department of State and DoD to strengthen
their language incentive programs. This INQUIRER article is typical of
several that have appeared on the subject of foreign language shortages
in the government.
6. In its 1983 annual report, the IC's Foreign Language Committee
(FLC) identified a number of government-wide problems including the "lack
of individuals skilled in the less commonly taught languages used in
Africa, the Middle East, Southeast Asia...." The report noted that a
GS-12 ceiling for linguist positions throughout the government "inhibits
the recruitment and retention of highly qualified people..." The report
also included data on incentive programs to recruit and retain language-
qualified personnel in the Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines.
7. NSA has had in existence since 1982 a language incentive program
that pays certified linguists bonuses ranging from $25 to $125 per pay
period and applies to employees through GS-15--and sometimes beyond. A
proposal to strengthen the present program has also been made. A copy of
the NSA program description, with a summary provided, is Attachment #2.
8. DoD has submitted a draft legislative proposal to Congress
establishing special pay for members who are proficient in a foreign
language. It is requesting $18.3 million for this purpose. (DoD's Craig
Wilson advises that this proposal was to be a topic at the 18 July break-
fast meeting between Casey and Weinberger.) A copy of the draft
legislative proposal, with a summary of specifics, is Attachment #3.
9. In light of the above, it is recommended that any decision on
the Language Use Award for FBIS Production Group Intelligence Officers be
deferred pending a comprehensive study of the FBIS language situation
AnM1NIQTQ!TRI17 - IMT[DMAI 1101E AMI it
Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
 Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
ADMIP''^TRATIVE - INTERNAL USE ON. '
SUBJECT: Language Use Award
relative to the rest of the Agency and the Intelligence Community. This
study should ideally be conducted by an independent group under the
auspices of the Agency's Language Task Force (LTF). The study group
should specifically be charged with considering: a) the applicability to
FBIS IOs of language award/incentive programs, or variations thereof, now
used by other agencies; and b) the introduction of a two-tier language
award program for the Agency--the present award system would apply, as it
is now, to DO case officers in the field, OSO and OTS language specialists
et. al., and a second tier of awards at a reduced level (by 30-50%) would
be implemented for employees for whom language skill was one of the
requirements for being hired. This latter tier would apply to OTE
instructors as well as FBIS IOs. Such a program would go a long way
toward providing equity in special payments to officers using foreign
languages to varying degrees throughout the-Agency--and the IC as well.
One assumes that the DCI and the ExDir are as interested in monetary
equity for language officers throughout the Community as they are within
the Agency.
Attachments
DS$T/FBI
Distribution:
Original - Addressee
1 - D/FBIS Chrono
(25Ju186)
1-FSMCorresFile
2 - DDS$T (Attn: Marie)
1 - WA File
1 - C/Prod
1 - FBIS Registry
1 - Circulation Copy
ADMINISTRATIVE - INTERNAL USE ONI V
Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
 Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
Linguist shortage
said to harm U.S.
By Frank Greve
inQturer WQ$ntnjton &,rca.
WASHINGTON - A shortage of
Berber translators helped kill Army
Sgt. Kenneth T. Ford. U.S. intelli-
gence experts say.
They say that intercepted Libyan
atplomatic messages warning of the
Berlin nightclub bombing in which
Ford was killed April 5 went untrans-
lated for several days because of an
increasingly common problem: a
scarcity of skilled linguists.
.n fact, the discotheque attack.
which provoked the U.S. bombing of
Libya 10 days later, is but one of five
recent military and intelligence set-
backs in which the linguist shortage
played a part.
The issue is not new Five years
ago Adm. Bobby R. Inman. then dep-
uty director of the CIA, warned in
congressional testimony that "stead-
ily deteriorating language training
capabilities" presented "a major haz-
ard to cur national security."
Today, top military. diplomatic and
intelligence officials say they are
convinced that crises with a linguis.
tic angle are no fluke. They acknowl-
edge what Craig L. Wilson. the De-
fense Department's director of
intelligence personnel and training.
calls "dismal ignorance" of Third
World languages. They confess to
policies that discourage foreign Ian.
g::age experts. and admit critical and
growing shortages of highly skilled
linguists even in such common lan-
guages as French and German.
The problem was underscored in
November when Soviet double-defec-
tor Vitaly Yurchenko announced be-
fore television cameras his intention
to return to the Soviet Union after
three months in CIA custody.
Speaking English so awkwardly
that it dramatized his point. Yur-
chenko, the highest-ranking KGB of-
ficial ever to defect, complained that
"during these three horrible months
for you I didn't have any chance to
speak Russian. I was explained that
they say there is a shortage of Rus-
sian-speaking translators."
Indeed, there is "a serious shortage
of really competent Russian linguists
at the agency," according to Donald
F. Jameson, a retired senior Soviet
operations officer at the CIA. "And
you cannot really deal with an im-
portant case like Yurchenko unless
you can do it in the man's native
language," Jameson said in a recent
interview.
One month before Yurcherrko's
exit, Soviet seaman Miroslav Med-
vid's freedom apparently was lost in
the translation when be was re-
turned to Soviet custody after jump-
ing ship near New Orleans. Border
Patrol officials and interpreter Irene
Padoch disagreed on whether Med-
ved had been seeking asylum - a
difficult question because Padoch
was not fluent in Medvid's dialect,
according to intelligence officials.
In two other cases. U.S. intelligence
may have been breached by employ.
ees hired in part for their fluency in
important difficult languages.
Larry Wu-tai Chin, "one of the
best" Chinese translators at the CIA,
could skim Chinese publications, in-
terpret nuances in official docu-
ments and translate many Chinese
dialects, according to a memoran.
dum by his former boss, Cy Braegel-
mann.
Chin, so vitally competent that be
was cleared for classifications above
top secret, committed suicide in Feb-
ruary after he was convicted of spy-
ing for more than 30 years for his
native China.
In another spy case, Ronald W. Pel.
ton, a former National Security
Agency communications expert con.
victed earlier this month of selling
U.S. secrets to the Soviet Union. prob-
ably would not have been hired in
1965, intelligence officials said, with.
out a knowledge of Russian gained as
an Air Force enlistee.
According to the Modern Language
Association, skill in Russian is far
rarer in the United States. where
only about 28,000 students study Rus-
sian, than is skill in English in the
Soviet Union, where It is studied by
10 million.
fis
Even within the State Depart-
ment's career Foreign Service, ad-
vanced language skills are in short
supply. Only about SO of its more
than 4,000 Foreign Service personnel
speak and read French with the flu.
ency of a well-educated native, ac-
cording to Ambassador Monteagle
Stearns, who is studying the State
Department's advanced language
skills and urging reforms.'
Hundreds more could be consid-
ered professionally competent ;,.
French, he said, but not so thor?
oughly fluent as to make native
speakers fully comfortable.
By this standard, Stearns counts as
fully fluent only about 30 Arabic
speakers at the State Department,
only 10 to 15 Chinese speakers and
only about 10 Japanese speakers.
"In Russian, we don't have the
counterpart of the Soviet second sec-
retary who testified last month be-
fore a congressional committee or.
the Chernobyl disaster," he said. "We
even have problems with German
and Italian."
Variants of this problem persist
At the U.S. Embassy in Manila. or..
one American employee, an ectr
nomic attache. speaks any Tagalog.
according to State Department rec.
ords. English remains the official
language, but without knowing Taga-
log, a native tongue whose populari.
Yy has grown with Philippine nation.
alism, "you lose touch with the now
generation and the insurgents, who,
although they have adapted, started
out as Tagalog speakers." according
to Richard Kessler, a Philippine spe-
cialist at the Carnegie Endowment
for International Peace in Washing.
ton.
At the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad,
Pakistan, according to the State De.
partment, no American speaks
Pashtu, the language of 20 million
tribe members in Afghanistan and
northwest Pakistan. "That's a very
crucial area, and you can't find out
very much if you don't speak
CONTINUED NEXT PAGE
Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
 Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
SHOR" AGE
Pashtu," said David Isby, a Washing-
ton military analyst who has studied
the Afghan guerrilla rebellion
against Soviet occupiers. which has
been backed by Washington and sup-
plied largely via Pakistan.
Even when skilled linguists are
available in the Foreign Service.
they are not necessarily posted
where they are needed. Two speak
Lingala, for example, a major tribal
language of Zaire. One is currently
stationed in Kingston, Jamaica, and
the other in Paris. according to the
State Department's personnel rec-
ords.
A shortage of skilled linguists, said
Inman, the retired admiral who now
heads Microelectronics and Com-
puter Technology Corp. of Austin.
Texas. "means that you run a high
risk of unpleasant surprises.
"Contrary to the common view
that our knowledge of a foreign
country comes from clandestine op-
erations and electronic surveil-
lance." Inman continued. "the bulk
of our knowledge comes from open
sources. By that I mean people who
observe, who sit, who listen, who
talk, who read the media, who know
the mosques, the bazaars and the
coffeehouses."
Although the Defense Language In.
stitute in Monterey. Calif., teaches 61
languages, and the Foreign Service
Institute in Rosslyn. Va., teaches 45,
shortages persist of speakers of ob-
scure and difficult languages. such
as Berber and Pasato. Farsi. Urdu
and Dart.
"It doesn't surprise me a hoot."
said retired Ar:n~ Lt. Gen. James A.
Williams. director of the Defense In-
telligence Agency (DIA) from 1981 to
1985. that problems in translating
Berber apparently delayed warning
of the Berlin disco attack.
The Washington Post reported on
April 11 a delay of "several days"
between interception of the Libyan
message and the attack, citing an
unidentified "highly placed govern.
ment official." Germany's Deutsche
Presse Agentur said the delay was
caused "because decoding the radio
messages took a long time."
In fact, according to U.S. and Is-
raeli analysts familiar with the mes-
sages involved in the Berlin case, the
major impediment was that they
were in Berber, a language often
used by Libyan diplomats to assure
confidentiality.
"Given the volume of threats in
Europe, and our reliance on contract
UI
emigres for languages like Berber,
you probably have no one working
round the clock." Williams said. "If
you're on contract, the drill is, 'Send
it over in the morning and well have
it by 5 o'clock.' That's vastly different
from real-time translating fast
enough to get a warning out to some-
body.
"The whole Third World is a hell-
uva problem," Williams continued.
"We can turn out French, Russian.
Spanish and German speakers, but
that's not where the crises are. The
crises are in the Middle East and
Africa, strange places where you
need linguists who can't get or main-
tain fluency very easily.
"It's real vexing," Williams said.
"because when the gun goes off. you
need them right then at 0400 and you
need em in weird places on aircraft
carriers and in the bowels of the
Pentagon."
Yet the DIA, like the CIA and the
State Department, actively discour-
aged such foreign language exper-
tise, at least until recentl%
In 1981 testimony to a House educa-
tion subcommittee, for example. Wil-
liams predecessor. Maj Gen. Rich-
ard X. Larkin. said that DIA would
continue to stress "the prevailing
Western languages of former colo-
nial regions, which comprise most _
developing countries." The need to
study national and tribal languages
of the Third World would be "care-
fully studied,'t he said
At the CIA there was "no bank of
talent" to replace the retiring Bever
anon of translators hired after
World War II. accordine to Inman.
"By the early '60s. except for one new
spurt that came with the Peace
Corps, language skill was often
viewed as superfluous."
Both the State Department and the
Defense Department now offer "crit.
ical language" bonuses of S3.000 or
more a year. The Defense Depart-
ment wants an additional S18 million
next year, largely to improve the 13
percent reenlistment rate of the De-
fense Language Institutes enlisted
alumni. About S30 million more is
sought to turn the institute into a
university-style foreign study center
Retired CIA Soviet specialist Jame?
son said that a modest upturn in
students studying foreign languages,
first reported in 1985. didn't come
soon enough. "The people we're
missing now," he said, "are the ones
who should have been hired 10 years
ago."
Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
 Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
Attachment 2
SUBJECT: NSA's Foreign Language Incentive Program (FLIP)
1. In 1982 NSA established a Foreign Language Incentive Program to
provide incentive bonuses to certified linguists working in designated
language positions. (A list of these language positions is attached.)
Some key points of the FLIP are:
-- Bonuses range from $25 per pay period to a maximum of $125 per
pay period.
-- In general, voice analysts receive a higher bonus than graphic
(documents) analysts, while multilinguists may receive as much as
$125/pay period.
-- Skill level is also a determining factor in the size of the
bonus.
-- A person working in a designated language position who was hired
because he had that language is eligible for a bonus.
-- Incentive bonuses are available to all appropriate grade levels
through GS-15. In certain cases, eligibility extends to personnel in
grades GS-16 through GS-18.
-- An individual may be paid a bonus for one primary language and up
to two bonuses for additional languages for which there is an operational
need.
-- Individuals who volunteer to study one of the critical languages
are given an achievement award of $1,000 upon completion of the course at
the 2 level.
2. Since 1982 NSA has taken steps to expand the FLIP to include
more categories of personnel in the Program and is also looking at the
possibility of increasing the bonus payments. In addition, an amendment
now working its way through NSA will make it possible to pay newly hired
linguists the FLIP bonus once they have passed a proficiency test, rather
than having to wait for professional certification in their job
specialities.
Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
 Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
Graphic
Graphic
Grade
Prof.
,Bonus Per
Pay Period
Level
16-18
13-15
$50
-6-
5-12
$50
-0-
16-18
13-15
$75
2
$25
5-12
$75
$25.
16-18
13-15
$50
-0-
9-12
$50
-0-
16-18
13-15
3
$50
2
5-12
3
$50
7,9,11
3
$:75
2
$25
3
$S0
2
Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
t.Y
Position Title Track
****NEW,=OCCUPATIONAL STRUCTURE****
124B`--. Expert SIGINT Linguist Graphic
See6fabove
123B Senior Language Analyst Graphic
122B Language Analyst
Graphic
124C - Expert Voice Linguist Voice
See 6f above
123C?Senior Voice Language Analyst Voice
122C Voice Language Analyst Voice
124D -? Expert Cryptologic Linguist Graphic
123D Senior Cryptologic Language
Analyst
^r r:
Graphic
122D-Cryptologic Language Analyst Graphic
124E - Expert Research Linguist Graphic
See.-6f above
Research
123E Senior Language
Analyst Graphic
122E'Language Research Analyst Graphic
812B Language intern and
822A Language Student Voice
in grades 5, 6, 7 Voice
 Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
i
NATIONAL SECURITY AGENCY
CENTRAL SECURITY SERVICE
Published in advance of incorporation in the PMM;
file with PML 42-1982 in front of the 500 series.
PML 42-1982
Change 2
FLIP BONUS FOR MEMBERS OF PROFESSIONAL
QUALIFICATION COMMITTEES
1. Purpose. In recognition of the valuable service
provided by members of the language Professional
Qualification Examination (PQE) committees, this letter
extends the FLIP bonus to those not already receiving it
for use of the same language in their regularly assigned
duties. To accomplish this, the language used in PQE
service is considered a separate, secondary requirement
of the individual's job for the duration of his or her
active membership to commence on the first full pay period
following the date of this PML.
2. Incentive Categories and Eligibility. The
following eligibility criteria are summarized from PML
42-1982, (consult for details): performance standard of
"E" or better on the latest performance appraisal;
certification as professional linguist in the PQE
language; and at least one year in an NSA language job.
The $125 per pay period maximum incentive applies. The
incentive categories in paragraph 6 of PML 42-1982 are
expanded to include:
a. PQE Service as a Multilinguist. An
individual will receive $25 per pay period for the PQE
language for the duration of active membership on the
committee when the following criteria are met:
(1) assigned to a position in a language
COSC;
Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT LETTER
 Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
i
(2) certified in one or more languages for which
there is n operational requirement, or certified in one language
with at 1 ast a level 2 in a Class II language; and
(3) using one or more languages in his or her
regular position duties and another language in PQE service.
PQE Service in the Use Cate or . An individual will
be paid $ 5 per pay period for the duration of the PQE Service
when he or she is certified in the language for which he or she
was seleced for PQE service.
3. election. The Chairman of the Language Career Panel is
the selection official for PQE committee membership. Service is
voluntary and requires the concurrence of the individual's chief
at officellevel. This establishes a secondary job requirement for
the languaFge regardless of COSC assignment. The LCP Chairman
announces membership requirements in organizations with a language
mission (tDO, NCS). Selection criteria for PQE Committee members
are contained in the Language Career Panel Guidelines for the
Conduct o~ the Language PQE System. In accordance with these
guidelines, selection is based on the individual's knowledge,
proficien y, and ability in the language, his or her experience in
the missi n area covered by the PQE assignment, and the need to
have bala ce in committee membership to represent the full range
of NSA activities in that language.
4. Procedures.
al. The LCP Chairman is responsible for giving M35Z
timely written notification of the selected committee member's
name, SSN,I assigned organization, language test cycle, and
inclusive dates of his or her committee appointment. M35Z must be
given immediate notice if a person leaves the committee prior to
the scheduled end of their appointment.
bi. The LCP Executive ensures that all PQE committee
members are provided a copy of this letter upon selection to the
committee.)
NOTE T POE MEMBERS. Should your PQE Language Membership
terminate and you continue to receive FLIP bonus in error, you
share in t e responsibility with the LCP to notify the FLIP
coordinator in M35Z, 982-7835. Overpayment of FLIP bonus is
consideredl,a debt owed the government and is subject to repayment
Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
 Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
unless waiver is granted in accordance with NSA/CSS Regulation
32-7. If your bonus is also based on use of the same language in
your regularly assigned position, termination of PQE membership
will not terminate your bonus.
Chi Wk
DISTRIBUTION:
Special A
H114 150
STAT
Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
 Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
UI'
NATIONAL SECURITY AGENCY
CENTRAL SECURITY SERVICE
PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT LETTER
Published to clarify the impact on FLIP
incentive bonus as the result of a certain
type of detail. File with Ref. a. in Series
500 of the NSA/CSSPMM.
Number 22 -1983 31 October 1983
Reference: a. PML 42-1982, Foreign Language Incentive
Program
b. PMM Chapter 332, Details
DETAILS INVOLVING FLIP BONUS RECIPIENTS
1. This letter alerts operating officials to a
potential problem area concerning the detail of employees
receiving Foreign Language Incentive Program (FLIP)
payments. Of particular concern are details of employees
to non-language positions in order to qualify or prepare
them for assignment to a non-language job. Such details
could result in the employee having to pay back the FLIP
bonus.
2. One intent of FLIP is to keep people working in
jobs that require the use of a foreign language. When an
individual stops using that language and does not intend
to resume its use, there is seldom any justification for
continuing the FLIP payments. Reference a., PML 42-1982,
FLIP, contains a summary of the content and purpose of
the Agency's Language Incentive Program.
3. Please also note that all details in excess of
30 days should be documented in accordance with
NSA/CSSPMM Chapter 332, Details. This is especially
important to ensure that detailed employees receive
proper credit for time served in a detailed status.
Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
 Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
4. If there is a question or assistance needed in determining
whether or not an incentive payment should be continued, please
contact the FLIP Project Manager in M3 (Wally Wahlbrink, 968-8773s).
Personnel representatives in M31 and M35 will ensure that the Project
Manager 'is aware of operational requests for details described in
paragraph 1.
STAT
Chi'ef,
DISTRIBUTION:
Special A
Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
 Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
NATIONAL SECURITY AGENCY -:
CENTRAL SECURITY SERVICE
Published in advance of incorporation in the
NSA/CSSPMM. File with PML 42-1982, following
Chapter 502. Retain until revised or
rescinded.
PML Number 42-1982
Change Number 1
16 March 1983
UPDATE TO THE FOREIGN LANGUAGE INCENTIVE PROGRAM
This change is published to update information contained in
the 2 December 1982 issuance of PML 42-1982:
cap was 557,500; now it is 563,800. Therefore, please delete 557,500
from paragraph 7.d, and reference "Change No. 1." In the future,
u for the most current pay cap or related salary information, please
P use PIM1 Chapter 350, Wage and Salary Administration.
b. Part-time and Intermittent Employment, and Leave
Without Pay. A more accurate and timely method of computing FLIP
4 bonuses under these circumstances was used commencing with the E83
(26 February 1933) pay period: An incentive bonus shall be prorated
and computed or. a percentage basis relative to total payable hours
worked to include annual and sick leave. Please annotate paragraph
7.e. to delete the old computation method and to reference the new
method above.
STAT
Special A
Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
 Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
NATIONAL SECURITY AGENCY
CENTRAL SECURITY SERVICE
Published in advance of incorporation in
the NSA/CSSPMM. File following Chapter 502,
with the basic PML 42-1982. Retain until
revised or rescinded.
PML 42-1982
Supplement No. 1
FOREIGN LANGUAGE INCENTIVE PROGRAM
1. Purpose. This supplement provides information to
clarify incentive bonus values in the Language Proficiency
Category (see basic PML, paragraph 6g(1)).
2. Clarification. This section differentiates between
linguists who received their professional certification prior
to October 1977 when only one certification was available,
and those certified after that date when the two-track
language certification (graphic and voice) became effective.
For purposes of the FLIP, the following applies:
a. Linguists certified prior to the two-track
system meet the proficiency requirement for voice and non-
voice positions. The incentive bonus is determined by the
language track for the COSC -- $75 voice or $50 graphic.
b. The incentive bonus is $50 per pay period when
the position is in a voice language COSC and the linguist is
certified in the graphic track.
c. The incentive bonus is $50 per pay period when
the position is in a graphic language COSC and the linguist
is certified in the graphic or voice track.
d. The incentive bonus is $75 per pay period when
the position is in a voice language COSC and the linguist
is certified in the voice track or as set forth in a.
Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
 Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
3. Annotate. Paragraph 6g(1) should reference this
Supplement.
Chief,
DISTaIBUTION:
Sp cial A
i
STAT
Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
 Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
NATIONAL SECURITY AGENCY
CENTRAL SECURITY SERVICE
Published in-advance-of incorporation in -
the NSA/CSSPMM. File following Chapter 502,
retain until revised or rescinded.
------------------
PML 42 -1982 18 November 1982
Reference: NSA/CSS Directive 40-1 Language and Language
Related Programs Pursuant to Section 10,
National Security Agency Act of 1959, as
amended, dtd 6 May 1982
FOREIGN LANGUAGE INCENTIVE PROGRAM
1. Purpose. This letter provides personnel policy and
procedures for the implementation of the Foreign Language
Incentive Program (FLIP).
2. Authority.
a. Statute- Section 10 of the National Security
Act of 1959 (Public Law 86-36), is amended by Public Law
97-89, Section 602(b)(1) as follows:
"In order to maintain necessary capability in foreign
language skills and related abilities needed by the National
Security Agency, the Director, without regard to subchapter
55 of Title 5, United States Code, may provide special
monetary or other incentives to encourage civilian cryptologic
personnel of the Agency to acquire or retain proficiency
in foreign languages or special related abilities needed by
the Agency."
b. Agency Directive- The Foreign Language Incentive
Program is established by NSA/CSS Directive 40-1, reference
above. Annex C of this Directive applies to the FLIP, and
states that the Deputy Director for Administration (DDA) shall
administer the program. A copy of Annex C is enclosed.
FOR OFFICIAL USE ONL
Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
 Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
3. Definitions. The following are used to identify positions
and incumbeits of positions who are eligible for an incentive bonus
pursuant to the reference:
a.i FLIP position- an official work assignment the duties of
which requi a the use of foreign language(s), including in the
conduct of oreign liaison representation, and for which the Career
Occupational Specialty Code (COSC), civilian grade, job number, and
language(s) have been certified by competent authority.
b.I Eligible employee- a civilian appointee of the NSA -
whose eligibility for an incentive bonus has been certified by the
Director oflCivilian Personnel and who is occupying an established
FLIP position.
c.l FLIP records- data maintained in official civilian
personnel records (in the Electronic Data Processing System or
hardcopy documents) and used as the basis to authorize DDPR to
pay an incentive bonus. Data identify FLIP positions and employees'
eligibility as pertains to performance, language test results,
language training, work experience, and professional certification,
including FLIP proficiency levels.
d.l FLIP proficiency levels-
(1) Level 1 represents successful completion of a
recognized course of study and attainment of the minimum acceptable
score on the language proficiency test.
(2) Level 2 represents attainment of a passing score
on the language proficiency test.
(3) Level 3 represents attainment of a passing score
on the Professional Qualification Examination and certification as
a professional linguist.
4. P~licy. A foreign language incentive bonus shall be paid
in accordarce with the provisions of this letter to eligible employees
who occupy,a FLIP position and meet the eligibility criteria as of
21 November 1982. Thereafter, the incentive bonus shall become
effective the first pay period following entry of eligibility data in
FLIP records.
1
5. S ope_ and_A2plicab111ty.
al Eligible employees shall receive an incentive bonus
commencingjon the effective date of assignment to FLIP positions
identifiedby category in paragraph 6, which includes language use,
language proficiency, and multilingual use.
btt Implementation of the following incentive categories
is pendinglsubject to approval of procedures to staff requirements:
language acquisition (see reference at 3b(2a and 2b)), and Special
Related Ab lities (see reference at 3c).
Q!,
Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
 Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
I
6. Incentive Criteria. To be eligible for an incentive bonus the
employee must be assigned to a FLIP position and meet the proficiency.
level requirement for the incentive category, the experience requirement
for a level 2 proficiency bonus in a voice language position and the
performance standard. Eligibility requirements pertinent to the employee
are discussed first, followed by identification of incentive categories,
FLIP positions and the amount of incentive bonus authorized.
a. Voice Linguists level 2. Employees with level 2 proficiency
in a voice language position must also have one year of experience in
voice language work prior to becoming eligible for incentive bonus.
In the case of military convertees from a Service Cryptologic Element,
experience in voice language work as a military member is acceptable,
provided that the individual has passed the appropriate Language
Proficiency Test (LPT).
b. Performance Standard. Except for special cases which
are detailed below, employees must attain and maintain a performance
rating of Excellent or above to qualify for an incentive bonus:
(1) Promotion- employees who are promoted prior to
receipt of an initial PPEC rating or who are promoted subsequent to
receipt of the last PPEC rating shall receive an incentive bonus
provided that they are otherwise eligible.
(2) Military convertees who enter on duty from a
Service Cryptologic Element shall receive an incentive bonus during the
period between EOD and issuance of an initial PPEC rating, provided
that they are otherwise eligible. Subsequent to the inital rating, the
performance standard shall apply.
(3) For the purposes of this PML a performance rating of
"5" under the performance appraisal system which preceded PPEC is
equivalent to an Excellent rating under the current PPEC system.
(4) Re-employeed annuitants do not receive PPEC ratings.
Performance requirements are met based on the justification which was
submitted from the operating officials whose recommendation resulted
in the annuitant's appointment. Requests from operating officials
for extension or renewal of an appointment must address performance
and language use in the job in order to continue the eligibility
for an incentive bonus.
c. Interns and Student Assistants. The Career Occupational
Specialty Codes for Interns (1231) and Student Assistants (1281) do
not differentiate between voice and graphic language tracks. Further,
time assigned to these COSCs does not always equate to work experience
in the voice language track. Therefore, the records of interns and
student assistants must be evaluated to determine when requirements
have been met sufficiently to qualify the individual for an incentive
bonus, and a determination made as to the amount authorized according
to the language track and individual's proficiency level. This
overview of records is the responsibility of the Language Career Panel
(H114) for Language Interns and Career Development and Enhancement (M36)
for Student Assistants.
Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
 Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
d. Supervisors at the first and second echelon including.
branch level are eligible for an incentive bonus provided that they
are otherwise eligible.
Managers at third echelon or higher, e.g. Chiefs and
Deputies at Division level and higher (as organizations are structured
in Operations) are not eligible, except that managers at field sites where
foreign liaison representation is also a requirement of the position
may receive an incentive bonus in that category.
Personnel at grade level 16 and above are limited to
an incent ve bonus for assignment to technical track positions.
The langu ge required shall not be the primary language for the
position r the target language for the position. Senior Cryptologic
Executives! Service members are not eligible.
Incentive Categories. The following identifies FLIP
positions by incentive category, COSC and incentive bonus amount as
determined by the employees' proficiency level. It is emphasized
that employees must meet appropriate eligibility requirements of
a-f above,) as well as occupy a FLIP position. An incentive bonus shall
not be paid to an employee in two categories for the same or mutually
intelligible language.
(1) Language Proficiency (reference at 3b(3)). FLIP
positions'in this category are titled in a language COSC and the
associated language is the primary one used in the performance of
duties asigned to the position. Therefore, only one primary
language incentive is authorized. In addition to the employee's
proficiency level, the amount of bonus is also determined by the
use of voce or graphic language skills. For the reader who is
not accus omed to the COSCs in the new Occupational Structure,
COSCs used in the original structure are listed first, and COSCs
in the new structure follow:
COSC/POSI TLE
1121-L ---------------
TRACK
-----
GRADE
-----
PROF. LEVEL
-----------
BONUS
PER PAY
-------
1211 Cryptologic Linguist, see 6e
Voice
14-15
3
$75
Voice
2
S25
Graphic
3
$50
Graphic
2
-0-
see 6f
16-18
1212 Language Research Analyst
Graphic
9-15
3
$50
2
-0-
1213 Language Analyst
Graphic
9-15
$50
-0-
1214 Voice Language Analyst
Voice
9-15
$75
$25
1231 Language Intern
Voice
7-11
3
$75
Voice
?2
$25
Graphic
3
$50
Graphic
2
-0-
Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
 Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
r
COSC/POSITION TITLE
rrrrrrrrr rrr-rrr-rr
TRACK
r----
GRADE
---~-
PROF. BONUS
LEVEL PER PAY
N-rr NON-~
1241 Language Technician
Graphic
5-12
3 $50
1242 Voice Language Technician
Voice
5-12
3 $75
2 $25
1281 Language Student Assistant
5-9
same as for 1231 above
****NEW OCCUPATIONAL STRUCTURE****
1248 - Expert SIGINT Linguist
Graphic
16-18
See 6f above
123B Senior Language Analyst
Graphic
13-15
3
$50
2
-0-
122B Language Analyst
Graphic
5-12
3
$50
2
-0-
124C - Expert Voice Linguist
Voice
16-18
See 6f above
123C Senior Voice Language Analyst Voice
13-15
3
$75
2
$25
122C Voice Language Analyst Voice 5-12
3
$75
2
$25
124D - Expert Cryptologic Linguist Graphic
16-18
See 6f above
123D Senior Cryptologic Language
Analyst Graphic 13-15
3'
$50
2
-0-
122D Cryptologic Language Analyst Graphic 9-12
3
$50
2
-0-
124E - Expert Research Linguist Graphic 16-18
See 6f above
123E Senior Language Research
Analyst Graphic 13-15
3
$50
2
122E Language Research Analyst Graphic 5-12
3
$50
2
-0-
812B Language Intern and 7,9,11
822A Language Student Voice
3
$75
in grades 5, 6, 7 Voice
2
$25
Graphic
3
$50
Graphic
2
-0-
Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
 Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
(2) Multilinguists. This incentive category has two
subcategories: use of more than one language as an integral element
of the duties in a single position and the acquisition of a second
or third llianguage which is a Class 1 or Class 2 language. The first
subcategory is effective in accordance with paragraph 4 above.
The acquisition and maintenance category will be announced at a
later date when procedures have been approved to staff requirements.
I FLIP positions in this category must be titled in
the Langua a Occupational Group and require the use of more than one
foreign la~guage. These are identified by operating officials, approved
by the cogiizant Group or Field Site Chief, and entered in FLIP records
by the position classifier. In addition to an incentive bonus in
the Language Proficiency Category (6.gl above), a multilinguist is
also entitled to $25 per pay period for the use of each, but not more
than two, additional languages in which he or she is Level 3 proficient.
The total incentive payment is limited to $125 per pay period.
(3) Language Use Incentive (ref. at 3b(la and lb).
FLIP positions in this incentive category are in two subcategories:
technical disciplines in which the knowledge of the target country
language is an integral element of the position, and foreign liaison
representational duties where knowledge of the official language
of the host government is important to the relationship.
(a) Target languages. Positions that require the
use of a fly reign language and that are titled in a non-language COSC
in one of the following Occupational Groups: initial Occupational
Structure,'i Group 10, 11, 13, 14, 15 and 16, and in the new
Occupational Structure 11, 13, 14, 15, and 17. These positions
are identified by operating officials, evaluated by position
classifiers, and entered into FLIP records to reflect the language
required in association with the primary COSC. To be eligible
for an incentive, the employee must be certified level 3 proficiency
in the associated language. The amount of incentive bonus is $25
per pay period.
(b) Foreign Liaison Representatives. Positions
are located at a foreign field site, and duties involve frequent
business contact with representatives of a foreign government where
conversational use of the official language of the host government
is important to the relationship. The positions are identified
by the Chief of the field site, reviewed by Staffing (M31) and
entered ink FLIP records. An employee assigned to a language COSC is
eligible for an incentive in this category provided that the liaison is
substantial and a continuing part of the job, and a bonus in this
Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
 Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
r- -
category does not duplicate a bonus in another category for the .
same language or a mutually intelligible language. To be eligible
for an incentive bonus the employee must demonstrate a conversational
capability in the language and have attained a level 2 proficiency
to receive $25 per pay period, or have attained a level 3 proficiency
to receive $50 per pay period. The incentive shall be payable during
the time the individual serves in the position, which normally is the
duration of the overseas assignment. The following are ways in which
an employee demonstrates a conversational capability:
1 Pass a spoken language test, or
2 Complete satisfactorily a conversati-oral language
3 For employees who are already in a representational
FLIP position on the effective date of this PML and who have not
met the requirement of 1 or 2 above, verification will suffice from
the Chief of the Field Site to the Chief, Civilian Personnel that the
employee is satisfactorily demonstrating a conversational capability.
4 For employees who report to the field after the
effective date of the 'PML and who have not met the requirement of 1
or 2 above, the Chief of the Field Site may verify to the Chief of
Civilian Personnel at any time after 90 days in the position that the
employee is demonstrating the required conversational capability.
5 For purposes of 3 and 4 above, if the position
is that of a Field Site Chief who is otherwise eligible, the rating
supervisor is responsible for accomplishing the certification of
demonstrated conversational capability.
(4) External Training- Eligible employees who are receiving
an incentive bonus at the time they begin Agency-sponsored language
training shall continue to receive the same bonus during training,
provided the conditions below are met. Employees who are already
in such training on the effective date shall also receive an
incentive bonus provided that personnel records reflect the proper
eligibility data. Records shall reflect that the conditions below
as well as the eligibility criteria are applicable to the employee's
status immediately prior to the time that he or she entered into
training. The purpose of the training assignment must be to enhance
language skills:
(a) in the primary language for which an incentive
bonus is authorized in the primary category 6g(1) above, or
(b) in an additional language for which an incentive
bonus is authorized in the multilingual category stated in 6g(2) above,
or
Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
 Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
(c) in a language for which an incentive bonus is
authorizedlin the language use category 6g(3) including (a) target
languages and (b) foreign liaison representatives, or
(d) in a foreign language required in a pending
assignment' for which the?employee is the selectee, and
(e) in all of the above, there must be a reasonable
expectation that when the employee returns to work status, he or
she will use the enhanced skills in a FLIP position.
Once the training is complete, the duty assignment shall determine
incentive bonus eligibility in accordance with the incentive category
into which the FLIP position is placed and the employee's skill level.
(5) NCS Training - there shall be no loss of incentive
bonus for attending language or non-language NCS training when the
intent is that the employee return to a FLIP position.
7. Nature of Incentive Bonus and Relationship to-Pair-Entitlement
and Limitsr._Monetary incentives authorized in the FLIP are in the nature
of- a-b_onus1 which is granted at the Agency's discretion. The
eligibility criteria for incentive bonus shall be applied equally to
all employees. However, eligibility for incentive bonus is not the
same as anj entitlement to pay pursuant to Title 5, United States Code,
as followsi:
a. Incentive bonus shall not be used in determining the
maximum coverage for purposes of Federal Employee's Group Life
Insurancei(PMM Chapter 386).
b. Incentive bonus shall not be considered in determining the
years of 'high three" salary which is used to compute a retirement
annuity (?MM Chapter 379).
c. Incentive bonus is taxable and such taxes will be withheld
on a pay period basis.
4. Pay Caps and Limits. An incentive bonus is not counted in
determining the maximum pay, which is subject to a cap of $57,500
(Level V of the Executive Schedule pursuant to 5308 Title 5, U.S.C.).
The incentive bonus is also not used in the calculation of the
limitation on foreign post differential, which is applied in foreign
areas pursuant to paragraph 552, Standardized Regulations of the
State Department.
6. Part-time and Intermittent Employment, and Leave Without Pay.
An incentive bonus shall be prorated and computed in 8 hour increments.
8. ev_iew, Maintenance and AccuracZ`of Records. Systems Design and
Analysis (M091)is responsible for developing computer software so that
the Electronic Data Processing System (EDPS) will maintain FLIP records.
Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
 Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
Lists reflecting current data were reviewed by operating officials to
assure that the records reflect employees' eligibility and current
job utilization. Employees must be eligible for an incentive bonus
according to information in FLIP records. The incentive bonus shall be
effective the first pay period following the entry of information in
the FLIP record, and verification of the data to Payroll (N411) by the
Chief, Personnel Operations (M35), or Chief, Staffing (M31).
a. Maintenance. EDPS will be used to the extent feasible to
maintain and report data regarding eligibility for incentive bonus,
and to report the information on a list certified by M3 to N4 (Payroll)
on a pay period basis. Key Component Chiefs will be advised on a pay
period basis when a change in data also results in a change ~to an
individual's eligibility. Exceptions for certain field assignees shall
be processed individually by Staffing, M31.
b. Accuracy of Records. It must be emphasized that the
payment of appropriated-funds for an incentive bonus makes the
accuracy of employees' records a very important matter. Because
performance is a key element of eligibility, timely submission of
appraisals is required. Chiefs of Key Components will be provided
notice of late performance appraisals. Further, all the rules apply
regarding position classification and position management (PMM Chapter
350), authentication of personnel actions (PMM Chapter 301), and
penalties for falsification of records (PMM Chapter 366).
STAT
Encl:
a/s
DISTRIBUTION:
Special A
Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
 Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
NATIONAL SECURITY AGENCY
CENTRAL SECURITY SERVICE
Fort George G. Meade, Maryland
NSA/CSS DIRECTIVE 24 June 1982
NUMBER 40-1 (Change 1)
LANGUAGE AND LANGUAGE-RELATED PROGRAMS
PURSUANT TO SECTION 10, NATIONAL SECURITY
AGENCY ACT OF 1959, As Amended
1. NSA/CSS Directive Number 40-1, dated 6 May 1982, is
changed as follows:
a. Annex A. Remove the present annex and insert the
attached revised annex.
b. Annex C. Remove the present annex and insert the
attached revised annex.
2. This Directive and these changes are effective on
23 June 1982.
STAT
L COLN D. FAURER
Lieutenant General, USAF
Director, NSA/Chief, CSS
Encls:
a/s
OPI: GC
DISTRIBUTION III
Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
 Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
ANNEX C - NSA Language Incentive Program
1. Purpose: There is hereby established an NSA Language
Incentive Program to encourage civilian cryptologic personnel to
acquire, retain, or improve proficiency in foreign languages or
special related abilities needed by NSA. The Incentive Program
shall be restricted to languages for which NSA has an operational
need or which have been designated as Class I or Class II languages.
No incentive shall be paid solely for the completion of foreign
language training. Employees and members of the cryptologic
Linguist Reserve who are in an active civilian status must meet
established criteria in order to qualify for the individual
incentives established under this program.
2. Definitions:
a. A Class I language is one:
(1) in which NSA is manned at significantly less
than the current required strength, and
(2) for which there is an existing or anticipated
intelligence requirement, or
(3) which is necessary to the maintenance of a
historical or current technical data base.
b. A Class II language is one:
(1) in which NSA has virtually no capability, and
(2) for which there is an existing or anticipated
intelligence requirement, or
(3) which is.necessary to the maintenance of a
historical or current technical data base.
c. Special-related abilities are those abilities that
are used in the collection or analysis of communications in
foreign languages that rely on an understanding of the language
or a graphic component thereof but which do not meet the standards
for qualification as a voice language technician, voice language
analyst or graphic linguist. Examples include, but are not limited
to, a voice or morse search or collection operator and a specialist
in the graphic representation of a foreign language in other
than its original form.
d. The individual proficiency levels are defined as
Annex C to
NSA/CSS DIR..
NO. 40-1
Dated 6 May
1982
Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
 Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
(1) Level 1 represents successful completion of a
recognized course of study and attainment of the minimum acceptable'
score on the language proficiency test.
(2) Level 2 represents attainment of a passing
score on the language proficiency test.
(3) Level 3 represents attainment of a passing
score on the Professional Qualification Examination and certifi-
cation asl,a professional linguist.
3. Incentive Criteria:
General:
(1) Performance Rating: Payment of an incentive
is contingent upon the attainment and maintenance of a performance
rating of,"excellent" or better, or any subsequently established
equivalent rating.
(2) Eligible Grade Levels: Incentives shall be
availablelto all appropriate and. otherwise eligible grade levels
through G9-15. Eligibility for incentives for grades GG-16 through
GG-18 or equivalents shall be limited to individuals assigned to
technical track positions and to languages which are not the
primary language for linguists or the target language for other
Agency personnel authorized an incentive under paragraph 3.b.(1)(a).
(3) Incentive Limits:
(a) Multiple Languages: An individual may be
paid no more than one incentive for a primary language and no
more than, two incentives for additional languages for which there
is an operational need or which are Class I or Class II languages.
In no case shall the individual receive more than $125 per pay
period.
(b) Mutually Intelligible Languages: An individual
may not r ceive an incentive for a language which is mutually
intelligi le to the language for which the individual is already
receiving an incentive. A list of mutually intelligible languages
is available from the Language Panel.
Incentive Categories:
(1) Language Use Incentives:
(a) Cryptanalysts, intelligence analysts and
personnel'lin other technical disciplines where a knowledge of
the language of the target country is an integral element of the
Annex C to
NSA/CSS DIR. NO. 40-1
Dated 6 May 1982'
Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
 Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
position who attain a Level 3 proficiency in that language: -$25
per pay period. The position description must contain the require-
ment that the language of the target country is am integral element
of the position in order for an individual to be eligible for
this incentive. This incentive is payable for as long as the
individual occupies such a position.
(b) Foreign liaison representatives who are
stationed in a foreign country, who conduct frequent business
with representatives of a foreign government where a knowledge
of the official language of the host government is important to
the relationship and the individual attains a minimum of a Level
2 proficiency with a demonstrated conversational capability or a
Level 3 proficiency with a demonstrated conversational capability:
Level 2 - $25 per pay period for the period of the overseas assign-
ment; Level 3 - $50 per pay period for the period of the overseas
assignment. This incentive is limited to individuals assigned
to foreign liaison positions that are not linguist positions.
Persons assigned to linguist positions at foreign liaison posts,
that do not involve substantial representational duties are not
eligible for this incentive but are eligible for the applicable
Language Proficiency Incentive. This incentive is payable for
the period of the overseas assignment.
(2) Language Acquisition Incentives:
(a) Agency personnel in professional disciplines
who attain a Level 3 proficiency in a Class I language and who
agree to maintain that proficiency: $25 per pay period. This
incentive is limited to specified languages within the Class I
language category and to the specified number of language slots
as determined pursuant to paragraph 4.a.(3)(c). Individuals
must obtain a qualifying score on the Language Aptitude Test in
order to obtain one of the available language slots. Individuals
must agree to periodically update their skill in accordance with
guidelines established by DDO and ADT.
(b) Agency personnel who acquire at least a
Level 2 proficiency in a Class II language and who agree to main-
tain that proficiency: a one-time cash award of $1000 and $25
per pay period for a specified period. This incentive is limited
to languages in the Class II category and to the specified number
of language slots as determined pursuant to paragraph 4.a.(3)(c).
This incentive is limited to personnel who currently do not have
a capability in the specific language who agree to acquire such
a capability and who subsequently meet the requirements of this
subsection. Individuals must attain a qualifying score on the
Language Aptitude Test in order to obtain one of the available
language slots. The cash award and incentive are payable upon
attainment of the Level 2 proficiency. The incentive shall be
Annex C to
NSA/CSS DIR. NO. 40-1
Dated 6 May-1982
Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
 Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
payable or a period of five years provided the recipients
periodic lly update their skill as required in accordance with
guidelin s established by DDO and ADT.
(c) Multilinguists who have obtained a Level 3
proficie cy in a language for which NSA had an operational require-
ment, ar currently in a linguist position, and who acquire a
Level 3 proficiency in an additional language for which there-is
an operational need and which is an integral element of the position
or is a lass I language or a Level 2 proficiency in a language
designat d as a Class II language: $25 per pay period per language
subject to a limit of two such language. Individuals must agree
to periodically update such languages in accordance with guidelines
established by the DDO and ADT.
(3) Language Proficiency Incentive:
(a) Graphic linguists in a language for which
NSA has an operational requirement who have attained a Level 3
proficiency, are certified as a professional in that language
and who are currently in a linguist position that requires that
language: $50 per pay period.*
(b) Voice linguists in a language for which
NSA has an operational requirement who have obtained a Level 3
proficiency, are certified as a professional in that language
and wholare currently in a voice transcriber position that requires
that language: $75 per pay period.*
(c) Voice language technicians in a language
for which NSA has an operational requirement who have completed
an acceptable course of language training, worked as a voice
language{ technician for a minimum of one year prior to receipt
of an incentive, attained a Level 2 proficiency, and who are
currently in a voice language technician position that requires
that language: $25 per pay period.*
(4) Special Related Abilities Incentive: The Director,
NSA, may approve an incentive for Agency personnel who are assigned
*Langua a Interns who otherwise qualify for these incentives are
also eligible to receive them. In all cases, the incentive is
only applicable for as long as the individual continues to occupy
the position to which the respective incentive is applicable.
An individual may qualify for only one Language Proficiency
Incenti e.
Annex C
NSA/CSS
to
DIR.
NO. 40-1
Dated 6
May
1982
Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
?,
 Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
to operational positions that require special-related abilities
provided such an incentive is necessary to encourage such personnel
to acquire, retain or upgrade such skills subject to attainment
of an established level of proficiency and an incentive of no
more than $25 per pay period.
4. Responsibilities
a. The DDA shall:
(1) Administer the incentive program. /
(2) Program the funds for the NSA Incentive Program.
(3) Upon the recommendation of the DDO and with
the approval of the Director, NSA:
(a) designate those categories of personnel
eligible for incentives related to the acquisition or retention
of proficiency in foreign languages or special related abilities
needed by the Agency;
(b) designate those foreign languages and special
related abilities which make employees eligible to receive incen-
tives when the employees meet the appropriate criteria;
(c) designate the number of language slots for
Class I and Class II languages applicable to Language Acquisition
Incentives, and
(d) determine the periods during which incen-
tives for each language shall be authorized.
(4) With the approval of the Director, NSA:
(a) establish criteria which must be met by
designated personnel to be eligible to receive incentives.
(b) set the amount of incentives to be received
by eligible employees.
b. The DDO shall recommend to the DDA:
(1) those categories of personnel to be designated
eligible for incentives related to the acquisition or retention
of proficiency in foreign languages or special related abilities
needed by the Agency;
(2) (a) those foreign languages and special related
abilities to be designated as making employees eligible to receive
incentives when the employees meet~the appropriate criteria; and
Annex C to
NSA/CSS DIR. NO. 40-1
Dated 6 May 1982
Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
 Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
(b) the number of language slots for Class i
and Class ~I languages applicable to Language Acquisition Incentives-.
(3) the periods during which incentives for each
language shall be authorized.
c~. The DDO and ADT shall establish guidelines for the
maintenance of languages acquired under the Language Acquisition
Incentive program.
dl. The DDPR shall:
I
for Class I and Class II languages applicable to Language Acquisi-
tion Incentives.
Language I
(2) advise as to the availability of funds for the
ncentive Program.
5. Transfer
The Chief of Civilian Personnel may transfer any employee
having thei required proficiency in a Class I or Class II language
and receiving an incentive in that language to a position for
which that language is required and for which there is an immediate
operation;l requirement as determined by the DDO.
Annex C to
NSA/CSS DIR. NO. 40-1
Dated 6 May 1982-
(1) review the number of language slots established
Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
 Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
Attachment 3
SUBJECT: Draft of Legislative Proposal to Authorize Special Pay for
Members of the Armed Forces Who Are Proficient in a Foreign
Language
1. The Department of Defense has submitted a draft of legislation
for consideration of the Congress that would authorize special pay for
members of the armed forces who are proficient in a foreign language. If
approved, the special pay would be available to all eligible members of
the armed services.
-- The bill seeks $18.3 million for incentive pay for all the
services.
-- Purpose is to maintain and enhance the foreign language
capabilities of the armed forces, including reserve components.
-- Members must possess a military speciality that requires
proficiency in a foreign language; the member must have received formal
training designed to develop proficiency; or the member must be
proficient in a foreign language for which the Secretary may have a
critical need.
-- The amount of pay received is contingent upon the level of
proficiency.
-- The maximum amount of special pay would not exceed $250/month.
-- The programs would be administered by the individual
Secretaries.
-- The $18.3 million is the projected cost of the special pay for
FY-87, with subsequent increases of approximately 10 percent per year
after the program has begun.
2. At the present time, the House Armed Services Committee took no
action on the proposed legislation, the Senate Armed Services Committee
marked the bill at $7.3 million and set the rate of compensation at
$100/month. DoD is now lobbying interested members of the House and
Senate to push for approval and restore the authorization to the original
$18.3 million.
Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
 Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
May 20, 1986
Honorable James C. Miller III
Director, office of, Management
and Budget
Washington, D.C. 20503
Dear Mr. Miller:
is
The attached legislative proposal, DoD 99-158, "To amend
chapter 5 of title 37, United States Code, to authorize special
pay for members of the armed forces who are proficient in a
foreign language," is forwarded for-review in accordance with
Office of Management and Budget Circular A-1T-.
The Department of Defense FY '87 budget submission includes
funding in the legislative contingency account to accommodate
this proposal.
Advice is requested as to the relationship of the proposal
to the program of the Administration.
Sincerely,
STAT
e ce arre t, III
Enclosure
Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
 Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
w "~ ter" ~ GL ~ i0
Honorable Thomas P. O'Neill, Jr.
Speaker of the House of Representatives
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Mr. Speaker:
Enclosed is a draft of legislation "To amend chapter 5
of title 37,,United States Code, to authorize special pay
for members of the armed forces who are proficient in a
foreign language.'
The proposal is part of the Department of Defense
legislative program for the 99th Congress, and the Office of
Management and Budget advises that, from the standpoint of
the Administration's program, there is no objection to the
presentation of this proposal for the consideration of the
Congress. The Department of the Ax-my has been designated
the representative of the Department of Defense for this
legislation. The Army recommends that the proposal be
enacted by the Congress. ?
Purpose of the Legislation
The purpose of the proposal is to maintain and enhance
the foreign language capabilities of the armed forces of the
United States. This proposal would authorise special
linguistic pay for those members of the armed forces,
including the reserve components, who the Secretaries
concerned have certified within the last 12 months as being
proficient in a foreign language identified by the Secretary'
of Defense as necessary for the national defense, provided
the member meets one of the following criteria: 1) the - '
member possesses a military specialty that requires
proficiency in a foreign language; 2) the member is assigned
by competent authority to military duties determined by the
Secretary concerned to require proficiency in a foreign
language; 3) the member has under regulations prescribed by
=r=ube Secretary concerned, received formal training designed
to develop proficiency in a foreign language; or 4) is'
proficient in a foreign language for which the Secretary may
have a critical need..
Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
 Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
I
Since the purpose of the special pay is to maintain and
enhance language proficiency the amount of special pay to.-
which the member is authorized is contingent upon the
language proficiency level the member has attained, as
certified by the Secretary concerned. The language
proficiency level will be established by regulations issued
by the Secretaries concerned calculating the member's
reading, listening, and speaking abilities of?a foreign
language. .
Using the language proficiency level as the standard,
the special pay would vary between individuals based upon
the language proficiency level attained. The maximum amount
of the special pay will not exceed $250 per month.
The ability of the armed forces to respond effectively.
to any global contingency mandates that we have the forces
available to effectively interact with our allies.and the
local population as well as our adversaries. Rapidly
fluctuating world situations rarely allow the time necessary,
to provide sufficient language training for our military
forces; yet in combat, there-is no greater weapon in a
soldier's arsenal than the ability to relay .orders and
information quickly and efficiently. The special. linguistic
pay is designed to increase the foreign language capability
of those armed forces members who must he proficient in a
foreign language and to expand the pool of individuals
proficient in the less common languages.
Proficiency in a foreign language is a unique skill
that often requires considerable study and effort; yet that
skill will quickly atrophy and perish unless it is
frequently refreshed. The present proposal provides a
monetary incentive for armed forces members to maintain and
enhance that proficiency. Currently, the Department of
State, the National Security Agency, and the Central
Intelligence Agency have special pay programs designed to
motivate their personnel to maintain-and enhance their -
foreign language proficiencies. By providing special pay
for those proficient in specified foreign languages, the
armed forces would be placing the responsibility on the
individual member to use both military and civilian training
opportunities to maintain his skills. This concept fosters
initiative, self motivation, and, by utilizing personnel'
already in the armed forces, would result in a significant
enhancement of the foreign language proficiency of the armed
forces with a minimum outlay of capital or other resources.
Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
 Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
Cost and Budget Data 0
The cost data reflects the projected cost of the
special pay in millions of dollars. Since the special pay
would be awarded to a limited group of individuals according
to the degree of proficiency developed, the number of
personnel eligible for the maximum foreign language
proficiency pay will initially be very limited. The
projected cost for the proposed special pay for foreign
language proficiency is as follows: .
$ IN MILLIONS
FY-87
Army
9.66
Navy
1.17
Marine Corps
.46
Air Force
7.01
TOTAL
18.3
It is projected that the cost will increase by
approximately 10 percent per year as proficiency levels
become enhanced and former-active component linguists
presently assigned to the Reserve components qualify for the'
award.
Sincerely,
Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
 Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
are authorize
forcesCode,
armedStates
'to To amend chapter 5 of~er~e f7theUnited
special pay for me
proficient in a foreign language.
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives
of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That
Chapter 5 of title 37, United States Code, is amended - (a) by
adding at the end thereof the following new section:
"?316. Special pay: foreign language proficiency pay
"(a) a member of the armed forces who--
"(1) is entitled to basic pay;
"(2) has been certified by the Secretary
concerned within the past 12 months to be
proficient in a foreign__language identified by the
Secretary of Defense as necessary for the national
defense; and
"(3)
(A) is qualified in a military
specialty requiring such proficiency; or
(B) received training, under regulations
prescribed by the Secretary concerned,
designed to develop such proficiency; or
(C) is assigned to military duties
requiring such a proficiency; or
(D) is proficient in a foreign language
for which the Secretary concerned may have a
critical need;
may he paid special pay in addition to any other pay
O_ z1lcNance
*hich the :..er.?.her is entitled in the
Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
 Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
7tie'r (h).
"(h) The monthly rate for special pay under..
subsection (a),of this section shall not exceed $250. The
amount of special pay which the member may be paid under,
this section may not be included in computing the amount
of any increase in pay authorized by any other provision-
of this title in computing retired pay, separation pay,
severance pay or readjustment pay.
"(c) Under regulations prescribed by the Secretary
concerned and to the extent provided for by
appropriations, when a member of a reserve component of
the armed forces, or of the National Guard, who is
entitled to compensation under section 206 of this title,
fulfills the criteria for special pay as described in
subsection (a), except the requirement of (a)(1), the
member may he paid an increase in compensation equal to
1/30th of the monthly special pay authorized by subsection
(h) of this section for the performance of that duty by a
member who is entitled to basic pay. He is entitled to
the increase for as long as he is qualified for it, for
each regular period of instruction, or period of
appropriate duty, at which he is engaged for at least two
hours, including that performed on a Sunday pr holiday, or
for the performance of such other equivalent training,
instruction, duty or appropriate duties, as the Secretary
may prescribe under section 206(a) of this title. This
section does not apply to a member who is entitled to
Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
 Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3
cc;::gin 2C'4 c` :} titic?.
?(d) .re--
regulations prescribed by the secretary of Defense
for the armed forces under his juri.ediction and by
the Secretary of Transportation for the Coast
Guard when-the Coast Guard is not operating as a
service in the Navy.'"; and
lb) the table of sections at the beginning-of such chapter
is amended by adding after the item relating to section
316 the following new item:
"316. Special pay: foreign language proficiency pay.".
Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2011/06/01: CIA-RDP89-01147R000100070012-3