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The DA Form 638 serves as a critical tool in the military awards process, enabling the recognition of individuals for their exceptional service and achievements. This form is utilized to recommend personnel for various awards and decorations, including those for valor and heroism, as well as for commendable service during wartime. Designed in accordance with Army Regulation 600-8-22, it facilitates the systematic collection of necessary information about the nominee, such as their name, rank, organization, and the specific reasons for the award. Additionally, the form includes sections for the recommender to provide detailed justifications and citations, showcasing the nominee's meritorious acts. It is important to note that the completion of this form is not only a matter of protocol but also a reflection of the military's commitment to honoring its members. Properly filling out the DA Form 638 ensures that all submissions are processed efficiently, while also complying with privacy regulations. As such, understanding its components and requirements is essential for anyone involved in the awards process.

Key takeaways

Filling out the DA Form 638 is an important process for recognizing the achievements of military personnel. Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind:

  • Provide Accurate Information: Ensure that all personal details, including the soldier's name, rank, and service branch, are correct. Mistakes can lead to delays in processing.
  • Detail Achievements Clearly: Use specific bullet points to describe the soldier's meritorious acts or service. Clear and concise examples strengthen the case for the award.
  • Understand Privacy Considerations: Be aware that personal information may be disclosed to public and private organizations. While disclosure is voluntary, omitting details may hinder the application process.
  • Follow Submission Protocols: Pay attention to the required signatures and approvals. The form must be properly routed through the appropriate authorities to ensure timely processing.

Documents used along the form

The DA Form 638 is commonly used to recommend individuals for awards and decorations in the military. Several other forms and documents often accompany it to facilitate the award process. Below are some of the key documents associated with the DA Form 638.

  • DA Form 4187: This form is used for requests for personnel actions. It can document changes such as awards, promotions, or transfers, and may be submitted alongside the DA Form 638 to provide additional context for the award recommendation.
  • DA Form 1059: This form is a service school academic evaluation report. It records an individual's performance in military education courses and can support an award recommendation by highlighting achievements during training.
  • Motorcycle Bill of Sale Form: To ensure a smooth transaction process, consider utilizing the simple motorcycle bill of sale form guidelines that detail the necessary steps for legal documentation.
  • DA Form 7500: This document is utilized for documenting military achievements and accomplishments. It can provide a comprehensive overview of an individual's service record, which may be referenced when justifying an award.
  • DA Form 1256: This is the recommended award for the Army Achievement Medal. It serves as a specific request for this medal and is often used in conjunction with the DA Form 638 to streamline the award process.

These documents collectively support the award recommendation process by providing necessary details and context. Properly completing and submitting these forms can help ensure that awards are processed efficiently and accurately.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the DA Form 638, it’s essential to approach the task with care and attention to detail. Here are some key do's and don'ts to keep in mind:

  • Do ensure that all personal information is accurate and complete. This includes the name, rank, and SSN of the individual being nominated.
  • Do provide specific examples of achievements in the justification section. Clear and detailed descriptions will strengthen the nomination.
  • Do follow the guidelines outlined in AR 600-8-22. Familiarize yourself with the regulations to avoid any missteps.
  • Do check for any required signatures before submitting the form. Missing signatures can delay the process.
  • Don't leave any sections blank. Every part of the form should be filled out to the best of your ability.
  • Don't exaggerate or misrepresent achievements. Honesty is crucial in maintaining the integrity of the award process.
  • Don't forget to review the completed form for errors before submission. A final check can catch mistakes that may have been overlooked.

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure that the nomination process is smooth and successful. Awards are a significant recognition of service, and taking the time to complete the DA Form 638 correctly is an important step in honoring deserving individuals.

Common mistakes

Filling out the DA 638 form can be a straightforward process, but many people make common mistakes that can delay or complicate the award nomination. One frequent error is failing to provide complete and accurate personal information. The form requires details such as the nominee's name, Social Security Number, and rank. Omitting any of this information can lead to processing delays. It is essential to double-check that all fields are filled in correctly before submitting the form.

Another mistake often seen is not clearly articulating the reason for the award. The section dedicated to justification and citation data should contain specific examples of the nominee’s achievements. Vague descriptions or general statements do not effectively communicate the significance of the nominee's actions. Providing detailed bullet points that highlight meritorious acts can significantly enhance the chances of the award being approved.

Many individuals also overlook the importance of signatures and dates. Each section of the form requires the appropriate signatures from both the recommender and the approving authority. Failing to include these signatures can result in the form being returned for correction. Additionally, ensuring that all dates are accurate and formatted correctly is crucial, as discrepancies can lead to further complications.

Lastly, individuals sometimes neglect to review the entire form for clarity and completeness. After filling out the DA 638, it is beneficial to take a moment to read through the entire document. This helps catch any errors or omissions that might have been missed during the initial completion. A thorough review can make all the difference in ensuring that the nomination is processed smoothly and efficiently.

File Characteristics

Fact Name Description
Purpose The DA 638 form is used to recommend individuals for awards and decorations in the military.
Governing Law This form is governed by Army Regulation 600-8-22, which outlines the policies for military awards.
Privacy Act Statement The form includes a Privacy Act Statement, ensuring that personal information is handled in accordance with federal law.
Disclosure of Information Disclosure of personally identifiable information is voluntary, but not providing it may delay the processing of the award recommendation.
Previous Editions The DA 638 form, revised in June 2017, replaces previous editions and is marked as obsolete.

Form Sample