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The DA 638 form serves a crucial role within the U.S. Army by facilitating the process of nominating individuals for awards and decorations. This form is not merely a bureaucratic tool; it embodies the recognition of valor, heroism, and exemplary service. It is used to record nominations, maintain case files, and document the final actions taken regarding each award. The form is governed by Army Regulation 600-8-22, which outlines the specific criteria and procedures for various awards, particularly those of significant merit. Privacy is a key consideration, as the DA 638 collects personally identifiable information, emphasizing that disclosure is voluntary, yet essential for timely processing. Each section of the form demands careful attention, from the soldier’s data, including name, rank, and service branch, to the justification for the award, where recommenders must provide specific examples of meritorious acts. The form also includes sections for recommendations and approvals, ensuring that the nomination undergoes a thorough review process. Understanding the DA 638 is vital for anyone involved in the military awards process, as it encapsulates not only the procedural aspects but also the honor and respect that awards signify within the military community.

Similar forms

  • DA Form 4187: This form is used for requests for personnel actions. Like the DA 638, it requires detailed information about the individual and the purpose of the request. Both forms aim to document actions related to awards and personnel changes.

  • DA Form 2406: This is a performance evaluation form that assesses a soldier's achievements. Similar to the DA 638, it includes sections for justifying the recognition of service and accomplishments.

  • DA Form 1059: This form records completion of military training courses. Both the DA 638 and DA 1059 serve to acknowledge achievements, though one focuses on training and the other on awards.

  • DA Form 67-9: This is a company grade officer evaluation report. Like the DA 638, it evaluates performance and achievements, contributing to an individual's military record.

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  • DA Form 2627: This form is used for non-judicial punishment actions. While the DA 638 is for awards, both forms require documentation of actions taken regarding an individual’s military service.

  • DA Form 31: This form is for requesting leave. Similar to the DA 638, it requires a clear purpose and justification for the request, focusing on individual service matters.

  • DA Form 2-1: This is the personnel qualification record. Like the DA 638, it contains vital information about a soldier's qualifications and achievements, supporting the overall assessment of their military career.

  • DA Form 1506: This form is used for documenting service in support of a specific operation. Similar to the DA 638, it serves to validate and recognize an individual’s contributions and service.

Form Properties

Fact Name Fact Description
Purpose The DA Form 638 is used to recommend individuals for awards and decorations in the military.
Governing Law It is governed by Army Regulation 600-8-22, which outlines military awards.
Privacy Act Statement The form includes a Privacy Act Statement, ensuring that personal information is handled properly.
Eligibility Only eligible individuals can be nominated for awards as per the guidelines in AR 600-8-22.
Disclosure Information Providing personal information is voluntary, but not doing so may delay the processing of the application.
Recommended Awards The form allows for various types of awards, including valor and posthumous awards.
Signature Requirement Signatures from both the recommender and the approval authority are required for validation.
Form Version This version of the form is dated June 2017 and replaces previous editions.

How to Use Da 638

Filling out the DA 638 form is a straightforward process that requires attention to detail. This form is used to recommend individuals for awards and decorations in the military. Ensure that all required information is accurate and complete to facilitate the review process.

  1. Part I - Soldier Data: Fill in the soldier's name (Last, First, Middle Initial) in box 1.
  2. In box 2, enter the date in the format YYYYMMDD.
  3. Provide the soldier's rank in box 5.
  4. Fill in the soldier's Social Security Number (SSN) in box 6.
  5. Enter the organization name in box 7.
  6. Indicate the branch of service in box 9.
  7. List any previous awards in box 8.
  8. Specify the recommended award in box 10.
  9. In box 11, indicate the period of the award by filling in the start date (box 11a) and end date (box 11b).
  10. In box 12, indicate the reason for the award. Mark "YES" or "NO" for interim award (box 12b) and posthumous award (box 12c).
  11. Provide the proposed presentation date in box 13 if applicable.
  1. Part II - Recommender Data: Fill in the recommender's name (Last, First, Middle Initial) in box 14.
  2. Provide the recommender's address in box 15.
  3. Enter the recommender's title/position in box 16.
  4. Indicate the recommender's rank in box 17.
  5. Sign the form in box 19.
  1. Part III - Justification and Citation Data: List specific achievements in boxes 20 (Achievement #1 to Achievement #4).
  2. Draft the proposed citation in box 21.
  1. Part IV - Recommendations/Approval/Disapproval: Complete the sections for intermediate authority recommendations, including signatures and dates.
  2. Ensure all necessary approvals are obtained in the subsequent boxes.
  1. Part V - Orders Data: Fill in the orders issuing HQ in box 27a.
  2. Provide the permanent order number in box 27b.
  3. Enter the approved award in box 29 and the date in box 30.

After completing the form, review all entries for accuracy. Submit the DA 638 form through the appropriate channels for processing. Timely submission can help ensure that the award is granted without unnecessary delays.

Key takeaways

  • Understand the Purpose: The DA 638 form is used to recommend individuals for awards and decorations in the military.
  • Complete All Sections: Ensure that all required fields are filled out accurately, including personal information and details about the award.
  • Provide Justification: Use specific bullet points to describe the achievements that warrant the award. Clear examples strengthen the recommendation.
  • Privacy Considerations: Be aware that personal information may be disclosed to outside organizations, including the media, as part of the award process.
  • Signature Requirements: Obtain necessary signatures from recommenders and authorities to validate the application.
  • Submission Timeline: Pay attention to deadlines for submitting the form to avoid delays in processing the award.
  • Review Before Submission: Double-check all entries for accuracy and completeness to ensure a smooth review process.

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Documents used along the form

The DA Form 638 is a crucial document for recommending individuals for awards and decorations within the military. However, several other forms and documents often accompany it to ensure a comprehensive submission. Below is a list of commonly used forms that support the award process.

  • DA Form 4187: This form is used for personnel actions, such as requests for awards, promotions, or changes in duty assignments. It documents changes in a soldier's status.
  • DA Form 1041: This form records the participation of soldiers in various training and operational activities. It helps to establish eligibility for certain awards based on service.
  • DA Form 15-6: This is an investigation form used to document incidents that may affect a soldier's eligibility for awards. It provides a formal record of findings.
  • DA Form 1059: This form is used to evaluate a soldier's performance during a course of instruction. It can support award recommendations based on training achievements.
  • DA Form 638-1: This is an older version of the DA Form 638, which may still be referenced for historical purposes or in specific cases where the newer form is not applicable.
  • DA Form 7000: This document is used to request financial assistance for soldiers, which may be relevant when considering awards related to service that incurred financial hardship.
  • DA Form 2406: This form is used for documenting significant achievements and contributions of soldiers. It provides a detailed account that can be referenced in award nominations.
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  • DA Form 2676: This is a recommendation for a soldier to receive a Certificate of Achievement. It serves as a formal suggestion for recognition of exemplary service.
  • DA Form 4856: This form is utilized for counseling soldiers. It can be important in documenting discussions about performance and eligibility for awards.
  • AR 600-8-22: This regulation outlines policies for military awards and decorations. It provides essential guidance on eligibility criteria and the award process.

These forms and documents work together to create a robust framework for recognizing the achievements and service of military personnel. Each plays a specific role in ensuring that nominations for awards are well-supported and thoroughly documented.

Discover More on This Form

What is the DA Form 638 used for?

The DA Form 638 is primarily used to recommend individuals for military awards and decorations. It helps document nominations, record final actions, and maintain individual award case files. The form is essential for ensuring that meritorious acts or services are recognized appropriately within the military framework.

Who can submit a DA Form 638?

Any individual who has direct knowledge of a service member's achievements can submit the DA Form 638. This includes peers, supervisors, or anyone in a position to evaluate the service member's contributions. The recommender must provide specific examples of the individual's accomplishments to support the nomination.

What information is required on the DA Form 638?

The form requires several key pieces of information, including:

  1. Name of the service member being recommended.
  2. Rank and organization of the individual.
  3. Period of service for which the award is being recommended.
  4. Specific achievements and reasons for the award.
  5. Information about the recommender, including their relationship to the awardee.

Completing these sections accurately is crucial for the processing of the award recommendation.

What happens if I do not provide all the required information?

If you fail to provide all necessary information on the DA Form 638, it may delay the processing of the award application. Incomplete submissions can lead to additional requests for information, which can extend the time it takes to finalize the award decision.

Can the DA Form 638 be used for posthumous awards?

Yes, the DA Form 638 can be used to recommend posthumous awards. When submitting for a posthumous award, it is important to indicate this on the form. The process may involve additional considerations, so ensuring all relevant details are included will help facilitate the review.

How is the DA Form 638 processed once submitted?

After submission, the DA Form 638 goes through several levels of review. It is evaluated by intermediate authorities who will either approve or disapprove the recommendation. If approved, the recommendation moves to higher levels for final approval. The entire process ensures that all awards are granted based on merit and adherence to military regulations.