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The DA Form 638 serves as a crucial document within the U.S. Army for recommending individuals for awards and decorations. This form is utilized to formally consider nominations, ensuring that meritorious acts and services are duly recognized. It includes sections for detailed soldier data, such as name, rank, and organization, along with specific achievements that justify the award. The form also requires information on the proposed citation and the relationship of the recommender to the awardee. Privacy is a key concern, as personal information is collected under the authority of various U.S. codes and regulations. While disclosure of this information is voluntary, it is important to note that not providing it may result in delays in processing. The DA Form 638 is not only a means of documentation but also a pathway for honoring the exemplary service of Army personnel, reflecting the values and traditions of military recognition.

Key takeaways

Filling out and using the DA Form 638 is a critical process for recognizing the achievements of service members. Here are key takeaways to keep in mind:

  • Purpose of the Form: The DA Form 638 is designed to recommend individuals for awards and decorations based on their achievements and service.
  • Privacy Considerations: Personal information provided on the form is protected under the Privacy Act. However, disclosure of this information is voluntary, but withholding it may delay processing.
  • Accurate Information: Ensure all details in Part I, including name, rank, organization, and service branch, are accurate. Incorrect information can hinder the approval process.
  • Specific Achievements: Use specific bullet points to highlight meritorious acts or services in Part III. The more detailed and clear the examples, the stronger the nomination will be.
  • Recommended Award: Clearly indicate the type of award being recommended in Part I. This helps the reviewing authority understand the level of recognition being sought.
  • Justification and Citation: In Part III, provide a proposed citation that summarizes the service member’s achievements. This citation is often used in the official announcement of the award.
  • Intermediate Authority Review: The form requires multiple levels of review and approval. Each intermediate authority must certify eligibility and correctness of the information.
  • Presentation Date: If applicable, indicate a proposed presentation date for the award. This helps in scheduling the recognition ceremony.
  • Final Approval: The final decision on the award is made by the approval authority. Ensure all sections are completed to facilitate a smooth approval process.

Understanding these key points can streamline the process of filling out the DA Form 638 and enhance the chances of successfully recognizing deserving service members.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the DA 638 form, it’s essential to ensure accuracy and completeness. Here’s a helpful list of dos and don’ts to guide you through the process.

  • Do read the instructions carefully before starting. Understanding the requirements will help you avoid mistakes.
  • Do provide complete and accurate information. Each section should be filled out with the necessary details to support the award nomination.
  • Do use specific examples when describing achievements. Highlighting meritorious acts or service can strengthen the nomination.
  • Do double-check for typos and errors. A small mistake can delay processing or lead to confusion.
  • Don’t leave any required fields blank. Missing information can result in the form being returned for corrections.
  • Don’t rush through the process. Take your time to ensure that everything is filled out correctly and thoroughly.

Documents used along the form

The DA Form 638 is an important document used for recommending military awards. Along with this form, several other documents often accompany the submission process. Each of these documents serves a unique purpose in ensuring the proper evaluation and approval of awards. Below is a list of forms that are commonly used alongside the DA Form 638.

  • DA Form 4187: This form is used for personnel actions, including requests for awards, reassignments, and promotions. It helps document changes in a soldier's status or eligibility for awards.
  • DA Form 1256: This form is specifically for recommending soldiers for the Army Good Conduct Medal. It provides a detailed account of the soldier's conduct and service record.
  • New York Mobile Home Bill of Sale: Essential for transferring ownership of a mobile home, this legal document requires detailed information from both buyer and seller. For a reliable template, visit Fast PDF Templates.
  • DA Form 4980-14: This is the certificate for the Army Achievement Medal. It is awarded to soldiers for specific achievements and must be filled out to accompany the award recommendation.
  • DA Form 638-1: This form was previously used for award recommendations but has been replaced by the DA Form 638. However, it may still be referenced in some cases.
  • DA Form 2442: This form is used to document the award of the Meritorious Service Medal. It includes information about the service and achievements that justify the award.
  • DA Form 7000: This is the Army's Financial Management form. It may be needed for certain awards that have financial implications or require budget considerations.

These documents work together with the DA Form 638 to ensure that award recommendations are thorough and well-supported. Each form plays a crucial role in the process, helping to recognize the hard work and dedication of service members.

Things to Know About This Form

What is the purpose of the DA 638 form?

The DA 638 form is primarily used to recommend individuals for military awards and decorations. It facilitates the nomination process by recording essential details about the service member, such as their name, rank, organization, and the specific achievements that merit recognition. Additionally, the form helps maintain individual award case files and tracks the final actions taken on each nomination.

What information is required to complete the DA 638 form?

To properly fill out the DA 638 form, several key pieces of information are necessary. These include:

  1. Name of the individual being recommended, including last, first, and middle initial.
  2. Rank and service branch of the individual.
  3. Details about previous awards received.
  4. The reason for the award, along with the specific period of service being recognized.
  5. Achievements that justify the award, which should be detailed in bullet points.

Providing complete and accurate information is crucial, as any omissions may delay processing.

How is personal information handled on the DA 638 form?

When completing the DA 638 form, it’s important to note that the disclosure of personally identifiable information is voluntary. However, failing to provide identifying details, such as the Social Security Number (SSN), may lead to delays in processing the application. The form adheres to the Privacy Act of 1974, ensuring that information is handled with care and can only be disclosed under specific circumstances, such as for publicizing awards.

What happens after the DA 638 form is submitted?

Once the DA 638 form is submitted, it goes through a review process by intermediate authorities who assess the eligibility of the individual for the recommended award. They can either approve or disapprove the nomination. If approved, the award is then documented through official orders, which are also recorded on the form. The entire process aims to ensure that deserving individuals receive recognition for their service and achievements in a timely manner.

Preview - Da 638 Form

Document Specifics

Fact Name Description
Purpose The DA Form 638 is used to recommend individuals for awards and decorations based on their achievements.
Governing Laws This form is governed by 10 U.S.C. Chapters 57 and 357, Army Regulation 600-8-22, and E.O. 9397.
Privacy Act Statement Disclosure of personal information is voluntary, but not providing it may delay the award process.
Eligibility Individuals must be eligible for an award as per the guidelines outlined in AR 600-8-22.
Sections The form consists of multiple sections including soldier data, recommender data, justification, and approval.
Updates The current version of the DA Form 638 is from June 2017, replacing previous editions.

How to Fill Out Da 638

Filling out the DA Form 638 is an important step in the process of nominating someone for an award or decoration in the military. This form requires specific information about the nominee, the recommender, and the justification for the award. Completing it accurately ensures that the nomination is processed efficiently.

  1. Begin with Part I - Soldier Data. Enter the following information:
    • 1. Name (Last, First, Middle Initial)
    • 2. Date (YYYYMMDD)
    • 3. SSN
    • 4. Rank
    • 5. Organization
    • 6. Branch of Service
    • 7. Previous Awards
    • 8. Recommended Award
    • 9. Period of Award (From and To dates)
    • 10. Reason for Award
    • 11. Indicate if it’s an interim award and if it’s posthumous
    • 12. Proposed Presentation Date
  2. Proceed to Part II - Recommender Data. Fill in the following:
    • 13. Name (Last, First, Middle Initial)
    • 14. Address
    • 15. Title/Position
    • 16. Rank
    • 17. Relationship to Awardee
    • 18. Signature
  3. In Part III - Justification and Citation Data, provide specific bullet examples of meritorious acts or service:
    • 19. Achievements (List up to four specific achievements)
    • 20. Proposed Citation
  4. Next, move to Part IV - Recommendations/Approval/Disapproval:
    • 21. Certify eligibility and correctness of information
    • 22. Intermediate Authority - complete the required fields for recommendations, approvals, or disapprovals
  5. Finally, fill out Part V - Orders Data:
    • 23. Orders Issuing HQ
    • 24. Name of Orders Approval Authority
    • 25. Permanent Order Number
    • 26. Approved Award
    • 27. Date (YYYYMMDD)

Once the form is completed, review it for accuracy before submission. Ensure that all signatures are obtained where required. This attention to detail can significantly impact the processing of the award nomination.