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The DA Form 638 is a vital document used by the United States Army to recommend individuals for various awards and decorations. This form serves multiple purposes, including the consideration of nominations, recording final actions, and maintaining individual award case files. It is essential for recognizing the achievements of soldiers, whether for valor, heroism, or service during wartime. The form is structured to collect detailed information about the nominee, including their name, rank, organization, and specific reasons for the award. Additionally, it includes sections for the recommender to justify the nomination with specific examples of meritorious acts or services. The DA Form 638 also addresses privacy concerns, ensuring that personal information is handled in accordance with the Privacy Act of 1974. By following the guidelines set forth in Army Regulation 600-8-22, this form facilitates a thorough and respectful process for honoring the contributions of Army personnel, thereby fostering a culture of recognition and appreciation within the military community.

⇩ Da 638 PDF

Misconceptions

  • Misconception 1: The DA Form 638 is only for valor awards.

    • This form is used for various types of awards, not just those related to valor or heroism. It can be utilized for any decoration or award that recognizes meritorious service or achievement.

  • Misconception 2: Completing the form is optional.

    • While the form itself is not mandatory for all awards, it is required for specific types of nominations. Submitting the form ensures that the nomination process is followed correctly and efficiently.

  • Misconception 3: The DA Form 638 can be submitted without supporting documentation.

    • Supporting documentation is crucial. Specific examples of achievements or meritorious acts must be included to justify the award. Without this information, the nomination may not be considered seriously.

  • Misconception 4: All awards will be approved once the form is submitted.

    • Submission of the form does not guarantee approval. Each nomination undergoes a thorough review process, and decisions are made based on the merits of the case.

  • Misconception 5: Personal information on the form is not protected.

    • The DA Form 638 is subject to privacy regulations. While some information may be disclosed, there are protections in place to safeguard personally identifiable information.

  • Misconception 6: Only high-ranking officials can submit the DA Form 638.

    • Any service member can initiate a nomination. However, it must be endorsed by appropriate authorities within the chain of command for consideration.

  • Misconception 7: The form can be submitted at any time.

    • There are specific timelines associated with award nominations. It is essential to be aware of these deadlines to ensure timely processing.

  • Misconception 8: The DA Form 638 is the only document needed for award nominations.

    • While it is a critical component, additional forms or documentation may be required depending on the type of award being requested. Always check the guidelines for the specific award to ensure compliance.

Common mistakes

Filling out the DA 638 form can be a straightforward process, but many individuals make common mistakes that can lead to delays or complications. Understanding these pitfalls can help ensure that your application for an award is processed smoothly.

One frequent mistake is failing to provide complete and accurate personal information. Sections 1 through 4 require details such as the name, rank, and social security number of the individual being nominated. Omitting any of this information can result in significant delays. Always double-check that every field is filled out correctly.

Another error often encountered is neglecting to specify the reason for the award. Section 12 should clearly outline the achievements or actions that merit recognition. Vague descriptions can lead to confusion and may not adequately convey the significance of the nominee's contributions. Be specific and use bullet points to highlight key accomplishments.

Some people overlook the importance of including previous awards in section 8. This information can provide context and demonstrate a history of excellence. Failing to mention prior recognitions may diminish the perceived value of the current nomination.

In section 12a, it’s crucial to indicate whether the award is an interim or posthumous award. Neglecting to check these boxes can create misunderstandings about the nature of the award, which could affect its approval. Clarity in these areas is vital for the review process.

Many nominators also forget to provide a proposed presentation date in section 13. This information helps the reviewing authority plan for the award ceremony. Without a suggested date, the process may stall as additional communication is required to finalize the timing.

Additionally, errors in the signature section can lead to complications. Ensure that all required signatures are obtained and that they are legible. Missing or unclear signatures may result in the form being returned for correction, which can delay the award process.

Finally, a common mistake is not following the specific guidelines outlined in Army Regulation 600-8-22. Each award has different criteria and requirements, and failing to adhere to these can result in disapproval. Always refer back to the regulation to ensure compliance.

By being mindful of these common mistakes, you can significantly improve the chances of your DA 638 form being processed without issues. A thorough and accurate submission reflects well on both the nominee and the recommender, ensuring that deserving individuals receive the recognition they deserve.

Detailed Guide for Writing Da 638

Completing the DA Form 638 is an essential step in the process of nominating an individual for an award. This form requires specific information about the soldier and the reasons for the award. Accuracy and attention to detail are crucial to ensure the nomination is processed smoothly.

  1. Begin by entering the soldier's name in the format: Last, First, Middle Initial in box 1.
  2. In box 2, specify the date of the nomination using the format YYYYMMDD.
  3. Fill in the soldier's rank in box 5.
  4. Provide 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 the soldier has received in box 8.
  8. In box 10, specify the recommended award.
  9. Fill out the period of the award in boxes 11a and 11b, indicating the start and end dates.
  10. In box 12, indicate the reason for the award and whether it is an interim award or posthumous award by checking the appropriate boxes.
  11. If applicable, provide the proposed presentation date in box 13.
  12. Complete the recommender's information in Part II, including name, address, title, rank, and signature.
  13. In Part III, outline the soldier's achievements in the provided bullet format, detailing specific acts or services that merit the award.
  14. Propose a citation for the award in box 21, summarizing the achievements listed.
  15. In Part IV, the intermediate authority must review and sign off on the recommendation, indicating approval or disapproval and providing comments if necessary.
  16. Finally, fill out Part V with orders data, including the name of the orders approval authority and their signature.

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