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The DA Form 638 is a vital document used by the U.S. Army for recommending awards and decorations for service members. This form serves multiple purposes, including the consideration of individual nominations, recording final actions, and maintaining award case files. It is essential for documenting achievements and meritorious acts that warrant recognition. The form requires specific information, such as the soldier's name, rank, organization, and the reason for the award. Additionally, it must include details about previous awards and the period of service being recognized. The process also involves multiple levels of review and approval, ensuring that each recommendation is thoroughly vetted. Notably, the DA Form 638 adheres to privacy regulations, allowing for the disclosure of information to public and private organizations involved in awarding honors. Understanding how to properly complete and submit this form is crucial for anyone involved in the awards process within the Army.

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Steps to Using Da 638

Filling out the DA 638 form requires attention to detail and accuracy. This form is essential for recommending awards and decorations for military personnel. Ensure that all information is complete and correct to avoid delays in processing.

  1. Begin with Part I - Soldier Data.
  2. In section 1, enter the soldier's name (Last, First, Middle Initial).
  3. Fill in the soldier's rank in section 5.
  4. Provide the soldier's Social Security Number (SSN) in section 6.
  5. In section 2, indicate the date (YYYYMMDD).
  6. Enter the organization in section 7.
  7. Specify the branch of service in section 9.
  8. List any previous awards in section 8.
  9. In section 10, write the recommended award.
  10. Complete the period of the award in sections 11a and 11b (From and To).
  11. Indicate the reason for the award in section 12.
  12. Answer whether it is an interim award in section 12b (Yes or No).
  13. Indicate if the award is posthumous in section 12c (Yes or No).
  14. If applicable, provide the proposed presentation date in section 13 (YYYYMMDD).
  15. Proceed to Part II - Recommender Data.
  16. Fill in your name in section 14 (Last, First, Middle Initial).
  17. Provide your title or position in section 16.
  18. Enter your address in section 15.
  19. List your rank in section 17.
  20. Sign the form in section 19.
  21. Move to Part III - Justification and Citation Data.
  22. Detail achievements in section 20, using bullet points for clarity.
  23. Draft the proposed citation in section 21.
  24. Next, complete Part IV - Recommendations/Approval/Disapproval.
  25. Certify eligibility in section 22.
  26. Provide the signature and date in section 22a and 22b.
  27. Continue with recommendations from intermediate authorities in sections 24 and 25.
  28. Finally, complete Part V - Orders Data.
  29. Fill in the orders issuing HQ in section 27a.
  30. Provide the name of the orders approval authority in section 28a.
  31. Sign and date where required.

Key takeaways

Here are key takeaways for filling out and using the DA 638 form:

  • Purpose: The DA 638 is used to recommend individuals for military awards and decorations.
  • Eligibility: Ensure the individual meets the eligibility criteria outlined in AR 600-8-22.
  • Personal Information: Complete all personal data fields accurately, including name, rank, and SSN.
  • Achievements: Provide specific bullet examples of meritorious acts or service in the justification section.
  • Presentation Date: If applicable, indicate the proposed date for the award presentation.
  • Signatures Required: Obtain necessary signatures from recommenders and approving authorities.
  • Disclosure: Understand that personal information may be disclosed under the Privacy Act.
  • Processing Time: Delays may occur if information is incomplete or inaccurate.
  • Interim Awards: Indicate if the award is interim or posthumous in the appropriate sections.
  • Final Review: Review the entire form for accuracy before submission to prevent processing issues.

Misconceptions

  • Misconception 1: The DA Form 638 is only for valor or heroic acts.

    This form is often misunderstood as being exclusive to nominations for acts of valor or heroism. In reality, it is used for a wide range of awards and decorations, not just those involving extraordinary actions. It can be utilized for various types of service recognition, including meritorious service and achievement awards.

  • Misconception 2: Completing the form is a complex process.

    Many believe that filling out the DA Form 638 is overly complicated. While it does require specific information, the structure is straightforward. By following the outlined sections and providing clear details about the service member’s achievements, the process can be manageable.

  • Misconception 3: Personal information is mandatory for processing.

    Some individuals think that providing personal information, such as Social Security Numbers, is mandatory. While it is true that this information helps in processing the application, it is technically voluntary. However, omitting it may lead to delays in processing the award.

  • Misconception 4: The form is only relevant during wartime.

    This form is often perceived as applicable only in wartime scenarios. In fact, it serves an important purpose during peacetime as well. Awards for outstanding service, achievements, and contributions can be recognized at any time, making the DA Form 638 relevant in various contexts.

Preview - Da 638 Form

Document Specs

Fact Name Description
Form Purpose The DA 638 form is used to recommend individuals for military awards and decorations.
Governing Regulation This form is governed by Army Regulation 600-8-22, which outlines military awards.
Privacy Act Statement The form includes a Privacy Act Statement to protect personal information submitted.
Information Disclosure Information may be disclosed to organizations that grant or publicize awards.
Eligibility Certification Recommenders must certify that the individual is eligible for the award.
Previous Editions The DA 638 form, revised in June 2017, replaces previous editions.
Signature Requirement Signatures from both the recommender and approval authority are required.
Interim Awards The form allows for the indication of interim awards and posthumous awards.
Achievements Section Specific examples of achievements must be listed to justify the award.
Presentation Date A proposed presentation date for the award can be included in the form.