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• Misconception 1: The DA 638 form is only for awards related to valor or heroism.

This form is not limited to valor or heroism awards. It is used for various types of awards and decorations, including those for meritorious service.

• Misconception 2: The form must be completed by the individual receiving the award.

In fact, the form is typically filled out by a recommender, such as a supervisor or commanding officer, who can provide an accurate account of the individual’s achievements.

• Misconception 3: Submission of the DA 638 form guarantees an award.

Submitting the form does not guarantee that an award will be granted. The approval process involves multiple levels of review and decision-making.

• Misconception 4: The DA 638 form is not subject to privacy regulations.

The form contains personally identifiable information and is subject to privacy laws, including the Privacy Act of 1974. Disclosing this information without consent may lead to legal issues.

• Misconception 5: All awards require a separate DA 638 form.

Some awards may have specific forms or procedures, especially higher-level awards. It is essential to refer to the appropriate regulations for each type of award.

• Misconception 6: The DA 638 form does not require detailed justification.

Detailed justification is crucial. The form requires specific bullet examples of meritorious acts or service to support the award recommendation.

The DA Form 638 is a crucial document used for recommending military awards and decorations. However, it often works in conjunction with several other forms and documents that support the nomination process. Below is a list of these related documents, each serving a specific purpose in the award recommendation process.

• DA Form 4856: This is a developmental counseling form used to document counseling sessions. It may provide context for the soldier's performance and behavior leading up to the award recommendation.
• Motorcycle Bill of Sale: This document is crucial for transferring motorcycle ownership. It requires specific details such as the motorcycle's make, model, year, VIN, and both parties' information to ensure a clear and legal transaction. For more information, you can refer to All Colorado Documents.
• DA Form 67-9: Known as the Officer Evaluation Report (OER), this form evaluates an officer's performance and potential. It can help substantiate the achievements listed in the DA Form 638.
• DA Form 2166-9: This is the Non-Commissioned Officer Evaluation Report (NCOER). Similar to the OER, it assesses an NCO's performance and may be referenced to support the award recommendation.
• DA Form 1059: This form is used for academic evaluation reports, particularly for soldiers who have completed military education courses. It can highlight additional qualifications that may enhance the award nomination.
• DA Form 31: This is a Request and Authority for Leave form. If the award is being presented during a leave period, this form may be necessary to document the soldier's absence.
• DA Form 7500: This is the Army Award Recommendation form specifically for civilian awards. If a civilian is involved in the recommendation process, this form may be required.
• DA Form 2-1: The Personnel Qualification Record, this document provides a summary of a soldier's service record and qualifications, which can be beneficial when justifying an award.
• AR 600-8-22: This is the Army Regulation that governs military awards. While not a form, it provides essential guidelines and criteria for award nominations, ensuring compliance with Army standards.
• Supporting Letters: Letters from peers, supervisors, or other military personnel can provide additional testimony to the soldier's achievements. These letters can strengthen the case for the award.

Understanding these forms and documents can streamline the award recommendation process and enhance the chances of a successful nomination. Each document plays a vital role in presenting a comprehensive view of the soldier's qualifications and achievements, ultimately contributing to the recognition they deserve.

When filling out the DA 638 form, it’s important to keep a few key points in mind. Here’s a list of things you should and shouldn’t do:

• Do ensure all personal information is accurate, including name, rank, and SSN.
• Don’t leave any sections blank. Every part of the form needs to be completed.
• Do provide specific examples of achievements in the justification section.
• Don’t use vague language. Be clear and concise about the accomplishments.
• Do double-check dates for accuracy, especially the period of the award.
• Don’t forget to sign the form. An unsigned form may delay processing.
• Do review the instructions in AR 600-8-22 for any special requirements.
• Don’t submit the form without ensuring all necessary approvals are obtained.
• Do keep a copy of the completed form for your records.

1. What is the purpose of the DA 638 form?

   The DA 638 form is used to recommend individuals for military awards and decorations. It helps to document achievements and meritorious acts. The form records nominations, final actions, and maintains individual award case files. This ensures that deserving service members receive recognition for their contributions.

2. Who can fill out the DA 638 form?

   The form can be completed by any individual who is recommending a service member for an award. This could be a supervisor, peer, or any other person familiar with the service member's achievements. The recommender must provide detailed information about the nominee and justify the recommendation based on specific accomplishments.

3. What information is required on the DA 638 form?

   The form requires various pieces of information, including:

   • Name, rank, and organization of the nominee
   • Service branch
   • Reason for the award
   • Details of previous awards
   • Proposed citation and achievements

   Accurate and complete information is crucial, as it affects the processing of the award recommendation.

4. What are the types of awards that can be recommended using the DA 638 form?

   The DA 638 form is primarily used for recommending awards that are not for valor or heroism in wartime. It is suitable for many types of awards, including but not limited to achievement medals, commendation medals, and service ribbons. For awards related to valor or heroism, additional guidelines must be followed as outlined in Army Regulation 600-8-22.

5. What happens after the DA 638 form is submitted?

   Once the form is submitted, it goes through a review process. The intermediate authorities will evaluate the recommendation and either approve or disapprove it. The final decision will be documented on the form. If approved, the award will be formally issued, and the service member will receive recognition for their achievements.

6. Is personal information on the DA 638 form protected?

   Yes, the form includes a Privacy Act Statement. This means that personal information, such as Social Security numbers, is protected under the Privacy Act of 1974. Disclosure of this information is voluntary, but not providing it may delay the processing of the award recommendation.