Da 638 Template Modify Form

Da 638 Template

The DA Form 638 is a document used to recommend individuals for military awards and decorations. This form helps ensure that achievements are recognized and properly documented within the Army. Completing this form accurately is essential for the timely processing of award nominations.

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Structure

The DA Form 638 serves as a crucial document in the military awards process, specifically designed for the recommendation of individual awards and decorations. This form is utilized to gather essential information about the service member being nominated, including their name, rank, organization, and the reason for the award. It facilitates the collection of detailed justifications for the award, allowing recommenders to highlight specific achievements and acts of valor. The form ensures compliance with Army Regulation 600-8-22, which governs military awards, and includes provisions for privacy protection under the Privacy Act. Notably, the DA Form 638 also allows for the documentation of previous awards and the proposed presentation date, enhancing the clarity of the nomination process. By capturing both the recommender's details and the necessary approvals, this form plays a vital role in recognizing the contributions of military personnel, ensuring that deserving individuals receive the honors they have earned.

Instructions on How to Fill Out Da 638

After gathering all necessary information, proceed to fill out the DA 638 form. This form is essential for nominating an individual for an award or decoration within the military. Ensure that all sections are completed accurately to avoid delays in processing.

  1. Part I - Soldier Data:
    • Enter the soldier's name (Last, First, Middle Initial) in box 1.
    • Provide the soldier's rank in box 5.
    • Fill in the soldier's Social Security Number (SSN) in box 6.
    • Indicate the organization in box 7.
    • Specify the branch of service in box 9.
    • List any previous awards in box 8.
    • State the reason for the award in box 12.
    • Fill in the period of the award in boxes 11a (From) and 11b (To).
    • Complete the interim award and posthumous sections in boxes 12a, 12b, and 12c as applicable.
    • Provide the proposed presentation date in box 13.
  2. Part II - Recommender Data:
    • Enter the recommender's name in box 14.
    • Provide the recommender's title/position in box 16.
    • Fill in the recommender's address in box 15.
    • Indicate the recommender's rank in box 17.
    • Sign in box 19.
  3. Part III - Justification and Citation Data:
    • List achievements in boxes 20 (Achievement #1 to Achievement #4).
    • Draft the proposed citation in box 21.
  4. Part IV - Recommendations/Approval/Disapproval:
    • Certify eligibility and correctness of information in box 22.
    • Fill in the intermediate authority's details in boxes 22a to 22b.
    • Complete the approval or disapproval sections in boxes 24 and 26 as necessary.
  5. Part V - Orders Data:
    • Provide orders issuing HQ in box 27a.
    • Fill in the name of orders approval authority in box 28a.
    • Complete the permanent order number in box 27b.
    • Indicate the approved award and date in boxes 29 and 30.

Key takeaways

When filling out and using the DA Form 638, there are several important aspects to keep in mind to ensure a smooth process for award nominations.

  • Accurate Information is Crucial: Ensure that all personal details, including the nominee's name, rank, and organization, are filled out correctly. Mistakes can delay the processing of the award.
  • Provide Detailed Justification: Use specific examples of achievements and meritorious acts in the justification section. Clear and compelling descriptions help reviewers understand the significance of the nominee's contributions.
  • Understand Privacy Considerations: Personal information provided on the form is voluntary, but omitting details may slow down the application process. Familiarize yourself with the Privacy Act to know how this information will be used.
  • Follow Submission Guidelines: Adhere to the instructions outlined in AR 600-8-22. This includes knowing the appropriate channels for submission and any special instructions for different types of awards.

Documents used along the form

The DA Form 638 is a critical document used for recommending military awards. It serves as a formal request for recognition of an individual's achievements and contributions. Alongside this form, several other documents may be required to ensure a comprehensive submission. Here’s a list of related forms and documents that often accompany the DA Form 638:

  • DA Form 4991: This form is used to document the eligibility of an individual for certain awards, particularly those related to service in combat or operations. It provides necessary details about the soldier’s service history.
  • DA Form 1059: This is the Academic Evaluation Report. It is used to evaluate and document a soldier's performance in military education courses, which can be relevant for certain awards.
  • DA Form 4187: The Personnel Action Form is utilized for documenting various personnel actions, including changes in duty status or awards. It helps track the soldier's career progression.
  • DD Form 214: This form is issued upon a service member's retirement, separation, or discharge. It summarizes a soldier's service record and is often referenced in award applications.
  • DA Form 7500: This form serves as a recommendation for a soldier’s award based on their performance in a specific event or duty. It provides additional context to the achievements listed on the DA Form 638.
  • DA Form 3355: The Promotion Point Worksheet is used to calculate promotion points based on a soldier's achievements, which can influence their eligibility for certain awards.
  • DA Form 4856: This is a Developmental Counseling Form. It documents counseling sessions that may highlight a soldier's accomplishments or areas for improvement relevant to award considerations.
  • AR 600-8-22: This Army Regulation outlines the policies and procedures for military awards and decorations. It serves as a reference to ensure compliance with award criteria.
  • Supporting Letters: Letters from superiors or peers can be included to provide testimonials about the soldier’s achievements. These letters add weight to the recommendation and offer personal insights.

Each of these documents plays a vital role in the award recommendation process. Together, they create a well-rounded case for recognition, ensuring that all relevant information is presented clearly and effectively.

Sample - Da 638 Form

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the DA 638 form, attention to detail is crucial. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

  • Do ensure all personal information is accurate, including names and Social Security Numbers.
  • Don't leave any required fields blank; incomplete forms can lead to processing delays.
  • Do provide specific examples of achievements in the justification section to strengthen the nomination.
  • Don't use vague language; clarity in your descriptions helps reviewers understand the significance of the achievements.
  • Do check for proper signatures and dates in all relevant sections before submission.
  • Don't submit the form without reviewing it for spelling and grammatical errors, as this can reflect poorly on the nomination.
  • Do follow the specific guidelines outlined in AR 600-8-22 to ensure compliance with military standards.
  • Don't forget to keep a copy of the completed form for your records, as it may be needed for future reference.