Printable Da 638 Form in PDF

The DA Form 638 is a critical document used for recommending awards within the military. It serves to document individual nominations and the actions taken regarding those nominations. Several other forms and documents often accompany the DA Form 638 to ensure a comprehensive and organized award process. Below is a list of these documents, each described briefly.

• DA Form 4187: This form is used for personnel actions, including requests for awards and decorations. It provides a structured way to submit changes in a soldier's status or to initiate actions that may affect their eligibility for awards.
• DA Form 1059: This form is utilized to document the completion of military training courses. It can be relevant in award recommendations, particularly when the training is directly related to the achievements for which the award is being sought.
• DA Form 7500: This document is known as the "Award Recommendation for Civilian Employees." While it primarily targets civilian personnel, it may be referenced in conjunction with military award recommendations to highlight contributions from civilian counterparts.
• Invoice Form: This document can significantly enhance the efficiency of the award process by ensuring that all related expenses and criteria are transparent and justified, similar to how the legalpdfdocs.com provides templates for invoice creation.
• DA Form 2823: This is a sworn statement form used to gather personal accounts of events leading to the award recommendation. It provides firsthand accounts that can support the justification for the award.
• DA Form 3355: This form is the "Promotion Recommendation Form." It may be included in award packets to show a soldier's overall performance and potential, which can strengthen the case for an award.
• AR 600-8-22: This Army Regulation outlines policies and procedures for military awards and decorations. It serves as a reference guide for those preparing award recommendations and ensures compliance with established guidelines.

These documents work together with the DA Form 638 to facilitate a thorough and accurate award recommendation process. Proper completion and submission of all relevant forms help ensure that deserving individuals receive recognition for their service and achievements.

• DA Form 1256: This form is used for recommending an award for a service member. Like the DA 638, it requires detailed justification for the award and includes sections for the recommender's information.

• DA Form 2406: This document serves as a performance evaluation for soldiers. Similar to the DA 638, it assesses achievements and contributions, but focuses on overall performance rather than specific awards.

• Durable Power of Attorney - In legal contexts, a Durable Power of Attorney serves a purpose analogous to military recognition forms, allowing individuals to assign authority to another party for decision-making during incapacitation, ensuring that personal and financial affairs are managed in line with their wishes.

• DA Form 4980-14: This form is for the Army Achievement Medal. It parallels the DA 638 in that it collects information about the nominee’s accomplishments and the proposed citation for the award.

• DA Form 638-1: This was the predecessor to the DA 638. It also recommended awards and required similar information regarding the nominee and their achievements.

• DA Form 1059: This form is used for recording academic achievements in military schools. Like the DA 638, it documents accomplishments but in an educational context rather than awards.

• DA Form 67-9: This form is used for officer evaluations. It shares similarities with the DA 638 in terms of assessing an individual's performance and contributions to the Army.

• DA Form 4187: This is a personnel action request form. While it serves different purposes, it also requires detailed information and justification, akin to the DA 638.

• DD Form 214: This document summarizes a service member's military service. It is similar in that it records significant achievements, although it is used at the end of service rather than for specific awards.

Here are ten common misconceptions about the DA Form 638:

• It is only for valor awards. The DA Form 638 is used for various awards, not just those for valor or heroism. It can be used for any decoration or award as specified in Army Regulation 600-8-22.
• Personal information is mandatory. While providing personal information like SSN is encouraged for processing, disclosure is voluntary. Not providing it may delay the application.
• Only high-ranking officials can submit the form. Any soldier or their recommenders can submit the DA Form 638, regardless of rank, as long as they meet eligibility criteria.
• Once submitted, the award is guaranteed. Submission of the form does not guarantee an award. Each nomination is subject to review and approval by appropriate authorities.
• The form is only for current service members. The DA Form 638 can also be used for posthumous awards, allowing recognition even after a service member has passed.
• All awards require extensive documentation. While detailed justification is beneficial, the form can be completed with bullet examples of achievements, making it straightforward.
• The form must be submitted in person. The submission process may vary by unit, but many allow electronic submission of the DA Form 638.
• There is no deadline for submission. Each unit may have specific timelines for submitting the form, especially for award presentations, so it's important to check local guidelines.
• Only one recommendation is needed for an award. Multiple recommendations can strengthen a nomination, especially for higher-level awards.
• The DA Form 638 is the only document required. Depending on the award, additional documents may be necessary to support the nomination, such as witness statements or previous award records.

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

   The DA Form 638 is used to recommend individuals for military awards and decorations. It serves to document nominations, record final actions, and maintain individual award case files. This form is essential for ensuring that achievements and contributions are recognized appropriately within the military.

2. Who can submit a DA Form 638?

   Any member of the military or authorized personnel can submit a DA Form 638 on behalf of a service member. This includes superiors, peers, or anyone who can provide a valid recommendation based on the individual's achievements or service.

3. What information is required on the form?

   The form requires various details, including the service member's name, rank, organization, and branch of service. Additionally, it asks for the reason for the award, previous awards, and specific achievements that justify the nomination. Accurate information is crucial to avoid delays in processing.

4. What are the different parts of the DA Form 638?

   The form consists of several parts:

   • Part I: Soldier Data
   • Part II: Recommender Data
   • Part III: Justification and Citation Data
   • Part IV: Recommendations/Approval/Disapproval
   • Part V: Orders Data

   Each part serves a specific purpose in documenting the nomination process and ensuring that all necessary information is collected.

5. What happens if I do not provide identifying information?

   While providing identifying information is voluntary, failing to do so may result in delays in processing the application. It is best to include all required details to ensure a smooth and timely review of the award recommendation.

6. Can the DA Form 638 be used for posthumous awards?

   Yes, the DA Form 638 can be used to recommend posthumous awards. The form includes a specific section to indicate if the award is being recommended posthumously, ensuring that the service member's contributions are recognized even after their passing.

7. Is there a specific timeline for submitting the DA Form 638?

   While there is no strict deadline, it is advisable to submit the form as soon as possible after the qualifying achievements have occurred. Timely submissions help ensure that the award process is completed efficiently and that the service member receives recognition in a timely manner.

8. How is the information on the DA Form 638 protected?

   The DA Form 638 is subject to the Privacy Act, which means that the personal information contained within it is protected. The information may be disclosed to authorized parties, but care is taken to ensure that it is handled responsibly and in accordance with privacy regulations.