Free Da 638 Template in PDF

The DA Form 638 is an essential document used within the military for recommending awards. However, several misconceptions surround its purpose and usage. Here are nine common misunderstandings, clarified for better understanding:

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

This form is not limited to valor or heroism awards. It is used for all types of awards, including service and achievement awards.

• Misconception 2: Anyone can submit a DA Form 638 for any soldier.

Only authorized personnel, typically those in a supervisory role, can submit this form on behalf of a soldier.

• Misconception 3: The form guarantees an award will be granted.

Submission of the DA Form 638 does not guarantee that an award will be approved. The decision is based on the merit of the nomination and the review process.

• Misconception 4: Completing the form is a simple task.

While the form may seem straightforward, it requires detailed justification and specific examples of achievements, which can be time-consuming to compile.

• Misconception 5: The DA Form 638 is not subject to review.

This form undergoes a thorough review process by multiple authorities before any award is granted, ensuring that all nominations meet the necessary criteria.

• Misconception 6: You can submit the form at any time without restrictions.

There are specific timelines and deadlines for submitting the DA Form 638, particularly if the award is for a particular event or period of service.

• Misconception 7: The form can be filled out without any supporting documentation.

Supporting documentation is often necessary to substantiate the claims made in the nomination, such as performance evaluations or witness statements.

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

In some cases, additional forms or documentation may be required depending on the type of award being recommended.

• Misconception 9: The process is the same for all branches of the military.

Different branches may have their own specific procedures and forms for recommending awards, even if they use the DA Form 638 as a standard.

Understanding these misconceptions can help ensure that the process of recommending awards is smooth and effective. Properly completing the DA Form 638 not only honors individual achievements but also upholds the integrity of military recognition.

The DA Form 638 is an essential document used for recommending individuals for military awards. However, several other forms and documents often accompany it to ensure a thorough and organized submission process. Below is a list of these documents, each serving a specific purpose in the award nomination process.

• DA Form 4187: This form is used for personnel actions, such as requests for awards, promotions, or transfers. It provides a standardized method for submitting requests and documenting actions taken.
• DA Form 1059: This form is the academic evaluation report, used to document a soldier’s performance in military training courses. It may support an award nomination by highlighting achievements during training.
• DA Form 2823: Known as the Sworn Statement, this form is used to collect witness statements or personal accounts related to the actions being recognized. It provides additional evidence to support the award nomination.
• DA Form 7500: This is the Army Achievement Medal Certificate. It is issued to recognize individual achievements and can be included with the DA Form 638 to validate the award being recommended.
• DA Form 200: The Financial Liability Investigation of Property Loss form documents the investigation of lost or damaged government property. It may be relevant if the award is related to actions taken during a property loss incident.
• DA Form 1610: This form is used for travel requests and orders. If the award is associated with a specific duty assignment or deployment, this form may provide context for the nomination.
• DA Form 3349: This is the Medical Profile form, which documents a soldier's medical conditions. It may be relevant if the award pertains to actions taken despite medical limitations.
• ATV Bill of Sale: This form is essential for the legal transfer of ownership for an All-Terrain Vehicle in New York, providing a record of the transaction between buyer and seller, and can be obtained through OnlineLawDocs.com.
• DA Form 638-1: This form serves as a supplementary document to the DA Form 638, allowing for additional recommendations or justifications for an award, particularly in complex cases.
• Recommendation Memo: A memorandum from a superior officer may accompany the DA Form 638 to provide a narrative supporting the award recommendation. It often outlines specific contributions and impacts made by the nominee.

Each of these documents plays a crucial role in the award nomination process, ensuring that all necessary information is presented clearly and comprehensively. Together, they help facilitate a smooth review and approval process for military awards.

Filling out the DA 638 form can be a straightforward process, but mistakes often occur. One common error is not providing complete names in the NAME section. It’s essential to include the last name, first name, and middle initial. Omitting any part can lead to confusion and delays in processing.

Another frequent mistake is neglecting to include the SSN. This number is crucial for identifying the individual being nominated. Without it, the application may be incomplete, causing unnecessary hold-ups.

Many people also forget to specify the PERIOD OF AWARD. This section should clearly state the start and end dates of the service being recognized. Leaving this blank can lead to misunderstandings about the timeframe of the achievements.

In the REASON FOR AWARD section, some individuals provide vague descriptions. Instead, it’s important to be specific about the achievements that warrant the award. Clear and detailed bullet points help reviewers understand the significance of the nominee’s actions.

Another area where mistakes often happen is in the RECOMMENDED AWARD section. People sometimes check the wrong box or fail to indicate the type of award being recommended. This oversight can lead to confusion and may delay approval.

Additionally, the INTERIM AWARD question is often mishandled. If the answer is "yes," it’s crucial to provide the date the award was given. Failing to do so can result in processing delays.

Some individuals neglect to sign the form. The SIGNATURE section is vital for validating the submission. Without a signature, the form may be considered incomplete and could be rejected.

It's also important to ensure that all dates are formatted correctly. Dates should follow the YYYYMMDD format. Mistakes in date formatting can lead to confusion and further delays in the award process.

Lastly, some people forget to double-check the entire form before submission. A thorough review can catch errors and omissions, ensuring that the application is complete and accurate. Taking the time to verify all information can make a significant difference in the processing of the award.