Fill Out Your Da 638 Form

Understanding the DA Form 638 is crucial for those involved in military awards and decorations. However, several misconceptions about this form can lead to confusion. Below are four common misconceptions, along with clarifications to help clear up any misunderstandings.

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

This is not accurate. While the form is indeed used for valor or heroism awards, it is also applicable for various other decorations and awards. It serves as a recommendation form for all types of military awards, not just those given for acts of valor.

• Misconception 2: Completing the form guarantees an award will be granted.

Submitting a DA Form 638 does not guarantee that an award will be approved. The form is a recommendation that must undergo review and approval by the appropriate authorities. The final decision is based on the merit of the achievements listed and adherence to military regulations.

• Misconception 3: Personal information provided on the form is not protected.

In reality, the form includes a Privacy Act Statement, which outlines how personal information will be handled. While some information may be disclosed to certain organizations, the protection of personally identifiable information is a priority, and disclosure is voluntary.

• Misconception 4: The DA Form 638 can only be submitted by the awardee.

This is incorrect. Any individual who is knowledgeable about the awardee’s accomplishments can submit the form. This includes peers, supervisors, or anyone who can provide detailed justification for the award. The focus is on the achievements of the individual being nominated, not solely on who submits the form.

When filling out the DA 638 form, follow these guidelines to ensure accuracy and efficiency.

• Do provide complete and accurate information in all sections. Missing details can delay processing.
• Do use specific examples of achievements when justifying the award. This clarity strengthens the nomination.
• Do check for any special instructions outlined in AR 600-8-22, especially for higher awards.
• Do ensure that the proposed presentation date is realistic and allows for processing time.
• Do review the form thoroughly before submission to catch any errors or omissions.

• Don't submit the form without verifying the eligibility of the individual for the award.
• Don't provide vague or generalized statements in the justification section. Specificity is key.
• Don't overlook the importance of signatures. Ensure all required signatures are present.
• Don't forget to include the correct dates in the appropriate format (YYYYMMDD).
• Don't assume that previous awards are automatically known. List them clearly on the form.

Filling out the DA Form 638 can be a straightforward process, but several common mistakes can hinder the successful submission of the form. One frequent error is failing to provide complete and accurate information in the soldier data section. Each field, such as name, rank, and organization, must be filled out precisely. Missing or incorrect information can delay the award process.

Another mistake often made is neglecting to specify the period of the award. The form requires clear start and end dates for the achievements being recognized. Without this information, the reviewing authority may have difficulty assessing the eligibility of the award.

Many individuals also overlook the importance of detailing specific achievements in the justification and citation data section. Vague descriptions fail to convey the significance of the soldier’s actions. Providing concrete examples helps to illustrate why the award is warranted.

In addition, some people mistakenly indicate the wrong type of award in section 10. It is crucial to ensure that the recommended award aligns with the soldier's accomplishments and service. Incorrect classifications can lead to disapproval or unnecessary complications.

Another common issue is the failure to secure the necessary signatures. Each section of the form requires appropriate approvals from various authorities. Without these signatures, the form cannot be processed, and the award may be delayed.

Individuals sometimes forget to check the box for interim or posthumous awards when applicable. This oversight can lead to confusion regarding the nature of the award and its urgency. Properly indicating these statuses ensures that the form is processed in alignment with the specific circumstances.

Additionally, some submitters neglect to review the entire form for accuracy before submission. Typos or incomplete sections can result in the rejection of the application. A thorough review helps to catch any errors that may have been overlooked during the initial filling out of the form.

Lastly, individuals often fail to adhere to the submission guidelines outlined in AR 600-8-22. Each award has specific criteria and procedures that must be followed. Ignoring these guidelines can lead to disapproval or delays in processing.

By being aware of these common mistakes and taking the necessary steps to avoid them, individuals can streamline the process of filling out the DA Form 638 and improve the likelihood of a successful award recommendation.

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

• Purpose of the Form: The DA 638 form is used to recommend individuals for awards and decorations. It helps to record the final action and maintain individual award case files.
• Personal Information: Ensure that all personal details, including the nominee's name, rank, and service branch, are accurately filled out in Part I.
• Achievements Section: Provide specific examples of meritorious acts or services in the justification section. Clear and concise bullet points will strengthen the nomination.
• Approval Process: The form must go through various levels of approval. Each authority must sign and date the form to confirm eligibility and agreement with the recommendations.
• Privacy Considerations: Disclosure of personal information is voluntary, but incomplete information may delay the processing of the application. Be mindful of what is shared.
• Submission Timing: Pay attention to deadlines for submission. Timely filing can impact the award presentation date and overall recognition.