Fill in Your Da 638 Form

The DA Form 638 is essential for recommending awards within the military. However, it is often accompanied by several other forms and documents that help support the nomination process. Each of these documents plays a crucial role in ensuring that the award process is thorough and transparent.

• DA Form 4991: This form is used to document the service member's deployment history. It provides details about the locations, dates, and nature of the service performed. This information is vital for evaluating the context of the award recommendation.
• DA Form 4187: This is the official request for personnel action. It may be necessary to update a service member's record or to initiate a change in their status. It helps ensure that all relevant changes are reflected in the service member's file before an award is processed.
• IRS W-9 Form: This document is essential for providing taxpayer identification information and is crucial for accurate tax reporting; learn more with our Templates and Guide.
• DA Form 1059: This form records the completion of training courses and schools. It is particularly important when the award is related to skills or knowledge gained through formal military education. The achievements documented here can enhance the justification for the award.
• Recommendation Letters: These are often included to provide personal testimonials or endorsements from peers, superiors, or others who can attest to the service member's qualifications for the award. They add a personal touch and can highlight specific achievements that may not be fully captured in the DA Form 638.

In summary, while the DA Form 638 is central to the award recommendation process, these additional documents provide a comprehensive view of the service member's qualifications and achievements. Together, they contribute to a well-rounded and substantiated nomination, ensuring that deserving individuals receive the recognition they have earned.

Filling out the DA Form 638 is a critical step in the process of recommending someone for an award. To ensure that the application is completed correctly and efficiently, here are some important dos and don’ts to keep in mind.

• Do ensure all personal information is accurate. This includes the name, rank, and organization of the individual being recommended.
• Do provide specific examples of achievements. Use bullet points to highlight meritorious acts or service that justify the award.
• Do double-check dates. Ensure that the period of service and proposed presentation dates are correct and formatted properly.
• Do include all relevant signatures. Ensure that the form is signed by the appropriate authorities to avoid delays.

• Don’t leave any sections blank. Incomplete forms may result in processing delays or disapproval.
• Don’t use vague language. Specificity is key; general statements do not convey the significance of the accomplishments.
• Don’t overlook the privacy statement. Understand that the information provided may be shared outside of the Department of Defense.
• Don’t forget to keep a copy of the completed form for your records. This can be helpful for future reference or follow-up.

1. What is the DA Form 638?

   The DA Form 638, officially titled "Recommendation for Award," is a document used by the U.S. Army to recommend individuals for various awards and decorations. This form facilitates the nomination process, ensuring that deserving service members receive recognition for their achievements and contributions.

2. Who can use the DA Form 638?

   This form is intended for use by military personnel, including service members and their superiors, who wish to recommend an individual for an award. It is essential that the person completing the form has knowledge of the nominee's accomplishments and service record.

3. What types of awards can be recommended using this form?

   The DA Form 638 can be used to recommend awards for valor, heroism, and service achievements. It is applicable for all awards higher than the Army Achievement Medal (AAM), as well as for various other commendations as specified in Army Regulation 600-8-22.

4. What information is required on the DA Form 638?

   The form requires several key pieces of information, including:

   • Name, rank, and organization of the nominee
   • Social Security Number (SSN)
   • Details about previous awards
   • The reason for the award and the specific achievements that justify the recommendation
   • Information about the recommender, including their relationship to the nominee
5. What is the significance of the Privacy Act Statement on the DA Form 638?

   The Privacy Act Statement outlines the authority under which the form is collected and explains how personal information will be used. It emphasizes that while providing personal information is voluntary, not doing so may delay the processing of the award recommendation.

6. How should achievements be documented on the form?

   When documenting achievements, it is crucial to provide specific examples of meritorious acts or service. Bullet points are often used to clearly highlight each achievement, making it easier for reviewers to assess the nominee's qualifications for the award.

7. What happens after the DA Form 638 is submitted?

   Once the form is submitted, it undergoes a review process. Various authorities will evaluate the recommendation, which may include intermediate authorities and an approval authority. Each authority will either approve or disapprove the recommendation, and the final decision will be documented on the form.

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

   Yes, the DA Form 638 can be used to recommend posthumous awards. In such cases, it is important to indicate this on the form, as there may be additional considerations and procedures involved in honoring a deceased service member.

9. Where can I find the DA Form 638?

   The DA Form 638 can typically be found on the official Army Publishing Directorate website or through military administrative offices. It is important to ensure that you are using the most current version of the form, as updates may occur over time.