Fill in Your Da 638 Form

The DA Form 638 is a crucial document used in the military to recommend individuals for awards and decorations. Alongside this form, several other documents are often required to support the nomination process. Each of these forms serves a specific purpose in ensuring that the award process is thorough and justified. Below is a list of commonly used forms and documents that accompany the DA Form 638.

• DA Form 1: This is the Officer Record Brief, which provides a summary of an officer's career, including assignments, education, and awards. It helps in evaluating the qualifications of the nominee.
• DA Form 1059: The Academic Evaluation Report is used to document an individual’s performance during military education courses. It can be relevant when assessing qualifications for certain awards.
• DA Form 4187: This form is used for personnel actions, such as changes in duty status or awards. It may accompany the DA Form 638 to document any relevant changes in the soldier's status.
• DA Form 2-1: This is the Personnel Qualification Record, which contains a soldier's qualifications and training history. It provides context for the award nomination.
• DA Form 2406: The Counseling Form is used to document counseling sessions. It may be included to show the soldier's development and performance leading up to the award recommendation.
• DA Form 7501: This is the Military Awards and Decorations Report, which provides a comprehensive list of a soldier’s awards and decorations. It helps verify previous recognitions.
• DA Form 7150: The Award Recommendation Form is a supplementary document that provides additional details about the achievements and contributions of the nominee.
• DA Form 638-1: This is an older version of the DA Form 638. While it has been replaced, it may still be referenced in some cases for historical context.
• Supporting Letters: Letters from peers, superiors, or other relevant individuals can provide personal testimonies regarding the nominee's achievements and character, adding weight to the recommendation.

These forms and documents collectively contribute to a comprehensive evaluation of a soldier's qualifications for an award. Each piece of information helps to paint a fuller picture of the individual’s service and accomplishments, ensuring that deserving candidates are recognized appropriately.

When filling out the DA Form 638, there are several important practices to keep in mind. Here’s a list of things you should and shouldn’t do:

• Do ensure all personal information is accurate, including names, ranks, and service numbers.
• Do provide specific examples of achievements in the justification section to strengthen the nomination.
• Do follow the guidelines outlined in AR 600-8-22 for proper formatting and required information.
• Do double-check for any required signatures before submitting the form.

• Don't leave any sections blank; incomplete forms can delay processing.
• Don't use vague language; clarity is key when describing achievements.
• Don't forget to check for spelling errors; they can detract from the professionalism of the submission.
• Don't submit the form without ensuring that all necessary documentation is attached.