Understanding Da Form 137-2: A Comprehensive Guide

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As a military member, you're likely familiar with the vast array of forms and paperwork that come with serving in the armed forces. One such form is the DA Form 137-2, also known as the "Permanent Orders - Amendment to Reserve Component Commissioned Officer's Record of Emergency Data and/or Officer Record Brief." In this article, we'll delve into the intricacies of this form, its purpose, and how to accurately complete it.

What is the DA Form 137-2?

The DA Form 137-2 is a document used by the US Army to record and update the personal and professional information of Reserve Component Commissioned Officers. This form is a crucial tool for the military to maintain accurate and up-to-date records of its personnel.

Purpose of the DA Form 137-2

The primary purpose of the DA Form 137-2 is to collect and update information about Reserve Component Commissioned Officers. This includes personal details, such as name, address, and contact information, as well as professional details, such as education, training, and duty assignments. The form also serves as a means to record any changes or amendments to an officer's records.

Components of the DA Form 137-2

The DA Form 137-2 consists of several sections, each designed to collect specific information about the officer.

Section 1: Identification Information

This section requires the officer's personal details, including:

• Name
• Social Security Number
• Date of birth
• Address
• Phone number
• Email address

Section 2: Emergency Data

This section collects information about the officer's emergency contacts, including:

• Name and address of next of kin
• Name and address of emergency contact
• Relationship to the officer

Section 3: Officer Record Brief (ORB)

This section provides a summary of the officer's professional history, including:

• Military education and training
• Duty assignments and dates
• Awards and decorations
• Promotions and demotions

Completing the DA Form 137-2

When completing the DA Form 137-2, it's essential to ensure accuracy and attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you fill out the form correctly:

• Read the instructions carefully before starting.
• Use a black ink pen to fill out the form.
• Print or type the information clearly and legibly.
• Do not leave any sections blank; if a section does not apply, indicate "N/A" or "None."
• Ensure all dates are in the correct format (DD MMM YYYY).
• Sign and date the form in the designated area.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When filling out the DA Form 137-2, it's crucial to avoid common mistakes that can delay or invalidate the form. Some common errors to watch out for include:

• Incomplete or inaccurate information
• Illegible handwriting or typing
• Incorrect dates or formatting
• Failure to sign and date the form

Submission and Processing

Once the DA Form 137-2 is complete, it must be submitted to the officer's unit or personnel office for processing. The form will be reviewed and verified to ensure accuracy and completeness.

Timeline for Submission

The DA Form 137-2 must be submitted within a specific timeframe, usually within 30 days of any changes or updates to the officer's records.

Conclusion and Next Steps

In conclusion, the DA Form 137-2 is a critical document for Reserve Component Commissioned Officers. By understanding the purpose and components of the form, officers can ensure accurate and complete records. Remember to avoid common mistakes and submit the form within the required timeframe.

Additional Resources

For further information and guidance on completing the DA Form 137-2, officers can refer to the following resources:

• Army Regulation 600-8-104
• DA Form 137-2 instructions
• Unit personnel office

We invite you to share your experiences and insights about completing the DA Form 137-2 in the comments below. Have you encountered any challenges or difficulties when filling out this form? How did you resolve them? Share your stories and help others navigate this important process.