5 Ways To Fill Out Da Form 2173 Correctly

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Filling out a DA Form 2173 can be a daunting task, especially for those who are new to the military or are not familiar with the paperwork process. However, it's essential to get it right to avoid any delays or issues with your career. In this article, we will guide you through the process of filling out a DA Form 2173 correctly, highlighting the most critical sections and providing tips to ensure accuracy.

Understanding the DA Form 2173

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of filling out the form, it's essential to understand what it's used for. The DA Form 2173, also known as the "Extension of Enlistment to Retain Critical Skills" form, is used to request an extension of enlistment for soldiers who possess critical skills that are essential to the Army. The form is typically used for soldiers who are nearing the end of their enlistment contract and are eligible for reenlistment.

Section 1: Soldier's Information

The first section of the DA Form 2173 requires you to provide your personal information, including your name, social security number, and rank. This section is straightforward, but it's crucial to ensure that all the information is accurate and up-to-date.

Section 2: Extension Request

In this section, you will need to specify the type of extension you are requesting. There are two types of extensions: a regular extension and an indefinite extension. A regular extension is for a specific period, usually 12-36 months, while an indefinite extension is for an unspecified period. You will also need to provide the reason for your extension request.

Section 3: Justification

This section requires you to provide a justification for your extension request. You will need to explain why you want to extend your enlistment and how it will benefit the Army. This section should be concise and to the point, highlighting your critical skills and how they will be utilized.

Section 4: Certification

In this section, your unit commander will need to certify that you possess critical skills and that your extension is in the best interest of the Army. Your commander will also need to provide their signature and date.

Tips for Section 4

• Ensure that your commander is aware of your extension request and has approved it before submitting the form.
• Provide your commander with all the necessary documentation, including your justification and any supporting evidence.

Section 5: Additional Information

This section provides additional space for any supporting documentation or evidence that may be relevant to your extension request. This could include letters of recommendation, training certificates, or any other documentation that highlights your critical skills.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When filling out a DA Form 2173, there are several common mistakes to avoid:

• Inaccurate or incomplete information
• Failure to obtain commander's certification
• Insufficient justification for extension request
• Failure to provide supporting documentation

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your DA Form 2173 is filled out correctly and that your extension request is processed smoothly.

Conclusion

Filling out a DA Form 2173 requires attention to detail and a clear understanding of the process. By following the tips and guidelines outlined in this article, you can ensure that your form is filled out correctly and that your extension request is approved. Remember to double-check your information, provide a clear justification, and obtain your commander's certification to avoid any delays or issues.

We encourage you to share your experiences and tips for filling out a DA Form 2173 in the comments below. If you have any questions or need further clarification, please don't hesitate to ask.