Filling out a DA Form 4700, also known as the "Military Personnel Service Record," is a crucial task for military personnel, as it serves as a comprehensive record of their service history, performance evaluations, and awards. Accurately and thoroughly completing this form is essential for various purposes, including promotion consideration, retirement, and veteran benefits. In this article, we will guide you through the process of filling out a DA Form 4700, highlighting five key ways to ensure your form is complete and accurate.
Understanding the DA Form 4700
The DA Form 4700 is a multipurpose document used to record various aspects of a military member's career, including their assignments, training, education, performance evaluations, and awards. It is essential to maintain an accurate and up-to-date record, as this form serves as a critical document for personnel actions and benefits.
Way 1: Gather Required Documents and Information
Before starting to fill out the DA Form 4700, gather all required documents and information. These may include:
- Previous performance evaluations (DA Form 2166-9-1)
- Awards and decorations (DA Form 638)
- Training and education records (DA Form 87)
- Assignment and deployment records (DA Form 4177)
- Medical records (DD Form 2697)
Having these documents readily available will help ensure that your DA Form 4700 is complete and accurate.
Organize Your Records
To avoid errors or omissions, organize your records chronologically, with the most recent events or evaluations first. This will help you to easily locate and reference specific information when filling out the form.
Way 2: Fill Out Section I: Identification
Section I of the DA Form 4700 requires your identification information, including:
- Name
- Social Security number
- Date of birth
- Military service number
- Branch of service
- Component (Active, Reserve, or National Guard)
Ensure that this information is accurate and up-to-date, as it will be used to identify you throughout your military career.
Verify Your Information
Double-check your identification information to ensure it is correct. If you have changed your name, date of birth, or Social Security number, update your records accordingly.
Way 3: Complete Section II: Assignments and Deployments
Section II of the DA Form 4700 requires a detailed record of your assignments and deployments, including:
- Unit and installation
- Duty position and title
- Dates of assignment and departure
- Deployment location and dates
Accurately record your assignments and deployments, as this information is essential for calculating your time in service, promotion points, and veteran benefits.
Use Standardized Formats
When recording your assignments and deployments, use standardized formats for dates and locations. This will help ensure consistency and accuracy throughout your record.
Way 4: Document Performance Evaluations and Awards
Section III of the DA Form 4700 requires a record of your performance evaluations, including:
- Evaluation dates and ratings
- Duty position and unit
- Comments and recommendations
Additionally, record any awards and decorations you have received, including:
- Award or decoration name
- Date of award
- Citation or narrative
Accurately documenting your performance evaluations and awards is crucial for promotion consideration and veteran benefits.
Obtain Copies of Evaluations and Awards
Ensure that you have copies of your performance evaluations and awards, as these documents may be required for future reference.
Way 5: Review and Verify Your Record
After completing the DA Form 4700, review and verify your record for accuracy and completeness. Check for:
- Errors or omissions
- Incomplete or missing information
- Inconsistencies or discrepancies
Ensure that your record is accurate and up-to-date, as it will serve as a critical document for personnel actions and benefits.
Seek Assistance if Needed
If you are unsure about any aspect of the DA Form 4700 or need assistance, consult with your unit's personnel office or a military records specialist.
By following these five ways to fill out a DA Form 4700, you can ensure that your military personnel record is accurate, complete, and up-to-date. Remember to review and verify your record regularly to ensure its accuracy and completeness.
What is the purpose of the DA Form 4700?
+The DA Form 4700 serves as a comprehensive record of a military member's service history, performance evaluations, and awards.
What documents do I need to gather before filling out the DA Form 4700?
+Required documents may include previous performance evaluations, awards and decorations, training and education records, assignment and deployment records, and medical records.
How often should I review and verify my DA Form 4700?
+Regularly review and verify your record to ensure its accuracy and completeness, ideally during performance evaluations, assignments, and deployments.
We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive guide on filling out a DA Form 4700. If you have any further questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to comment below. Share this article with your fellow military personnel to ensure they are also maintaining accurate and up-to-date records.