For decorations and badges, when is a DA 638 or permanent orders not required?

For decorations and badges, when is a DA 638 or permanent orders not required?

• A. DA 638 or permanent orders
• B. Official photo record
• C. Unit awards letter
• D. Commander’s memo

Answer: (A)

When documenting decorations and badges, the usual method is to use a formal authorization such as DA Form 638 and issuance in permanent orders. But there are situations where the award is already captured through other approved records, so a separate DA 638 or permanent orders isn’t required. Examples of those alternative records include an official photo record, a unit awards letter, or a commander’s memo. If one of these documents clearly shows the award has been approved for the individual, it provides the official recognition without needing to generate a new DA 638 or issue permanent orders. In practice, these alternative records serve as acceptable proof of the award in place of the standard DA 638/permanent orders process.

When documenting decorations and badges, the usual method is to use a formal authorization such as DA Form 638 and issuance in permanent orders. But there are situations where the award is already captured through other approved records, so a separate DA 638 or permanent orders isn’t required. Examples of those alternative records include an official photo record, a unit awards letter, or a commander’s memo. If one of these documents clearly shows the award has been approved for the individual, it provides the official recognition without needing to generate a new DA 638 or issue permanent orders. In practice, these alternative records serve as acceptable proof of the award in place of the standard DA 638/permanent orders process.