Definition and Purpose of the DA Form 4187
The DA Form 4187, also known as the Personnel Action Request (PAR), is a critical document used within the U.S. Army. This form enables soldiers to request and document various personnel-related actions. It serves as an official authorization for actions such as leave requests, name changes, ID card updates, and special training applications. The DA Form 4187 is essential for ensuring compliance with Army regulations and requires approval from a soldier's commander or an authorized representative.
Administrative Changes and Their Importance
One of the primary uses of the DA Form 4187 is to facilitate administrative changes. These changes can include:
- Name Changes: Soldiers may need to update their name due to marriage or other legal reasons.
- Social Security Number Updates: Corrections to Social Security numbers are crucial for accurate record-keeping.
- Date of Birth Corrections: Ensuring the correct date of birth is vital for identity verification and benefits eligibility.
Each of these changes requires careful documentation to maintain accurate personnel records and ensure that soldiers receive the correct entitlements and benefits.
Leave and Pass Requests
The DA Form 4187 is also utilized for requesting various types of leave or passes. This includes:
- Annual Leave: Soldiers can request time off for personal reasons.
- Sick Leave: In cases of illness, soldiers can document their need for sick leave.
- Emergency Leave: Requests for emergency leave must be substantiated with appropriate documentation.
Properly submitting this form ensures that leave requests are processed efficiently, allowing soldiers to manage their personal affairs without unnecessary delays.
Training Applications and Special Schools
The DA Form 4187 is essential for soldiers applying for specialized training programs. This includes:
- Special Forces Training: Soldiers seeking to join elite units must submit this form to initiate the application process.
- Airborne School: The form is used to request attendance at airborne training.
- Officer Candidate School (OCS): Interested soldiers must complete the DA Form 4187 to apply for OCS.
Submitting the form correctly is crucial for soldiers aspiring to enhance their skills and advance their military careers.
Reassignment Requests and Management
Another important function of the DA Form 4187 is managing reassignment requests. This can involve:
- Reassignment Applications: Soldiers may request a transfer to a different duty station for personal or professional reasons.
- Married Army Couples Assignments: The form helps manage assignments for couples serving in the Army, ensuring they are stationed together when possible.
These requests require careful consideration and approval from leadership to ensure operational readiness and personnel welfare.
Special Pay and Allowances Requests
Soldiers can use the DA Form 4187 to apply for special pay or allowances. This includes:
- Hazardous Duty Pay: Soldiers performing duties in dangerous conditions may request additional compensation.
- Family Separation Allowance: This allowance is available for soldiers who are separated from their families due to duty assignments.
Proper documentation through the DA Form 4187 is essential for receiving these entitlements, which can significantly impact a soldier's financial well-being.
Changes in Duty Status
The DA Form 4187 is also used to document changes in duty status. This can include:
- Temporary Duty Assignments (TDY): Soldiers may need to request approval for temporary assignments away from their primary duty station.
- Family Travel Requests: Soldiers can document requests for family travel related to military duties.
These changes must be accurately recorded to maintain proper personnel management and ensure compliance with military regulations.
Voluntary Retirement Initiation
For soldiers considering retirement, the DA Form 4187 serves as the initial step in the voluntary retirement process. This involves:
- Submitting Intent to Retire: Soldiers must formally indicate their intention to retire using this form.
- Documenting Retirement Dates: The form requires soldiers to specify their desired retirement date.
Completing this form accurately is crucial for ensuring a smooth transition into retirement and for addressing any final administrative requirements.
How the DA Form 4187 Works
The process of using the DA Form 4187 involves several key steps:
- Initiation by the Soldier: The soldier completes the form with personal details and the specific request.
- Detailed Explanations: The form includes sections for additional remarks, supporting documentation, and references to relevant regulations.
- Commander Approval: The form requires signatures from both the soldier and their commander or an authorized representative to become official.
This structured process ensures that all requests are thoroughly reviewed and approved in accordance with Army policies.
