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Instructions on Writing Da 268

The DA Form 268, also known as the "Report to Suspend Favorable Personnel Actions (FLAG)," plays a crucial role in the administrative procedures of the United States Army. This form is utilized to either initiate or remove a flag, which essentially suspends any favorable actions for military personnel for various reasons ranging from adverse actions to weight control failures. Filling out this form requires attention to detail and an understanding of the specific circumstances surrounding the flagging action. The following steps are designed to guide one through the process of accurately completing the DA Form 268.

1. Section I - Administrative Data:
   • Enter the service member's name (last, first, middle initial).
   • Provide the Social Security Number (SSN).
   • Indicate the rank of the service member.
   • Select if the member is on active duty, not on active duty, or on Active Duty Training (ADT).
   • Enter the Expiration Term of Service (ETS), Expiration Service Agreement (ESA), or Mandatory Release Date (MRD) as applicable.
   • List the unit to which the service member is assigned and the Army Command.
   • Provide the geographical location of the station.
   • State the Human Resources (HR) office controlling the flagging action and provide the telephone number.
   • Specify if the action is to initiate or remove a flag. For initiating a flag, fill out Sections II and IV only. To remove a flag, complete Sections III and IV only.
2. Section II - Initiate a Flag: (Only complete this section if initiating a flag)
   • Select the reason for initiating the flag from the provided options, such as Adverse Action (A), APFT failure (J), etc.
   • Indicate if the flag is Non-transferable or Transferable.
3. Section III - Remove a Flag: (Only complete this section if removing a flag)
   • Enter the flag code that is being removed.
   • Select the reason for the flag removal, such as Case closed favorably (C), erroneous (Z), etc.
4. Section IV - Authentication:
   • Enter the name, rank, title, and organization of the person authorizing the flag action.
   • Provide the signature and the date.

Once the DA Form 268 is fully completed, ensure that the distribution instructions as per Section IV are followed: one copy to the Unit Commander, one to the Soldier involved, and additional copies to the Human Resources Command (HRC), S-1/MPD, and the Commander of the gaining unit (for transfer flags only). This systematic approach ensures that all relevant parties are informed of the flag status, encouraging transparency and accountability within military administrative proceedings.

What is a DA Form 268?

A DA Form 268 is officially titled "Report to Suspend Favorable Personnel Actions (Flag)." It is used within the United States Army to either initiate or remove a flag on a soldier's record. Flags are indicators that prevent soldiers from receiving certain favorable actions like promotions or reenlistments due to issues like adverse actions, security violations, or physical fitness test failures. This form plays a crucial role in maintaining personnel accountability and standards within the Army.

When is a DA Form 268 used?

This form is utilized under two primary circumstances: to initiate a flag when a soldier faces situations such as unsatisfactory performance, disciplinary actions, or other concerns; and to remove a flag from a soldier’s record once the situation that warranted the flag has been resolved favorably or other specific conditions have been met. Its application ensures that the Army’s leadership is aware of and can appropriately manage any issues affecting a soldier's eligibility for advancement and other favorable actions.

Who can initiate or remove a flag using the DA Form 268?

Generally, the decision to initiate or remove a flag involves a soldier's chain of command. This includes unit commanders and specific Army HR offices that manage personnel records and actions based on the nature of the flag. Only these authorized personnel have the discretion and authority to report the suspension or reinstatement of favorable personnel actions through this form based on the guidelines established in AR 600-8-2.

What are the different reasons for initiating a flag on a soldier's record?

Reasons for initiating a flag include adverse action, failure of the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT), weight control program failures, security violations, and others as listed in Section II of the DA Form 268. Each reason is categorized as either transferable or non-transferable, indicating whether or not the flag should be transferred if the soldier moves to a new unit. This distinction is critical for ensuring the continuation of accountability across different commands within the Army.

How is a flag removed from a soldier's record?

A flag is removed from a soldier’s record by completing Section III of the DA Form 268, denoting that the condition which initiated the flag has been resolved. This can occur when a case is closed either favorably or unfavorably for the soldier, or due to other reasons such as the recognition of an erroneous flag. The form must then be processed through the soldier’s HR office and chain of command to officially remove the flag.

What is the process after completing the DA Form 268?

After filling out the DA Form 268, it must be submitted through the appropriate channels, starting with the soldier's immediate commander. Distribution includes the unit commander, the soldier involved, Human Resources Command (HRC) if applicable, the S-1/MPD office, and the commander of the gaining unit in cases of transfer flags. This ensures all relevant parties are informed of the flag status, promoting transparency and accountability within the soldier’s career management process.

Where can one find the regulations governing the use of a DA Form 268?

The policies and regulations governing the use of the DA Form 268 are detailed in AR 600-8-2. This Army Regulation outlines the procedures for flagging actions, the responsibilities of commanding officers and other Army personnel in these processes, and guidelines for handling various scenarios that might necessitate a flag. It's essential for anyone involved in these processes to be familiar with AR 600-8-2 to ensure actions are taken correctly and fairly.

Filling out the DA Form 268, the Report to Suspend Favorable Personnel Actions (Flag), is a task that requires meticulous attention to detail. One common mistake is the incorrect or incomplete filling of personal information in Section I. This includes the name, Social Security Number (SSN), rank, and the unit assigned. Accurate personal information is crucial for the identification of the individual and the proper processing of the form.

Another error often observed is the incorrect indication of the duty status in item 5, which asks if the individual is on active duty, not on active duty, or on Active Duty for Training (ADT). This mistake can lead to misunderstandings regarding the individual's current status, affecting the accuracy of the flagging action. It is essential to check the appropriate box based on the current duty status of the service member.

When initiating a flag in Section II, one of the more frequent errors involves selecting the wrong reason for flag initiation listed under item 10. Each code represents a different reason for initiating a flag, such as adverse action, APFT failure, or weight control program issues. Selecting the incorrect code may result in unwarranted actions being taken against the service member.

In the process of removing a flag in Section III, specifying the incorrect flag code in item 11 is a common mistake. This code should match the reason for which the flag was initially placed. An incorrect code could delay or complicate the removal of the flag, potentially causing ongoing issues for the individual concerned.

Furthermore, neglecting to provide the necessary administrative data in Section I, such as the geographical location of the station and the HR office's contact information, can significantly delay processing. This information is crucial for the appropriate handling and follow-up on the flagging action.

Accuracy in completing the information about the HR office controlling the flagging action, including the telephone number, is another area where mistakes are common. Inaccurate or incomplete contact information hampers effective communication, potentially leading to delays in the resolution of the flagging action.

Choosing the action to be taken at the top of the form can also be confusing. Individuals sometimes mark both to initiate and remove a flag, which contradicts the form's instructions. It is critical to clearly indicate whether the form is being used to initiate or remove a flag by selecting the appropriate action to ensure proper processing.

Errors within Section IV - AUTHENTICATION, particularly in failing to obtain the necessary signatures and dates, are also frequent. This section is vital for the validity of the form, as it provides authorization for the flagging action. Missing or incorrect signatures can invalidate the entire process, requiring the form to be resubmitted.

Lastly, overlooking the distribution requirements at the end of the form is a common oversight. Proper distribution, including to the Unit Commander, Soldier, HRC, S-1/MPD, and the Commander of the gaining unit for transfer flags, ensures that all relevant parties are informed of the flagging action. Failure to distribute the forms as indicated can result in individuals not being properly notified, leading to confusion and administrative issues.

The DA Form 268, "Report to Suspend Favorable Personnel Actions (Flag)," is essential in managing personnel within the U.S. Army. This form plays a key role in a suite of documents used collectively to administer, track, and resolve various situations that may arise during a service member's career. Understanding these documents helps in effectively navigating the personnel management landscape.

• DA Form 31, Leave Form: This is utilized by Army personnel to request and process leave (administrative absence). It is often referenced in conjunction with the DA 268 when leave requests intersect with flagging actions.
• DA Form 4856, Developmental Counseling Form: This document is used for recording counseling sessions between leaders and their subordinates. It may precede a DA 268 if counseling identifies issues leading to a flag.
• DA Form 4187, Personnel Action Form: This form is for requesting personnel actions that might be affected by a flag situation, including reassignments, duty status changes, or special program applications.
• DD Form 214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty: When a soldier's service ends, this document summarizes their career, including periods of flagging documented via DA 268.
• DA Form 6, Duty Roster: Important for tracking and assigning duties, a flag may impact an individual’s eligibility for certain assignments, necessitating adjustments to the duty roster.
• DA Form 5500, Body Fat Content Worksheet (Male)/DA Form 5501, Body Fat Content Worksheet (Female): These forms document body fat measurements, relevant for flags related to the weight control program.
• DA Form 705, Army Physical Fitness Test Scorecard: Records soldiers’ physical fitness test scores. A failure could lead to a flag for APFT failure, necessitating the use of a DA 268.
• DA Form 1594, Daily Staff Journal or Duty Officer's Log: This form provides a daily record of significant events which might relate to or affect the status of a flagged individual.
• DA Form 3349, Physical Profile: Documents any physical limitations which could intersect with flag reasons, particularly if those limitations impact duty performance or fitness standards.

Together, these forms and documents paint a comprehensive picture of a service member's professional and personal status within the Army. Skillful management and awareness of these resources ensure that personnel actions are conducted appropriately, with consideration for both the individual's welfare and the Army's operational requirements.

The DD Form 214, also known as the Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, is one document that bears similarities to the DA Form 268. Both are crucial in the administrative processes of military personnel. While the DA Form 268 facilitates the initiation or removal of a flag for reasons such as adverse actions or program failures, the DD Form 214 summarizes a service member’s career, including the reason for discharge, service duration, and awards received. They play complementary roles in documenting a member’s military journey and status, with one focusing on specific disciplinary or administrative actions and the other providing an overview of service and separation.

The SF 86, or Questionnaire for National Security Positions, shares common ground with the DA Form 268 in terms of its use in evaluating a person's eligibility and trustworthiness. The DA Form 268 flags military personnel for specific adverse actions or program failures, potentially affecting their career progression. Similarly, the SF 86 collects detailed personal information to assess an individual’s suitability for sensitive national security positions, with sections that could uncover reasons for potential flags, such as alcohol or drug abuse, and thus directly impacting their clearance status.

The DA Form 31, Request and Authority for Leave, is another document similar to the DA Form 268, as both are integral to the management of military personnel affairs. Where the DA Form 268 is used to report suspension of favorable personnel actions, the DA Form 31 is utilized by service members to request leave from duty. Both forms impact a soldier’s career transactions; the DA Form 268 can suspend promotions or certain assignments due to adverse actions, whereas the DA Form 31 enables soldiers to take authorized absences from service responsibilities.

The NCOER, or Noncommissioned Officer Evaluation Report, parallels the DA Form 268 in its role of evaluating military personnel performance and disciplinary status. The DA Form 268 flags soldiers for negative reasons, potentially halting career advancements, while the NCOER assesses an NCO’s duties, performance, and leadership qualities, directly influencing their promotion opportunities and career development. Both documents hold significant weight in a soldier's professional trajectory and disciplinary record within the military.

The DA Form 705, Army Physical Fitness Test Scorecard, also shares similarities with the DA Form 268, specifically in terms of monitoring personnel readiness and compliance with standards. The DA Form 268 can flag an individual for APFT failure, while the DA Form 705 documents the physical fitness test results, clearly indicating a soldier's physical readiness level and directly impacting their flag status under the DA Form 268 for failing to meet required standards.

The Article 15, Nonjudicial Punishment, is a disciplinary procedure that aligns with the DA Form 268’s application in documenting and effecting disciplinary actions within the military. An Article 15 allows commanders to discipline soldiers without a formal court-martial, potentially leading to a flag on the soldier’s record as documented by DA Form 268. This flag can impact the soldier's career advancement and eligibility for certain assignments, showcasing how both processes are critical to maintaining discipline and standards within the ranks.

The Security Clearance Application process, similarly, has ties to the DA Form 268, particularly regarding the impact of adverse actions on a person’s clearance status. If a military member is flagged under the DA Form 268 for reasons such as security violations or alcohol/drug abuse, this could significantly influence their security clearance adjudication, affecting their eligibility for positions requiring access to classified information and thus their career progression.

The DA Form 4856, Developmental Counseling Form, complements the function of the DA Form 268 by providing a structured format for counseling soldiers on various issues, including those that might lead to a flagging action. Where the DA Form 268 is used to formally initiate or remove a flag, the DA Form 4856 could be utilized to document counseling that precedes such flagging actions, focusing on corrective training and preventing future incidents that could negatively affect a soldier's career.

The DA Form 5500, Body Fat Content Worksheet (Male), and DA Form 5501, Body Fat Content Worksheet (Female), have similarities to the DA Form 268 in their focus on physical standards within the Army. Soldiers failing to meet the Army’s body composition standards may be flagged via DA Form 268 for participation in the weight control program. Documentation on DA Forms 5500 and 5501 directly influences a soldier’s flagging status, demonstrating how physical readiness metrics are closely monitored and managed in conjunction with personnel actions.

The PCS Orders, or Permanent Change of Station Orders, while primarily an operational document, have implications related to the DA Form 268's process for personnel management, particularly in the aspect of "transferable flags." If a soldier is flagged under DA Form 268 for transferable reasons, it can restrict or delay their ability to proceed with PCS moves until the flag is resolved. Both documents are essential for the orderly management and assignment of military personnel, with the DA Form 268 playing a critical role in ensuring only eligible individuals proceed with their new assignments.

When it comes to tackling the DA Form 268, also known as the "Report to Suspend Favorable Personnel Actions (Flag)", accuracy and attentiveness are your best allies. This document plays a critical role in the administrative landscape of military personnel, dictating the suspension or reinstatement of favorable actions for service members based on their conduct and performance. To navigate this process smoothly, here's a breakdown of do’s and don’ts:

Do's:

• Double-check the information: Before submitting the DA Form 268, verify all the details, especially sensitive information like Social Security Numbers (SSN), rank, and the reason for initiating or removing the flag. Accurate information is crucial to prevent administrative errors and delays.
• Understand the reason codes: The form lists specific codes for various reasons to initiate or remove a flag. Make sure you understand the nature of each code and select the one that accurately reflects the situation. This precision ensures the correct processing of the form.
• Include necessary documentation: When initiating or removing a flag, supporting documents may be required to substantiate the action. Gather all relevant documents beforehand to facilitate a smooth submission process.
• Consult HR or legal assistance: If you have any doubts or questions regarding the completion of the DA Form 268, don't hesitate to seek guidance from your Human Resources (HR) office or legal assistance team. They can provide valuable insights and prevent potential mistakes.

Don'ts:

• Leave sections incomplete: Failing to fill out all required sections can lead to processing delays or the outright rejection of the form. Ensure every applicable part is completed accurately.
• Use outdated forms: Military forms are subject to updates and revisions. Always use the most current version of DA Form 268 to avoid submitting obsolete paperwork, which could be rejected.
• Guess information: If you're uncertain about specific details, such as the correct reason code for flagging actions, refrain from guessing. Incorrect information can have significant consequences for the person concerned.
• Disregard privacy concerns: Given the sensitive nature of the information on DA Form 268, handle the document with care. Maintain confidentiality to protect the privacy of all individuals involved.

Filling out the DA Form 268 with diligence and precision ensures the fair treatment of personnel actions within the military framework. Adhering to these do’s and don’ts will facilitate a more efficient and error-free process, contributing positively to the administrative aspects of military service.

Understanding the DA Form 268, or the Report to Suspend Favorable Personnel Actions (Flag), is essential for members of the military and associated personnel. However, several misconceptions surround its use and purpose. By addressing these misconceptions, we can enhance clarity and effectiveness in managing personnel actions within the armed forces.

• Misconception 1: The DA Form 268 is only used for negative reasons. While the form is often associated with suspending favorable actions due to adverse events, it's also used to initiate and remove flags for a variety of reasons, not all of which are negative. For instance, it can be employed to correct an error, marking a misconceived notion of its sole negative use.

• Misconception 2: Any military member can issue a DA Form 268. In actuality, the authority to issue or remove a flag is typically reserved for commanders or designated officials within the HR office. This ensures that the process is managed by individuals with the necessary authority and understanding of the applicable regulations.

• Misconception 3: A DA Form 268 flag is permanent. Flags are not intended to be permanent markers on a service member's record. They can be removed once the underlying issue has been resolved, such as completing required training or rectifying a misunderstanding, illustrating the temporary nature of most flags.

• Misconception 4: The form is complicated and difficult to understand. While the DA Form 268 contains detailed information, its purpose and sections are clearly outlined, making it straightforward for those familiar with military documentation to use and interpret. It's designed to be accessible to properly trained personnel.

• Misconception 5: A flag automatically results in disciplinary action. A flag does suspend certain favorable actions, such as promotions, but it does not in itself constitute disciplinary action. It is, rather, a mechanism to ensure issues are addressed before proceeding with career advancements or other favorable actions.

• Misconception 6: The reasons for flagging are limited and inflexible. The form allows for flagging under a wide range of circumstances, including but not limited to, adverse actions, failure to meet physical standards, security violations, and investigations. This flexibility ensures the form can be utilized in various scenarios that may affect personnel actions.

• Misconception 7: The DA Form 268 is only an internal document and does not require soldier acknowledgment. Distribution of the form includes a copy for the soldier, emphasizing the importance of transparency and the individual's right to be informed of actions affecting them directly.

• Misconception 8: The form is only relevant for active-duty soldiers. The DA Form 268 is applicable to all soldiers, including those on active duty, not on active duty, or on Active Duty for Training (ADT). This wide applicability ensures that all members are subject to the same standards and procedures regarding the suspension of favorable actions.

In conclusion, dispelling these misconceptions about the DA Form 268 can foster better understanding and more effective management of personnel actions within the military community. By educating service members and relevant personnel on the form's actual purposes and procedures, the armed forces can ensure fair and efficient handling of issues that may affect a member's career progression.

Filling out and using the DA Form 268, which is essential for reporting to suspend favorable personnel actions or "flagging," requires careful attention to detail and a clear understanding of the procedures involved. Here are four key takeaways to keep in mind:

• Understanding the Purpose: The DA Form 268 is used within the Army to initiate or remove a flag on a soldier's record. Flags are serious and can prevent a soldier from receiving promotions, reenlistments, and other favorable actions. Knowing whether you're initiating or removing a flag is the first critical step.
• Accurate Completion of Sections: Depending on your intention, different sections of the form are to be filled out. If you're initiating a flag, you'll need to complete sections II and IV. To remove a flag, sections III and IV require attention. Ensuring that the correct sections are filled out accurately avoids delays or miscommunication.
• Reason for the Flag: There are various reasons for initiating a flag, ranging from adverse actions, such as APFT failure or alcohol abuse, to rewards like HQDA selection list removal. Conversely, reasons for flag removal also vary, including erroneous flags or favorable closure of cases. Identifying and marking the correct reason is vital for clear and proper processing.
• Proper Distribution of the Form: Once completed, the DA Form 268 must be distributed correctly to ensure the flag action is processed. This distribution includes the unit commander, the soldier in question, the Human Resources Command (HRC) for soldiers on a HQDA selection list, the S-1/MPD, and the commander of the gaining unit if it's a transfer flag. Incorrect distribution can result in processing errors or delays.

By paying close attention to these key aspects, the process of initiating or removing a flag using the DA Form 268 can be handled more smoothly and efficiently. This ensures that personnel actions are processed fairly and correctly, maintaining the integrity and discipline within the Army.