You’ve probably heard fellow soldiers gossiping about the confusing DA Form 4187 process over mess hall meals. Navigating these personnel action forms—or PAFs—gives even seasoned soldiers headaches between complicated routing rules and red tape. 

Yet, successfully getting a PAF approved could mean the difference between staying stagnant or advancing your military career. No pressure, right? Take a deep breath, soldier. A lot of people have been there, too. 

This guide will tell you everything you need to know about PAFs, from decoding all the military jargon to expert tips for having your requests taken seriously. Arm yourself with the ability to cut through the admin fog and channel these critical forms to work for you. 

Forget feeling lost in paperwork—success with PAFs awaits! Now, let’s get tactical.

What Is DA Form 4187?

The DA Form 4187, also known as PAF, allows you to formally request various personnel actions from the Army. These include—but aren’t limited to—reassignments, training, legal name changes, awards, level of security clearance, etc. 

Anything administrative that has to be approved by your chain of command must go onto a PAF. It’s the primary means for you to officially initiate any personnel actions directly impacting your Army service record and duties. 

The details included dictate how the request gets considered and processed. Therefore, accuracy and clarity are crucial when completing your DA 4187.

How To Fill Out A PAF

Filling out a PAF properly is critical for you as the requesting soldier. You need to complete all sections with accuracy and the exact details of your request. Key components include:

• Your personal details like name, rank, and service number
• The specific action requested (e.g., assignment to a new unit, slot in a training course, or exception to policy)
• Justification explaining why the action is requested (e.g., a unit assignment close to your spouse’s base or required training to acquire a new duty position skillset)
• Confirmation of any coordination completed prior to PAF submission, such as proof of acceptance to a school.
• Accurate routing through your chain of command for review/approval. Reflect signatures required by leadership in proper order.

Write legibly in military formatting/style—either printed neatly or typed. Vague, confusing, or embellished details will delay processing. Stick to concrete facts and specifics on your 4187 for best results. Triple-check for errors before submission.

What Happens After Submission?

Once you submit your completed DA Form 4187, it routes through your chain of command for consideration. Your first sergeant and company commander will review it first before passing it to the battalion and potentially higher echelon commanders, depending on the request’s nature. 

You must patiently await feedback. Some PAFs that require additional coordination may impact the timeline. If not approved, you may resubmit with supplemental materials strengthening your justification. 

Monitor status proactively, but understand the process takes time depending on operational tempo. Protocol must be followed.

Following Up On Your PAF

If you haven’t received any feedback after 30 days, politely follow up with your chain of command. First, see your first sergeant to inquire about your PAF’s status. If undetermined, they can engage the company and battalion commanders to check where the PAF sits in the process. 

As a soldier, it’s reasonable for you to seek a processing status update after 30 days. However, do so professionally through proper channels. Be cognizant of the operational environment, as a high mission tempo can understandably delay response. 

Following up helps prevent your request from becoming stuck or forgotten amid leadership coordination.

Appealing A Denied PAF

If your DA 4187 gets denied, you still have recourse as the soldier. Carefully review the reasoning behind the disapproval provided in the response paperwork. 

Then, you may resubmit an appeal PAF with supplemental materials seeking to overcome the objections. For example, provide additional facts, statements from commanders, or proof demonstrating how your request benefits not just you but also the greater mission. 

An appeal with strengthened justification shows your dedication and warrants a second look. Persistence paired with a rational case can make the difference in getting your initial PAF denial overturned for approval.

PAF Pro Tips

Here are some pro tips when dealing with PAFs:

• Make several copies before submitting
• Save a copy of the completed PAF for your records
• Type it instead of handwriting if possible
• Use military formatting/writing style

This helps avoid confusion or issues if your PAF gets misplaced along its routing path. Proper military communication can also give your request more credibility with reviewing leadership.

Final Thoughts

PAFs allow you to formally initiate various personnel actions essential over the course of your Army career. With a clear understanding of how to properly fill out, submit, and follow up on PAF requests, you can activate any admin support needed. 

Consider this your PAF mastery starter kit as you handle necessary career administration tasks going forward. Stay diligent and determined to get your PAFs approved.

Published by: Aly Cinco