DA Form 1574-1: AR 15-6 Investigating Officer Report Guide

DA Form 1574-1: AR 15-6 Investigating Officer Report Guide – DA Form 1574-1 serves as the official document for reporting the findings and proceedings of administrative investigations conducted under Army Regulation (AR) 15-6. U.S. Army soldiers, commanders, and legal personnel frequently use this form for command-directed inquiries into incidents, allegations of misconduct, command climate issues, and other administrative matters.

What Is DA Form 1574-1?

DA Form 1574-1, titled Report of Proceedings by Investigating Officer, standardizes the documentation of facts, evidence, findings, and recommendations from an informal AR 15-6 investigation. It applies when a single investigating officer (IO) conducts the inquiry (as opposed to a board of officers, which uses DA Form 1574-2).

The current version (April 2016) remains active. Previous editions are obsolete. You can download the official fillable PDF directly from the Army Publishing Directorate: https://armypubs.army.mil/pub/eforms/DR_a/pdf/A1574_1_final.pdf.

Purpose of DA Form 1574-1 in AR 15-6 Investigations

AR 15-6 outlines procedures for administrative investigations and boards of officers. These fact-finding processes help commanders ascertain what happened, preserve evidence, determine responsibility, and recommend actions. They differ from criminal investigations (handled by CID or other law enforcement).

Common uses include:

  • Allegations of misconduct (e.g., fraternization, abuse of authority, hazing).
  • Command climate or leadership issues.
  • Property loss or damage (in some cases).
  • Incidents involving training accidents or other administrative matters.
  • Fact-finding for potential adverse administrative actions.

The form captures the IO’s impartial summary to support fair and informed command decisions.

Who Uses DA Form 1574-1?

  • Investigating Officers (IOs): Typically officers senior to any subjects/respondents, appointed by commanders.
  • Appointing and Approval Authorities: Commanders who direct the investigation and review the final report.
  • Legal Advisors (SJA): Provide guidance, legal reviews, and ensure compliance.
  • Respondents: Soldiers or personnel facing potential adverse findings, who may review and respond to adverse information.

Key Sections of DA Form 1574-1

The form is structured for clarity and includes:

Section I – Appointment: Details the appointing authority, date, and scope of the investigation.

Section II – Proceedings: Records when and where proceedings occurred, witnesses interviewed, evidence considered, and any rights advisements.

Section III – Findings: Factual conclusions based on the evidence (what happened, who was involved, etc.).

Section IV – Recommendations: Suggested actions for the command (e.g., no action, counseling, administrative measures). Recommendations must be logical, feasible, and evidence-based.

Additional space for continuation sheets is available if needed. The completed form, along with enclosures and exhibits (e.g., witness statements, documents, appointment memo), forms the full report packet.

How to Complete DA Form 1574-1 (Step-by-Step Guidance)?

  1. Review Appointment Orders — Understand the exact scope, deadlines, and special instructions.
  2. Gather and Organize Evidence — Collect documents, interview witnesses (using sworn statements where appropriate), and maintain a chronology.
  3. Ensure Impartiality — Consider all sides and document rights advisements if adverse findings are possible.
  4. Draft Findings and Recommendations — Base them strictly on evidence. Attach a detailed memorandum if more space is needed.
  5. Assemble the Packet — Typical order includes table of contents, completed DA Form 1574-1, findings memo, enclosures (roman numerals), and exhibits (numbered/lettered).
  6. Legal Review — Submit for Staff Judge Advocate review before finalizing.
  7. Submit to Appointing Authority — Include all required signatures and authentication.

Tip: Use additional sheets or a separate memorandum for complex findings. Index all exhibits clearly.

Differences Between DA Form 1574-1 and DA Form 1574-2

  • 1574-1: For a single Investigating Officer (most common for informal investigations).
  • 1574-2: For a Board of Officers (used in more formal proceedings).

Best Practices and Common Pitfalls

  • Meet all timelines to avoid delays in command actions.
  • Maintain strict confidentiality and proper handling of PII/sensitive information per AR 340-21 and privacy rules.
  • Document any delays or challenges encountered.
  • Ensure findings are clear, concise, and fully supported by evidence.
  • Consult your servicing SJA early and often for guidance.

Failure to follow AR 15-6 procedures can lead to flawed reports, additional reviews, or challenges to resulting actions.

Download and Resources

  • Official Form: DA Form 1574-1 PDF
  • Governing Regulation: AR 15-6, Procedures for Administrative Investigations and Boards of Officers (latest edition available via Army Publishing Directorate).
  • Additional training and guides are often available through unit JAG offices or installation legal assistance.

This form plays a critical role in maintaining Army standards, accountability, and fairness in administrative processes. Proper use ensures thorough, defensible outcomes that support good order and discipline.

Note: Always consult your chain of command and legal advisor for case-specific guidance. Forms and regulations can be updated, so verify the latest versions on official Army sites.