DA Form 2166-9-2 NCOER Guide: SSG-1SG/MSG (Download)

DA Form 2166-9-2 NCOER Guide: SSG-1SG/MSG (Download) – This organizational-level NCOER focuses on leadership at the platoon and company level, emphasizing systems, processes, and broader impact. It replaced the older DA Form 2166-8 series as part of reforms to reduce evaluation inflation and provide more accurate assessments for promotions, assignments, and retention.

What Is DA Form 2166-9-2?

DA Form 2166-9-2, titled “NCO Evaluation Report (SSG-1SG/MSG),” is the grade-plate form used for organizational-level NCOs. For use of this form, see AR 623-3 and DA PAM 623-3; the proponent agency is DCS, G-1.

It evaluates performance against the Army Leadership Requirements Model (attributes and competencies) and includes a senior rater assessment of potential using a four-box scale: Most Qualified, Highly Qualified, Qualified, or Not Qualified.

Key purposes include:

  • Documenting duty performance and professional growth.
  • Supporting personnel decisions like promotions, school selection, and assignments.
  • Reinforcing accountability through narrative comments and managed senior rater profiles.

Who Uses DA Form 2166-9-2?

This form applies to NCOs serving in SSG, SFC, MSG, and 1SG positions. It is completed by:

  • Rated NCO: Provides input via the DA Form 2166-9-1A Support Form, self-assesses, and reviews the final report.
  • Rater (usually the direct supervisor): Assesses performance with narrative comments across leadership attributes and competencies.
  • Senior Rater: Assesses potential, provides narrative, and assigns the overall potential box check (with profile management limits, e.g., limited “Most Qualified”).
  • Supplementary Reviewer (if required): Ensures compliance and fairness.

Key Sections of the NCOER (SSG-1SG/MSG)

Part I: Administrative Data

Includes the rated NCO’s name, rank, PMOSC, unit, period covered, and reason for submission (e.g., Annual, Change of Rater).

Part II: Authentication

Signatures and contact information for the rater, senior rater, and reviewer.

Part III: Duty Description

A clear description of principal duties, scope of responsibility (people, equipment, facilities, dollars), and special emphasis areas.

Part IV: Performance Evaluation, Professionalism, Attributes, and Competencies (Rater)

The rater provides narrative comments on:

  • Character (Army Values, Empathy, Warrior Ethos/Service Ethos, Discipline; supports SHARP, EO, EEO).
  • Other attributes and competencies (e.g., Presence, Intellect, Leads, Develops, Achieves).
  • Overall performance rating using a four-box scale (Far Exceeded Standard, Exceeded Standard, Met Standard, Did Not Meet Standard).

Bullets or short narratives address specific achievements and adherence to standards. Comments are required for certain entries like APFT/ACFT or height/weight issues.

Part V: Senior Rater Assessment

The senior rater evaluates potential with narrative comments and the four-box check (Most/Highly/Qualified/Not Qualified). This section is heavily weighted for career progression.

How to Prepare and Submit DA Form 2166-9-2?

  1. Use the Support Form (DA 2166-9-1A): Start with initial counseling within 30 days and quarterly follow-ups. Document goals, achievements, and development needs.
  2. Gather Evidence: Track quantifiable accomplishments, training completed, and leadership impacts.
  3. Complete in Evaluation Entry System (EES): The Army’s primary electronic tool for creating, routing, and submitting NCOERs. CAC-enabled access via HRC.
  4. Review for Accuracy: Ensure narratives are clear, factual, specific, and aligned with Army standards. Avoid inflation.
  5. Route for Signatures and Submit: Follow EES workflow. Track status to resolve any return codes.

Download the Official Blank DA Form 2166-9-2 PDF here: https://armypubs.army.mil/pub/eforms/DR_a/pdf/DA%20FORM%202166-9-2.pdf

Tips for Strong NCOER Performance and Bullets/Narratives

  • Be specific and quantifiable (e.g., “Led platoon to achieve 98% readiness rate”).
  • Align comments to the Leadership Requirements Model.
  • Address any deficiencies early through counseling.
  • Senior raters should manage their “Most Qualified” percentage carefully.
  • Consult latest guidance in AR 623-3, DA PAM 623-3, and HRC resources for updates on ACFT, profiles, etc.

A well-written DA Form 2166-9-2 accurately reflects an NCO’s contributions and supports the Army’s talent management goals.

Common Reasons for Submission and Rating Periods

  • Annual: Usually 12 months.
  • Change of Rater: When the rater changes.
  • Relief for Cause: For serious performance or conduct issues.
  • Complete the Record: For board consideration.

Minimum rated periods apply (typically 3+ months for rater qualification).

Importance for Army Careers

This NCOER directly influences promotion boards, command selection, and assignments. Strong performance (“Exceeded Standard” with “Highly Qualified” or better) demonstrates readiness for increased responsibility. Poor ratings can trigger Qualitative Management Program (QMP) review.

U.S. Army Soldiers should familiarize themselves with the form, maintain their support form diligently, and seek mentorship on writing effective evaluations.

For the most current policies, always refer to official sources: HRC Evaluations portal, AR 623-3, and DA PAM 623-3. Proper use of DA Form 2166-9-2 strengthens the NCO Corps and the overall Army.