DA Form 4689: Civilian Service Commendation Medal Guide – DA Form 4689 serves as the official citation certificate for the Department of the Army Civilian Service Commendation Medal (formerly known as the Commander’s Award for Civilian Service). This form accompanies the physical medal and lapel button when presented to eligible U.S. Army civilian employees for commendable service or achievement.
The award recognizes noteworthy contributions that exceed normal job expectations but fall short of the level required for the Meritorious Civilian Service Medal. It acts as the civilian counterpart to the military Army Commendation Medal.
History and Background of the Civilian Service Commendation Medal
The award was established on June 30, 1976, as the Commander’s Award for Civilian Service. In November 2014, the Department of the Army renamed and redesigned it (along with related awards) for better consistency with military equivalents. It became the Civilian Service Commendation Medal, with updates to the medal’s obverse and reverse designs.
The latest version of DA Form 4689 dates to February 1, 2019. Previous editions are obsolete.
Eligibility Criteria for the Civilian Service Commendation Medal
Eligibility is limited to Department of the Army civilian employees (direct-hire U.S. citizens and appropriated fund foreign national employees) who have established a pattern of excellence. This is usually shown by prior receipt of one or more honorary or monetary performance awards.
The award applies to sustained meritorious service or a specific act/achievement. It is not available to contractors, military personnel, or civilians from other DoD components or federal agencies. Posthumous awards and recognition for former employees (for service during their tenure) are possible.
Approval Authority and Nomination Process
Any commander in the rank of Colonel (O-6) or above, or civilian equivalent, may approve the award. This authority can be further delegated to members of the Senior Executive Service (SES) and general officers, but no lower.
Nominations are typically submitted using DA Form 1256 (Incentive Award Nomination and Approval) and forwarded through the chain of command. The citation is prepared on DA Form 4689 upon approval. Local commands or installations may have additional internal procedures.
What Achievements Qualify for the Award?
Contributions are evaluated against these example levels of achievement (per AR 672-20 guidance):
- Accomplished supervisory or nonsupervisory duties in an outstanding manner, setting an example for others.
- Demonstrated initiative in developing new or improved equipment, methods, or procedures resulting in significant savings (manpower, time, materials) or improved safety/health.
- Provided leadership that improved unit productivity.
- Rendered professional or public relations service leading to favorable local publicity for the Army.
- Demonstrated courage or competence in an emergency, benefiting the Government or personnel.
The service or achievement must be of lesser degree than that required for the Meritorious Civilian Service Medal.
What Does the Award Include?
Recipients receive:
- The bronze hexagon medal (suspended from a green and white ribbon).
- Lapel button.
- Citation certificate on DA Form 4689.
The medal features an eagle from the Great Seal of the United States on the obverse, with appropriate inscriptions and laurel branches on the reverse.
How to Nominate Someone for the Civilian Service Commendation Medal?
- Gather specific examples of the nominee’s achievements, impacts, and supporting documentation.
- Complete DA Form 1256 with justifications aligned to award criteria.
- Route through the supervisory/chain of command to the approving official (Colonel/O-6 or equivalent).
- Upon approval, prepare the DA Form 4689 citation certificate.
- Present the full award set in a formal ceremony when possible.
Consult your local Civilian Personnel Advisory Center (CPAC) or command awards coordinator for current templates and guidance, as processes can vary by installation.
Benefits and Importance of Recognition
This award boosts morale, reinforces a culture of excellence, and formally documents outstanding contributions to Army missions. It serves as a stepping stone for higher civilian awards and strengthens the partnership between the Army and its dedicated civilian workforce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is DA Form 4689 the medal itself?
No. DA Form 4689 is the citation certificate that accompanies the medal and lapel button.
Can civilians from other services receive this award?
No. It is specific to Department of the Army civilian employees.
Where can I find the official form?
Check the Army Publishing Directorate (APD) or your local command resources. The form is used internally and may not be publicly fillable online.
For the most current information, refer to AR 672-20 Incentive Awards and consult your servicing Civilian Personnel office. Awards policies ensure fair and consistent recognition across the U.S. Army.