DA Form 4980-6: Soldier’s Medal Certificate Guide

DA Form 4980-6: Soldier’s Medal Certificate Guide – DA Form 4980-6 is the official Soldier’s Medal Certificate issued by the Department of the Army. It formally recognizes recipients of the Soldier’s Medal, the U.S. Army’s highest award for heroism in non-combat situations.

This certificate (revised October 1, 2011) serves as the permanent, tangible record of extraordinary bravery. It is prescribed by AR 600-8-22, Military Awards, and distributed through normal Army supply channels.

Understanding the Soldier’s Medal: Criteria and Significance

The Soldier’s Medal is awarded to any person of the Armed Forces of the United States (or friendly foreign nations) who, while serving with the Army, distinguishes themselves by heroism not involving actual conflict with an enemy.

Key requirements include:

  • Personal hazard or danger and voluntary risk of life.
  • Heroism comparable to that required for the Distinguished Flying Cross.
  • Acts must be so exceptional that they clearly set the individual apart from peers in similar circumstances.

Examples include rescuing individuals from burning vehicles, natural disasters, or other life-threatening non-combat situations. It is the highest peacetime valor award for the Army and carries significant prestige.

Note: The Soldier’s Medal is strictly for non-combat heroism. Combat valor awards (such as the Silver Star or Distinguished Service Cross) have separate criteria and forms.

Who Qualifies for the Soldier’s Medal?

Eligibility extends to:

  • Active Duty, Reserve, and National Guard Soldiers.
  • Members of other U.S. Armed Forces serving with the Army.
  • Friendly foreign military personnel in certain cases.

Recent examples include Soldiers who risked their lives pulling unconscious drivers from burning vehicles.

For enlisted personnel, the award can qualify as “extraordinary heroism” for a 10% increase in retired pay under 10 USC 3991, if approved by the Secretary of the Army.

How to Recommend and Process a Soldier’s Medal (DA Form 638)?

Recommendations start with DA Form 638 (Recommendation for Award). The process follows AR 600-8-22 guidelines:

  1. Complete DA Form 638 with a detailed narrative (limited to one page) and citation.
  2. Include witness statements (DA Form 7791 or equivalent affidavits).
  3. Route through the chain of command to the appropriate approval authority (often at higher levels like HRC for final approval on Soldier’s Medal).

Once approved, the DA Form 4980-6 certificate is prepared, signed by the awarding authority, and presented in a formal ceremony along with the medal set.

How to Fill Out and Use DA Form 4980-6?

The certificate itself is pre-formatted. Key elements typically include:

  • Recipient’s full name, rank, and organization.
  • Citation describing the heroic act.
  • Awarding authority’s signature (often a general officer).
  • Date and permanent order number.

Units requisition blank certificates through supply channels. The original goes to the Soldier (often in a green award folder), with copies for official military personnel files (OMPF).

Presentation, Display, and Records

  • Presentation: Conducted with formality per TC 3-21.5, often at a unit ceremony.
  • Records: The award appears on the DD Form 214 (Block 24) for veterans and is entered into the Soldier’s OMPF.
  • Display: Recipients and families proudly frame the certificate. Unofficial display versions are available for shadow boxes or home displays.

Replacement or Duplicate Certificates

Lost or damaged certificates can be replaced through:

  • Army Human Resources Command (HRC) for active/retired personnel.
  • National Personnel Records Center (NPRC) for veterans.

Submit supporting documentation such as the original orders or DD Form 214.

Why the Soldier’s Medal Matters to American Service Members?

The Soldier’s Medal embodies the Army values of courage, selflessness, and duty. It honors heroes who act decisively to save lives without the heat of battle—actions that reflect the best of the U.S. military tradition. For many Soldiers and families, the DA Form 4980-6 certificate represents a lifetime achievement and a story of extraordinary bravery worth preserving for future generations.

Sources: Information drawn from AR 600-8-22 (Military Awards), official HRC fact sheets, and Department of the Army publications. For the most current guidance, consult your unit S1, HRC, or the latest version of AR 600-8-22.

This article is for informational purposes and does not replace official Army guidance.