DA Form 5654: Civilian Service Achievement Medal Guide – The Department of the Army Civilian Service Achievement Medal, documented on DA Form 5654, recognizes noteworthy achievements by Army civilian employees. It ranks as one of the key honorary awards in the U.S. Army’s civilian recognition program and serves as an important way to honor dedicated service that supports military missions across the United States and worldwide.
If you are an Army civilian employee, supervisor, or HR professional in the United States looking for information on eligibility, criteria, the nomination process, or where to download DA Form 5654, this guide covers everything you need.
What Is the Civilian Service Achievement Medal (DA Form 5654)?
The Civilian Service Achievement Medal is the fifth highest award in the Department of the Army Honorary Awards Program for civilian employees. It was approved by the Army Chief of Staff on August 24, 1987.
DA Form 5654 serves as the official citation certificate that accompanies the medal, lapel pin, and ribbon. The current version of the form is dated February 1, 2019 (a revision of the September 1, 2011 version), prescribed by AR 672-20, Incentive Awards.
This award is comparable to the Army Achievement Medal given to military personnel. It recognizes contributions of a lesser degree than those meriting the Civilian Service Commendation Medal or higher awards like the Commander’s Award for Civilian Service.
Eligibility for the Civilian Service Achievement Medal
Eligible recipients include:
- Department of the Army civilian employees paid from appropriated funds (APF)
- Non-appropriated funds (NAF) employees
- Indirect-hire foreign nationals (in certain cases)
The award targets noteworthy achievements in official duties that demonstrate sustained superior service or a specific significant accomplishment.
Approval Authority
Commanders in the rank of Lieutenant Colonel (O-5) or above, or civilian equivalents, can approve this award. They may further delegate approval authority to directors of Direct Reporting Units (DRUs), Senior Executive Service (SES) members, and general officers (this authority cannot be delegated further).
Criteria and Examples of Qualifying Achievements
Nominations typically cover either a period of sustained superior service or a specific level of achievement (or both). Contributions should exceed normal expectations and contribute to the efficiency, economy, or effectiveness of Army operations.
Common qualifying examples include:
- Performing supervisory or nonsupervisory duties in an outstanding manner, setting an example for others.
- Demonstrating initiative by devising new or improved equipment, methods, procedures, or inventions that result in significant savings of time, manpower, materials, or costs.
- Showing leadership that improves unit or organizational productivity.
- Providing professional or public relations services that generate favorable publicity for the Army.
- Displaying courage or exceptional competence during an emergency, benefiting the government or personnel.
How to Nominate Someone for DA Form 5654?
- Prepare the Nomination — Supervisors or commanders document the specific achievements with clear examples of impact.
- Route for Approval — Submit through the chain of command to an approving official (Lt. Col. or equivalent or higher).
- Issue the Award — Upon approval, present the medal, lapel pin, and DA Form 5654 certificate.
- Record the Award — Update the employee’s official personnel records.
Local commands often have specific internal procedures. Consult your Civilian Personnel Advisory Center (CPAC) or G-1/HR office for guidance.
Design and Components of the Award
The medal features a bronze and enamel medallion with the Department of the Army emblem. Recipients also receive a ribbon bar and lapel pin for wear with civilian attire. The certificate (DA Form 5654) formally documents the award with personalized citation text.
Why This Award Matters for Army Civilians?
U.S. Army civilians form a vital part of the Total Army team. The Civilian Service Achievement Medal publicly recognizes their contributions to readiness, mission support, innovation, and service excellence. It boosts morale, encourages high performance, and highlights the critical role civilians play in supporting Soldiers and national defense.
Where to Download DA Form 5654?
For the most current and official version, visit the Army Publishing Directorate (APD) at armypubs.army.mil. Search for DA Form 5654.
Note: Always use official Army sources for forms to ensure compliance with current regulations. Avoid unofficial reproduction sites for certificates intended for official use.
Related Civilian Awards
- Civilian Service Commendation Medal (next higher award)
- Commander’s Award for Civilian Service
- Meritorious Civilian Service Medal (DA Form 5655)
- Superior Civilian Service Award
Understanding the full hierarchy helps when preparing stronger nominations for higher-level recognition.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can the award be given for a single achievement?
A: Yes, if the achievement is significant enough. Sustained superior performance is also common.
Q: Who can wear the ribbon?
A: Recipients may wear the lapel pin and display the certificate. Ribbon wear follows specific Army civilian protocol.
Q: Is there a time limit for nominations?
A: Nominations should be submitted promptly after the achievement or period of service.
Q: Does this award affect pay or promotion?
A: It is an honorary award and does not directly impact pay, but it strengthens performance records and career progression.
For the latest official guidance, refer to AR 672-20 (Incentive Awards) and consult your local command or CPAC.