DA Form 5691: Reserve Component Assignment Orders Guide

DA Form 5691: Reserve Component Assignment Orders Guide – Transitioning from Active Duty to the U.S. Army Reserve (USAR) or Army National Guard (ARNG) is a major career step for many soldiers. DA Form 5691, officially titled Request for Reserve Component Assignment Orders, is the key document that formalizes your assignment to a specific Reserve unit.

This article explains the form’s purpose, who needs it, how to complete it, and where to download the official version. It draws from trusted U.S. Army sources like AR 601-280 and DA PAM 601-280.

What Is DA Form 5691?

DA Form 5691 (sometimes referenced as DA Form 5691-R in older editions) is an official U.S. Army form used to request assignment orders for soldiers enlisting or transferring into the Reserve Component.

Primary purposes include:

  • Documenting a soldier’s voluntary acceptance of assignment to a specific USAR Troop Program Unit (TPU), Army National Guard unit, or Individual Ready Reserve (IRR).
  • Confirming the soldier understands military service obligations (MSO) and participation requirements (e.g., drill weekends, annual training).
  • Supporting the transition process from Active Duty, ensuring seamless assignment orders issuance.

It is prescribed by AR 601-280 (Army Retention Program) and detailed in DA PAM 601-280. Career counselors and transitioning soldiers primarily use it.

Who Should Use DA Form 5691?

This form applies to:

  • Active Duty soldiers transitioning to USAR or ARNG upon ETS (Expiration of Term of Service).
  • Soldiers requesting specific unit assignments or changes within the Reserve Component.
  • Personnel working with Reserve Component Career Counselors (RCCC) during reenlistment or affiliation processes.

It is commonly required in separation/transition packets when moving to the Reserves or National Guard.

Key Sections of DA Form 5691

The form typically includes these main sections (based on the current version):

Section I – Information Completed by RC Career Counselor

  • Type of enlistment (USAR, ARNG, or IRR).
  • Unit assignment details.

Section II – General Information

  • Soldier’s name, rank, SSN.
  • ETS date and transition point.
  • Remaining MSO/Term of Service.

Section III – Soldier’s Statement of Understanding

  • Acknowledgment of obligations: attending unit training assemblies (drills), annual training, and potential mobilization.
  • Confirmation of voluntary acceptance of the assignment.

Section IV – Enlistment Documentation Request

  • Requests for documents like DD Form 214, SF Form 88, DA Form 2-1, etc., from the Official Military Personnel File (OMPF).

Step-by-Step: How to Fill Out DA Form 5691?

  1. Obtain the Official Form — Download the latest version from the Army Publishing Directorate.
  2. Work with Your Career Counselor — Section I is usually completed by the RC Career Counselor.
  3. Provide Accurate Personal & Assignment Details — Include name, rank, SSN, desired unit, ETS date, and term of service.
  4. Review Obligations — Carefully read and understand participation requirements before signing.
  5. Sign and Date — Both the soldier and counselor sign where required.
  6. Submit — Route through proper channels (transition point or unit) per current regulations. Documents are often mailed to the Army Area or State AG.

Tip: Double-check all entries for accuracy to avoid processing delays. Digital fillable versions are available on authorized sites.

Why Accurate Completion Matters?

Proper use of DA Form 5691 ensures:

  • You receive orders to your preferred or designated unit.
  • Clear documentation of your service commitment.
  • Compliance with Army retention and transition policies.
  • Timely processing of benefits, pay, and incentives associated with Reserve service.

Errors or incomplete forms can delay assignments, affect pay, or impact readiness.

Download Official DA Form 5691

Official Download Link:
DA Form 5691 – Request for Reserve Component Assignment Orders (PDF)

Always use the version from armypubs.army.mil for the most current edition. Older versions (e.g., May 1998) may be obsolete.

Additional resources:

  • AR 601-280 and DA PAM 601-280 (available on Army Publishing Directorate).
  • Contact your local Career Counselor or Transition Assistance Office.

Common Questions (FAQs)

Is DA Form 5691 required for all Reserve transitions?
It is a standard requirement for soldiers affiliating with a specific TPU or unit from Active Duty.

Can I fill it out myself?
Work with a qualified Reserve Component Career Counselor for accuracy and compliance.

What if my unit assignment changes?
A new or amended form may be needed. Consult your counselor or chain of command.

Related Forms:

  • DA Form 4651 (Request for Reserve Component Assignment or Attachment).
  • DA Form 5690 (Reserve Component Career Counselor Interview Record).
  • DA Form 3540 or 7249 (Service obligation acknowledgments).

Final Advice for U.S. Army Personnel

Whether you are planning your transition or assisting soldiers as a counselor, DA Form 5691 is essential for a smooth move to the Reserve Component. Completing it correctly helps secure the right assignment and maintains your record integrity.

For personalized guidance, reach out to your installation’s Retention Office, Career Counselor, or HRC (Human Resources Command). Policies can update, so always verify with official Army channels.