DA Form 5914 Ration Control Sheet – Download & Guide

DA Form 5914 Ration Control Sheet – Download & Guide – The DA Form 5914, officially titled the Ration Control Sheet, is a critical U.S. Army document used to track, control, and account for operational rations issued to units and individuals. It ensures accurate distribution of meals, maintains accountability for subsistence supplies, and supports logistical efficiency during garrison, field training, and contingency operations.

This form replaced earlier versions (DA Form 5914-R and DA Form 5309-R) and remains the standard tool referenced in current Army food program guidance.

What Is DA Form 5914 Used For?

Military units rely on the DA Form 5914 to document:

  • Receipt (drawing) of rations from supply points.
  • Issues to subunits, individuals, or kitchens.
  • Returns of unused meals.
  • Discards, transfers, or turn-ins.
  • Cumulative balances and headcount support.

It is essential for operational rations such as:

  • UGR-H&S (Unitized Group Ration – Heat & Serve)
  • UGR-A (Unitized Group Ration – A)
  • MREs (Meals Ready to Eat)
  • Other rations (e.g., box lunches or specific items)

Proper use of this form helps prevent waste, ensures compliance with Army regulations, supports audits, and maintains readiness by accurately tracking food resources. It pairs with forms like DA Form 5913 (Strength and Feeder Report) and DA Form 3294 (Ration Request/Issue/Turn-In Slip).

Key Features of the Form

The current DA Form 5914 (JUL 2002) is a single-page, fillable document available as a PDF from official Army sources. Key sections include:

  • Header: Unit, Period (dates), Page number.
  • Type of Ration: Checkboxes for UGR-H&S, UGR-A, MRE, or Other (specify).
  • Columns:
    • a. Date (YYYYMMDD)
    • b. Modules Drawn
    • c. Meals Drawn / Returned
    • d. Meals Issued (or similar transaction)
    • e. Cumulative Meals on Hand
    • f. No. of Persons Supported
    • g. Unit/Individual/Activity Issued To
    • h. Signature of Individual Receiving Meal
    • i. Issued By (initials)
  • Remarks section for additional notes.
  • Reviewed By and date at the bottom.

A separate form is typically used for each ration type and sometimes for breakfast vs. lunch/dinner entrees.

How to Fill Out DA Form 5914? (Step-by-Step)

  1. Enter the Period (inclusive dates) and Unit name.
  2. Check the appropriate Type of Ration box.
  3. For each transaction (daily or as needed):
    • Record the Date.
    • Enter Modules Drawn (for unitized rations) or equivalent.
    • Calculate and enter Meals Drawn (e.g., modules × meals per module: T Ration often 36, MRE 12).
    • Record Meals Returned or adjustments.
    • Log Meals Issued.
    • Update Cumulative Balance.
    • Note Persons Supported and recipient details.
    • Obtain required Signatures and Initials.
  4. Use the Remarks section for clarifications (e.g., discards, transfers, aircraft tail numbers for airlift).
  5. Have the form Reviewed By a supervisor with date.

Best Practice: Maintain separate sheets for different ration types. Use it in conjunction with inventory and headcount records for full accountability.

Importance in Army Operations

In field feeding and Class I operations, the DA Form 5914 provides an audit trail for rations. It supports the Army Field Feeding System (AFFS) by helping commanders and food service personnel manage resources effectively, calculate consumption, and close out accounts properly after training or deployments.

Accurate records on this form contribute to:

  • Preventing diversion or loss of subsistence.
  • Meeting inspection and audit requirements (e.g., OIP/CLRT checklists).
  • Ensuring financial accountability in garrison and field environments.
  • Supporting overall mission readiness.

Guidance comes primarily from DA PAM 30-22 (Army Food Program procedures) and ATP 4-41 (Army Field Feeding and Class I Operations).

Download Official DA Form 5914 PDF

Official Download:
DA Form 5914 – Ration Control Sheet (PDF)

Always use the latest version from Army Publishing Directorate (armypubs.army.mil) for official use. Fillable versions are available through authorized Army systems or tools.

Additional Resources

  • AR 30-22: Army Food Program.
  • DA PAM 30-22: Detailed procedures for food service operations.
  • ATP 4-41: Field feeding tactics, techniques, and procedures (includes examples of completed forms).

For training or questions, consult your unit Food Service Officer (FSO), installation Food Program Manager, or Subsistence Supply Management Office (SSMO).