DA Form 5987-E: Motor Equipment Dispatch Guide (EGA)

DA Form 5987-E: Motor Equipment Dispatch Guide (EGA) – The DA Form 5987-E, titled Motor Equipment Dispatch (EGA), is a critical U.S. Army document used to authorize, track, and record the dispatch of military vehicles and motor equipment. Released on March 1, 1991, and managed under the proponent G-4 (Logistics), this electronic form (EGA) ensures accountability, operational readiness, and proper maintenance tracking for Army assets.

Whether you’re a motor sergeant, unit commander, 92A Automated Logistical Specialist, or vehicle operator, understanding DA Form 5987-E is essential for compliance with Army Maintenance Management System (TAMMS) procedures.

What Is DA Form 5987-E Used For?

The primary purpose of DA Form 5987-E is to:

  • Authorize the release of a vehicle or piece of motor equipment from the motor pool.
  • Document operator usage, mileage/hours, fuel/oil consumption, and any issues.
  • Serve as an official record for accountability and potential investigations (e.g., accidents or misuse).
  • Support dispatch for routine operations, training, or alert status.

It pairs closely with related forms:

  • DA Form 5988-E — Equipment Inspection and Maintenance Worksheet (for PMCS faults).
  • DA Form 5984-E — Operator’s Permit Record.
  • DD Form 1970 — Motor Equipment Utilization Record (an alternative older form).

Note: There is also a DA Form 5987-1-E variant for alert dispatches, which may have different duration policies.

Key Sections of the DA Form 5987-E

Typical fields include:

  • Equipment Data — Model, serial number, registration, bumper number.
  • Dispatch Details — Date/time dispatched, expected return, purpose, destination.
  • Operator Information — Name, rank, signature (primary and additional operators).
  • Usage Records — Miles/hours at dispatch and return, fuel added, oil, etc.
  • Maintenance Notes — Links to 5988-E for deficiencies.
  • Approvals/Signatures — Dispatcher, operator, and supervisory approvals.

The form is often generated electronically through systems like GCSS-Army (Global Combat Support System-Army), which improves accuracy and reduces paperwork.

Step-by-Step: How to Fill Out and Process DA Form 5987-E?

  1. Pre-Dispatch Checks — Ensure the vehicle is Fully Mission Capable (FMC). Perform PMCS and document on DA Form 5988-E. Verify operator qualifications (DA Form 5984-E and valid license).
  2. Complete Equipment & Dispatch Info — Enter all required vehicle and mission details.
  3. Record Operator & Usage — Primary operator signs for the equipment. Additional operators note changes.
  4. Approval — Motor sergeant or dispatcher reviews and approves.
  5. Upon Return — Operator records ending mileage/hours, fuel, issues. Return the form and any 5988-E to maintenance.
  6. Logging — Update dispatch control log (e.g., DA Form 5982-E).

Pro Tip: Dispatches are typically limited (e.g., up to 7 days for standard; longer for alert with command approval). Always follow unit SOP and local policies.

Why Proper Use of DA Form 5987-E Matters?

  • Accountability — Tracks government property and prevents unauthorized use.
  • Safety & Compliance — Required for roadside inspections and off-post travel (along with valid license, OF Form 346, etc.).
  • Maintenance Readiness — Feeds data into TAMMS for scheduling services and repairs (governed by DA PAM 750-8 and AR 750-1).
  • Legal/Investigation Support — Serves as key evidence in accidents or property loss cases.

Failure to use or properly complete the form can lead to administrative issues, mission delays, or disciplinary action.

Where to Download DA Form 5987-E? (Official & Fillable PDF)

  • Official Source: Army Publishing Directorate (APD) at armypubs.army.mil.
  • Fillable versions are available on trusted military forms sites for training/reference (always verify against official APD for the latest).
  • [Download Link Provided by User]

Important: Use only current, authorized versions. Electronic generation via GCSS-Army is preferred in modern units.

  • DA PAM 750-8 — The Army Maintenance Management System (TAMMS) Users Manual (primary reference).
  • Unit motor pool SOPs and GCSS-Army training.
  • Army Maintenance publications on armypubs.army.mil.

DA Form 5987-E Motor Equipment Dispatch remains a foundational tool for safe, accountable, and efficient management of Army motor equipment. Mastering its use supports mission success, regulatory compliance, and equipment longevity—key priorities for U.S. Army units.

For the most current guidance, consult your unit maintenance officer, motor sergeant, or the latest Army publications. Proper dispatch procedures protect both personnel and valuable military assets.