DA Form 7279-1: EO Harassment Complaint Assessment Guide – U.S. Army Soldiers, leaders, and Equal Opportunity (EO) professionals rely on standardized processes to maintain fair treatment, unit readiness, and a respectful command climate. DA Form 7279-1, officially titled the Equal Opportunity and Harassment Complaint Resolution Assessment Form, plays a critical role in this system. It ensures corrective actions from discrimination or harassment complaints remain effective and helps prevent reprisal.
This article explains the form’s purpose, usage, process integration with AR 600-20 Army Command Policy, timelines, and download instructions. It serves as a practical resource for Active Duty, Army National Guard, and U.S. Army Reserve personnel.
What Is DA Form 7279-1?
DA Form 7279-1 (July 2020 edition) is the official document for post-resolution assessment of Equal Opportunity (EO) and harassment complaints. EO professionals use it 30–45 calendar days (or next MUTA-4 drill period for USAR) after a final decision on a complaint—whether substantiated or unsubstantiated.
Key purposes include:
- Evaluating the effectiveness of corrective actions taken after a DA Form 7279 complaint.
- Detecting and deterring any acts or threats of reprisal against the complainant.
- Documenting findings and recommendations for the commander.
- Supporting overall Army Military Equal Opportunity (MEO) and Harassment Prevention and Response programs.
The form is governed by AR 600-20 (Army Command Policy), which outlines the Army’s commitment to fair treatment based on merit, fitness, and capability, regardless of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, or sexual orientation. It also addresses harassment such as hazing, bullying, or discriminatory behaviors.
Note: This differs from DA Form 7279 (Equal Opportunity and Harassment Complaint Form), used to initiate a formal complaint.
When and Why Is DA Form 7279-1 Used?
After a formal EO/harassment complaint is resolved:
- The commander implements corrective actions (counseling, training, disciplinary measures, etc.).
- Approximately 30–45 days later, the EO professional (EOA or equivalent) conducts an independent assessment.
- The EO professional completes DA Form 7279-1 and presents findings/recommendations to the commander within 5 calendar days (or next applicable drill period).
This follow-up step is mandatory for all formal complaints and helps commanders verify that the resolution worked and that no retaliation occurred. The completed form is filed with the original DA Form 7279.
Structure of DA Form 7279-1
The form includes three main parts:
- Part I – Complaint Assessment:
- Details corrective actions taken.
- Documents the EO professional’s assessment activities (interviews with complainant, subject, witnesses, chain of command; surveys; record reviews, etc.).
- Evaluates effectiveness of corrective actions.
- Checks for any reprisal.
- Part II – Recommendations:
- EO professional recommends no further action or specific additional steps.
- Part III – Commander Acknowledgement:
- Commander reviews, acknowledges, and decides on any further actions.
The form emphasizes privacy protections under the Privacy Act and references relevant authorities like 10 USC 7013 and DoD instructions.
The Broader EO Complaint Process (Context for DA Form 7279-1)
Understanding the full timeline helps place the assessment form in perspective:
- Filing: Formal complaints use DA Form 7279 and should be filed within 60 calendar days of the incident (extensions possible at commander discretion).
- Initial Action: Commanders typically act within 3 calendar days; complaints are reported up the chain.
- Investigation: Usually completed within 14–30 days (AR 15-6 procedures often apply), with progress reports to higher commands.
- Decision & Corrective Actions: Commander decides and implements remedies.
- Appeal: Complainant or subject may appeal within 7 days.
- Resolution Assessment (DA Form 7279-1): 30–45 days after final decision.
This structured approach promotes accountability, fairness, and unit cohesion.
Who Uses DA Form 7279-1?
- Equal Opportunity Professionals (EOAs, MEO professionals) — Primary users who conduct the assessment.
- Commanders — Receive the assessment and provide acknowledgement.
- Soldiers — Indirect beneficiaries who can trust the system includes follow-up and reprisal protection.
- HR / S1 / IG personnel — For record-keeping and oversight.
All Army components (Active, Guard, Reserve) follow these procedures, with adjusted timelines for drilling Soldiers.
How to Download and Access the Official Form?
Official Download:
DA Form 7279-1 PDF – Hosted on Army Publishing Directorate (armypubs.army.mil).
Use only official sources for the latest version. Previous editions are obsolete. The form is fillable electronically.
For the full regulation, search for the latest AR 600-20 on armypubs.army.mil.
Best Practices and Tips for EO Professionals and Commanders
- Be thorough in documentation — Include dates, interviews, and any enclosures.
- Maintain confidentiality and protect against reprisal.
- Focus on facts and observable improvements in unit climate.
- Provide clear, actionable recommendations.
- Ensure the complainant receives appropriate feedback on the process (per policy).
Proper use of this form strengthens trust in the Army’s EO program and supports mission readiness.
Conclusion
DA Form 7279-1 is an essential tool in the Army’s commitment to equal opportunity and harassment prevention. By systematically assessing complaint resolutions, the Army ensures corrective actions endure and personnel feel protected from retaliation. Understanding and correctly using this form helps leaders foster inclusive, high-performing units.
Soldiers facing issues should consult their chain of command, EO professional, or Inspector General promptly. Leaders should stay current with AR 600-20 updates.
Download the form here: DA Form 7279-1