DA Form 78: Guide to 1LT/CW2 Promotion (PDF) – DA Form 78 is the official U.S. Army form titled Recommendation for Promotion to 1LT/CW2. It is used to formally recommend officers for promotion from Second Lieutenant (2LT) to First Lieutenant (1LT) or from Warrant Officer 1 (WO1) to Chief Warrant Officer 2 (CW2). This form is a key part of the officer promotion process under AR 600-8-29.
The form documents the officer’s performance, qualifications, and the commander’s official recommendation.
Who Uses DA Form 78?
DA Form 78 is primarily used by unit commanders (usually LTC or higher), raters, and Personnel Service Centers (PSC) for Active Duty Army officers. It applies to officers on the Active Duty List (ADL). National Guard and Reserve units typically use NGB Form 78 instead.
Recommending officials evaluate the officer’s duty performance, training completion, and overall readiness for promotion.
Eligibility for Promotion to 1LT or CW2
Promotions to 1LT and CW2 are generally fully qualified, time-based promotions. Typical requirements include:
- Minimum time-in-grade (usually 24 months for 2LT to 1LT)
- Completion of Basic Officer Leaders Course (BOLC) or Warrant Officer Basic Course (WOBC)
- No unfavorable flags or adverse actions
- Positive recommendation from the commander
If an officer is not recommended, the form must clearly document the reasons.
How to Complete DA Form 78: Step-by-Step Guidance?
Here is a general guide to filling out the form:
- Officer Identification — Enter full name, rank, DoD ID, duty position, and unit information.
- Promotion Details — Include current grade, proposed grade, date of rank, and time in grade.
- Recommendation — Provide performance summary and check “Recommended” or “Not Recommended.”
- Justification / Remarks — Add supporting comments, achievements, or reasons for non-recommendation.
- Approving Authority — Senior commander reviews and signs the form.
Always use the latest fillable version and verify data through IPPS-A. Consult your unit S1 for specific guidance.
Download DA Form 78 PDF
Official Download Link:
DA Form 78 PDF
Download the most current version directly from the U.S. Army Publishing Directorate (armypubs.army.mil) to ensure compliance.
Importance in Army Officer Career Progression
DA Form 78 plays a vital role in the Army’s merit-based promotion system. Accurate and timely completion helps maintain force readiness and supports fair officer career development. Successful promotion to 1LT/CW2 is the first major step toward future promotions to Captain (CPT) and higher warrant officer grades.
Common Questions About DA Form 78
Is DA Form 78 required even for automatic promotions?
Yes. It formalizes the commander’s recommendation.
What happens if promotion is not recommended?
The form documents the reasons and may lead to further review, delay, or separation actions.
Where should the completed form be submitted?
Submit through the chain of command to the appropriate personnel center (HRC or unit PSC).
Conclusion
Understanding and properly using DA Form 78 ensures a smooth promotion process from 2LT/WO1 to 1LT/CW2. Commanders and officers should always refer to the latest AR 600-8-29 and consult their servicing personnel office for current policies.
This article is for informational purposes only. Always verify with official Army sources for the most up-to-date guidance.