DA Form 7896: Sea-Based Gunnery Qualification Scorecard – The DA Form 7896, officially titled the Sea-Based Gunnery Qualification Scorecard, is a critical U.S. Army document used to record and certify gunnery qualifications for personnel operating on Army watercraft. Released on May 1, 2022, this form ensures standardized training and readiness for maritime force protection missions.
What is DA Form 7896: Sea-Based Gunnery Qualification Scorecard?
DA Form 7896 is the official Sea-Based Gunnery Qualification Scorecard published by the U.S. Department of the Army. It provides a standardized method to document individual and crew proficiency in gunnery operations conducted from sea-based platforms, such as Army Logistics Support Vessels (LSVs) and other watercraft.
This form supports the unique requirements of Army mariners who must maintain weapons proficiency in dynamic maritime environments.
Purpose and Importance of DA Form 7896
The primary purpose of DA Form 7896 is to track, evaluate, and officially certify qualifications in sea-based gunnery. It ensures that crews operating Army vessels are fully prepared to defend against threats during logistics and sustainment missions at sea.
In an era of multi-domain operations, documented sea-based gunnery skills enhance vessel survivability and overall Army readiness, particularly in contested maritime regions.
Who Should Use DA Form 7896?
DA Form 7896 is primarily used by:
- U.S. Army Transportation Corps watercraft crewmembers
- Units operating Army vessels (LSV, LCM, etc.)
- Gunnery instructors, evaluators, and unit commanders
- Active Duty, Army National Guard, and Reserve personnel in maritime sustainment roles
Key Sections and Features of the Sea-Based Gunnery Scorecard
The form includes dedicated areas for:
- Soldier and crew identification data
- Training dates, locations, and conditions (day/night, sea states)
- Weapon systems evaluated (M2 .50 cal, MK19, M240, etc., often on CROWS mounts)
- Performance scoring for accuracy, speed, and safety
- Evaluator remarks and qualification certification
- Signatures and official validation
It aligns directly with the training standards outlined in TC 4-15.52: Sea-Based Gunnery Training.
How to Download DA Form 7896 PDF?
Official Download Link:
Download DA Form 7896 – Sea-Based Gunnery Qualification Scorecard (PDF)
This is the most current fillable version available from the U.S. Army Publishing Directorate. Always use the official source for the latest form.
Related Army Regulations and Training Publications
DA Form 7896 works in conjunction with:
- TC 4-15.52 – Sea-Based Gunnery Training (primary reference)
- DA PAM 385-63 – Range Safety
- Applicable Field Manuals on crew-served weapons
The form supports progressive training tables from individual skills to full crew qualification in maritime conditions.
Best Practices for Completing DA Form 7896
To ensure compliance and accuracy:
- Fill out all fields completely and legibly
- Use only certified evaluators
- Document environmental conditions and weapon specifics
- Retain records for unit readiness reporting and inspections
- Follow unit SOPs and TC 4-15.52 guidance
Why Sea-Based Gunnery Training Matters for U.S. Army Readiness?
With growing focus on Indo-Pacific operations and maritime logistics, qualified sea-based gunners are essential. Proper use of DA Form 7896 helps maintain high standards of lethality and protection for Army watercraft operating in potentially hostile environments.
DA Form 7896 is an essential tool for documenting sea-based gunnery qualifications in the U.S. Army. Proper use of this scorecard ensures training compliance, improves safety, and builds highly capable maritime crews ready for real-world missions.
For the official form, download directly from the Army Publishing Directorate link above. Always consult your chain of command for the most current guidance and requirements.