DA FORM 4980-17 – Meritorious Unit Commendation Certificate

DAFORMFILLABLE.COM | DA FORM 4980-17 – Meritorious Unit Commendation Certificate is a significant document in the U.S. Army, issued to recognize units for exceptional performance in carrying out their missions. This certificate is not just a piece of paper but a symbol of dedication, teamwork, and excellence.

DA FORM 4980-17 – Meritorious Unit Commendation Certificate

Form Number DA Form 4980-17
Form Title Meritorious Unit Commendation Certificate
Form Date 10/01/2011
Form Proponent G-1

Publication Details

The DA FORM 4980-17 was last revised on October 1, 2011, replacing the previous version dated January 1, 2000. It is an active form, indicating its current usage within the Army. The form is published and maintained by G-1, ensuring its relevance and accuracy.

Purpose and Usage

The Meritorious Unit Commendation Certificate is awarded to units for outstanding meritorious performance in difficult and challenging missions under extraordinary circumstances. The recognition is prescribed by AR 600-8-22, the Army regulation governing military awards. This regulation provides comprehensive guidelines on how units can qualify for and receive this commendation.

Key Features of DA FORM 4980-17

Authority and Classification

The DA FORM 4980-17 is an unclassified document, ensuring it is accessible to all eligible units and personnel. It carries a distribution restriction code A, meaning it is approved for public release and distribution is unlimited. This broad accessibility underscores the form’s importance in promoting transparency and recognition within the Army.

Footnotes and Security

The form is marked with a footnote indicating it is a sensitive form, emphasizing the importance of proper handling and administration. Although unclassified, the sensitivity ensures that the form is managed with the respect and seriousness it deserves.

Identification Numbers

To ensure proper tracking and administration, the form is identified with a Pub/Form IDN of 990001 and a Pub/Form PIN of 049393. These identifiers are crucial for maintaining records and ensuring the form’s integrity within Army documentation systems.

Importance of the Meritorious Unit Commendation Certificate

Recognizing Excellence

The Meritorious Unit Commendation Certificate is more than a formal recognition; it is a testament to the exceptional performance and unwavering commitment of Army units. It acknowledges units that have gone above and beyond their duties, demonstrating extraordinary heroism and professionalism.

Boosting Morale

Receiving this commendation significantly boosts the morale of the unit members. It instills a sense of pride and accomplishment, fostering a stronger bond and a greater sense of purpose within the unit. The recognition serves as a powerful motivator, encouraging units to strive for excellence in all their endeavors.

Procedures for Awarding the Certificate

Nomination Process

Units can be nominated for the Meritorious Unit Commendation Certificate through a detailed nomination process outlined in AR 600-8-22. This involves compiling a comprehensive record of the unit’s achievements and justifying why they deserve the commendation.

Approval and Issuance

Once nominated, the proposal undergoes a thorough review process. The final approval is granted by the appropriate authority within the Army, ensuring that only the most deserving units receive this prestigious award. Upon approval, the DA FORM 4980-17 is issued, officially recognizing the unit’s meritorious service.

Conclusion

The DA FORM 4980-17 – Meritorious Unit Commendation Certificate is a vital document in the U.S. Army’s recognition system. By adhering to the guidelines and processes prescribed in AR 600-8-22, units can aspire to achieve this honor, symbolizing their exceptional service and dedication. This certificate not only commemorates past achievements but also inspires future excellence, reinforcing the values of teamwork, perseverance, and professionalism within the Army.

By understanding and utilizing the DA FORM 4980-17, Army units can ensure their extraordinary efforts are acknowledged and celebrated, contributing to a legacy of excellence and honor in military service.

DA FORM 4980-17 – Meritorious Unit Commendation Certificate