In this article, we will explore the key components of an army OER support form example, provide detailed guidance on how to fill it out effectively, and highlight best practices to maximize its usefulness for career development and promotion considerations.
Understanding the Purpose of the Army OER Support Form
What Is an OER Support Form?
The OER support form is a supplementary document that accompanies the main evaluation report. It provides the rater with a structured format to document specific examples, achievements, leadership qualities, and potential of the rated officer. This form helps ensure that evaluations are objective, detailed, and aligned with Army standards.
Why Is It Important?
- Provides Context: Offers concrete examples that support ratings.
- Enhances Fairness: Ensures evaluations are based on documented performance.
- Aids Career Progression: Helps officers understand strengths and areas for improvement.
- Supports Promotions: Serves as evidence in promotion boards and selection committees.
Key Components of an Army OER Support Form Example
A well-structured OER support form typically includes several main sections designed to capture relevant information about the officer’s performance.
1. Administrative Information
This section includes:
- Officer’s name and rank
- Period of report
- Position title and unit
- Rater and senior rater names and titles
2. Performance Summary
A concise overview of the officer’s overall performance during the rating period, highlighting key achievements and leadership qualities.
3. Specific Examples of Performance
This is the core of the support form. It should include detailed, quantifiable, and behavior-based examples that demonstrate the officer’s abilities in areas such as:
- Leadership
- Technical proficiency
- Decision-making
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Problem-solving skills
4. Potential and Development
Assessment of the officer’s potential for future roles and recommendations for professional development.
5. Comments on Strengths and Weaknesses
Balanced feedback highlighting areas of excellence and opportunities for improvement.
6. Recommendations
Specific suggestions related to promotions, assignments, and training.
Creating an Effective Army OER Support Form Example
To craft a compelling OER support form example, follow these best practices:
Use Clear, Concise Language
Avoid jargon and vague statements. Instead, use specific action verbs and measurable outcomes.
Provide Quantifiable Examples
Numbers and statistics make your examples more impactful:
- "Led a team of 10 soldiers to complete a project 15% ahead of schedule."
- "Reduced equipment downtime by 20% through proactive maintenance."
Include Behavioral Examples
Describe behaviors that demonstrate the officer’s qualities:
- "Displayed exceptional decision-making skills during a crisis, ensuring team safety and mission success."
- "Fostered a collaborative environment that improved team morale."
Align Examples with Army Core Competencies
Ensure examples reflect core competencies such as:
- Leadership
- Communication
- Accountability
- Technical expertise
Maintain Objectivity and Fairness
Support statements with facts and avoid bias. Highlight both strengths and areas needing improvement.
Sample Army OER Support Form Example
Below is a simplified example illustrating how to structure an OER support form:
Administrative Information
- Officer Name: CPT John Doe
- Period of Report: Jan 2023 – Dec 2023
- Position: Platoon Leader, 1st Infantry Battalion
- Rater: MAJ Jane Smith
- Senior Rater: LTC Robert Brown
Performance Summary
CPT Doe consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership and technical proficiency throughout the rating period. He effectively led his platoon during multiple operations, earning commendations for his decisive action and team management.
Specific Examples of Performance
- Led a platoon of 30 soldiers during a complex urban patrol, successfully completing all objectives with zero casualties and maintaining high morale.
- Initiated a training program that increased the platoon’s marksmanship scores by an average of 12 points, exceeding battalion standards.
- Developed a logistics plan that reduced supply delivery times by 25%, ensuring uninterrupted operational capability.
- Mentored two junior officers, both of whom received early promotions due to their improved performance and leadership.
Potential and Development
CPT Doe exhibits strong potential for company command and future staff roles. Continued development in strategic planning and joint operations will prepare him for higher leadership positions.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths: Leadership under pressure, technical expertise, mentorship skills
Weaknesses: Needs improvement in cross-departmental communication; recommends participation in joint exercises.
Recommendations
Promote to MAJ within the next two years; assign to a staff position to develop strategic planning skills; enroll in Joint Operations Course.
Best Practices for Filling Out an Army OER Support Form Example
- Start Early: Gather performance data and examples throughout the rating period.
- Be Honest and Objective: Provide truthful assessments supported by concrete evidence.
- Focus on Impact: Emphasize how the officer’s actions benefited the team or mission.
- Use Action-Oriented Language: Employ verbs like “led,” “developed,” “initiated,” “improved,” and “mentored.”
- Keep It Professional: Maintain a respectful tone, emphasizing constructive feedback.
Conclusion
An effective army OER support form example is a crucial component of the evaluation process that influences an officer’s career trajectory. By understanding its structure, purpose, and best practices for writing, soldiers and raters can contribute meaningful, impactful evaluations that accurately reflect performance and potential. Remember, detailed and objective documentation not only supports fair assessments but also guides officers toward professional growth and success within the Army.
Whether you are preparing your own OER or reviewing someone else’s, always aim for clarity, specificity, and fairness. In doing so, you help uphold the integrity of the evaluation system and support the development of strong, capable leaders for the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Army OER Support Form and why is it important?
An Army OER Support Form is a document used to provide additional context and supporting information for a soldier's Officer Evaluation Report (OER). It helps evaluators understand specific achievements and contributions that may not be fully captured in the standard OER form, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation.
Can you provide an example of a completed Army OER Support Form?
Yes, a typical Army OER Support Form example includes sections such as soldier's name, duty description, specific accomplishments, leadership qualities, and supporting comments. For instance, it might detail a soldier’s successful project leadership or exceptional performance under pressure, with clear, concise descriptions.
How do I format an effective Army OER Support Form example?
An effective Army OER Support Form should be clear, concise, and specific. Use bullet points or short paragraphs to highlight key achievements, include measurable results when possible, and ensure all information directly supports the soldier’s evaluation. Proper formatting enhances readability and impact.
Are there any templates available for Army OER Support Forms online?
Yes, there are several templates available on official Army websites and military resources that provide sample formats for OER Support Forms. These templates serve as helpful guides to ensure all necessary information is included and properly organized.
What key elements should be included in an Army OER Support Form example?
Key elements include the soldier’s full name, duty description, specific achievements and impacts, leadership qualities, professional development, and any supporting comments or evidence. Including quantifiable data and specific examples strengthens the support provided.
