DA 31 Army Form: Overview and Purpose

The DA 31 form is a U.S. Army form used for requesting leave and for documenting a soldier's leave of absence. It is officially known as the "Request and Authority for Leave" form. The DA 31 form serves several purposes:

1. Leave Request: Soldiers use this form to request leave for various reasons, such as personal time off, family events, emergencies, or any other authorized reason for being absent from duty.

2. Authorization: Once completed and approved, the DA 31 form serves as authorization for the soldier to take the requested leave. It specifies the dates and duration of the approved leave.

3. Documentation: The form provides a record of the soldier's leave, which is important for maintaining accurate personnel and payroll records. It includes details such as the soldier's name, rank, unit, leave address, and the approving authority.

4. Accountability: The DA 31 form helps commanders and superiors keep track of their soldiers' whereabouts and ensures that the soldier's leave is appropriately managed within the military unit.

5. Emergency Contact Information: The form typically includes emergency contact information, allowing the military to reach the soldier or notify family members in case of an emergency during their leave.

Here are some key points to understand about the DA 31 form:

• It must be filled out accurately and completely, including the soldier's personal information, the type of leave (ordinary, emergency, etc.), the requested leave dates, and any additional remarks or comments.

• The form should be submitted well in advance of the intended leave period to allow for processing and approval.

• Approval of leave is typically granted by the soldier's immediate supervisor or a higher-ranking officer, depending on the unit's policies and procedures.

• Soldiers are expected to adhere to the approved leave dates and to return to duty as scheduled. Failure to do so without proper authorization can result in disciplinary action.

• Soldiers should keep a copy of the approved DA 31 form with them during their leave and make it available for inspection if required.

It's important to note that the DA 31 form is specific to the U.S. Army and is not used by other branches of the U.S. military. Each branch of the military may have its own leave request and authorization procedures, forms, and regulations. Soldiers should consult their unit's regulations and procedures for specific guidance on using the DA 31 form and requesting leave.