Reserve Officer? Going before a promotion board this year? I had the opportunity to sit on a selection board last fall at AR- PERSCOM. Here are observations that you might find helpful.
Well before the board, you'll get a thick packet and a copy of your micro-fiche. Two absolutes: Your micro-fiche will be incomplete; and you must follow the instructions in the packet "TO THE LETTER."
Attack the incomplete official record on your micro-fiche first. It is by far the more time intensive requirement. Get CERTIFIED COPIES of any missing OERs. Details of the requirement are clearly laid-out in the instruction packet. BOTTOM LINE - your senior rater must certify and sign the copy for it to be accepted as valid. Having a complete record of your OERs is critical to a successful board experience.
Does your board have a military or civilian education require- ment? If so, send copies of diplomas. They are the easiest to read and verify attendance and qualifications. Transcripts are very hard to read on micro-fiche. If you send one, circle the notation that indicates the date that the course was completed or the degree was awarded. While the Secretariat seems to accept copies, the requirement is for originals or certified copies.
Awards? Similar rules apply. Originals or certified copies.
The instruction packet suggests a letter to the Board President, a biographical Summary, an Officer Record Brief (ORB), and an official photo. They are not required, but send an important message to the board: "Promote me. I've put forth extra effort." Be sure you have records to support every claim you make. You'd be surprised how the inconsistencies "jump" off the page at the readers. Confine your letter to one page - no exceptions!! Longer letters are not read. Remember, the board has thousands of records to review and yours with be lucky to get one minute of attention from each board member.
Some suggestions about the letter. Stick to the facts and don't complain. State clearly what separates you from all others and warrants your promotion over them. Point out recent awards, tours beyond the Annual Training requirement, and civilian credentials that contribute to your value to the Army (language skills, graduate education, publications, professional certification). Remember to be brief, succinct, hit the high points only. Last, explain any periods for which you have no OERs. If you spent two years in the IRR while getting a Master's or completing a Ph.D., say so. Better to explain than to leave the impression that you don't care about your reserve career.
Last, the official photo is at the top of your file and is important. Make sure that it conforms to official standards.