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Writing a citation can be a challenge. It's the formal method we use to express our gratitude for and recognize the contributions of our Soldiers. It's very important that the person's unique accomplishments be described accurately but yet remain in the format and language demanded by Army tradition. A citation means a lot to a Soldier and will endure well past his retirement date. Don't rush this sacred duty. Take the time to give it your best effort. To help get the ball rolling, we're providing some sample citations to use as a starting point.
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AR 600–8–22 • 11 December 2006
Section IVTask: Prepare Award Certificates
3–21. Rules for preparing Army award certificates
a. Proposed certificate citations submitted to HQ, USA HRC (AHRC–PDO–PA) for approval of heroism awards (Soldier’s Medal and higher), and for the Distinguished Service Medal will be typed double-spaced, not more than 12 characters per inch, on 8 1/2 by 11-inch paper, and may be continued on one double-spaced typewritten page. Do not submit actual certificates to HQ, USA HRC.
b. Certificate citations for the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal, Air Medal with "V" Device and Army Commendation Medal with "V" Device are limited to a maximum of nine lines, 12 characters per inch.
c. Certificate citations for the Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal and Army Achievement Medal are limited to six lines.
d. Army policy does not restrict the use of abbreviations and acronyms in award citations. However, due to the inherent historical value of the award certificate and the acts or service it represents, it is imperative that it be prepared with care so that its appearance is professional and dignified. It is also recommended that only the most commonly known abbreviations and acronyms be used in the citation. The abbreviation/acronym should be spelled out the first time and followed by the abbreviation/acronym in parenthesis. Certificates should include a brief descriptive narrative and should not be so brief as to distract from its meaning, and should be prepared on a letter quality printer or equivalent.
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