Army Character Statement: Purpose, Importance, & Tips

In today’s post, I will educate you about the Army Character Statement.

In the U.S. Army, integrity, honor, and ethics are not just values to uphold but crucial components of a soldier’s identity. The Army character statement plays a pivotal role in assessing the character and integrity of soldiers, making it a cornerstone in military proceedings. In this article, we delve into the significance of the Army character statement, its purpose, elements, and the weight it carries within the military justice system.

Defining the Army Character Statement

The Army character statement is a written document that provides insights into a soldier’s character, integrity, and ethical conduct. It is used in various military contexts, including investigations, legal proceedings, and evaluations.

Purpose and Importance

Evaluating Conduct: The character statement is essential for evaluating a soldier’s behavior and conduct in situations that demand the highest ethical standards. It can influence decisions regarding promotions, assignments, and leadership roles.
Legal Proceedings: In military justice proceedings, the character statement can serve as a piece of evidence that sheds light on a soldier’s moral fiber and credibility.
Leadership Assessment: Leaders within the military often write character statements for their subordinates, offering valuable insights into the soldier’s strengths, weaknesses, and potential for growth.

Elements of an Army Character Statement

Personal Introduction: The statement typically begins with an introduction of the individual writing it, highlighting their relationship with the soldier in question.
Personal Observations: The writer shares their firsthand observations of the soldier’s behavior, conduct, and character traits. These observations should be specific, honest, and unbiased.
Moral and Ethical Conduct: The Army Character Statement assesses the soldier’s adherence to moral and ethical standards, including honesty, integrity, and accountability.
Teamwork and Leadership: The writer evaluates the soldier’s ability to work within a team, lead others effectively, and contribute positively to the unit’s mission.
Commitment to the Army Values: The statement should discuss the soldier’s alignment with the Army Values: loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity, and personal courage.
Examples and Anecdotes: The use of specific examples and anecdotes can provide context and depth to the character statement, offering a more comprehensive understanding of the soldier’s behavior.

Writing Considerations

Accuracy: The character statement should accurately reflect the writer’s observations and opinions, avoiding embellishments or exaggerations.
Professional Tone: The statement should be written in a professional and respectful tone, maintaining the standards of military communication.
Objectivity: Writers should strive for objectivity and fairness, avoiding biases and judgments that are not substantiated by evidence.

Example Character Statement

After searching the internet for a bit, I found an example Character Statement to give you a template you can use when writing one yourself.

Dear Sir or Madam,
I am {Rank} {Name} of the {Squad Name} in {Location}, and I am writing this statement on behalf of {Rank} {Name} in the event of {his/her} disciplinary hearing.
I have known {Name} for the last {number} years. I was {his/her} {position} during training, and I watched {him/her} progress from {rank} to {rank} very quickly due to a combination of determination, skill, and leadership. {Name} and I were also assigned to {squad/assignment} together, where I witnessed {his/her} focus and self-restraint.
{Name} is good under pressure, both as a leader and a follower. I have seen the self-control required to succeed in {activity} in {him/her} again and again, and I am convinced that {he/she} is working constantly to overcome the regrettable mistake of {disciplinary hearing cause}. I believe that {Name} is an outstanding officer who will overcome this lapse in behavior and continue to make {his/her} unit proud.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
{Sender}
Source: CharacterReferenceLetters.com

When writing one yourself, be sure to take your time and be specific. After you write the first draft, sleep on it for one night and then come back to it and edit it. In addition, you can share it with a trusted peer and have them give you feedback on your writeup.

Conclusion

In the U.S. Army, character is the foundation upon which trust and teamwork are built. The Army character statement serves as a written testament to a soldier’s integrity, ethical conduct, and dedication to upholding the values of the military. By providing insights into a soldier’s character, the character statement plays a vital role in decisions that impact careers, leadership roles, and the pursuit of justice within the military realm.