Letter of Lateness Army: Navigating the Consequences and Crafting Effective Explanations
Being late in the Army is a serious offense. It disrupts unit cohesion, operational readiness, and can have significant repercussions on your career. This comprehensive guide dives deep into the complexities of writing a letter of lateness in the Army, exploring the potential ramifications of tardiness and providing a step-by-step approach to crafting a compelling and effective explanation. We'll cover everything from understanding the severity of the situation to structuring your letter for maximum impact, ensuring you understand the process and your options. This is not a guarantee of leniency, but a guide to help you navigate a challenging situation effectively.
Understanding the Gravity of Lateness in the Military
Punctuality is paramount in the Army. It's not just about showing up on time; it's about demonstrating reliability, respect for authority, and commitment to the mission. Lateness, regardless of the reason, reflects negatively on your professionalism and can severely impact your career progression. Depending on the context and frequency of lateness, penalties can range from verbal reprimands and extra duty to non-judicial punishment (NJP) under Article 15 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ), or even court-martial in extreme cases. The potential consequences can include loss of rank, pay reduction, confinement, and even a dishonorable discharge.
Types of Lateness and Their Implications
The severity of lateness depends heavily on the context. Being late for formation is different from being late for a medical appointment, and both differ significantly from missing a deployment or crucial training exercise. Understanding the specific circumstances of your lateness is crucial when writing your letter. Factors considered include:
Frequency: A single instance of lateness carries less weight than a pattern of habitual tardiness.
Reason: Legitimate reasons (e.g., medical emergency, vehicle breakdown) are viewed more favorably than excuses based on negligence or poor planning.
Impact: The impact of your lateness on the unit's mission or operations is a crucial factor. A minor delay might be forgiven, while a significant disruption could lead to serious consequences.
Structuring Your Letter of Lateness
Your letter should be concise, respectful, and to the point. Avoid making excuses; focus on taking responsibility and outlining the steps you will take to prevent future occurrences. A well-structured letter typically includes:
Salutation: Address your commanding officer formally (e.g., "Sir," "Ma'am").
Statement of Lateness: Clearly state the date, time, and reason for your lateness.
Explanation: Provide a brief, honest, and factual explanation for your lateness. Avoid blaming others or making excuses. Focus on the facts.
Acceptance of Responsibility: Acknowledge your mistake and accept full responsibility for your actions.
Corrective Actions: Outline the steps you will take to prevent future incidents, such as setting multiple alarms, adjusting your morning routine, or seeking assistance if needed.
Apology: Offer a sincere apology for the inconvenience caused.
Closing: Reiterate your commitment to punctuality and your dedication to your duty.
Signature: Sign your full name and rank.
#### Sample Letter Structure:
> Sir/Ma'am,
> This letter addresses my lateness to [Formation/Event] on [Date] at [Time]. I was [Number] minutes late due to [Reason]. I understand that punctuality is essential in the military, and I take full responsibility for my failure to adhere to this standard. To prevent future occurrences, I have [Actions Taken]. I sincerely apologize for any disruption my lateness caused and reaffirm my commitment to maintaining the highest standards of punctuality.
> Respectfully,
> [Your Name]
> [Your Rank]
Seeking Legal Advice
If facing serious consequences, consult with your unit’s legal representative or a military lawyer. They can offer valuable guidance and representation to help you navigate the legal processes.
Preventing Future Lateness
Proactive measures are crucial to avoid future incidents. These include:
Planning: Thoroughly plan your day, ensuring sufficient time for travel and potential delays.
Time Management: Develop effective time management skills to avoid rushing.
Reliable Transportation: Ensure your transportation is reliable and in good working order.
Communication: If unforeseen circumstances arise that might cause lateness, communicate with your superiors as soon as possible.
Conclusion
A letter of lateness in the Army requires careful consideration and a professional approach. While lateness is a serious offense, a well-written, honest, and responsible letter demonstrates accountability and can mitigate the consequences. Remember, honesty, accountability, and a commitment to preventing future incidents are key to navigating this challenging situation.
FAQs
1. Can I use a template for my letter of lateness? While templates can provide a structure, always personalize the letter to reflect your specific situation and avoid generic language.
2. What if my lateness was due to a medical emergency? Provide detailed documentation from medical professionals to support your explanation.
3. Will my letter guarantee leniency? No, your letter is an opportunity to explain your actions and demonstrate responsibility. The outcome depends on your commanding officer's judgment.
4. What if I'm repeatedly late? Repeated lateness indicates a pattern of behavior requiring more significant intervention. Seek guidance from your chain of command to address underlying issues.
5. Should I involve my family in my letter? Unless their involvement directly relates to the reason for your lateness (e.g., family emergency), it's best to keep the letter focused on your actions and responsibility.
TRADOC Supplement to AR 600-8-22 - United States Army
letter of lateness, addressed to Commander, TRADOC, which states specific reasons for the late submission. Letters of lateness should be signed by a GO/SES.
Department of the Army Letterhead - U.S. Army Reserve
a detailed memorandum. The subject line will reflect “Letter of Lateness” and will address the following: (1) Why the award is late? (2) Who is responsible for the late award submission? (3)...
U.S. ARMY HUMAN RESOURCES COMMAND FOREIGN …
U.S. ARMY HUMAN RESOURCES COMMAND FOREIGN AWARDS PACKET PROCESSING GUIDE As of: May 2021 This guide should be used for preparing a recommendation packet to …
IMLM-LGS - U.S. Army Garrisons
less than 5 working days out must be accompanied by a Letter of Lateness, signed by the first LTC in the chain of command. A Letter of Lateness does not guarantee the appointment …
UTILIZATION OF THE U.S. ARMY TRAINING AND …
Requests for consideration as an exception to this policy require a detailed, explanatory letter of lateness signed by the first military O-6 (or GS-15/civilian equivalent) in the...
ETS/CHAPTERS (SEPARATIONS) PROCESSING …
ETS/CHAPTERS (SEPARATIONS) PROCESSING CHECKLIST. Packets are to be submitted 6 months prior to a Soldier's ETS. Letter of Lateness is required if packet is submitted within 90 …
Department of the Army *FLW Regulation 600-8-7 …
presentation date. Any LM award that reaches the OSGS less than 75 days prior to the presentation date will include a letter of lateness, which is req. ired by higher headquarters in …
Letter Of Lateness Army (book) - netsec.csuci.edu
This comprehensive guide dives deep into the complexities of writing a letter of lateness in the Army, exploring the potential ramifications of tardiness and providing a step-by-step approach …
United States Army
Created Date: 3/28/2018 2:51:51 PM
Microsoft PowerPoint - Military Awards Checklist 20181212
Letter of Lateness (if applicable) signed by GFC Commanding General. ARCOM recommendations are considered late if not received at USARC 60 days prior to the end …
DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY
Awards submitted outside of the specified timelines will have a letter of lateness attached with an explanation for the tardiness. The 83rd ARRTC checklist must be utilized for each award. a....
UNITED STATES ARMY TRAINING AND DOCTRINE …
and must include a letter of lateness from the organization. Nominations arriving late with no explanation will be returned to the organization. If the award nomination is for approval by the...
Chapter 1: Policies and Procedures - U.S. Army Garrisons
Training authorizations are based on STRAC standards and strategies as detailed in DA PAM 350-38), availability of stocks, training guidance and specific MTOE data such as weapon …
CASCOM SGS MILITARY AWARDS CHECKLIST - United …
Feb 11, 2021 · letter of lateness/board bypass memo (if applicable) orders (retirement) srb/orb (within 30 days of submission) copy of all previous award certificates received while assigned …
U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC)
Jan 24, 2024 · This handbook provides responsibilities, guidance, and requirements for the TRADOC Civilian Professional Award and Recognition Program in the deliberate effort to …
Letter Of Lateness Army - goramblers.org
insights, and advice from over 50 serving and retired Senior Non-Commissioned Officers. These experienced Army leaders have provided for the reader, outstanding mentorship on leadership …
20-420 Proponent AHRC-EPO-P Title Stabilization for …
Dec 11, 2020 · A letter of lateness (signed by the first O5 in their chain of command) is required for requests submitted after September. HRC will carefully consider late requests on a
AR 25-50 Preparing and Managing Correspondence - United …
AR 25-50 establishes three forms of correspondence authorized for use: a letter, memorandum, and message. For information on formatting and processing all Army activities (ALARACT) …
Army letter of lateness - museums.marinet.lib.ca
13. Accessing army letter of lateness Free and Paid eBooks army letter of lateness Public Domain eBooks army letter of lateness eBook Subscription Services army letter of lateness Budget …
Army Evaluation Report Appeals and Formats - U.S. Army …
The first step in the Army Redress System is the commander's inquiry. The primary purpose of the ... cover letter be typed, military memorandum on letterhead or white bond paper. In …
U.S. ARMY GARRISON HAWAII
Waiver memo (DEROS, Letter of Lateness, ADSO, etc…) Proof of Additional Creditable Service (Not all documents will apply) DD Form 4-1,2,3 (Do not send in entire packet) ... Enterprise …
AIM 2.0 PORTAL - U.S. Army Garrisons
Requests submitted later than the start of the student's junior year may be processed as an exception to policy and must include a letter of lateness with justification that supports the …
TRANSITION CENTER CHECKLIST - U.S. Army Garrisons
USAR/NG Contract (if transferring to Army Reserve or National Guard) All non-transferable Flags must be removed (with the exception of H, J, K) DD Form 2648 (from Transition Assistance …
Department of the Army FLW Regulation 700-2 …
This regulation applies to all Active Army, United States Army Reserve (USAR), Army National Guard (ARNG), Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC), and any other local, state or other …
Counseling and Military Justice - U.S. Army Garrisons
•Army leaders at all levels must be continually aware of their obligation to provide purpose, direction, and motivation to Soldiers. It is essential that Soldiers who falter, but have the …
NCOER and OER Appeal - U.S. Army Garrisons
• Alternatively, you can submit a DD 149, available at https://armypubs.army.mil by using the search bar for DD 149. Print and mail to Army Review Boards Agency, 251 18th Street South, …
FINANCIAL LIABILITY INVESTIGATION OF PROPERTY LOSS …
destroyed by the Army, then the Respondent/Soldier may not be held financially liable. 2. Responsibility - There are many methods of having responsibility over Government . property …
Army Garrisons :: U.S. Army Installation Management …
Created Date: 8/13/2020 9:25:25 AM
US Army Japan Home
SUBJECT: United States Army Japan (USARJ) Travel and Temporary Duty (TDY) Policy 1. References: a. Joint Travel Regulations (J T R), Uniformed Service Members and Department …
DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY
Army Regulation 735-5, Property Accountability Policies, 9 Nov 16. b. Army Regulation 710-2, Supply Policy below the National Level, 28 Mar 08. ... Submit a letter of lateness for actions …
Accommodating Religious Practices - The Chaplain Kit
Chapter 1 Introduction 1-1. Purpose This pamphlet explains guidance and procedures for accommodat- ing religious practices of soldiers in the U.S. Army. It defines the roles of …
Department of the Army Retirement Planning Briefing
Department of the Army Retirement Planning Briefing. 2. Purpose. To provide an overview of the planning . ... Notification of Eligibility (NOE) for Retired Pay at Age 60 (20year letter). A 20 - …
Date MEMORANDUM FOR: Rear Admiral Jonathan W. Bailey, …
SUBJECT: Lateness of Award Nomination for Lieutenant XXXXXXX . I respectfully submit the attached NF56-63, Recommendation for Award, in nomination of Lieutenant James R. Sample …
Evaluation Report (OER/NCOER) Appeals - U.S. Army Garrisons
recommended that the cover letter be typed, military memorandum on letterhead or white bond paper. In whatever form your appeal is presented, all enclosures should be tabbed and listed …
DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY
DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY UNITED STATES ARMY COMBINED ARMS SUPPORTS COMMAND 2221 ADAMS AVENUE FORT LEE, VIRGINIA 23801 CASCOM POLICY 21-30 …
TRANSITION CENTER CHECKLIST - U.S. Army Garrisons
USAR/NG Contract (if transferring to Army Reserve or National Guard) All non-transferable Flags must be removed (with the exception of H, J, K) DD Form 2648 (from Transition Assistance …
ARMY RESERVE - RECORD OF INDIVIDUAL PERFORMANCE …
ARMY RESERVE. 12. FOR RECORDS MANAGER OF INDIVIDUAL SOLDIER'S RECORDS. 11. SIGNATURE OF OFFICER . 4. TO: (Records Manager AMHRR) (Include ZIP Code) (Check …
MSC Commands will: - U.S. Army Reserve
Oct 16, 2019 · date the packet is submitted in TOD. Late requests require a letter of lateness, start dates will be adjusted 30 days upon receipt of request. e. Packets must comply with TOD …
United States Army
Letter of Lateness Authorizations and AEA requests received by USARJ G-8 level 15 in DTS within ten (10) business days of travel start date will require a Letter of Lateness. Are you …
ASPA-LDV - U.S. Army Garrisons
DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY . LOGISTICS READINESS CENTER – DEVENS . 8 LEXINGTON STREETFORT DEVENS, MA 01434-4479 . ASPA-LDV 15 April 2023 . ... A. Letter of …
SUSPENSION OF FAVORABLE ACTIONS (“FLAGS”) - United …
Jun 5, 2023 · If you are only given a memorandum of admonition, or a letter of reprimand, the day it is given to you and acted on by the command (whether to file it locally, or in your permanent …
Financial Liability -- FLIPL (2023-04) - U.S. Army Garrisons
A. Soldiers and Department of the Army civilian employees may have to pay for Army property they lose or damage. Under Army Regulation (AR) 735-5, financial liability ordinarily will not …
Letter Of Lateness Army Full PDF - admissions.piedmont.edu
Letter Of Lateness Army # Letter of Lateness Army: Understanding and Navigating Punctuality Issues Author: Sergeant Major (Ret.) Johnathan Miller Ebook Outline: Introduction: The …
DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY (YOUR UNIT ADDRESS STREET) …
Feb 14, 2019 · DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY (YOUR UNIT ADDRESS STREET) (YOUR UNIT ADDRESS POST/ZIPCODE) XXXX-XX DD/MM/YYYY . MEMORANDUM FOR Commander, …
United States Army
HEADQUARTERS, UNITED STATES ARMY GARRISON HUMPHREYS UNIT #15228 APO AP 96271-5228 3 August 2017 MEMORANDUM FOR SEE DISTRIBUTION ... MFR, or Letter of …
FACT SHEET (Rev: June 98) - U.S. Army Garrisons
which the Army accounts for the circumstances surrounding the loss, damage or destruction (LDD) of Government property. The FLIPL serves as documentation allowing for the …
NCOER Appeals - 7th Army Training Command
The first step in preparing an appeal is to review the Army Regulation that was in effect at the time the challenged report was prepared. The current regulation, AR 623-3, ... Also include a copy …
ASPA-LDV - U.S. Army Garrisons
DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY . LOGISTICS READINESS CENTER – DEVENS . 8 LEXINGTON STREETFORT DEVENS, MA 01434-4479 . ASPA-LDV 15 April 2023 . ... A. Letter of …
Untitled (003) [www.ncolcoe.army.mil]
Reference: Army Regulation 600-8-10, Leaves and Passes, dated 3 June 2020. 2. Purpose. To outline the Commandant's policy on absences. 3. Absences (formally known as leave) and …
Defense Health Agency
DHA-AI 4000.02 May 9, 2022 . 6 ENCLOSURE 1 . ENCLOSURE 1 . REFERENCES (a) DoD Directive 5136.01, “Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs (ASD(HA)),”
APPROPRIATE LETTERHEAD APPROPRIATE ADDRESS …
Sep 24, 2018 · _____ (insert explanation for lateness – only required if 6 months past the qualifying period of service/achievement). • TAB B is the narrative justifying award. ... was …
Unit Prevention Leader (UPL) Certification Training - U.S.
the Army Substance Abuse Program (ASAP), conduct flawless urinalysis collections, assist the Commander in the administration of the unit drug testing; and at the Commander's discretion, …
APPEALING YOUR EVALUATION REPORT FACT SHEET - United …
Army’s redress system, the Army Board for Correction of Military Records (ABCMR). The ABCMR is governed by AR 15–185. If you have any questions or would like to initiate a Commander’s …
ARMY BOARD FOR CORRECTION OF MILITARY RECORDS
2. He provides a letter of lateness, signed by the Commander, Tripler Army Medical Center, who states the special pay contract for [Applicant] is submitted late and no fault of the officer. The …
Finance Guide for USAR Commanders and Soldiers - U.S.
3-26. 4-25d, 5-15a) prior to assigning the transmittal letter. This secondary review of the ARA's input is mandatory and an inspectable item. d. Ensure that Soldiers receive pay timely. USAR …
Department of the Army Letterhead - Arkansas National Guard
destroyed or lost. Army Regulation (AR) 735-5, Chapter 13, governs the FLIPL system. It can be found at www.apd.army.mil. RIGHTS IF YOU ARE FOUND LIABLE: If the financial liability …
Army Reserve Retirement Points Information Guide
Center (RPAC), US Army Reserve Command G-1, Service and Support Division or Army Human Resources Command (AHRC), Personnel Action Branch (PAB). Additional information and …
Army Letter Of Lateness For Award Example - 178.128.217.59
Army Letter Of Lateness For Award Example we tend to get late most of the times and sometimes we miss out on important schedules or events thus samples of apology letter for being late …
THE IG UPDATE - United States Army
• AR 600-20, Army Command Policy Command transition periods bring personnel transition, changes of command and new commanders signing policy letters. One common question to …
ARMY BOARD FOR CORRECTION OF MILITARY RECORDS
• Memorandum – Subject: Letter of Lateness, Retirement Points Only DA Forms 1380 (Record of Individual Performance of Reserve Duty Training), 3 November 2022 ... enlisted in the U.S. …
U.S. ARMY PRE-RETIREMENT COUNSELING GUIDE - United …
OCTOBER 2017 . PRE-RETIREMENT COUNSELING GUIDE . PREPARED BY: Army Retirement Services . Deputy Chief of Staff, G-1 . Arlington, VA 22202-3531
USARCENT MEDICAL WAIVER GUIDANCE - United States Army
Jul 10, 2018 · 1. Army Regulation 40-501, Standards of Medical Fitness, Rapid Action Revision (RAR) dated 23 August 2010; Available on Army Publishing Directorate (APD) web site . …
Financial Liability Investigations of Property Loss (FLIPL) - U.S.
Army Regulation (AR) 735-5, financial liability ordinarily will not exceed one month's base pay. In certain cases, however, such as the loss of personal arms or equipment, or damage to …
ARMY BOARD FOR CORRECTION OF MILITARY RECORDS …
d. A letter of lateness, dated 6 December 2021, address from the Detachment Chief to the U.S. Army Human Resources Command requesting the applicant be granted retirement points for …
Department of the Army FLW Regulation 700-2 …
This regulation applies to all Active Army, United States Army Reserve (USAR), Army National Guard (ARNG), Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC), and any other local, state or other …
ETS/CHAPTERS (SEPARATIONS) PROCESSING CHECKLIST
Letter of Lateness is required if packet is submitted within 90 days or less of date of separation. (LOL must be signed by Company CDR) Packets must be submitted via IPPS-A in ONE or …
Ammunition Procedures - U.S. Army Garrisons
a. Establishes general policies, procedures and responsibilities for US Army ammunition supply activities (ASA) on Joint Base Lewis McChord (JBLM) and its sub-installations, as well as for …
THE OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER 1,000,000! - United States Army
2 ONCE A SOLDIER, ALWAYS A SOLDIER . . . A SOLDIER FOR LIFE Army Echoes is the U. S. Army’s official newsletter for Retired Soldiers, surviving spouses and their families.Army …