Occasionally Soldiers get into trouble and become subject to some form of formal punishment where he is judged by members outside the unit. Because he or she is being judged by strangers who don't know him, character statements will be required for his defense. A character statement helps judges, Commanders, First Sergeants, and other strangers make fair decisions by providing a factual description of a person's character. The people who will read your character statement don't know the individual personally, want to judge him or her fairly, and are depending on you to accurately and honestly describe the subject's character.
The most effective and meaningful character statements are those written by people who have known the accused person for a long time and who can be considered to be impartial. An NCOIC or manager would normally be considered to be impartial due to the enforced distance and formality required by a supervisor-subordinate relationship and because of the integrity a senior NCO is assumed to have.
If you are asked to write a character statement, don't worry if you can't write well. The important thing is that you cared enough and took the trouble to write one. Usually, when things get to the point where character references are requested, the person is in potentially serious trouble and his career is on the line. He will be grateful for any effort on his behalf. And the members who will be judging the case don't care if you use bad grammar. They just want to get an idea of the person's history so that they can make a fair decision based on the evidence.
Type your statement and print it on good quality paper. Your statement will represent both you and the subject and its appearance will have some influence. Make it as presentable as possible. Use plain bond paper and the official memorandum format.
If you are called on to write a character statement on someone's behalf, make sure what you write is 100% factual. To do otherwise would hurt your reputation and possibly make you subject to UCMJ action.
In general, character statements have three sections: the introduction, the body, and the closing:
Introduction
Normally a single paragraph of a couple of sentences explaining who you are (rank, place of work, etc) and your relationship with the subject (co-worker, friend, supervisor, etc). This is important. The reader will automatically assign a certain level of credibility to the letter based on the relationship. The more distant the relationship, the more credible the letter will be perceived to be.
Body
The body is the majority of the letter. It can be one or several paragraphs. Here is where you make the case for the subject by describing your experiences with him or her and giving examples of the subject's good qualities. The first sentence should state your overall opinion of the subject and everything else written should support that statement.
Make sure you address the type of behavior that the person is accused of having. If the person who needs the character statement was accused of reckless behavior, you should emphasize aspects of his or her behavior that demonstrate a serious regard for the safety and welfare of others. This will suggest to the reader that the incident was a one-time, out-of-character act, not likely to be repeated. Spend some time thinking this through so that you can come up with material that will cast doubt on the charges. The Army can and has moved surprisingly swiftly to discharge offenders and your statement will have a lot of weight in determining the subject's fate and may just save him or her from being discharged.
Ask the subject of the character statement if they have any information that could help project a positive image such as a list of accomplishments, organizations that he or she belongs to, or any other relevant information. Ask your co-workers too. This is important.
Closing
Normally a single paragraph that reinforces your belief in the subject and summarizes your statement. Expressing a willingness to go further in defense of the subject by providing a phone number or offering to show up at any hearing will double the letter's effectiveness.
Character Statement Examples
MEMORANDUM FOR ALL REVIEWING AUTHORITIES
FROM: Ryan P. Fasano, SFC, USA
SUBJECT: Character Statement for SSG Alfred M. Deleon
1. My Name is SFC Ryan P. Fasano. I currently serve as a Mortar Platoon Sergeant in 1st Brigade, 4th Infantry Division. I will have honorably served for 15 years come June 2021. I was previously assigned to Chaos Company, 3rd Battalion, 54th Infantry Regiment as the Senior Drill Sergeant of 4th Platoon and assisted in the activation of the Battalion and the 197th Infantry Brigade.
2. I met SSG Deleon on August 25, 2019, on the day he was assigned to Chaos Company. Although I was not his direct supervisor, I worked closely with him for over 16 months. SSG Deleon served as a Drill Sergeant in 1st Platoon and later became the Senior Drill Sergeant of 3rd Platoon. Throughout this period of time, I had the opportunity to witness his work ethic, professionalism, and ability to lead.
SSG Deleon displayed an unmatched work ethic. His drive and motivation played a key role in the accomplishment of the Unit's mission: taking civilians, turning them into Infantrymen and training them to be the Force's future leaders. He would continuously arrive early, stay as late as he needed to ensure the daily tasks were met, and to prepare for the next day. He would selflessly sacrifice his time on countless occasions, in order to lift the weight off his struggling peer's backs. I have had to pull him aside multiple times to explain how the Drill Sergeant duties can run you down and burn you out if you don't take the time to charge your own batteries; but helping his peers seemed to energize him.
Being a leader is where SSG Deleon shined the most. My impression of his tactical and technical knowledge was that of a senior NCO. He owned his Platoon, took responsibility for their mistakes, never made excuses for his short comings, and always gave the Trainees credit for their successes. He was not afraid to admit when he lacked knowledge of certain procedures or tasks; knowing I had the most experience on the trail in our company, SSG Deleon would come to me for guidance or advice to ensure he didn't look unprofessional in front of the Trainees.
SSG Deleon made me aware of the pending investigation due to possessing a substantial amount of ammunition the he had taken from ranges and training events. This came as quite a surprise to me and definitely caught me off guard. SSG Deleon had always demonstrated the highest level of integrity and never acted as someone who would violate his position of trust. He is easily in the top three junior NCOs that I have had the pleasure of working with.
3. I am fully aware of the severity of SSG Deleon's actions. I understand that he must be held accountable for his actions and punishment will be administered. My most humble request is that you allow him to continue service. In my professional opinion as one of his mentors, and as a witness of SSG Deleon's moral character, I truly believe that he is an asset to the United States Army. I am positive that he will thoroughly think things through and never make another decision without basing it off of our core Army Values.
4. Please contact me if you have any questions or concerns. I can be reached at ryan.p.fasano.mil@mail.mil or 719-964-8004.
RYAN P. FASANO
SFC, USA
Platoon Sergeant
MEMORANDUM FOR ALL REVIEWING AUTHORITIES
FROM: GUNNERY SERGEANT DEKINDEREN, TODD M. 1271676243/1833 USMC
SUBJECT: CHARACTER STATEMENT FOR STAFF SERGEANT TREJO, MARIO
EDIPI: 1298475886/USMC
1. My name is Gunnery Sergeant DeKinderen, Todd M., the 1st Marine Expeditionary Force (I MEF) G-3 Headquarters SNCOIC. I will have honorably served for 15 years come February, 2019. I am directly responsible to my commanding officer for the effective and efficient daily operations and mission. I supervise the Headquarters section of the G-3 consisting of two Noncommissioned Officers and one junior Marine.
2. I have known (SSgt) Trejo, Mario since December of 2010 when I was a Sergeant serving as a Canvassing Recruiter with 1st Marine Corps District, Recruiting Station New York, Recruiting Sub-station (RSS) Brooklyn. At that time, SSgt Trejo was a Lance Corporal and played a key role in the success of RSS Brooklyn.
At that time, LCpl Trejo displayed himself in a manner that was well above reproach. His military presence was something that even many of his superiors adored, including myself. He was always well groomed and his uniforms were always Inspection Ready. He carried himself with respect, maturity, honor, and never ceased to display Marine Corps Values.
When it came to Recruiting, LCpl Trejo was very motivated and impressive. His commitment to our mission was something he held near and dear to his heart. Not once did he complain about making telephone calls, visiting high schools, or area canvassing the streets and Subways of Brooklyn, NY. As a recruiter assistant who was not formally trained, LCpl Trejo outshined many certified Marine Corps Recruiters (8411s).
LCpl Trejo was soon promoted to Corporal, then shortly met me at the rank of Sergeant, and eventually being promoted to his current rank of Staff Sergeant. SSgt Trejo's overall dedication, passion, and love for the Marine Corps is something I wish to see in every Marine. SSgt Trejo is an outstanding leader and I would be honored to serve with him again.
3. Based on my experience and observations working alongside of SSgt Trejo, I highly recommend him for retention in the United States Marine Corps. In my professional opinion, SSgt Trejo has always confidently displayed what it means to be a U.S Marine.
T. M. DEKINDEREN
I am SSG Ricky Bobby and am writing on behalf of CW3 Walker Texas-Ranger. I have served over eleven years active duty service in our great Army. I am currently a Recruiter in Talladega and an active member of the Sergeant Audie Murphy Club.
I first met CW3 Texas-Ranger in August 2004, when he served as an AIT Drill Sergeant at Ft. Gordon, GA. CW3 Texas-Ranger was never assigned as my Drill Sergeant or Senior Drill Sergeant. Despite this, he had an extremely positive impact on me and the unit. CW3 Texas-Ranger never failed to uphold the Army Values and consistently embodied technical and tactical proficiency. Witnessing CW3 Texas-Ranger s superior leadership and mentorship qualities in such a diverse environment, certainly groomed me into the Leader I am today.
Furthermore, I served with CW3 Texas-Ranger in Fort Hood, TX, and Bagram, Afghanistan. CW3 Texas-Ranger and I were never assigned to the same section at either location. CW3 Texas-Ranger fortified the image of the Leader I knew him as during AIT, as he continuously mentored Soldiers at all echelons. His technical prowess was steadfast and contributions to the G6 team guaranteed overall mission accomplishment.
I aware of the pending review of CW3 Texas-Ranger s advancement to CW4 due to an investigation while he was assigned as a Drill Sergeant. The investigation came as quite a surprise to me, as CW3 Texas-Ranger has never portrayed a Soldier that would derelict his personal or professional responsibilities.
For these reasons, it is my humble recommendation that CW3 Texas-Ranger is advanced to CW4. If you would like for me to elaborate prior to your final decision, I would sincerely appreciate the opportunity to speak further on CW3 Texas-Ranger's behalf. I can be reached at any time on my personal cell, 800-SHK-NBKE, or government cell, 800-BBJ-ESUS.
1 Aug 2014
MEMORANDUM FOR ALL REVIEWING AUTHORITIES
FROM: John S. Smith, SSG, USA
SUBJECT: Character Statement for SGT Jones
My name is SSG Smith and I am writing on behalf of SGT Jones. I have been in the Army for over 11 years and I am currently the NCOIC of Personal Property at the Installation Transportation Office.
I first met SGT Jones in April 2011 at WLC, on Ft Stewart. I had the opportunity to get to know SGT Jones as a peer and as a friend. I know SGT Jones has dedicated her life to the Army is an integral part of it. She embodies her job as assignments manager and places her job and the Army first in her life, and wouldn't have it any other way.
I have been informed by SGT Jones about the situation that she is currently in. In regards to this situation, I can tell you that this was a one-time mistake and out of character for her. While TDY with her at Ft Meade, I had the opportunity to witness her instructing other NCOs about the GTC, its purpose, and its proper use. Despite numerous TDYs and dozens of uses, she has never misused her card before this instance. And, in her defense, she had the integrity to immediately acknowledge her mistake and take care of it immediately.
I am aware of the punishment that SGT Jones could be given. However, I do not believe the fullest extent of the law should be applied when determining her final punishment. What I have personally witnessed of SGT Jones' character does not indicate a person that poses a threat to the professional image and integrity of our Army. It is my belief that people of her character and work ethic are too rare to risk losing over a one-time, out-of-character incident and I earnestly recommend suspending any punishment. If you have any questions or concerns, or if I can be of further assistance, I can be reached at DSN 123-4567.
Respectfully,
MEMORANDUM FOR ALL REVIEWING AUTHORITIES
FROM: MARY M. BELLA, CPT, USA,
SUBJECT: Character Statement for SPC Joe J. Smith
1. My name is Capt Mary Bella and I am writing on behalf of SPC Joe J. Smith. I have been in the Army for almost nine years and currently I am the ASF Administration and Occupational Health Element Chief.
2. SPC Smith is one of the technicians who work in the Aeromedical Staging Facility (clinical operations). I have the opportunity to work with SPC Smith when I provide nurse coverage for the ground transportation of patients in the aerovac system. In addition, I have had the opportunity during the last month to interact with him during PT sessions three times a week.
SPC Smith always maintains a very high standard of dress and appearance. His interactions with me, and those I have witnessed with other superiors, are always with good military bearing and keen attention to customs and courtesies. He completes all tasks I ask of him and has often shown initiative and motivation with other tasks. I call upon him frequently during unit PT sessions to assist others with their running and endurance. He does so without question. If he has a concern regarding a task I've given him, he requests clarification.
SPC Smith is a quiet, soft-spoken individual who often keeps to himself. This has not been an issue with me when working with him. I know of a couple of conflicts with his coworkers/peers. However, I must note that SPC Smith was not the cause those conflicts.
3. I am aware of the discharge proceedings against SPC Smith. I recommend supporting him with his request to stay in the Army. At the very least, a suspended discharge would allow SPC Smith the opportunity to continue his service while demonstrating his commitment to the Army. I believe SPC Smith has the potential we seek in our Soldiers. Good mentorship and leadership will provide him the foundation he requires to continue to be an asset.
MARY M. BELLA, CPT, USA
ASF Admin/Occupational Health Element Chief
DSN 530-XXXX
10 Oct 2012
My name is SSG Wayne and I am SPC Morrison's supervisor. I am writing this character statement in support of SrA Morrison. I understand that he recently got in a fight at the base Club and is now subject to administrative action under the UCMJ.
I have worked with SPC Morrison (as a co-worker and now as a supervisor) for almost two years and in that time I have never seen him lose his temper or even raise his voice to anyone. He is one of the most calm members of our work center. I have always known him to be quietly cheerful and, to my knowledge, he has always had a good attitude and a positive outlook. He does his share of the work without complaint and appears to enjoy his job and being a member of the Army.
I remember one incident that illustrates his non-confrontational nature. One day, as SPC Morrison and I were walking back to the barracks after working all day during a base cleanup detail, we were stopped by a Master Sergeant we didn't know who accused us of shirking our duties. The Master Sergeant apparently thought we were assigned to his work detail and blasted us with insults and even put his hand on SPC Morrison's shoulder as if he was going to arrest him. Despite the unjustified provocation, SPC Morrison remained calm and in a respectful manner, explained our situation, and then just walked away. He doesn't like confrontations and will avoid them if at all possible.
He has never been in trouble before or involved in any kind of altercation. He has not received any kind of discipline here in our work center, not even a verbal counseling. Despite his young age, he is one our most mature Soldiers and never has to be told what his job is or be reminded to do something. In fact, I once heard our Maintenance NCO praise him at a meeting with the NCOIC, saying he wished he had more Soldiers like him.
In summary, I am surprised to learn of the behavior SPC Morrison is charged with. It is completely out of character for him and I can't help but wonder if there were mitigating circ*mstances. He is one of our best troops and I would not hesitate to recommend him for retention and promotion. I feel certain that our Section Chief would agree.
Sincerely,
John S. Wayne, SSG, USA
