What is the correct form to initiate a flag action?

The correct form to initiate a flag action is DA Form 268. This form is specifically designed for the purpose of initiating, documenting, and managing flagging actions, which can include adverse actions or administrative flags that affect a service member's eligibility for promotion, assignment, or other personnel decisions.

DA Form 268 allows commanders to formally record the reasons for the flag and the duration, ensuring proper tracking and compliance with military regulations. This form is integral to maintaining the integrity of personnel management within the military, as it provides a standardized method for documenting important personnel actions related to flags.

In contrast, other forms mentioned, such as DA Form 4856, are used for different purposes, such as counseling and performance evaluations, and do not serve the function of flagging actions. DA Form 214 is used for discharge documentation, while DA Form 490 pertains to another administrative function unrelated to flag actions. Thus, DA Form 268 is the only appropriate choice for initiating a flag action.