What is the purpose of DA Form 4856?

The purpose of DA Form 4856 is to serve as a counseling form used by military leaders to record and document counseling sessions with soldiers. This form plays a critical role in the Army's professional development system by providing a structured format for leaders to communicate expectations, performance feedback, and areas for improvement directly to their subordinates. It can be used for various types of counseling, such as initial, performance, or event-oriented counseling.

Using this form helps ensure that the counseling process is formalized and that there is a written record of discussions, which can be referenced in future sessions or evaluations. The documentation on DA Form 4856 is essential for tracking a soldier's growth, development, and any necessary corrective actions, emphasizing its suitability as a counseling tool within the Army's administrative framework.