The Essential Letter of Recommendation Template for Officer Army

To the Selection Board,

It is with immense pleasure and unwavering confidence that I recommend Lieutenant John Smith for promotion to the rank of Captain. I have had the distinct honor of serving as Lieutenant Smith's direct supervisor for the past two years in the 1st Battalion, 10th Infantry Regiment. During this time, he has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities, strategic thinking, and a deep commitment to the welfare of his soldiers.

Lieutenant Smith's performance as a Platoon Leader was exemplary. He not only met but exceeded all mission requirements, often under challenging circumstances. His ability to assess situations, make sound decisions, and inspire his platoon to achieve their objectives was truly remarkable. He consistently prioritized training and development, ensuring his soldiers were prepared for any task. One notable instance involved a complex field exercise where Lieutenant Smith’s innovative tactics and calm demeanor under pressure were instrumental in the platoon's success.

Beyond his tactical acumen, Lieutenant Smith possesses a strong moral compass and unwavering integrity. He is respected by his peers and admired by his subordinates for his fairness, empathy, and dedication. He actively mentors junior soldiers and fosters a positive and disciplined command climate. I am confident that Lieutenant Smith will excel in the responsibilities of a Captain and will continue to be an invaluable asset to the United States Army.

Sincerely,

[Your Name/Rank]

[Your Position]

Dear OCS Admissions Committee,

I am writing to enthusiastically recommend Cadet Emily Davis for admission to Officer Candidate School. I have known Cadet Davis for three years in my capacity as her Professor of Military Science at State University ROTC Program. Throughout her time in ROTC, Emily has consistently shown an outstanding commitment to leadership development, academic excellence, and physical fitness.

Cadet Davis has a natural talent for leadership. She served as the Battalion Physical Training Commander, where she was responsible for organizing and executing physical training for over 150 cadets. Her meticulous planning, motivational skills, and ability to adapt to unforeseen challenges were evident in the program’s success and the improved fitness levels of the cadets. She also demonstrated strong teamwork skills as a member of our Ranger Challenge team, contributing significantly to their competitive performance.

Academically, Emily maintains a GPA of 3.8 and has consistently placed on the Dean's List. Her understanding of military strategy and theory is advanced, and she actively participates in class discussions. Emily possesses the drive, intelligence, and character necessary to succeed as an Army Officer. I am certain she will be a valuable addition to OCS and a future leader in our Army.

Respectfully,

[Your Name/Rank]

[Your Position]

To the Appointing Authority,

It is my distinct privilege to recommend Major Sarah Chen for command of a Company within the 101st Airborne Division. I have worked closely with Major Chen for the past four years, first as her subordinate and then as her Battalion Commander. In both capacities, I have witnessed firsthand her exceptional leadership, her unwavering dedication to her soldiers, and her profound understanding of operational requirements.

Major Chen possesses a rare combination of strategic foresight and tactical execution. She is adept at developing and implementing complex plans, always with the safety and effectiveness of her unit as her top priority. Her ability to anticipate challenges and develop contingency plans has been invaluable. During our recent deployment, Major Chen’s company consistently outperformed expectations, achieving all mission objectives with minimal casualties. She fosters an environment of trust and accountability, which is essential for effective command.

Her commitment to soldier welfare is exemplary. Major Chen invests significant time in understanding the needs of her soldiers and their families, ensuring they receive the support they require. She is a strong advocate for her unit and a respected leader among her peers. I am confident that Major Chen has the maturity, experience, and character to excel as a Company Commander and lead her soldiers with distinction.

Sincerely,

[Your Name/Rank]

[Your Position]

To the Special Forces Assessment and Selection (SFAS) Panel,

I am writing to wholeheartedly recommend Sergeant First Class David Rodriguez for attendance at Special Forces Assessment and Selection. I have known SFC Rodriguez for five years, during which time he served in my unit and subsequently as a cadre member in a leadership development program. His performance has consistently been at the highest level, marked by exceptional physical and mental fortitude, unparalleled problem-solving skills, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

SFC Rodriguez is the epitome of a resilient and determined soldier. He thrives in high-stress environments and consistently demonstrates the ability to lead and inspire his peers under extreme pressure. During a demanding training exercise, SFC Rodriguez displayed remarkable initiative and adaptability when faced with unexpected operational setbacks, ultimately ensuring mission success. His problem-solving capabilities are second to none, and he approaches every challenge with a strategic and analytical mindset.

Beyond his technical and tactical proficiency, SFC Rodriguez embodies the core values of the Special Forces. He is a man of impeccable integrity, possesses unwavering loyalty, and demonstrates a selfless commitment to others. His leadership potential is immense, and I am convinced he possesses the grit and determination necessary to succeed in the rigorous demands of Special Forces Qualification. He will undoubtedly be a significant asset to the Special Forces community.

Respectfully,

[Your Name/Rank]

[Your Position]

To the Admissions Committee,

I am pleased to recommend Captain Michael Lee for admission to your distinguished Master’s program in Strategic Studies. I have had the privilege of supervising Captain Lee for the past three years, during which time he has consistently impressed me with his intellectual curiosity, analytical abilities, and dedication to understanding complex military issues.

Captain Lee possesses a keen intellect and a remarkable capacity for critical thinking. He consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of historical military campaigns and their relevance to contemporary security challenges. During his tenure as a Company Executive Officer, he took the initiative to research and present innovative tactical approaches that significantly improved our unit's operational effectiveness. His ability to synthesize information and articulate well-reasoned arguments is exceptional.

Captain Lee is also a highly motivated and driven individual with a strong desire to advance his knowledge. He actively seeks out opportunities for professional development and has shown a particular interest in [mention specific area of study, e.g., international relations, defense policy]. I am confident that Captain Lee will not only succeed in your rigorous academic program but will also make significant contributions to the field of strategic studies. He has the potential to be a leading voice in military thought and policy.

Sincerely,

[Your Name/Rank]

[Your Position]

To the Recruiting Command,

I am writing to enthusiastically recommend Sergeant Jessica Miller for a position within the Army Recruiting Command. I have had the pleasure of knowing Sergeant Miller for the past four years, during which time she served in my battalion as a squad leader and then as a mentor to junior soldiers. Her exceptional interpersonal skills, positive attitude, and profound belief in the Army make her an ideal candidate for this critical role.

Sergeant Miller excels at building rapport and communicating effectively with a diverse range of individuals. She has a natural ability to connect with people, understand their aspirations, and clearly articulate the opportunities the Army offers. Her experience mentoring junior soldiers has honed her ability to explain complex information in an accessible manner and to inspire confidence. She consistently demonstrated patience, empathy, and a genuine desire to help others succeed.

Moreover, Sergeant Miller is a dedicated and proud ambassador for the Army. She embodies the values and standards we strive for, and her passion for service is contagious. I am confident that Sergeant Miller will be a highly effective recruiter, capable of inspiring the next generation of soldiers. Her positive influence and ability to connect will be invaluable in attracting high-quality recruits.

Respectfully,

[Your Name/Rank]

[Your Position]