Ladies and Gentlemen,
Good morning. The Army recently published Army Directive 2024-06, Soldier Appeal of the Formal Physical Evaluation Board Findings and Recommendations (
access the AD at the following link: Army Publishing Directorate).
This directive ensures compliance with a Congressionally-directed formal appeal process for fitness for duty determinations. It provides guidance and instruction of the appellate review and updates the standardized Soldier election period to the informal PEB, FPEB, and appellate outcomes. The directive provides Soldiers with guidance and instructions to request a hearing if they want to appeal their findings from the Formal Physical Evaluation Board (FPEB). Previously, Soldiers who disagreed with the findings and recommendations of the FPEB were not entitled to a hearing. Effected Soldiers had the option to submit a written statement of contention within six business days of receiving their FPEB results notification. After review of the statement of contention, Headquarters, U.S. Army Physical Disability Agency would then provide a response.
Under the new directive, Soldiers are now entitled to an
in-person FPEB appellate hearing with or without a statement of contention. The Office of Soldiers’ Counsel (OSC), United States Army Legal Services Agency, will provide legal counsel during this process at no expense to the Soldier, to assist with FPEB appeal proceedings and elections. The Soldier may also elect for representation by a non-government representative, such as private legal counsel or a representative from a veteran’s service organization.
The Army remains committed to providing due process for its Soldiers. Army leadership is steadfast in their support to the force and will ensure Soldiers have access to the resources and assistance needed to succeed.
Should you have any questions or require further clarification, please do not hesitate to reach out to myself or MAJ Lakeshia Tryon.
Thank you.
v/r
Doug
Douglas F. Stitt
LTG, USA
Deputy Chief of Staff, G-1