No, your squad leader cannot do this. An incorrect date on a counseling form could be considered a false official statement or possibly an act of fraud. This may be an innocent mistake made by an inexperienced leader or the act of a leader who lacks integrity. Either way, this counseling statement will have your name and signature on it. You want to make sure it is correct.
Your options:
- Although I do not recommend it, you could refuse to sign the counseling statement. See Should I refuse to sign counseling statements I don’t agree with?
- Tell your squad leader that you are uncomfortable signing the DA 4856 because of the inappropriate date and request that he change the date.
- Simply line through the date and insert the correct date (the actual date of the counseling). Place your initials beside your correction.
Comments
moses
how do I counsel a soldier on leave during the counseling period, in other words what do I write on the 4856