• Commissioned Officers’ Awards Program (COAP)

  Write-Up (Narrative) Guidance & Tips

  The narrative cannot exceed one single spaced typed page. Use block paragraphs and 1” margins, with double-spacing between sections. Bullets are encouraged when they provide clarity without losing the meaning in any section. Use Times New Roman 12-point style – NO REDUCTIONS. If the Times New Roman font is unavailable for your use, use a comparable font.

  Note: as of 30 July 2024, end-of-career awards may utilize up to two pages for the narrative

  Below is the suggested format.

  The narrative should address the following areas:

  Introduction: Include an introductory paragraph that describes the general criteria for the award being considered (e.g., continuous leadership, major public health impact, etc.) and the time period covered by the nomination. Ensure it matches the period covered on the nomination form.

  Background: Provide some pertinent background to give the nomination reviewers perspective on the issue and any prior or mitigating circumstances. State clearly the aspects of the project or activity. Include how and when the project or activity started as well as any potential goals. When relevant, this section should also identify the nominee’s regular duties and how the accomplishments (stated below) are outside the expectations of the position.

  Accomplishments: Write from an objective and factual perspective. This section should address the following questions:

  • What was considered “above and beyond” or “exceptional” in relation to the officer(s)’s expected scope or responsibility in the position relative to his or her respective rank?
  • Why is it deserving of recognition?
  • What were the specificoutcomes and impacts that were directly attributable to the actions of the officer(s) on the project (impact to the Commissioned Corps in general, the Nation, etc.)? How were the potential goals met? Utilize facts, data and dates whenever possible.

  Impact: Clearly and concisely state how the outcomes and impact of the specifically attributable accomplishments affected the project, etc. Again, utilize facts, data and dates whenever possible to assist in demonstrating the impact of a nomination. Be sure to use a chronological order to assist in clarity.

  Conclusion: Provide a short summary to emphasize the importance of the project, accomplishment, or activity.

  Helpful Suggestions:

  • Review the award levels and their requirements prior to writing the award narrative. Do not assume that if you write for a higher level award that it will be downgraded. Reviewers DO appreciate an award that is written at the appropriate level!
  • Do NOT use future tense (e.g. “will accomplish”, “may affect”, etc.). If you are unable to adequately measure or document outcomes and impact, it is better to delay nomination until you are ready. Do not chance receiving a lower level award—or no award—due to rushing a nomination for promotion purposes.Submitting a well-documented nomination helps ensure officers receive appropriate recognition for significant accomplishments.
  • DO have someone NOT connected with the project in question review the award narrative. Any person unfamiliar with project should be able to clearly ascertain what the officer(s) is being submitted for when reading the narrative. Utilize his or her feedback to provide clarity.

  Last Updated: 8/01/2024
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