How do I write a memorandum for a conversation?

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 06 Dec 2018 10:42:11 -0500

I was asked to write a memo of a conversation that was had with a superior. I was provided with the basic format but it guidance of flow and what to say or how to say it.

Response by SGT Joseph Gunderson made Dec 6 at 2018 10:45 AM

SGT Joseph Gunderson — Thu, 06 Dec 2018 10:45:31 -0500

I've never actually heard of this being done but I would imagine you have two options here: 1. You can create a transcript of the actual dialogue and attach it to a blanket memorandum format or 2. You can use a memorandum format and simple give the overall jist as necessary to achieve your purpose. Either way, I think you will be okay with those approaches.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 6 at 2018 11:47 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 06 Dec 2018 11:47:36 -0500

The guidance for memorandums and correspondence is in AR 25-50. There are lots of examples and it is one of the more brief and easy to understand regulations.

However, it is very rare that a memorandum of a conversation is the most appropriate format. Usually a sworn statement is used for conversations for record, and a counseling is used for informative conversation. The only time I've really used memos for that is if an inspection required it.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 6 at 2018 3:50 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 06 Dec 2018 15:50:23 -0500

Sounds like you have been asked to write a Memorandum of Record. You will find examples and rules in AR 25-50.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Dec 6 at 2018 5:38 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Thu, 06 Dec 2018 17:38:05 -0500

Memorandum For Record

To Whom It Is For

Intro to memo

Supporting paragraph(S)

Summary for the memo

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 7 at 2018 7:24 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 07 Dec 2018 07:24:03 -0500

You'll want to refer to Chapter 1, Chapter 2, Figure 2-1, and Figure 2-17 of AR 25-50.
https://armypubs.army.mil/epubs/DR_pubs/DR_a/pdf/web/r25_50.pdf

2–7. Memorandum for record
a. Use. Use the MFR to show the authority or basis for an action taken. You may also use the MFR to document informal meetings or telephone conversations when official business was conducted (see fig 2–17).

-----BREAK-----

For recording of a conversation in a Memorandum for Record format, the way we do it in the 35L field is as shown in my example below. That said, if you were asked to provide a statement of record for a conversation with a superior that relates to a potential crime or violation of UCMJ, it would be better captured on a DA Form, 2823 Sworn Statement. I'll hope for the best and assume it's not negative. Either way, once you get the information going, you can quickly port it between whichever format the person asking you needs.

Example of flow:

1. On (Date) at (Time) hours, (Superior rank and name) asked me to sign my DA 31 leave form. I signed the leave form and submitted it back to (Superior rank and name). (Superior rank and name) then informed me he or she would submit my paperwork to S1 before 1700 hours. I asked (Superior rank and name) how long it would take to get approved. (Superior rank and name) told me it would take five days. I thanked (Superior rank and name) and departed at (time) hours. . .

r25_50.pdf

Response by SSG Doug Terrel made Dec 7 at 2018 9:02 PM

SSG Doug Terrel — Fri, 07 Dec 2018 21:02:30 -0500

I had to do that all the time as a EOL. You might want to talk to your EOL or EOR for examples of how to do that.