Military Correspondence Format: Recipient Name at Start and End

The fundamental rule for constructing formal military correspondence (memorandums, letters) is:

All messages must begin and end with the recipient's name/title.

Standard Memorandum Structure (Example)

MEMORANDUM FOR COLONEL JAMES SMITH

SUBJECT: Request for Personnel

1. SITUATION
On 12 March 2023, the 101st Airborne Division will deploy to Fort Irwin, CA, for a 2-week rotation.

2. MISSION
Conduct combined arms live-fire exercise with 3rd Infantry Division.

3. EXECUTION
a. Deploy 12 Mar 2023 by air/ground.
b. Exercise 13–24 Mar 2023.
c. Redeploy 25 Mar 2023.

4. SERVICE SUPPORT
Supported by 101st Sustainment Brigade.

5. COMMAND AND SIGNAL
101st ABN DIV (Supported) / 3rd ID (Supporting).

6. ADMINISTRATION AND LOGISTICS
101st ABN DIV responsible for all admin/log support.

7. POINTS OF CONTACT
a. Primary: CSM Michael Jackson, DSN 212-123-4567
b. Alternate: CPT Sarah Jones, DSN 212-123-4568

BY ORDER OF COLONEL JAMES SMITH

MICHAEL JACKSON
Command Sergeant Major, USA

This format ensures clear authority, traceability, and action orientation per Army Regulation 25-50.