What constitutes a formal complaint in the military?

A formal complaint in the military is established as a detailed account filed in writing, often accompanied by an oath to its accuracy. This written format serves several important purposes. It ensures that the complaint is documented in a clear and organized manner, which is critical for tracking issues, initiating investigations, and ensuring accountability.

By requiring an oath to the accuracy of the information, the military emphasizes the seriousness of making a formal complaint. This process deters frivolous claims and instills a sense of responsibility in the person submitting the complaint, as they are asserting that the contents are truthful and accurate to the best of their knowledge.

In contrast, a verbal report to a superior lacks the documentation required for formal complaints. While it can initiate action, it does not carry the same weight as a written complaint with an oath. Similarly, simply making a complaint to a commander without proper documentation does not meet the criteria for a formal complaint. Finally, a complaint that does not require documentation is not considered formal; written documentation is a key component of the formal process in military settings.