Commanders should ensure members have a retirement ceremony to recognize their contributions. As a courtesy, commanders should offer the retiring member a formal ceremony in keeping with the customs and traditions of the Service. Encourage holding the retirement ceremony as part of formal military formations when conditions permit. Invite relatives and friends to attend. DD Form 2542, Certificate of Appreciation for Service in the Armed Forces of the United States.
Commanders follow formal ceremony procedures unless the member prefers otherwise.
Don't mail the retirement certificate to a retirement address unless you have no other choice. A commander who recommends a retiring member for a decoration sends the recommendation to the approving headquarters at least 60 days before the ceremony so the member can receive the award at retirement. The commander makes sure members have every award and decoration to which they are entitled before retirement. Retiring members who aren't receiving an award may choose to have their ceremony separate from those who are. Personnel who arrange the retirement ceremony must keep in mind that the ceremony is an event of great significance to the member.