The burden of proof rests with the appellant.
Action is warranted to correct a material error, inaccuracy or injustice.
Clear and convincing evidence must be of a strong and compelling nature, not merely proof of the possibility of administrative error or factual inaccuracy. Third parties are persons other than the rated NCO or rating officials who have knowledge of the appellant's performance during the rating period. Such statements are afforded more weight if they are form persons who served in positions affording them good opportunity to observe, firsthand, the appellant's performance as well as interactions with rating officials. Statements from rating officials are also acceptable if they relate to allegations of factual errors, erroneous perceptions, or claims of bias. To the extent practical, such statements should include specific details of events or circumstances leading to inaccuracies, misrepresentations, or injustice at the time the report was rendered.