Equal Opportunity (EO)

What is EO?

The Equal Opportunity program formulates, directs, and sustains a comprehensive effort to maximize human potential and to ensure fair treatment for all persons based solely on merit, fitness, capability, and potential. Discrimination based on race, color, gender, religion, national origin, or sexual orientation is incompatible with Army values.

Protected Categories

• The EO program covers discrimination and harassment based on six categories:
• Race
• Color
• Religion
• Gender (including gender identity and pregnancy)
• National origin
• Sexual orientation

Types of Complaints

• Informal Complaint: Any complaint that a Soldier does not wish to file in writing. It can be resolved at the lowest level by the chain of command or an Equal Opportunity Leader (EOL). There is no required timeline for resolution.
• Formal Complaint: A complaint sworn to and submitted in writing using DA Form 7279 (EO Complaint Form). It requires specific actions, command investigations, and is subject to strict timelines.

Filing a Formal Complaint

Soldiers have 60 days from the date of the alleged incident to file a formal complaint. They may file through:
1. Their chain of command (preferred initial step)
2. Their unit Equal Opportunity Leader (EOL) or Equal Opportunity Advisor (EOA)
3. The Inspector General (IG)
4. The Chaplain or Provost Marshal

Board Tips

Know the six protected categories cold, and be sure to mention that 'gender' includes pregnancy and gender identity. Know the difference between an informal and formal complaint (DA Form 7279 / 60 days). Situational question example: 'You overhear a Soldier making racial jokes — what do you do?' Answer: Stop the behavior immediately, counsel the Soldier, report to your chain of command, and involve the EOL/EOA if needed.