Final answer:
A commander must flag a soldier using DA Form 268 within 3 working days after the soldier is determined to not meet the body fat standards, preventing favorable personnel actions until compliance is achieved.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of military protocol, when a soldier fails to meet body fat standards, a commander is required to initiate a flag action using DA Form 268, or Report to Suspend Favorable Personnel Actions (FLAG). According to Army Regulation 600-8-2, the commander must submit the flag action no later than 3 working days after the determination that the soldier does not meet the prescribed body fat standards. The purpose of this swift action is to ensure that the soldier does not receive any favorable actions—such as promotions, awards, or reenlistments—while the flag is in place and until the soldier meets the body fat standards.