What is a critical requirement for documenting the acquisition of Army property?

Maintaining support documentation is essential for accurately recording the acquisition of Army property. This requirement ensures that there is a reliable record of how and when property was obtained, which is crucial for accountability and oversight purposes. By keeping proper documentation, it allows for verification of the property’s existence, usage, and condition over time. This practice is integral to the accountability policies outlined in AR 735-5, as it establishes a clear chain of ownership and provides necessary details that can be referenced in audits or inspections.

In contrast, the other options do not align with the established property accountability requirements. Reporting to the President does not pertain to typical property acquisition documentation, and immediate consumption of property contradicts the need for accounting and management of assets. Lastly, destroying records after a year goes against the principles of retention and accountability that are critical to the proper management of Army property.