dafi 34-160 18Dec.pdf

BY ORDER OF THE SECRETARY

OF THE AIR FORCE

DEPARTMENT OF THE AIR FORCE

INSTRUCTION 34-160

3 MARCH 2022

Services

MORTUARY AFFAIRS PROGRAM

COMPLIANCE WITH THIS PUBLICATION IS MANDATORY

ACCESSIBILITY: Publications and forms are available for downloading or ordering on the e-publishing website at www.e-Publishing.af.mil

RELEASABILITY: There are no reliability restrictions on this publication

OPR: AF/A1S Certified by: SAF/MR

Supersedes: AFI34-501, 16 April 2019 Pages: 189

This Department of the Air Force Instruction (DAFI) implements Department of Defense Instruction (DoDI) 1300.15, Military Funeral Support; Department of Defense Directive (DoDD) 1300.22, Mortuary Affairs Policy; DoDI 1300.29, Mortuary Affairs Program, DoDI 2310.5, Accounting for Missing Persons Boards of Inquiry; DoDI 4515.13, Air Transportation Eligibility;

and Air Force Policy Directive (AFPD) 34-1, Air Force Services. This publication applies to all civilian employees and uniformed members of the regular Air Force, the Air Force Reserve, the Air National Guard and the United States Space Force. In collaboration with the Deputy Chief of Space Operations for Human Capital, Chief of the Air Force Reserve (AF/RE), and the Director of the Air National Guard (NGB/CF), the Deputy Chief of Staff for Manpower, Personnel, and Services (AF/A1) develops personnel policy for the Mortuary Affairs Program. This Instruction requires the collection and or maintenance of information protected by the Privacy Act of 1974 authorized by Department of Defense Directive (DoDD) 5400.11, DoD Privacy Program. The applicable A0600-8-1c, AHRC DoD is available at http://dpclo.defense.gov/Privacy/SORNs.aspx. Ensure all records generated as a result of processes prescribed in this publication adhere to Air Force Instruction 33-322, Records Management and Information Governance Program, and are disposed in accordance with the Air Force Records Disposition Schedule, which is located in the Air Force Records Information Management System. Compliance with the attachments in this publication is mandatory. This publication may be supplemented at any level; all Major Command (MAJCOM) and Field Command (FLDCOM) level supplements require approval by the publication office of primary responsibility (OPR) prior to certification and approval. The authorities to waive wing or unit level

-0, T-1, T-2, T- wing

2 DAFI34-160 3 MARCH 2022

the compliance statement. See DAFI 33-360, Publications and Forms Management, for a description of the authorities associated with the tier numbers. Submit requests for waivers through the chain of command to the appropriate tier waiver approval authority, or alternately, to the

-tiered compliance items. Refer recommended changes and questions about this publication to the office of primary responsibility using the AF Form 847, Recommendation for Change of Publication.

This instruction does not apply to the Casualty Assistance and Civil Defense Programs. The publication is subject to Title 44, United States Code (USC) (§) 3501, Purposes (commonly known as the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995). The use of the name or mark of any specific manufacturer, commercial product, commodity, or service in this publication does not imply endorsement by the Department of the Air Force.

SUMMARY OF CHANGES

This document has been substantially revised and needs to be completely reviewed. Major changes include change in the publication number from AFI 34-501 to DAFI 34-160, updates to tier requirements, and the addition of detailed guidance on installation cemetery management. This guidance also revises the process for denial of military funeral honors determinations and honor guard (HG) policy. The overall instruction is simplified and acronyms abbreviated as required.

Chapter 1 AIR FORCE MORTUARY AFFAIRS PROGRAM 16

Section 1A General Guidance. 16

1.1. Scope

1.2. Overview of the Mortuary Affairs Program

Section 1B Mortuary Affairs Program Roles and Responsibilities. 17

1.3. Air Force Services (AF/A1S)

1.4. AFMAO Commander (AFMAO/CC)

1.5. AFMAO

1.6. MAJCOM, FLDCOM, or Equivalent Commander (CC)

1.7. MAJCOM/A1, FLDCOM/S1, NGB/A1, and Equivalent

1.8. Installation Commander (or Wing Commander at a non-Air Force led joint base). 19

1.9. FSS Commander or Director

1.10. Installation Mortuary Officer (MO)

1.11. Air University, Eaker Center for Professional Development

1.12. Person Authorized to Direct Disposition (PADD)

Section 1C Further Guidelines for the Mortuary Affairs Program. 24

1.13. Primary Next of Kin (PNOK)

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1.14. Summary Courts Officer (SCO)

1.15. Escort and Special Escort

1.16. Family Assistance Representative (FAR)

1.17. Casualty Assistance Representative (CAR)

1.18. Unit Commander of a Fallen Airman or Guardian

Chapter 2 MORTUARY ELIGIBILITY AND ENTITLEMENTS FOR DEPARTMENT

OF THE AIR FORCE PERSONNEL 26

2.1. Purpose

Section 2A Eligibility for Mortuary Entitlements. 26

2.2. Eligibility for Mortuary Entitlements

2.3. Department of the Air Force, United States Air Force Academy (USAFA) Cadets and Cadet Candidates

2.4. Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps (AFROTC) Cadets

2.5. Air Force Reserve and Air National Guard

2.6. Enlistment Applicants

2.7. Discharged Military Personnel Who Die in a U.S. Government Hospital

2.8. Retired or Retained Who Die During a Continuous Hospitalization

Section 2B Entitlements Primary Expenses. 27

2.9. Primary Expenses

2.10. Recovery and Removal of Remains

2.11. Basic Services of the Funeral Director and Staff

2.12. Preparation of Remains

2.13. Sheltering of Remains

2.14. Casket

2.15. Shipment of Remains-Outer Shipping Container

2.16. Death Certificates

2.17. Burial Clothing

2.18. Cremation and Cremation Permit

2.19. Urn

2.20. State or Territory Cemetery Fees

Section 2C Entitlements Secondary Expense Items. 28

2.21. Secondary Reimbursement Entitlements

Table 2.1. Authorized Secondary Expense Items

4 DAFI34-160 3 MARCH 2022

Table 2.2. Unauthorized Secondary Expenses

Section 2D Other Entitlements. 30

2.22. Remains Escort

2.23. Summary Courts Officer (SCO)

2.24. Family Assistance Representative

2.25. Chaplain Support

2.26. Interment Flags

2.27. Hardwood Flag Cases

2.28. Dignified Arrival at Destination Airports

2.29. Military Funeral Honors

2.30. Memorial Register Books

2.31. Interment in a Government Cemetery

2.32. Government-Furnished Headstones

Section 2E Transportation of Remains; Authorized Next of Kin Travel. 32

2.33. Authorized Transportation Expenses

Table 2.3. Authorized Transportation Expenses

2.34. Transportation of Remains within the Fifty States and US Territories

2.35. Transportation of Remains OCONUS (All locations outside of the fifty states and U.S. territories)

2.36. Authorized Modes of Transportation

2.37. Transportation of Remains from AFMAO

2.38. Stopover Requests

2.39. Prohibition of Arrival and Departure Ceremonies and Media Coverage

2.40. Dignified Transfer (DT)

2.41. Dignified Transfer (DT) Media Coverage

2.42. Funeral Travel Eligibility

Table 2.4. Individuals Entitled to Funeral Travel and Unit Memorial Service. (Joint Federal Travel Regulation)

2.43. Authorized Funeral and Unit Memorial Service Travel Allowances

2.44. Unit Memorial Service

Section 2F Mortuary Entitlements for Military Members under Unusual Circumstances. 39

2.45. Absent Without Leave

2.46. A Military Member Dropped from the Rolls

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2.47. Undetermined Military Status

2.48. Body Not Recovered (BNR)

2.49. Group Burial or Interment

2.50. Disinterment

2.51. Subsequent Identified Remains: Portions and Retained Organs

Chapter 3 MORTUARY ACTIONS FOR DECEASED MILITARY PERSONNEL 42

3.1. Purpose

Section 3A Recovery of Remains and Initial Mortuary Actions. 42

3.2. Mortuary Case Management

3.3. Initial Actions upon Notification of a Death

Table 3.1. Initial Death Message Required Information Format

Table 3.2. Supplemental Death Message Format

3.4. Recovery and Movement of Remains

3.5. Verification of Military Status and Entitlements

3.6. Securing Personal Property and Effects

3.7. Summary Courts Officer (SCO) Appointment

3.8. Family Assistance Representative (FAR) Appointment

3.9. Initial Contact With the PADD

Section 3B Disposition, Preparation and Casketing. 47

3.10. Brief on Status of Identification, Autopsy Reports and Investigative Reports

3.11. Mortuary Entitlements Brief

3.12. Actions When the PADD Makes Arrangements Prior to the Disposition Briefing. 48

3.13. Relinquishment of the Right to Direct Disposition

3.14. Release of Remains to the Funeral Home

3.15. Cremation

3.16. Reprocessing Remains Prepared Without PADD or Air Force Direction

3.17. Direct Consignment to a Government Cemetery

3.18. Inspection of Remains, Casket and Shipping Container (CONUS)

Section 3C SCO and Escort Actions. 51

3.19. SCO Briefing

3.20. Escort Briefing

3.21. Escort Travel Arrangements

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Section 3D Interment Actions. 53

3.22. Arranging the Dignified Arrival

3.23. Arranging Military Funeral Honors

3.24. Applying for the Government Furnished Headstone

Section 3E Transportation of Remains and Funeral Travel. 53

3.25. Shipping Remains to Final Destination in CONUS

3.26. Shipping Remains from Origin in OCONUS

3.27. Notification of Movement of Remains to Final Destination

3.28. Sending the Instruction Letter to the Receiving Funeral Home

3.29. Funeral Travel Assistance

3.30. Unit Memorial Service Travel Assistance

Section 3F Group Interment and Body Not Recovered Actions. 55

3.31. Body Not Recovered (BNR) and Declared Deceased

3.32. Final Mortuary Officer (MO) Actions

Chapter 4 ELIGIBILITY AND ENTITLEMENTS FOR OTHER CATEGORIES OF

PERSONNEL 58

4.1. Purpose and Eligibility

4.2. Entitlements Transportation of Remains

Table 4.1. Authorized Modes of Transportation

Section 4A Other Categories of Entitled Persons. 58

4.3. Dependents of Entitlement Eligible Personnel

4.4. Members of another Branch of Service

4.5. US Coast Guard and Uniformed Services

4.6. Air National Guard and Reserve Component Members

4.7. Foreign Military Members

4.8. Retirees and Their Dependents

4.9. Appropriated Funds (APF) Civilian Employees

4.10. Dependents of APF Civilian Employees - OCONUS only

4.11. Non-Appropriated Fund (NAF) Employees - OCONUS only

4.12. Dependents of NAF Employees - OCONUS only

4.13. Contractors Employed by the Air Force - OCONUS only

4.14. Dependents of Contractors Employed by the Air Force - OCONUS only

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4.15. American Red Cross and United Service Organizations (USO) Employees - OCONUS only

4.16. Dependents of American Red Cross and USO Employees - OCONUS only

4.17. Foreign National Civilian Employees

4.18. Other Eligible US Citizens

4.19. Dependents of Other Eligible US Citizens

4.20. Military Prisoners

4.21. Indigent or Unclaimed Persons

4.22. Enemy Prisoners of War (POWs) and Interned Enemy Aliens

Chapter 5 MORTUARY ACTIONS FOR OTHER CATEGORIES OF PERSONNEL 69

5.1. Purpose

5.2. Validation of Status and Mortuary Entitlements

5.3. Initial Death Messages

Table 5.1. Initial Death Message for Other Categories of Personnel Required Information. .. 69

5.4. Mortuary Case Files

5.5. Mortuary Entitlements Briefing

5.6. Payment or Reimbursement of Authorized Expenses

5.7. Dependents of Members in Active-Duty Status (CONUS Deaths)

5.8. Dependents of Members in Active-Duty Status (OCONUS Deaths)

Table 5.2. Remains Movement Message OCONUS Dependents

5.9. Members of Another Branch of Service

5.10. Air National Guard Members. If notified of a death, the NGB/MO will:

5.11. Foreign Military Members

5.12. Retirees and Their Dependents

5.13. APF and NAF Civilian Employees and Their Dependents

5.14. Contractors and Their Dependents

5.15. Red Cross and USO Employees and Their Dependents - OCONUS

5.16. Foreign National Civilian Employees

5.17. Other US Citizens - OCONUS

5.18. Military Prisoners

5.19. Indigent (Unclaimed) Persons

5.20. Enemy POWs and Interned Enemy Aliens

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Chapter 6 SEARCH AND RECOVERY (S&R) OPERATIONS PROGRAM

RESPONSIBILITIES 74

Section 6A Program Responsibilities. 74

6.1. Purpose

6.2. National Incident Management System

6.3. Search and Recovery Team

6.4. Installation Requirement for S&R Team

Table 6.1. Installation S&R Team Composition and Training Requirements

6.5. Determining Level of Response

6.6. S&R Capability Limitations

6.7. S&R Roles and Responsibilities

6.8. S&R Supplies and Equipment

Table 6.2. Required S&R Supplies and Equipment

Table 6.3. Required Personal Protective Equipment

6.9. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Section 6B Planning & Execution of S&R Operations. 80

6.10. Responsibilities and Actions during S&R Operations

Table 6.4. S&R Planning Considerations

6.11. Termination of S&R

6.12. After Action Comments

Chapter 7 BASE HONOR GUARD (HG) PROGRAM AND CONDUCT OF MILITARY

FUNERAL HONORS (MFH) 84

Section 7A General HG Policy. 84

7.1. MFH Mission

7.2. MFH Entitlement

7.3. Performance of MFH

7.4. Composition and Requirements of the Funeral Honors Detail

7.5. Waiver of Funeral Honors

7.6. Unsupported or Missed Funeral Honors Requests

7.7. HG Operations During a National Emergency

7.8. Denial of MFH

7.9. Quarter and Annual Reports to Congress

7.10. Monthly Reports of MFH

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7.11. Responding to Funeral Honors Requests

Section 7B Funeral Honors Roles and Responsibilities. 89

7.12. AF/A1S

7.13. AFMAO

7.14. Air Force Services Center (AFSVC)

7.15. AFRC/A1

7.16. NGB/A1X

7.17. The 11th Wing Commander (Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling, DC)

7.18. USAF HG. The USAF HG will:

7.19. Regular Air Force and Space Force Installation Commander

7.20. Air Force Reserves and Air National Guard Wing or Group Commander (unit providing augmentation)

7.21. FSS Commander or Director

7.22. FSS Superintendent or Force Support Operations Officer

7.23. AFRC FSS Superintendent or Force Support Operations Officer

7.24. Regular Air Force Base HG Program Manager

7.25. AGR HG Program Manager or NCOIC

7.26. HG Team Member Responsibilities

7.27. Air Force Reserve and Air National Guard HG Augmentees

7.28. Security Forces Commander

7.29. Public Affairs

Section 7C MFH Eligibility and Entitlements. 100

7.30. Regular Air Force and Recipients of the Medal of Honor and POW Medal Receptions

7.31. Reservists Air Reserve Components Not On Duty

7.32. Former Military Members Eligibility (Veterans and Retirees)

7.33. Certain Civilians Who Served During Wartime

7.34. Uniformed Services

Section 7D Base HG Team Elements. 103

7.35. Pallbearers

7.36. Honorary Pallbearers

7.37. Firing Party

7.38. Bugler

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7.39. Flag Folding Teams

Figure 7.1. Presenting the American Flag During a Funeral or Memorial Service

Section 7E Flyovers. 103

7.40. Flyovers at Funeral or Memorial Services

Section 7F Resource Management. 104

7.41. Sources of Funeral Honors Manpower

7.42. Funding

7.43. Base HG Uniforms

7.44. Base HG Weapons and Ammunition Acquisition

7.45. Weapons Storage

7.46. Weapons Maintenance

7.47. HG Vehicles

Section 7G HG Training. 106

7.48. Training Resources

7.49. In-Residence Training

7.50. Mobile Training Team Courses

Chapter 8 MORTUARY AFFAIRS RESOURCE MANAGEMENT 107

Section 8A Resource Management Responsibilities. 107

8.1. Purpose

8.2. AFMAO

8.3. MAJCOM/A1 and FLDCOM/S1 will:

8.4. Installation MO

Section 8B Authorized Use of Funds for Mortuary Supplies and Services. 108

8.5. Mortuary Funds Authorized Utilization and Expenses

8.6. Operation and Maintenance Funds-Authorized Expenses

8.7. Expenses for Other Branch of Service and Foreign Personnel

8.8. Reimbursable Cases Overseas

8.9. Funding Shortfalls

Section 8C Purchase of Mortuary Supplies. 110

8.10. Local Purchase Items

8.11. Centrally Purchased Items

8.12. Supplies as Part of the Contract

DAFI34-160 3 MARCH 2022 11

8.13. Purchase of Burial Clothing and Accoutrements

8.14. Authorized Burial Clothing Items

Section 8D Mortuary Services Contracts. 112

8.15. Contracting for Mortuary Services

8.16. Annual Mortuary Services Contracts or BPAs

8.17. One Time Purchase Order

8.18. Non-Contract Services

Section 8E Payment of Mortuary Supplies and Services. 113

8.19. Use of the Government Purchase Card

8.20. Payment of Mortuary Expenses

8.21. Payment of Reimbursable Services and Supplies

8.22. Depositing Proceeds from Reimbursement

8.23. Establishing Accounting Procedures

Chapter 9 DOD MORTUARY FACILITIES OPERATED BY THE AIR FORCE 116

9.1. Air Force Mortuaries

9.2. AFMAO

9.3. Air Force Facilities OCONUS Operating Location Pacific-Yokota (OLP-Y)

9.4. DoD Mortuary Facilities OCONUS not Operated by the Air Force

9.5. When DoD Mortuary Facilities are Not Available OCONUS

9.6. Casket Specification

9.7. Procurement of Infant and Child Caskets OCONUS

9.8. Transfer Cases

9.9. Shipping Containers

9.10. Performance Work Statement (PWS)

Chapter 10 MASS FATALITY MANAGEMENT 120

Section 10A General Mass Fatality Policy. 120

10.1. Purpose

10.2. Mass Fatality Incident Defined

10.3. Mass Fatality Operating Locations

10.4. Funding

10.5. Mass Fatality Management Plans

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Section 10B Mass Fatality Roles and Responsibilities. 120

10.6. AF/A1S

10.7. AFMAO

10.8. MAJCOM/A1 and Field Command (FLDCOM) S1 Equivalent

10.9. MO

10.10. Air Force and other Service Augmentation

Section 10C Disposition of Personal Effects (PE). 122

10.11. Handling and Disposition of PE

Section 10D Mass Fatality Plans. 123

10.12. Mass Fatality Plans Required Elements

Chapter 11 MORTUARY AFFAIRS IN CONTINGENCY OPERATIONS 125

Section 11A General Policy. 125

11.1. Purpose

11.2. Overview

11.3. Scope of the Mortuary Program in Contingency Fatality Operations

11.4. Contingency Mortuary Support-Other Categories of Personnel

11.5. S&R Operations

Section 11B Contingency Mortuary Operating Concept (Flow of Remains). 126

11.6. Casualty Collection Point

11.7. Mortuary Affairs Collection Point (MACP)

11.8. Mortuary Personnel MACP Responsibilities

11.9. MACP Process

11.10. Theater Mortuary Evacuation Points (TMEPs)

11.11. Aerial Port (Force Support Augmentation)

11.12. Armed Forces Medical Examiner System and AFMAO Roles

Section 11C Temporary Storage or Interment in the Area of Responsibility. 131

11.13. Emergency Interment

11.14. Temporary Interment

Section 11D Contaminated Remains. 131

11.15. Contaminated Remains Overview

11.16. Contaminated PE

11.17. Health and Safety

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Table 11.1. Decontamination Supplies and Equipment

11.18. Required Supplies and Equipment

Chapter 12 FAMILY ASSISTANCE REPRESENTATIVE FOR FAMILIES OF

DECEASED AIRMEN AND GUARDIANS 134

12.1. Introduction

12.2. Key Personnel in the Delivery of Services

12.3. Air Force FAR Program Service Delivery

12.4. Special Circumstances

Chapter 13 DISPOSITION OF PERSONAL PROPERTY AND EFFECTS PROGRAM 141

Section 13A Disposition of Personal Property and Effects Program Overview. 141

13.1. Program Objective

13.2. Entitled Air Force Personnel and Other Individuals

13.3. Authorized Person Eligible to Receive Effects (PERE)

13.4. Disposition of Personal Property Roles and Responsibilities

13.5. SCO Requirements

13.6. SCO Actions

Section 13B Handling and Processing of PE of Deceased Personnel 145

13.7. Procedures

13.8. Inventorying PE

13.9. PE Containing Organizational Clothing and Individual Equipment

13.10. Securing PE

13.11. Disposition of PE

13.12. Destroying PE

13.13. Record Final Disposition of PE

Section 13C Disposing Of Property and Settling Accounts for Members Who Die in an Eligible Status. 148

13.14. Personal Property Disposition Instructions

13.15. Inventorying Property

13.16. Disposing of Identification (ID) and Military Documents

13.17. Disposing of Mail and Personal Papers

13.18. Disposing of Funds and Negotiable Instruments

13.19. Shipping Items

13.20. Packing and Storage Services

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13.21. Disposing of Property in Transit or in Non-temporary Storage

13.22. Disposing of Property Without a Recipient

13.23. Closing the Summary Court File

Section 13D Disposing of Property and Settling Accounts for Other Individuals. 154

13.24. Missing, Detained and Captured Persons (Military Personnel)

13.25. Duty Status Whereabouts Unknown (DUSTWUN)

13.26. Medically Evacuated, Hospitalized, or Mentally Incompetent Personnel

13.27. DoD Civilians. (Includes APF, NAF, and Air Reserve Component technicians). .. 155

13.28. Contract Personnel Whose Property is in Possession of the Air Force

13.29. Foreign National Military Members Who Die While on Training in the US

13.30. Foreign National Civilian Employees

13.31. Pensioners, Indigent Patients and Persons Who Die on Air Force or Space Force Installations

13.32. Traditional ANG or Dual Status Technician Members Who Die While Not in a Duty Status

Section 13E Wartime PE and Property Procedures. 157

13.33. PE and Property

13.34. In Forward Areas

13.35. In Rear Areas

13.36. Disposing of the Property and Funds of Deceased Persons

13.37. Effects Disposition for Allied Dead

13.38. Missing, Detained or Captured Personnel

13.39. Return of a Missing Person

13.40. Disposition of Classified Matter

Chapter 14 INSTALLATION CEMETERY MANAGEMENT 160

14.1. Installation Cemeteries Overview

14.2. AF/A1S

14.3. Headquarters Air Force Directorate of Civil Engineers (AF/A4C)

14.4. AFMAO

14.5. Installation Commander

14.6. FSS

14.7. Base Civil Engineer

14.8. Cemetery Responsible Official

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14.9. Installation Government Cemeteries

14.10. When the Family Member Died Before the Eligible Member

14.11. Reserving Gravesites

Figure 14.1. Reservation Contact Memorandum Template

14.12. Disposal

14.13. Record and Reports

14.14. Maintenance of Cemeteries

14.15. Administering Government Cemetery Operations

Figure 14.2. Installation Cemeteries by Type

Attachment 1 GLOSSARY OF REFERENCES AND SUPPORTING INFORMATION 171

Attachment 2 AIR FORCE CEMETERY ORGANIZATIONAL INSPECTION

CHECKLIST, STANDARDS AND MEASURES 180

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Chapter 1

AIR FORCE MORTUARY AFFAIRS PROGRAM

Section 1A General Guidance.

1.1. Scope. This instruction establishes guidance and assigns responsibilities for the Air Force Mortuary Affairs Program. The Mortuary Affairs Program provides for the recovery, segregation, peacetime and wartime across the range of military operations. It also provides guidance for the provision of entitlements and communication with the person authorized to direct disposition (PADD) of the remains. Base honor guard (BHG) provides military funeral honors, in memorial to the service and sacrifice of fallen Airmen and Guardians. (T-1). NOTE: All required forms, templates and guides referenced in this publication may be found on the Air Force Mortuary Affairs Operations (AFMAO) SharePoint® or by contacting AFMAO.

1.1.1. Training. Due to the highly sensitive nature of this program, commanders must ensure personnel involved in the Mortuary Affairs Program are properly trained and proficient in the execution of their duties. (T-1). Mortuary officers and technicians must attend the Mortuary Officer (MO) or Mortuary Technician (MT) training course conducted by the Eaker Center and additional courses offered by AFMAO (T-1). These courses may be attended online if in-person attendance is not being offered at the time. All personnel supporting the Mortuary Affairs Program must adhere to guidelines with regard to release of sensitive or personal information to protect details of fallen service members, their families or movement of human remains, and will be asked to sign a non-disclosure agreement or comparable product acknowledging such. (T-1).

1.1.2. Installation Mortuary Plan. Installation commanders will ensure their mortuary plans are current and reviewed annually. The plans will include the following:

1.1.2.1. Current blanket purchase agreements (BPA) with local funeral homes (T-1);

1.1.2.2. Include a map which outlines federal, state, concurrent or host nation jurisdiction areas (T-1);

1.1.2.3. Required actions for the handling of individual deaths, search and recovery (S&R) operations, and mass fatalities occurring on or near the installation where the Department of Defense (DoD) and/or the Department of the Air Force has a vested interest. (T-1).

1.2. Overview of the Mortuary Affairs Program. The Air Force Mortuary Affairs Program establishes mortuary affairs policies for past conflicts and other designated conflicts, and current operations, to include current deaths, to be implemented worldwide. The program provides for the search, recovery and evacuation of human remains; interment and disinterment of remains; care and disposition of missing and deceased personnel and the handling of their personal effects; the identification and forensic pathology investigations of deaths; mortuary services at the local level;

contract and Service mortuaries; and disposition and mortuary benefits processing. Separate programs that are components of the Air Force Mortuary Affairs Program are:

1.2.1. The Base Honor Guard (BHG) Program. Provides for the rendering of ceremonial honors and military funeral honors (MFH). All guidance provided in Chapter 7 must be followed in the execution of the installation HG Program. (T-1).

DAFI34-160 3 MARCH 2022 17

1.2.2. The Family Assistance Representative (FAR) Program. Provides for a facilitator between the Department of the Air Force and the family. The FAR acts as a liaison to seek subject matter experts, resources, services or information to address family needs. All guidance provided in Chapter 12 must be followed in the execution of the FAR Program. (T-1).

1.2.3. The Personal Property and Effects Program. Provides for disposition of personal effects (PE) and property of missing, captured and deceased Air Force military and civilian personnel.

All guidance provided in Chapter 13 must be followed in the execution of the Personal Property and Effects Program. (T-1).

1.2.4. The Installation Cemetery Management Program. Provides standards, guidance and direction for maintaining installation cemeteries befitting national shrines, as described in Title 38, USC § 2401, Advisory Committee on Cemeteries and Memorials. All guidance provided in Chapter 14 must be followed in the management of Air Force cemeteries. (T-1).

Section 1B Mortuary Affairs Program Roles and Responsibilities.

1.3. Air Force Services (AF/A1S).

1.3.1. Serves as primary advisor to the Chief of Staff of the Air Force (CSAF) and Chief of Space Operations (CSO) for all Mortuary Affairs and Base Honor Guard Programs.

1.3.2. Provides Mortuary Affairs and Base Honor Guard Policy and Program oversight.

Ensures AFMAO has the required training, equipment, and resources to effectively operate the two Air Force mortuaries and BHG Programs.

1.3.3. Determines the requirement for the establishment of additional Air Force mortuaries, relocation or closure of the same in accordance with DoDD 1300.22. Prescribes policy and guidance on altering mortuary program operations pertaining to a national emergency.

1.4. AFMAO Commander (AFMAO/CC).

1.4.1. Ensures AFMAO has the required training, equipment, and resources to effectively execute the Air Force Mortuary Program and BHG Programs along with operating the Port Mortuary at Dover Air Force Base (AFB). (T-1).

1.4.2. Serves as the waiver authority for all items tiered as T-1 throughout this instruction, except for actions required of the AFMAO/CC. In those instances, AF/A1S will serve as the waiver authority at the T-1 level.

1.4.3. The Secretary of the Air Force (SecAF) delegates to the AFMAO/CC the approval authority to expand eligible family member travel, beyond the primary next-of-kin (PNOK) and two additional travelers (named by PNOK), to attend a dignified transfer (DT) at Dover

AFB.

1.4.4. Is the final authority to consider requests for extensions to Summary Courts Officer (SCO) case files beyond 180 days.

1.4.5. Serves as the Air Force voting representative to the Central Joint Mortuary Affairs Board and Cemetery Management Board. (T-0).

1.4.6. Serves as DT host and establishes guidance for AFMAO leadership and other senior leaders to act as DT hosts in the

18 DAFI34-160 3 MARCH 2022

1.5. AFMAO.

1.5.1. he DT process in accordance with DoDI 1300.29, Mortuary Affairs Program.

1.5.2. Establishes policy for the operation of the Campus for the Families of the Fallen including the Fisher House, Meditation Pavilion and Center for the Families of the Fallen to support family members who are attending a DT.

1.5.3. Serves as the BHG Program and MFH point of contact for the Air Force.

1.5.4. Operates, trains and equips the Port Mortuary on behalf of the SecAF.

1.5.5. Develops mortuary affairs procedures, techniques and processes, in addition to providing oversight for the execution of the Air Force Mortuary Affairs Program and related programs.

1.5.6. Creates and maintains case files for incidents in which an eligible military member (see Section 2A) is declared deceased but remains are not recovered, referred to as body not recovered (BNR). Gathers and stores all statistical data on each non-recovered individual for use in future search, recovery and identification.

1.5.7. Provides subject matter expertise to installation leadership and Mortuary Affairs offices in reviewing mortuary entitlement claims and makes adjudication recommendations for funeral, interment and transportation expenses.

1.5.8. Oversees the FAR program.

1.5.9. Oversees and executes the Air Force Past Conflict Mortuary Program in accordance with all applicable laws, directives, and policies. Refer to Attachment 1 for additional information.

1.5.10. The Mortuary Affairs Division provides case management oversight for deaths covered in Chapter 2 and Chapter 4 of this instruction.

1.5.11. Validates and/or provides all Air Force mortuary affairs education and training. (T-1).

1.5.12. Develop and provide MO and MT continuing education courses in conjunction with

AFB,

Alabama.

1.5.13. Provides support and guidance for Air Force aircraft incidents resulting in loss of life and mass fatality incidents.

1.5.14. Develops BHG procedures, techniques and processes; serves as the 8G100 Career Field Manager and as the primary Air Force point of contact for Base HG Programs, MFH.

1.5.15. Provides guidance to base mortuary teams during national emergencies.

1.5.16. Serves as pertinent oversight authority for all guidance found in this instruction and conducts continuous evaluation of installation mortuary offices in accordance with DAFI 90- 201, The Air Force Inspection System.

DAFI34-160 3 MARCH 2022 19

1.6. MAJCOM, FLDCOM, or Equivalent Commander (CC). Ensures capability exists within their command to provide mortuary support for deaths within geographic proximity to their area of responsibility (AOR) and in compliance with the provisions of this instruction. (T-1).

1.7. MAJCOM/A1, FLDCOM/S1, NGB/A1, and Equivalent.

1.7.1. Ensure installations comply with the guidance set forth in this publication.

1.7.2. Implement a financial plan for governing the payment of mortuary-related expenses within the command. NOTE: Does not apply to the National Guard Bureau.

1.7.3. National Guard Bureau ensures all Air National Guard installations have S&R capabilities.

1.8. Installation Commander (or Wing Commander at a non-Air Force led joint base).

1.8.1. Maintains overall responsibility for their installation Mortuary Affairs Program support agreements. (T-0).

1.8.2. Ensures Mortuary Affairs is incorporated into the written installation-level mass fatality response plan or disaster response plan for the implementation and execution of the Mortuary Affairs Program and for S&R operations, including the handling of remains in aircraft mishaps and mass fatalities occurring on and off base. (T-0).

1.8.3. Ensures military personnel assigned to the installation, or available from another unit under a memorandum of understanding (MOU), are trained to support the installation S&R capability. (T-1). For more information see paragraph 6.4.

1.8.4. Appoints a primary mortuary officer (MO) and at least one alternate MO. (T-1).

1.8.4.1. The primary MO is the Force Support Squadron (FSS) Operations Officer or a designated civilian position; however, the FSS commander or director maintains overall responsibility for the Mortuary Affairs Program. (T-1). Civilians serving in the role of MO should at a minimum, hold a grade of GS-11. (T-1).

1.8.4.2. MOs will be exempt from additional duties outside of the FSS during a mortuary case, to include being a member of the notification team. (T-1).

1.8.5. Appoints a SCO for the disposition of personal property and effects. (T-1). The SCO will be a commissioned officer, appointed on Special Orders Series A. (T-1). NOTE: The appointing officer must have Special Court Martial Convening Authority (SCMCA), in accordance with Title 10, USC § 823, Article 23, Who May Convene Special Courts-Martial.

(T-0).

1.8.6. Appoints or ensures a FAR is appointed by the wing commander from the prospective (T-1). Reference paragraph

12.3.2.

1.8.7. Ensures no one from the installation communicates with the family of the deceased until it has been confirmed that all family notifications have been made. (T-1).

20 DAFI34-160 3 MARCH 2022

1.8.8. Ensures installation personnel safeguard information about the deceased until all family members have been notified and any communication restrictions on information regarding the deceased have been lifted (as applicable). (T-1). NOTE: There is a 24-hour restriction from time of the last notification on release of information for contingency operation deaths in accordance with DoDI 1300.18, Department of Defense (DoD) Personnel Casualty Matters, Policies, and Procedures.

1.8.9. Approves requests for unit memorial services to honor a fallen Airman or Guardian assigned to their installation. (T-3).

1.8.10. Ensures the BHG Program is manned and the program is funded to render MFH within their assigned geographic area of responsibility. (T-0). NOTE: Installation commanders should utilize assigned regular military personnel to the fullest extent possible prior to reaching out for Air Reserve Component or veteran service organization support.

1.8.10.1. Only Air Reserve Components with an established memorandum of agreement (MOA) in place with the base responsible for the geographic area of responsibility can provide MFH support. (T-1).

1.8.10.2. Air Reserve Components must gain approval from the base with the geographical area of responsibility prior to supporting MFH requests. (T-1).

1.9. FSS Commander or Director.

1.9.1. Will be responsible to the installation commander or senior Air Force officer within the joint base organizational structure for the management of the installation's Mortuary Affairs Program, BHG Program and Cemetery Program (where applicable). (T-0).

1.9.2. After selection to lead a Force Support Squadron, attends the first available Mortuary Affairs Case Management course held by the Eaker Center at Maxwell AFB, AL unless they have attended the course within the past five years. (T-1). This class may be attended online if conditions do not permit for an in-person class to be hosted. (T-1).

1.9.3. Ensures the primary or alternate MOs can be reached during non-duty hours on a government-provided device. Provides after-hour contact information to the installation command post. (T-1).

1.9.4. Ensures the primary and alternate MOs and MTs have and maintain user access to the Defense Casualty Information Processing System (DCIPS) for use in mortuary case management. (T-1).

1.9.5. Ensures a written installation mortuary plan is current and updated, at a minimum, every two years. (T-1). The plan will include the following:

1.9.5.1. A map that outlines federal, state or concurrent jurisdiction areas and

1.9.5.2. Contains required actions for the handling of individual deaths, S&R operations and mass fatalities occurring on or near the installation where the DoD has a vested interest.

(T-1).

DAFI34-160 3 MARCH 2022 21

1.9.5.3. Establishes with the Wing Staff Judge Advocate (SJA), the base jurisdiction for mortuary affairs responsibilities to be included in the base mortuary plan. If the installation is exclusive federal jurisdiction, ensure all death notifications include the Armed Forces Medical Examiner System (AFMES). For all eligible deaths which occur in areas of local jurisdiction, in addition to ensuring the local coroner or medical examiner has been notified, ensure notification is made to AFMES. AFMES will determine the need for a forensic pathology investigation (which may include an autopsy examination).

1.9.5.4. Delineate the roles and responsibilities with transportation and care of the remains of all decedents, in the event AFMES determines a forensic pathology investigation is not warranted when the death occurs on the installation. Handle all deaths occurring off the installation in accordance with local statute as defined by local authorities. The FSS commander will include provisions for the other categories of deceased covered in Chapter 4 of this publication when the death occurs on an Air Force or Space Force installation that is not under federal jurisdiction. (T-1). NOTE: AFMES on-call investigator: (202) 409-6811 or (202) 391-2258, or their main line (302) 346-8648.

1.9.6. Appoints in writing a minimum of 11 personnel to support S&R operations and ensures assigned members are properly trained (reference paragraph 6.7.5). Additional required S&R team augmentees will receive just-in-time training. (T-1).

1.9.7. Ensures a MOA or MOU is established between regular Air Force, United States Space Force, and Air Reserve Components for mortuary, HG or S&R support, as required. (T-1).

1.9.8. Ensures a response is provided to inquiries from family members or outside agencies concerned with the quality of service provided by an installation mortuary office, BHG or cemetery (where applicable); and that AFMAO is notified of the inquiry and response. (T-1).

Responsible to answer questions from the Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD) survey, if applicable. (T-1).

1.9.9. Ensures the appointed primary and alternate MOs attend the first available Mortuary Affairs Case Management course held by the Eaker Center at Maxwell AFB, AL. (T-1).

NOTE: Air National Guard MOs can attend the at Dover AFB, Delaware (DE). These courses may be held online if conditions do not permit an in-person course to be hosted.

1.9.10. Waiver of attendance at MO or MT course.

1.9.10.1. May waive the requirement to attend the

unit member is assigned to one of the following:

1.9.10.1.1. Force Support Flights.

1.9.10.1.2. Geographically separated units (GSU) and Air Force elements who are not serviced by an FSS.

1.9.10.1.3. Joint contingency locations where the Air Force is not the lead Service.

1.9.10.1.4. Overseas locations with a tour length of 365 days or less.

1.9.10.1.5. Deployed locations where the reporting instructions do not specifically require

22 DAFI34-160 3 MARCH 2022

1.9.10.2. Individuals assigned to flights, units or locations identified in paragraphs

1.9.10.1.1 through 1.9.10.1.5 will have the responsibility for S&R operations, coordination of movement of remains, coordinating the appointment of human remains escorts, SCO, FAR and other responsibilities as directed by AFMAO or the owning MAJCOM/FLDCOM. Primary mortuary case management and all other support for these locations will be assumed by the nearest regular Air Force installation with an FSS, or other installation, as directed by AFMAO. (T-1). In some instances, AFMAO may manage a case.

1.9.11. Will review for suitability the recommendation from the unit commander of the fallen Airman or Guardian for the person to be assigned as a FAR and will discuss the requirements, purpose and scope of responsibilities of the FAR and the MO/MT with the unit commander before recommending the appointment of the FAR. (T-1). Upon acceptance, ensures the MO drafts and forwards the appointment letter to the installation commander or wing commander of the prospective FAR to ensure availability to participate in all casualty and mortuary briefs.

(T-1).

1.10. Installation Mortuary Officer (MO).

1.10.1. Utilizes DAF Form 57, Mortuary Guide, the Air Force Mortuary Case Management DCIPS checklist and DCIPS for mortuary case management. (T-1). Use of DCIPS for all cases is mandatory. (T-1). NOTE: DCIPS checklist and user guide are available on AFMAO SharePoint.

1.10.2. Maintains user access to the DCIPS for use in mortuary case management. (T-1).

Ensures the MT(s) have and maintain user access to DCIPS for use in mortuary case management. (T-1).

1.10.3. Develops a written installation mortuary plan. (T-1). NOTE: Example plan available on AFMAO SharePoint.

1.10.4. Establishes, trains, and equips the installation S&R Team. (T-1).

1.10.5. Establishes an annual contract, BPA or a one-time contract for mortuary services that complies with the Standards for DoD Mortuary Facilities and for Drafting a Performance Work Statement (PWS) for DoD Contracted Mortuary Services (available on the AFMAO SharePoint). (T-1). NOTE: OSD Mortuary Affairs routinely issues updates to this document which may include variations in title, see AFMAO SharePoint for latest version. NOTE: This requirement does not pertain to the Air National Guard, except for Puerto Rico and US Virgin Islands Air National Guard.

1.10.6. Will hold annual training for all persons assigned to the mortuary office on all aspects of mortuary case management (entitlements, FAR, SCO, escort, proper use of DCIPS). (T-1).

1.10.7. Must brief the PADD, ensure positive identification of remains, inspect remains, take responsibility for the S&R team and perform annual inspections of contract funeral homes. (T- 1). The aforementioned duties cannot be delegated. (T-1).

1.10.8. Will remain in constant communication with SCO, FAR, PADD, PNOK and/or parents of the deceased until all mortuary entitlements have been provided and all investigations are complete, at which time will transfer support of PADD and PNOK to the Air Force Families Forever (AFFF) representative. (T-1).

DAFI34-160 3 MARCH 2022 23

1.10.9. Will review for suitability the recommendation from the unit commander of the fallen Airman or Guardian for the person to be assigned as a FAR. (T-1). At the earliest opportunity, create and submit the appointment letter for the individual(s) to the installation commander or wing commander of the decedent to ensure the member is available to participate in all casualty and mortuary briefs. Will personally discuss expectations and responsibilities with the FAR to ensure the FAR has complete understanding that they report to the MO in the performance of their duties. (T-1). Ensures just-in-time training is provided and travel orders are assigned to the mortuary line of accounting as applicable. (T-1). NOTE: FAR appointment letter template available on AFMAO SharePoint.

1.10.10. The MO will implement any changes to their mortuary program as dictated by OSD and AF/A1S during a national emergency. (T-1).

1.10.11. Will ensure MTs attend the first available AFMAO sanctioned Mortuary Technician, Mortuary Affairs Case Management course upon notification of assignment to the position.

(T-1). NOTE: Air National Guard MTs will attend the Air National Guard Mortuary Affairs Skills Enhancement Course within six months of appointment. These classes may be attended online if conditions do not permit for an in-person class to be hosted. (T-1).

1.11. Air University, Eaker Center for Professional Development. Will develop and provide, in coordination with AFMAO and AF/A1S, the following mortuary training courses:

1.11.1.

and civilians. (T-1).

1.11.2.

and civilians assigned to MT duties. (T-1).

1.12. Person Authorized to Direct Disposition (PADD). The individual designated by the deceased member on DD Form 93, Record of Emergency Data, entitled to direct the disposition of the remains.

1.12.1. If a member has failed to designate a PADD, the Department of the Air Force will utilize the hierarchy listed in paragraphs 1.12.3.1 through paragraph 1.12.3.9 to determine who will serve as the PADD, in order of precedence. (T-0).

1.12.2. If two or more persons claim the right to direct disposition and cannot provide documentary support, an agreement may be achieved either between them mutually or via legal adjudication in the civil courts. The Air Force will adhere to any order provided by a civil court with respect to a decision as to who has the authority to direct disposition of the remains of a fallen Airman or Guardian. (T-0).

1.12.3. The Air Force will use the following order of precedence to determine who serves as the PADD.

1.12.3.1. Surviving spouse.

1.12.3.2. Children over 18 years of age, in order of age from oldest to youngest.

1.12.3.3. Father or mother, whoever is older and if not divorced. If divorced when decedent was a minor, the custodial parent or legal guardian has the right to direct disposition. If the parents divorced after the decedent was of legal age, the eldest parent has the right to direct disposition.

24 DAFI34-160 3 MARCH 2022

1.12.3.4. A blood relative who had legal custody by court decree or statutory provision.

1.12.3.5. Brothers and sisters over 18 years of age, in order of age from oldest to youngest.

1.12.3.6. Grandparents, in order of age.

1.12.3.7. Blood relatives over 18 years of age, in order of relationship to the decedent, according to state laws. In equal degrees of relationship, seniority by age controls.

1.12.3.8. Remarried surviving spouse

1.12.3.9. Adoptive relatives of the decedent in order of relationship and age.

1.12.3.10.

paragraphs 1.12.3.1 through paragraph 1.12.3.8 can be found.

Section 1C Further Guidelines for the Mortuary Affairs Program.

1.13. Primary Next of Kin (PNOK). PNOK is determined according to state kinship law, typically in line with order of precedence in paragraphs 1.12.3.1 through paragraph 1.12.3.9.

1.14. Summary Courts Officer (SCO). A SCO must be a commissioned officer appointed by a SCMCA to handle the personal property and effects of deceased personnel and other eligible individuals, in accordance with Chapter 13 of this publication. (T-1).

1.15. Escort and Special Escort. The escort must accompany the remains from the preparing mortuary to the funeral home or other location requested by the PADD in accordance with DoDD

1300.22. (T-0).

1.16. Family Assistance Representative (FAR). The FAR is a military member, recommended by the unit commander of the deceased, and appointed by the installation commander or wing commander of the deceased who assists the PADD or PNOK as outlined in Chapter 12 of this instruction. The FAR is not an expert in any entitlements area but serves as an advocate to link the family to available resources to support the family. NOTE: In situations where parents or the surviving spouse and parent(s) have contrary opinions regarding the execution of mortuary benefits and entitlements, the FAR should demonstrate tact and remain neutral to the disagreement.

In these situations, leadership is encouraged to appoint a second FAR, as required, to provide concurrent support to eligible family members.

1.17. Casualty Assistance Representative (CAR). The appointed CAR is responsible for communicating entitlements to the PNOK, PADD, or other eligible beneficiaries, and fulfilling their responsibilities in accordance with DAFI 36-3002, Casualty Services.

1.18. Unit Commander of a Fallen Airman or Guardian.

1.18.1. Will recommend and provide a suitable unit member(s) to serve as a FAR to an eligible family member unless the family member specifically requests one not be assigned to them.

(T-2). The name(s) of the recommended FAR(s) must be provided to the FSS commander at the earliest opportunity to ensure availability to participate in all casualty and mortuary briefs.

The unit commander will ensure the FAR has complete understanding that they report to the MO in the performance of their duties. (T-1). Refer to paragraph 12.2.1 regarding situations entailing multiple FARs. (T-1).

DAFI34-160 3 MARCH 2022 25

1.18.2. Will recommend a unit member to serve as the escort unless a special escort is requested by the PADD. (T-1).

1.18.3. Determines whether or not a unit memorial service will be held in honor of a fallen Airman or Guardian assigned to their installation. (T-1). NOTE: (1) The unit commander must ensure compliance with the (2) two-year limitation (as stated in Joint Travel Regulation, Section 032005, Memorial Service for a Deceased Service Member) on the decision to hold a memorial service for family travel entitlements. (T-0).

1.18.4. Ensures that, if a unit memorial is held, the family is invited. (T-1). The MO is the representative communicating with the PADD (and PNOK, if not the same as PADD) in the scheduling of the unit memorial service. (T-3).

1.18.5. Will coordinate the unit memorial service for a fallen Airman or Guardian with the installation commander. (T-3).

1.18.6. Will provide logistical support to the family to meet their needs including all local travel support to and from the airport, the memorial service and any other assistance necessary.

(T-3).

1.18.7. Is authorized unit-funded temporary duty to attend or send their designated representative to the funeral of a military member from within their organization, when that funeral is conducted away from their home station. NOTE: Funding for the temporary duty does not come from funds coded for mortuary use. Contact local finance office for guidance.

1.18.8. Will ensure no one from the unit communicates with family of the deceased until receipt of confirmation that all family notifications have been made. (T-1).

1.18.9. Will ensure unit personnel safeguard information about the deceased until all family members have been notified and any communication restrictions on information regarding the deceased have been lifted (as applicable). NOTE: There is a DoD restriction on release of information about the deceased for contingency operation deaths. Restriction begins at time of death and concludes 24 hours following the notification of the last family member.

1.18.10. When possible, contact the installation MO prior to communicating with the family of the deceased.

1.18.11. Will not make any promises to family members of the deceased regarding casualty or mortuary entitlements other than to ensure they receive a benefits brief.

1.18.12. Will remain in constant communication with PADD, the PNOK and parents of the deceased until all casualty and mortuary entitlements have been provided and all investigations are complete, at which point an AFFF representative will fill the…