DoD Overhauling Casualty Programs

The 2007 defense act addresses transportation of remains of service members from Dover Air Force Base, Del., to the escorted remains destination. Dedicated military or military-contracted aircraft will be used unless the designated next of kin specifies otherwise. The requirement applies to members who die during combat operations or who die of non-combat related injuries in a combat theater. The act also requires military honors and a military honor guard detail at the destination airfield. In addition, it directs a Defense Department review of the process by which survivors are briefed about the death of the military members and the disposition and transportation of the remains. It further directs DoD to review methods of preserving the remains of deceased members in a combat theater and expediting their return to the United States in a non-decomposed state.