What To Do If Death Occurs While Serving In The Military

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If death occurs while serving in the United States military, the primary next of kin—either the spouse if the person is married or the parents if the person is not married—will be notified by a Casualty Notification Officer of the Army Casualty and Memorial Affairs Operations Center.

A Casualty Assistance Officer will be provided to the family and will assist in the return of remains and belongings, planning of funeral and memorial services, filing for benefits and entitlements, and relocation of military family members. For more information see the U.S. Army's Guide For Families of Fallen Soldiers.