AFMD16 — Air Force Mortuary Affairs Operations (afmao)

AFMD16 governs the mission, command structure, responsibilities, and delegation of authority for Air Force Mortuary Affairs Operations.

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  • Publication number: AFMD16
  • Title: AIR FORCE MORTUARY AFFAIRS OPERATIONS (AFMAO)
  • Date: 2023-12-26

View AFMD16 on armypubs.army.mil


It describes AFMAO’s mortuary programs, command relationships, Dignified Transfer oversight, Military Funeral Honors, and past conflict mortuary activities. It requires specified reporting, accountability, training, contingency planning, and operational support duties.

Topics covered

  • Mortuary programs
  • Dignified Transfer Process
  • Mortuary case management
  • Mortuary entitlement claims
  • Military Funeral Honors
  • Past Conflict Mortuary Program
  • Mass fatality contingency planning
  • Delegation of travel approval authority

Questions and answers

What does AFMAO do for fallen service members and their families?

AFMAO executes and integrates the Department of the Air Force mortuary programs to care for fallen service members and their families while meeting field commanders’ needs, supporting both present and past conflicts. (paragraph 1)

Who does AFMAO report to?

AFMAO is a field operating agency (FOA) reporting to Deputy Chief of Staff for Manpower, Personnel, and Services (AF/A1). (paragraph 2)

What must AFMAO immediately report to AF/A1S?

Immediately reporting to AF/A1S incidents involving loss of accountability, contaminated or contagious remains, serious hazards to AFMAO personnel, explosive devices, or any other anomalies in the mortuary process. (paragraph 3)

What accountability standard applies to AFMAO’s self-inspection program?

Maintaining a self-inspection program in compliance with Department of the Air Force Instruction (DAFI) 90-302, The Inspection System of the Department of the Air Force, to evaluate mission execution and ensure process standardization with 100 percent accountability of remains. (paragraph 3)

What contingency planning must AFMAO support for mass fatality incidents?

In conjunction with AF/A1 Readiness Program, ensure contingency plans are developed to respond to mass fatality incidents and capability is appropriately postured for wartime operational plans. (paragraph 3)

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