AFTTP3-2.51 governs multi-Service mortuary affairs tactics, techniques, and procedures in theaters of operations.
View AFTTP3-2.51 on armypubs.army.mil
The publication covers mortuary affairs planning, search and recovery, collection points, evacuation points, personal effects, and temporary interment. It requires coordinated planning, accurate documentation, completed forms, safe handling, and controlled evacuation of human remains.
Applies to: This publication has been prepared under our direction for use by our respective Service commanders and other commands as appropriate.
Planners should analyze the joint force’s mission, threat, fatality estimates, duration of the operation, HR evacuation modes, availability of lift assets, and available MA assets. (paragraph 2-4)
Due to the importance of preserving forensic evidence regarding the cause of death of DOD-affiliated personnel, MA personnel must not remove clothing and military equipment (such as individual protective equipment) when looking for identifying marks. (paragraph 5-67)
The tasked unit commander or designated team leader is responsible for preparing, training, and resourcing the unit recovery team. (paragraph 4-30)
Maintain the temperature of the refrigeration container between 34–40 degrees Fahrenheit (1.1–4.4 degrees Celsius). (paragraph 5-65)
Do not allow HR to freeze under any circumstances. (paragraph 5-65)