Sen. Carper Statement on the Investigation of the Air Force Mortuary Affairs Operations at Dover AFB

WASHINGTON – Today, Sen. Tom Carper (D-Del.) released the following statement in response to the investigation at the Air Force Mortuary Affairs Operations at Dover Air Force Base in Dover, Del.:

“All of us who live in Delaware take great pride in the Dover Air Force Base and take seriously that the remains of our fallen heroes must be handled with the greatest care and dignity by the Air Force Mortuary Affairs Operations Center. My office was contacted at the end of 2009 regarding concerns raised about the actions of some employees within the Air Force Mortuary Affairs Operations Center. My office immediately contacted the Department of Defense Inspector General who, in turn, contacted the Air Force Inspector General and a multi-agency investigation was initiated. My office has maintained ongoing contact for the past 24 months with the Department of Air Force to make sure the investigation progressed appropriately. My office acted as a conduit, ensuring that these concerns were promptly conveyed to the leadership of the Air Force and the appropriate authorities, and that an investigation into these serious concerns was initiated. The resulting investigation was led by the Department of Defense and Air Force. As a veteran and a Delawarean, I appreciate that these concerns have been thoroughly and carefully investigated and corrective steps have already been taken to address the concerns raised over the course of this investigation. I welcome Defense Secretary Leon Panetta’s call for an independent review of the Air Force Mortuary Affairs Operations Center, which can provide further clarity and peace of mind regarding the solemn work done at the Center. Moving forward, I am committed to working with my colleagues in Congress, the Administration, our military leadership, and the military community here in Dover and throughout the United States so we can continue to be absolutely confident in the integrity of the hallowed work done by the men and women who serve at the Air Force Mortuary Affairs Operations Center.”

###