DoD initiates review of cremation policies

[unhappycamper]

DoD initiates review of cremation policies
By William H. McMichael and Erik Holmes - Staff writers
Posted : Monday Jun 2, 2008 6:09:05 EDT

Embarrassed by revelations at Dover Air Force Base, Del., that some service members’ remains were cremated at a facility that also handled dead pets, the Pentagon has launched an investigation and review of cremation policies across the military.

The Pentagon says there is “no evidence whatsoever that any human remains were mistreated,” spokesman Geoff Morrell said. The human and pet crematories are adjacent but separate.

But Defense Secretary Robert Gates put an immediate stop to the practice, calling it inappropriate, Morrell said May 9.

“The families of the fallen have the secretary’s deepest apology,” Morrell said. “Those still serving have his commitment that all members of the armed forces will be treated with the dignity and respect that their sacrifice demands.”

With Gates’ approval, Air Force Secretary Michael Wynne directed the Dover Port Mortuary at Dover Air Force Base to stop contracting with the off-site crematorium in question and to use only crematoriums that are on the same site with licensed funeral homes. Morrell also said there must be a military presence during the handling of remains at off-base funeral home facilities.


Rest of article at: http://www.armytimes.com/news/2008/06/army_afdover_060108/