Aviation

morgue and/or crash site, not only to assist families but also to liaise with forensic and mortuary personnel
there.
k. Identification and Return of Remains: Consult with the families regarding identification and return of
remains.
l. Disposition of Unidentified Remains: The practices of the host country may dictate procedures on
disposition of unidentified remains of victims. It is important for the post to convey to the host country
authorities the sensitivities of families of U.S. citizen victims. In particular, if at all possible, knowledge and
consent by next-of-kin should be obtained prior to burial or disposition.
m. Personal Effects: We recognize that the identification and association of personal effects is a difficult and
often time-consuming process. Nevertheless, families frequently have an emotional need to recover some
item - a wedding ring, purse, wallet or article of clothing - as such effects are the last association or
connection with their loved one. It is critical that U.S. Government authorities consult with the families about
the personal effects of the victims, and that they return the personal effects to the families unless there is a
need or a requirement that they be retained for accident or criminal investigation. Urge responsible
authorities to retain any unclaimed possessions for a minimum of 18 months. The process for the return of
unassociated personal effects is deliberate and potentially lengthy. To do this correctly, all items are first
cleaned as needed, inventoried, numbered, and photographed. Once these steps are completed,
authorities may chose to produce a photo catalogue and send to all survivors and/or families of the victims.
Because there can be a wide range of emotional reactions upon receipt of this catalogue, it is advisable to
notify families before mailing, or to clearly identify the mailing container as to its contents. Provide
instructions on how to claim an item. Once all victims or families have responded, sole-claimant items
should be returned according to instructions received from the family. Multiple claims to items would require
additional evidence of entitlement, such as photographs, invoices, etc.. The item is returned once
ownership is determined. There are a growing number of commercial firms that specialize in catastrophe
assistance, which may also include the proper preparation and return of personal effects. The NTSB can
provide the firms' names for consideration.
Fore x am p le :
• Kenyon International
• Family Enterprises Inc (FEI)
Note: FEI does not handle personal effects - they handle call center-type activities
• BMS Catastrophe
NOTE: DISCLAIMER: The Department of State assumes no responsibility or liability for the professional
ability or reputation of, or the quality of services provided by these organizations.
n. Memorials: The erection of memorials and the holding of services are recognized as key elements in
healing the grief that family members experience. Should services be held and/or a monument built, it is
advisable to involve interested family members early and keep them involved as appropriate. Some
important factors are: notification of all families, due consideration to the diversity of backgrounds and
beliefs, easy accessibility to the monument by visiting family members, and public and private sources of
funding.
7 FAM 1836 WORKING WITH THE HOST GOVERNMENT
(CT: CON-144; 09-13-2006)
a. The host government has the primary responsibility for managing the crisis. You should be familiar with the
host government authorities responsible for investigating and providing family assistance in transportation
disasters.
ForEx am p le :
• U.K. Department of Transport Accident Investigation
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