The working group’s mission is to strengthen support for survivors who choose to remain active members of the Navy family. It also allows survivors to raise issues and concerns and evaluate the effectiveness of existing policies to better support families.

Vice Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Lisa Franchetti chairs the working group, alongside the Chief of Naval Personnel; Commander, Navy Installations Command; Commander, Navy Personnel Command; Director, 21st Century Sailor Office; and Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy.

“The Navy takes our obligation to our Gold Star Families very seriously,” said Franchetti. “Our Sailors must have confidence that we will take care of their families if the unimaginable happens. Supporting our survivors is a no-fail mission.”

Programs like the Casualty Assistance Calls Program and the Navy Gold Star Program work closely to provide critical survivor assistance to ensure continuity of care and support services members’ families during times of loss.

These programs provide initial support such as initial notification, funeral and memorial planning, grief counseling, and assistance in navigating benefits and entitlements, as well as long-term assistance through survivor community outreach support and the survivor network.

During the meeting, survivors discussed support they received from the Causality Assistance Calls Officer, shortcomings with benefits or notification, financial support, and how to better support the survivor community.

“When our Navy families are going through unthinkable loss, we must provide compassionate and ongoing support as they navigate tragedy,” said Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy James Honea. “The Navy takes care of our own and opportunities like this ensure the Navy is providing the right support where it’s needed most.”