The Department of Defense's Use of Solatia and Condolence Payments in Iraq and Afghanistan. Military Operations
Abstract
We found that DOD has established guidance for making and documenting solatia and condolence payments in Iraq and Afghanistan, and that guidance has changed over time primarily in Iraq in terms of condolence payment amounts, approval levels, and payment eligibility. Within parameters established by guidance, commanders exercise broad discretion for determining whether a payment should be made and the appropriate payment amount. While guidance does not require commanders to make payments, commanders may do so if they choose. When determining whether to make payments and payment amounts, commanders told us they consider the severity of injury, type of damage, and property values based on the local economy as well as any other applicable cultural considerations. According to unit officials with whom we spoke, units generally follow a similar process for making solatia and condolence payments in Iraq and Afghanistan. Officials told us that they generally make payments to civilians at Civil Military Operations Centers ad hoc organizations established by military commanders to assist in the coordination of civilian-related activities or during personal visits.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 2007
- Accession Number
- ADA468288
Entities
People
- Alissa Czyz
- Carole F. Coffey
- Jason Pogacnik
- K. N. Harms
- Kelly Baumgartner
- Krislin Bolling
- Marcus L. Oliver
- Ronald L. Lake
- Sharon L. Pickup
Organizations
- United States Government Accountability Office