Expert: Cynthia Bedell - 11/8/2008

Question
I realize this is a sensitive subject, but in the fictional piece I am writing, the family of a U.S. army soldier (stationed in Iraq) is informed that he has been wounded -not mortally. Is it correct that the military would inform the family by telephone? I have nobody I know from the military, so it is kind of an important detail to find out. If you could get back to me, I'd be really grateful. Thanks

Answer
Dear Kate --

Depending on the severity of the wound and what is happening to the Soldier (medical evacuation, treatment and return to duty, or emergency transfer to Walter Reed, etc) a Soldier's family might be notified a number of different ways.

The preferred way would be to have the spouse of the Soldier's commander visit the family and tell them the details.  But if the family does not live on base, then that would not happen.  So the next would be the commander or Soldier's immediate leader calling the family from theater.  Sometimes the family is difficult to reach, and the Red Cross notifies the family.

Families are often called if the Soldier is being evacuated to a base in Germany for treatment.  It helps the Soldier's recovery and the doctors to know any special issues the Soldier might have, if the family can be there where the Soldier is receiving treatment.

I hope this helps your research.  Please write back, if you have other questions.