Mortuary Affairs Specialist

The Soldier who has given his or her life in service to their country has made the ultimate sacrifice. The Army National Guard demands that these Soldiers receive the ultimate in care and respect as they are laid to rest in recognition of that sacrifice.

The Mortuary Affairs Specialist performs duties relating to the search, recovery, processing, and evacuation of the remains of deceased U.S. Armed Forces personnel. Mortuary Affairs Specialists also inventory, safeguard, and ensure the recovery and safe return of personal effects. They coordinate with non-U.S. authorities concerning disposition of enemy, allied, or civilian remains, and may serve as team members and recovery specialists at the Army’s Central Identification Laboratory in Hawaii.

Use your Mortuary Affairs Specialist experience as a springboard to advance your civilian career. The skills you learn in this specialty will prepare you for a future with funeral services or forensic medicine, and may help you achieve civilian certifications. You may also be able to take advantage of the PaYs program to receive preferential hiring at civilian companies.

Earn while you learn
Instead of paying to learn these skills, get paid to train. In the Army National Guard, you will learn these valuable job skills while earning a regular paycheck and qualifying for tuition assistance.

Job training for Mortuary Affairs Specialists consists of 10 weeks of Basic Training, where you’ll learn basic Soldiering skills, and seven weeks of Advanced Individual Training. Training consists of both classroom and field work.

Applicants must meet minimum qualifications. Actual MOS assignment may depend on MOS availability. Benefits subject to change.
Benefits

• Paid training


• A monthly paycheck


• Montgomery GI Bill


• Retirement benefits for part-time service


• Low-cost life insurance (up to $400,000 in coverage)


• 401(k)-type savings plan


• Student Loan Repayment Program (up to $50,000, for existing loans)


• Healthcare Benefits Available

Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED


• Must be between the ages of 17 and 35


• Must be able to pass a physical exam and meet legal and moral standards


• Must meet citizenship requirements (see NATIONALGUARD.com for details)

Most non-prior service candidates will earn between $196.26 and $254.91 per drill weekend.
Programs and benefits are subject to change.