Center for the Families of the Fallen

''We Will Never Forget''

Center for the Families of the Fallen

The heroes of our generation are making the supreme sacrifice in protection of freedom and promotion of peace. Though they will never see the fulfillment of the dream for which they died, we honor their service, their courage, and their families. They, and their families, hold a cherished place in our hearts and in the history of these United States. We are compelled by their sacrifice to offer the love which protects, always trusts, always hopes, and always perseveres. We will never forget and we will always provide the care, service, and support they have earned.

An idea to transform a former base convenience store was conceived and renovation of the center began Nov. 9, 2009, and the contractors completed their job within 60 days.

More than 100 people were on hand for the dedication ceremony.

AFMAO personnel ensure dignity, honor, and respect to the nation's fallen military members and offer the highest level of care, service and support to the families of the fallen.

Colonel Bob Edmondson, the AFMAO commander explains how the center will allow AFMAO mortuary affairs specialists, chaplains and mental health technicians to better assist families of the fallen.

Dignitaries witnessing the dedication included Dr. Jill Biden, wife of Vice President Joseph Biden; Delaware's congressional delegation of Senators Thomas R. Carper and Edward E. Kaufman, Rep. Mike Castle; Dover Mayor Carlton Carey; Lt. Gen. Richard Y. Newton III, the deputy chief of staff for manpower and personnel, and Lt. Gen. Loren M. Reno, deputy chief of staff for installations, logistics and mission support, Headquarters U.S. Air Force.

Nicole Goc, whose husband was killed in a plane crash years ago, her attendance was symbolic of who this center hopes to serve.

General Schwartz said the center represents a commitment by military leaders to care for fallen service members and their families.

Chaplain David J. Sparks leads us in the dedication prayer.

General Schwartz dedicated the center alongside Col. Bob Edmondson, the AFMAO commander.

"Our most serious obligation is to lead in a way that minimizes the likelihood of losing a teammate," General Schwartz said, "but, when we properly honor our fallen, we must also properly care for the families.

Dr. Jill Biden said she was proud to have such a facility in their home state of Delaware. She praised the initiative, saying the center will be a place of comfort for families "as they come to meet their fallen angels."

A 6,000 square foot center that offers a comfortable and quiet environment with dedicated sitting areas for the families, as well as private rooms that can be used for counseling or meditation.

Weird, no Coast Guard flag or emblem on the wall? Clarification: The Coast Guard is not part of the DoD: they are with the Homeland Security Department. This was confirmed with AF Protocol stating that the Coast Guard seal is not reflected in Chairman of Joint Chiefs hallway.

The center is one manifestation of fidelity to the commitment that when families from all over the country come to receive their loved ones for the last time, they do so in a place that befits their grief, and can begin to offer them comfort, support, and the sincere thanks of a grateful nation.