‘Them and Us’: Understanding military inquests
When a death occurs in the military context, the experiences of the bereaved family will be profoundly influenced by the ways in which the organisation engages with them through the coronial process. In the aftermath of a death in service (whether the result of active duty, accident, illness, or a death by suicide) the military assumes responsibility for providing support to the bereaved family, often up to and including the inquest. The nature of this assistance, which includes help to plan the funeral, support with finances and housing and to act as a point of contact around both internal and external investigations and inquiries, lends itself to the development of strong bonds between the bereaved family and those members of the military responsible for providing this support. Indeed, it is the strength of this relationship which can mean that the inquest process is more challenging for bereaved families, military witnesses (including friends and colleagues) and military commanders and leaders. Many bereaved military families have described the potential for the process to be experienced as a division between ‘them and us’, compromising these connections which have been established and creating a sense of further loss.
Understanding this possibility is critical for all military personnel involved in the process, whether in the role of family supporter, witness, friends and colleagues or those in command and leadership roles. Ensuring that the bereaved family are aware of their legal rights is a significant first step to enable them access to independent information and sources of advocacy outside of the military. This is particularly important when the family is concerned that the organisation may have failed in their duty of care for their loved one or if they require support to access or understand the details surrounding the circumstances of their death. However, in all cases, legal advice can be beneficial to make sure that the bereaved family understands the process and knows that they have the right to ask questions of those witnesses and of the organisation itself.
Protecting the relationships between the bereaved family and those military personnel involved requires honesty, openness and transparency. Perhaps most significantly, it needs the acknowledgment of how this process can affect these relationships which have been forged, along with active efforts on the part of military commanders and leaders to mitigate the negative impact that the inquest may cause. This should include seeking opportunities to ask the bereaved families about their concerns and what they might need by way of support during the process. Offering choices wherever possible is another effective way of honouring the wishes of the bereaved family and demonstrating a commitment to support, care for and stay connected, despite any conflicts which may emerge.
Ensuring that military witnesses have access to support - before, during and after an inquest - is essential; they too may be grieving the loss of a colleague and friend. For some, the inquest may involve meeting the bereaved family for the first time and it can be difficult to witness their distress. For others, they may already have an established relationship with the bereaved family and it may be equally as challenging to see the impact of the loss as details of the death are recounted.
Military inquests give rise to a particular set of unique challenges. However, with understanding and a commitment to honesty and choice, these same challenges may present opportunities to enhance the support and connection of all those involved.
For further information and guidance about the inquest process for bereaved military families and military personnel please contact Nicola Lester on: