DEFENCE BUSINESS SERVICES ( DBS )
With multiple agencies and international law to be considered , each case takes considerably planning often against tight timeframes .
DBS Repatriation Service
The UK Armed Forces operates in many countries around the world . On the sad occasion when there is a death of someone serving in uniform overseas , the Ministry of Defence ( MoD ) is required to repatriate that individual back to the UK . This solemn task is undertaken by the Joint Casualty and Compassionate Centre ( JCCC ), based at Imjin Barracks .
Mr John Pollard MBE at the JCCC is responsible for ensuring that every element of the repatriation process is considered to ensure that no matter where in the world the incident occurred they are all managed to the highest of standards that is expected not just by the family but also the nation .
John , who worked for over 30 years in the Royal Air Force , said :
‘ With multiple agencies and international law to be considered , each case takes considerably planning often against tight timeframes ’.
Some of the operational repatriations that are managed receive national media coverage , other non-operational repatriations are managed behind the scenes , but all are conducted with dignity and respect . The photo below is taken at RAF Brize Norton for an operational repatriation , where the deceased is afforded the highest military honour in the presence of senior military personnel and members of the bereaved family .
The work involved in arranging a repatriation can be stressful but is highly rewarding .
John said ‘ I feel very privileged to be play an active part in this task , which I know is appreciated by all concerned , especially the family ’
JCCC is part of Defence Business Services and is the focal point within the MoD for all casualty and compassionate cases affecting military personnel worldwide .
14 SPRING 2021 the imjin @ MODDBS