Who is responsible for performing a memorial service for a Soldier who dies while assigned to their unit, regardless of the manner of death?

• A. The Commander
• B. Chaplain
• C. Sergeant Major
• D. Unit HR Specialist

Answer: (A)

A unit’s commander is responsible for ensuring a memorial service is conducted for a Soldier who dies while assigned to the unit. The commander oversees the overall process—arranging the timing, logistics, coordination with the family, and ensuring the service happens in a timely and dignified manner no matter how the death occurred. The chaplain provides religious support and might lead or participate in the rites, but the command has the primary duty to ensure the memorial is carried out. The other roles, while they may support the effort (the chaplain in religious aspects, the Sergeant Major in advising, or the HR Specialist handling administrative details), do not carry the primary responsibility for coordinating and executing the memorial service.