Casualty Services & Survivor Benefits
DSN 742-2720 
Commercial: (662) 434-2720
FAX: (662) 434-2483
EMAIL: afrc@Columbus.af.mil
Hours of Operation
Mon-Fri: 7:30 am – 4:30 pm
Casualty Services
The Columbus AFB Casualty Services Program primary goals are to provide prompt, accurate reporting, dignified and humane notification, and efficient, thorough, and compassionate assistance to the next of kin for as long as needed. The Casualty Assistance Representative (CAR) also works closely with survivors of retired members to ensure potential benefits are applied for in a timely manner. The CAR provides assistance to an average of 60+ retired members’ families each year. Entitlements can range from Military Retired Pay, Veterans Administration benefits, Office of Servicemen’s Group Life Insurance, and Social Security.
Click here to view the Retiree Member brochure
Getting your affairs in order? Click on the Retiree Supporting Documents link and print to keep with your important paperwork.
Casualty Assistance Links
The Veterans Administration
Retired Pay
Military Records Storage
Social Security
Military One Source–Active Duty (Casualty information)
Report the Death of a Retiree
Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP)
Military pay stops when a member dies. The SBP is a government program, which makes it possible for retiring members to ensure that after their death, their eligible survivors receive a portion of their military retired pay in the form of a monthly annuity. The SBP was structured so that a surviving spouse cannot outlive the annuity, and it has Cost-of-Living Adjustments (COLAs) incorporated so the annuity increases with inflation. An active duty member who has eligible dependents is automatically covered by SBP at the maximum level at no cost to the member while he/she remains on active duty. Prior to retiring, each member must decide whether to continue SBP coverage into retirement. The retired pay of those members who elect to participate is reduced by monthly premiums. The SBP is a unique plan: Government-subsidized premiums deducted from a participating member’s retired pay before taxes. The SBP is the sole means for a member to continue a portion of their military retired pay to their eligible survivors. If a member chooses (with the concurrence of their spouse) not to participate in the SBP, an annuity cannot be paid.
SBP Links
Survivor’s Benefit Plan Information
Initial Key Spouse Training. Call 434-2790 for details.
This spouse orientation program is designed for spouses new to the military or new to Columbus AFB. This is a great opportunity to increase knowledge of the Air Force mission, customs, traditions, protocols and available programs and services in a fun, relaxed atmosphere. Make new friends while learning more about Air Force life. To register and more information please call (662) 434-2790.
Discussion of employment information and opportunities in the local area for spouses, dependents, veterans, and Government employees. For additional information or to register call (662) 434-2790.
Wing Newcomers Orientation for newly arrived Active Duty and Civilian personnel. Spouses are encouraged to attend. Held at the Columbus Club/Event Center, for more information call (662) 434-2790.
Military Life Cycle workshop allows the VA contractors to explain to service members; whether first term, separating, retiring or a veteran, what services the VA offers and what they are able to provide throughout the member’s military career and how to apply for benefits. To register and more information please call 662-434-2790.
Discussion of employment information and opportunities in the local area for spouses, dependents, veterans, and Government employees. For additional information or to register call (662) 434-2790.
The Hearts Apart Social program is a monthly event to provide community bonding, fun and appreciation for the families of active duty personnel who are deployed, remote, or on an extended TDY. Food and activities are provided.
Call 434-2790 to register.
Discussion of employment information and opportunities in the local area for spouses, dependents, veterans, and Government employees. For additional information or to register call (662) 434-2790.
Updated information about relocating held at AFRC. TMO, Housing, Military Pay, Billeting, Tri-Care, Medical Records, and A&FRC, spouses are encourage attend call (662) 434-2790 to register.
0730-1600
Transition Assistance Program (TAP) Workshop held at AFRC is mandatory for all personnel separating or retiring, Pre-separation counseling is required before attending. Seminars on: Transition, Military Occupational Code Crosswalk, Financial Planning, Health Benefits, MS Dept of Employment Security, Dept of Veterans Affairs, Disabled TAP, Dept of Labor TAP portion. Preseparation counseling is required before attending. Recommend attendance 8 – 12 months prior to separation/retirement. Spouses are encouraged to attend with their sponsor. To register call (662) 434-2839.