The family IS notified ASAP....in person. If the family was local to Annapolis it would have not been a big issue for that to happen. But, duties are handled by a CACO (who has hopefully been trained) at the closest Navy command to the PNOK, with an accompanying Chaplain if possible. That takes coordination which can be very difficult to get assigned and rolling.
You guys have all made great points here.
Just wanted to amplify on the above. The coordination can often be tremendously difficult. I stood CACO for a family in the middle of Upstate NY...why? Because I was the only officer that anyone could get ahold of at the nearest unit...What unit you ask? NROTC Cornell. I was literally doing my laundry one Sunday afternoon and two hours later, as an Ensign...was paying respects to an 18 year olds family. As was said, Norfolk? Probably not a big deal, but let's talk about Intercourse, PA or Big Hollow, WV. The problem is not the Navy's policy in this case.
For those who've never had the regrettable honor...know this. If you do, its the toughest thing you may ever do period. Not just in the Nav.
