Photo By Staff Sgt. Alexandra Minor | Armed Forces Repository of Specimen Samples for the Identification of Remains...... read more read more
The Armed Forces Repository of Specimen Samples for the Identification of Remains (AFRSSIR) made history on October 17, 2023, when Mr. Ernie Costes, DNA Specimen Processor, accomplished the department’s 9 millionth DNA reference card.
“I now have an amazing story for when I retire about how while working at the Repository for what’s now 23 years,” says Costes, “not only did I process the 9 millionth DNA card, but I also processed 592 blood reference cards in one day.”
Established in 1992, the AFRSSIR plays a vital role in managing, coordinating, and maintaining the collection of DNA blood reference cards for all active duty, reserve, and National Guard service members. These cards are collected when individuals first enter the military and are processed at one of nine basic training sites, depending on their branch of service.
The main purpose of the AFRSSIR is to aid in the identification of remains. Over the years, collection efforts steadily expanded from the initial 10,000 DNA reference cards, collected at Fort Knox, Kentucky. Since then, the repository has grown exponentially.
Today, the AFRSSIR accessions approximately 225 thousand new DNA reference cards each year. The dedication to maintaining this extensive collection is a testament to the staff’s commitment to preserving the AFRSSIR’s legacy and ensuring the identification of fallen military personnel.
“It takes roughly 5 years to get another million. Having the anticipation and knowing someone is going to get the next millionth, because it takes so long to process that amount of cards, is exciting and a celebration,” said Mrs. Mimi Kramer, AFRSSIR Supervisor.
This ongoing effort ensures that the AFRSSIR remains up to date and equipped to provide accurate and efficient identification services when needed, providing a crucial link to identifying those who have served their country. The Repository's dedication to maintaining this extensive collection is a testament to its commitment to preserving the legacy and ensuring the identification of military personnel.
| Date Taken: | 10.17.2023 |
| Date Posted: | 10.20.2023 11:40 |
| Story ID: | 456210 |
| Location: | DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, DE, US |
| Web Views: | 209 |
| Downloads: | 1 |
This work, AFRSSIR Processes 9 Millionth DNA Reference Card, by SSgt Alexandra Minor, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
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