"We can never fully repay the debt of our nation to those who have laid down their lives for the cause of freedom. The best we can do is honor their memory, ensure that their sacrifice is not in vain, and help provide for their families," said Senator Susan Collins, a member of the Senate Armed Service Committee.
The death gratuity is commonly provided within 72 hours to the family of the service member who is killed while on active duty. While a small amount, it is intended to assist a grieving family with their immediate financial needs. It is paid in addition to the primary death benefits a service member is due. Those benefits could include the service member's group life insurance, VA dependents indemnity compensation, and the survivors benefits plan compensation. The last time that the death gratuity was raised was in 1991, during the Persian Gulf War. At that time, it was increased from $3,000 to $6,000.
Senator John Warner (R-VA), Chairman of the Senate Armed Service Committee, and Senator John McCain have co-sponsored the Collins legislation.