HEALTH AFFAIRS

06 Jan 1995

MEMORANDUM FOR DIRECTOR, ARMED FORCES INSTITUTE OF PATHOLOGY (AFIP)

SUBJECT: Mitochrondrial DNA Remains Identification

During a December 22, 1994, meeting with COL David Suttle, COL Jeanne Hamilton and COL Michael Spinello, it was reported that the British Rome office (BHO) had submitted a preliminary report concerning the discrepancy noted between the Armed Forces DNA Identification Laboratory (AFDIL) and the Mary-Claire King Laboratory. it was stated that the preliminary report found a sequence which matched the Bourg reference sample. The preliminary report noted that this confirmed the AFDIL results. During further conversation, the Army representatives expressed confidence in the quality assurance process used by AFDIL.

Since the AFDIL quality assurance procedure has been evaluated an acceptable, the previous verbal requirement to submit all requests to this office for approval prior to performing DNA analysis is rescinded. Please respond to all Army requests for analysis in an expeditious manner, and consider that Army requests have had a waiver at Army level to the Army imposed moratorium.

/s/

Edward D. Martin, M.D.

Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary

cc: COL Suttle

COL Hamilton

COL Spinello

HA Control #1:

Due Dates:

MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRINCIPAL DEPUTY ASSISTANT SECRETARY Of DEFENSE (HEALTH AFFAIRS)

THROUGH: Dr. Sue Bailey, DASD (CS)

FROM: COL S. M. Cirone VC, USA

SUBJECT: Mitochondrial DNA Remains Identification

PURPOSE: Signature sign a letter reinstating routine mitochondrial DNA Identification of remain at AFDIL.

DISCUSSION: Because of discrepancies noted in the identification of associated remains, and because of the question concerning use of DNA technology for the primary identification of Korean war remains, a moratorium has been placed on the use of DNA technology as the primary means of remains identification until the Defense Science Board (DSB) reviews the technology. A final report is not expected prior to February 1995.

As a corollary action, samples involved in the associated remains discrepancies were forwarded to the British Home Office (BHO) for resolution. Current information is that a resolution of this problem may not come from the BHO. However, a preliminary report was submitted but has not been seen by this office.

In the interim, the Armed Forces DNA Identification Laboratory (AFDIL) was told verbally to perform preliminary work in the remains identification process without actually collecting reference samples and performing associated remains identification. AFDIL was told to contact this office and request approval prior to the confirming

identification of remains using the mtDNA technology.

Although the AFDIL quality assurance procedures are currently being peer reviewed, the initial reports indicate an approval of the technology with some recommended modifications of the overall quality assurance program. This is in progress. The final report is expected in January.

At a meeting yesterday, 21 DEC 94, Army noted that the preliminary report from the British Home office was received two days ago, and it verifies the AFDIL results. The Army noted that it was satisfied with the AFDIL QA. All individuals at the meeting agreed that it would be appropriate to resume routine mtDNA testing without further delay.

This memorandum instructs AFDIL to perform routine DNA testing without the need for formal approval by this office.

RECOMMENDATION:

Sign the memorandum.

COORDINATION

CoL Armbrustmacher:

Mr. Wold, DASD POW/MIA

AASD (HA) DECISION

APPROVED

DISAPPROVED

OTHER: