Origins of the Armed Forces Medical Examiner System

Area of Science:

• Forensic Pathology
• Medical History
• Governmental Health Systems

Background:

• The Armed Forces Medical Examiner System (AFMES) is the U.S. federal government's only medicolegal death investigation system.
• Its origins trace back to Civil War medical collections initiated in 1862.
• These collections led to the formation of key institutions like the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology (AFIP).

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline the historical development and foundational contributions of the AFMES.
• To highlight the AFMES's role in significant historical autopsies.
• To recognize the pioneers of forensic pathology training and the AFMES.

Main Methods:

• Historical review of archival records.
• Tracing the lineage of medical institutions and their contributions.
• Identifying key figures in the establishment of forensic pathology programs.

Main Results:

• The AFMES originated from Civil War medical collections, evolving through institutions like the AFIP.
• Pathologists associated with precursor institutions performed autopsies for Presidents Lincoln, Garfield, and Kennedy.
• The AFIP established the first accredited forensic pathology training program, leading to the AFMES.

Conclusions:

• The AFMES has a long and significant history rooted in military medicine and pathology.
• The system's development involved pioneering efforts in forensic pathology training and investigation.
• Key historical events and institutional evolution underscore the AFMES's enduring legacy.