A Casualty Assistance Officer (CAO) is a military member assigned to support families of service members who have been injured or killed. Their primary role is to provide guidance, information, and assistance during a difficult time, ensuring that families understand their benefits and resources available to them. CAOs are trained to handle sensitive situations with compassion and professionalism. They help families navigate the complexities of military benefits, funeral arrangements, and other necessary services, acting as a liaison between the family and the military. Their goal is to ease the burden on families during a challenging period.