Navy tells families when they can identify a sailor who has died on social media in latest handbook

[Tony 682]

NORFOLK
When someone in the Navy dies of unnatural causes, it often attracts international attention. Grieving family members and friends typically take to social media to post memories about their loved ones, express anguish and seek support on their personal pages.

But Defense Department policy prohibits the Navy from releasing the identities of casualties until 24 hours after next of kin is informed. In cases of multiple deaths, the 24-hour clock doesn’t start until the last family member is told. https://pilotonline.com/news/military/local/article_282be50f-3b98-5fe5-b59c-09ebedefd24b.html