Which characteristic is essential for a CACO when dealing with families?

Empathy and compassion are essential characteristics for a Casualty Assistance Calls Officer (CACO) when interacting with families. The role of a CACO involves providing support to the families of service members who have been injured or killed. This often places them in emotionally charged and challenging situations. Being empathetic allows the CACO to connect with the family on a human level, acknowledging their grief and offering emotional support.

Compassion enhances this connection further; it encourages the CACO to respond to families' needs sensitively and thoughtfully. Families may be overwhelmed with intense emotions and complex logistical challenges during this time, and a CACO’s ability to exhibit these qualities can help to create a safe space for the family, fostering trust and comfort.

While other characteristics like creativity, adherence to protocol, and negotiation skills may have their places, they are not as crucial as empathy and compassion in building rapport and providing the necessary support to families during such a difficult mourning period.