05/22/2020
As we approach Memorial Day this upcoming Monday I want to give a special shout out to the chaplains and religious affairs specialists that serve our soldiers, civilians and family members. This includes those from the Army, Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard. One of the most stressful and trying times for the Unit Ministry Team is assisting the command in performing the solemn duty of rendering last honors for our fallen comrades. Soldiers, especially those involved in direct combat like infantry, tend to not always appreciate the services of support soldiers. This is understandable due to the unique nature of the profession. However, there a a few occasions when even the most hardcore among them pay respect to the skills and professional expertise of the Unit Ministry Team and the loss of a soldier in a unit is one of those times. When I was a young Specialist 4 in an Airborne Air Cavalry unit we lost a pilot and air crew to an accident. At the time my unit did not have a chaplain and I was the only chaplain assistant in the squadron. I had to coordinate getting a chaplain to cover the memorial service and manage the logistics in preparation for the service. As hardcore as the Commander and Command Sergeant Major were they still looked to me as the subject matter expert in dealing with this task and advising them. Sure they worked with the chaplain I requested but my CSM made sure I was present at every planning meeting and up front in advising the commander. My First Sergeant explained to me that it was imperative that I was the main guy because I was one of them, An Air Cav Trooper! I tell this story to remind you young chaplains and specialists out there that when it comes to saying good bye to a fallen comrade the soldiers and family members will always look to you for guidance and support during these hard times. I salute you for the work you do.
