Soldiers and their commanders who serve in the ranks of the US armed forces encounter circumstances on their way that can turn their lives around. At such moments, the state of the inner spiritual world of the soldier and his commander comes to the fore. Faith and hope give service members and their families confidence in their inner strength, which helps to overcome any difficulties on their complicated path. Men and women who wear military uniforms and voluntarily give up a safe life are the most vulnerable community that needs support more than anyone.
I had the opportunity to experience and appreciate the importance of an army chaplain after the untimely death of my neighbor who served in the US armed forces. The incident was sudden and shocking as he was healthy and considered in his prime. Most of the family members, including me, were alarmed to hear the news, and his entire family was crying uncontrollably over the tragic incident. At that moment, my inner world turned upside down and became filled with sympathy and regret for my neighbor and his family. It was a powerful impetus to respond to the internal call to provide moral support to everyone with relations with the US armed forces.
The army chaplain helped everyone cope with the situation. He ensured that we received maximum support and privacy to mourn this loss. Since I referred to my neighbor as a mentor and an older brother, I could not accept this situation. The army chaplain noticed my upset state of mind, personally took me aside, and told me about our Lord Jesus Christ’s consolation in times of loss. He advised me and invited me to attend a bereavement and grief counselling session with other families who had lost a loved one in the military to understand their coping experiences. This advice helped me much and better understood their problems.
Everyone who belongs to the armed forces, I repeat, has the right to moral and spiritual support when they begin to face the potential risks of military service. Their spiritual leaders at home can support them, but not where they particularly need it. An army chaplain has the necessary qualifications and equipment to be close to military personnel when they especially need it and provide assistance.
After the tragic incident and realizing the importance of these people, God called me to represent Him and my Church as part of the Army Chaplain Corps. I am sure that the experience and education I have and the necessary basic training will give me a chance to become a worthy chaplain. I will take this chance and work hard together with representatives of other religious groups. We are committed to using as much strength for our soldiers as they give to serving in the ranks of the US Army.
Communicating with an Army chaplain changed my life. He inspired me and made me want to become an army chaplain to honorably serve people who gave up their freedom for our country. It would also allow me to fulfill my duty to the USA. Our active servicemen and veterans have sacrificed a lot and are offering us. Being a person who can provide support and meet their spiritual needs would be a privilege that I would take full advantage of.