US Army Chaplain (Capt) Geoffrey Whitaker, the garrison Chaplain at COB Marez, Iraq, took a unique path to the Chaplaincy.  He was originally a Navy SEAL; in 2003, he fell during a helicopter speed rope and crushed his skull.  Doctors gave him a 10% chance of survival, with far less a chance he’d ever recover.

He rejoined his SEALs within 12 months.

He said he owes his recovery to the thousands of people praying for him around the world. 

“I’ve been a part of churches everywhere I’ve lived,” he said. “My friend network was global.”

After his recovery, Whitaker went back and read all the cards he had received in the hospital and did some math to find out how many people were praying for him. He estimated the number was more than 60,000.

“That’s really what this story is about,” he said.

Whitaker would ultimately be called to the Chaplaincy, where he now serves.

Like Chaplain Jeff Struecker, who was an Army Ranger, Chaplains with “actual” military experience have a unique and important influence on their fellow servicemembers–even more so those who have endured the crucibles of becoming a Ranger or SEAL.

DoD Photo: Chaplain Whitaker delivers an Easter sermon, 2010.  (Michael Weinstein and Chris Rodda are likely in a conniption over the ‘egregious’ cross used in the service…)

Via the Army Chaplaincy blog.