The Navy Chief of Chaplains, Chaplain (Rear Adm) Mark Tidd, recently visited the USS Carl Vinson and its support vessels.  The Navy article recounts some highlights, but also has an interesting quote from the strike group’s command Chaplain:

“On board Vinson, we have about 15 different faith groups represented, and we are committed to this diversity,” said [command Chaplain (Cmdr) Keith Shuley]. “He comes from a Christian background, and it’s a great opportunity to reflect on how we all work together. This crew is so welcoming, and it’s a great opportunity for our Sailors.”

“Faith groups” doesn’t ordinarily refer to different Protestant denominations, so its interesting to hear the Chaplain say 15 different groups are represented on a single vessel.  (The Vinson has a combined ship/air wing crew of around 5,700.)

The US Navy — and the US military — are religiously diverse: a fact the Chaplains know and celebrate as they protect the free exercise of all the adherents under their care.