A US military news release documents the story of US Navy Chaplain (LT) James Ragain, currently deployed to Afghanistan.  While much of the article covers the standard mantras of Chaplains and their roles, Ragain’s story demonstrates the strengths of having a military Chaplain integrated with a combat unit:

“He’s probably the greatest secret weapon I have here in my squadron,” said Marine Corps Lt. Col. Clarence Harper, the squadron’s commanding officer. “The way he goes about building religious programs within the squadron is exceptional. He’s just a tremendous help. I love that guy like a brother.”

Marine Corps 1st Lt. Joseph W. Steen, the squadron’s logistics officer, said he goes to Wednesday night services regularly to continue his spiritual education. He added that since he met Ragain, they have become close friends.

“He’s one of the best chaplains I’ve ever met,” Steen said. “He is appreciated and very respected in this squadron. We talk about three times a week, and I can honestly say that we have a deep sense of friendship.”

The Chaplain’s assistant, PO2 Jason Dockter, had more positive words to say:

Dockter said he has been in a prime position to witness the positive influence the chaplain has made on the squadron.

“I definitely see the impact he makes,” he said. “It’s been apparent in our Bible studies. When we first got here, the Bible studies started off very small, and since then, they have grown exponentially. I think that is a testament to the kind of person that Chaplain Ragain is and how he’s able to deliver the word of God.”

Chaplain Ragain has apparently had a profound and relational impact on the Marines he serves, which is no small effort.  His dedication to (and success in) both his calling and his troops is an admirable example of the positive impacts of military Chaplains and religious freedom supported within the US military.