While many people may think the US military has no business being involved with religion, religious beliefs are an inherent part of the cultural landscape in Afghanistan.  Thus, they are integral to the execution of the war effort — whether one treats them that way or not.

Capt Daniel Petronzio is one Marine among several who has been meeting with local mullahs — religious and social leaders in the local area — to help accomplish the US military mission in the region.

“We’re engaging mullahs to bridge to the local communities in a different way,” said Capt. Daniel Petronzio…”It shows our openness to religion…”

Apparently, some mullahs have been “suspicious” about American motives:

In most cases, the mullahs initially expressed suspicion that coalition forces intend to change their religion, but came away from the meetings with a new perspective.

“As a battalion, we were looking for a way to express to the local population that we were not against religion or against Islam,” said Capt. Michael Kline, the staff judge advocate…”We were finding that one of their largest concerns was that the Marines were here to wipe out Islam. To us, that seems like a ridiculous notion, but to the local people, it was a real fear.”

It was a “ridiculous notion” to the Marines because to them, religious freedom was a subconscious concept, and they knew the locals’ fear was a perception without basis.

Contrary to what some people may think, it does not appear the mullahs thought American Marines were crusaders trying to convert Afghans.  In fact, it seems they may have been more concerned about the “heathen hordes” than the “conquering crusaders.”  The knowledge that Americans Marines “do believe in God” was a comfort to the mullahs:

[Kline said] “When I tell them many of the Marines do believe in God and that Marines and ANA are here to provide peace and security and not change their religion, they’re often very surprised and excited…Letting them know that we understand how important religion is to them and that we respect their beliefs has been crucial in helping them understand that the government of Afghanistan and Marines are here to make Garmsir a better, safer place.”

Though not mentioned in the article, the Marines were likely assisted by their Chaplain, 1Lt Carl Rhoads, who is shown in one of the accompanying photos wearing his cross insignia.

When executed well, the US military can be a “missionary” for religious liberty throughout the world.  The Marines have shown the US military doesn’t have to imply an acceptance or active support of Islam to achieve its objectives, nor does it have to avoid any perception of religion within its own ranks.

In fact, to achieve a successful, long term peace, the military likely recognizes it benefits most from promoting an understanding of religious freedom — not merely supporting the state religion of Afghanistan nor having an apathetic response to religion in general.