An Air Force Airman posting as “A1C Venom” has started a YouTube page in which he comments on various issues of religion, including “Atheism in the Military.” His video is calmly presented and not altogether unbalanced, though a few of his comments are confusing, leading one to wonder if he actually understands some of what he’s saying or how well informed he is.

For example, he states at the beginning of the video that he’s “seen a lot of discrimination” as an atheist in the military, yet he doesn’t provide a single example of discrimination. He does talk about prayer at military events (which he feels is improper but not a big deal), but prayer at military events isn’t “discrimination.” It’s possible he simply misunderstands what that word means — a regrettably common problem. Similarly, he says at one point that Airman aren’t supposed to talk about their faith at work — but then a moment later says they have free speech and can.

Finally, he talks about “problems” with troops engraving “Bible verses and Christian crosses on their weapons,” providing “propaganda for jihadists” — but that appears to be a gross misunderstanding of the Trijicon “scandal.”

A1C Venom similarly talks about Mormonism, hell, and the “flaws of Christianity” in other videos.

While he clearly presents himself as an Air Force Airman, he is absolutely free to express his views on religion, even if those views are negative — just as other atheists in the military have. There is no reasonable expectation that “morale, good order and discipline” will be impacted because an Airman gets on YouTube and criticizes Christianity, or even because he chooses to comment on his perceptions of how the military deals with religion.

As to his errors, therein lies the benefits of free speech in America. Any person is free to state their case, and others are free to support, correct, or rebut their position.

A1C Venom’s videos also provide further evidence that troops have, and express, a wide variety of views — and the mission still happens.

As an aside, its interesting to see the atheist Airman appearing to wear Thor’s Hammer around his neck.

ADVERTISEMENT