Tag Archives: north dakota national guard

Tribal Nations Bless Army’s Newest Helicopter

The North Dakota National Guard’s newest helicopter, the UH-72A Lakota, was dedicated in a ceremony in September that included a blessing by a “Native American spiritual leader:”

As part of the dedication ceremony, two Lakota helicopters were blessed by Native American spiritual leader and elder, George Ironshield of Standing Rock, and officially named “Eagle” and “Turtle” respectively. The Eagle symbolizes spirituality and hope while the Turtle is honored as a protector and healer.

Naming a helicopter “Turtle” is a bit awkward, but the meaning is understood.

Fortunately, George Ironshield wasn’t a Catholic Priest Read more

Military Chaplains Serve, Even at Home

Most people can understand the need for military Chaplains when they think of Soldiers deployed to a combat zone, separated from their spiritual resources.  A North Dakota National Guard unit, activated to help fight local flooding, demonstrated the need for Chaplains even locally:

Because the guardsmen have been activated for an emergency, it can be hard to find times to hold church services and gatherings. Guardsmen work 12-hour shifts, so many simply don’t have the energy for extra activities.

To make up for this, chaplains deliver daily devotionals Read more