What is the military’s policy on chaplains carrying weapons?
December 31st, 2009 by eranio
I’m considering going into the military as a chaplain but am concerned about the noncombatant status of the position. If I’m out their on the front lines I want to have some way to defend myself. So my question is, even though its a noncombatant position, can chaplains still carry a gun. It doesn’t have to be a rifle, I’d be just as happy with a small sidearm, just so long as I can carry something to defend myself.
Posted in military weapons
December 31st, 2009 at 8:09 pm
Chaplains do not carry weapons.
Here are a couple of chaplains explaining their take on it all:
My job as a padre – as the Army refers to its priests, chaplains and so on – is not to oil the wheels of war but to help the humanity caught up in it. We do wear fatigues, but the fact that we do not carry weapons is symbolic of our peaceful role.
Clinton Langston, army chaplain
I think it’s human nature that you’d want someone to be looking over you and that you’d come home safe, and it does put your faith in a lot of question. Do you truly believe in God and is God looking over you; and you want to come home safe, so I think selfishly a lot of people do.
Sgt Jason Brown, worshipper
December 31st, 2009 at 8:09 pm
No one in the military is going to fault you for carrying a weapon. You might be advised to keep it out of sight when the reporters are around but I never met a grunt that was anti being armed at all times.
December 31st, 2009 at 8:09 pm
A chaplain has the option of carrying a weapon in a combat zone. The Military doesn’t expect anyone to carry out their duties without the ability to defend themselves. This is a good question, and it’s good to know you’re considering "stepping up to the plate" for the benefit of our Country and soldiers.
December 31st, 2009 at 8:09 pm
Chaplains are unarmed, period.
You are assigned an assistant, and they are armed for your security.