Today I spent a couple hours talking to the Navy Chaplains responsible for religious services as well as counseling not only in TQ but many of the smaller forward operating bases (FOBs) around the Al Anbar province. 

It’s been my experience that Marines are loyal and protective of their Chaplains.   I am sure there are many factors but off the top of my head I can name a few that most Marines would acknowledge.

First, they go where Marines go.  Training, convoys, or battles spaces they are with us.  More easy to respect someone slugging along with you then those who cannot or will not.

Second, is how they deploy without weapons yet have no problem being with us in Iraq, Afghanistan, Africa, etc…  For years now they have even traveled with us on each of the MEUs (Marine Expeditionary Units).  The Chaplains are comfort to a good many and while they are expected to travel us whenever we deploy it’s never seen as an obligation but instead a desire.

Lastly I must comment on how selfless the Chaplains are.  They listen to other people’s problems and do so ever so often without even be heard themselves.  I have heard from more then a few Chaplains how their fellow brethren would start to breakdown when others ask them how they are doing after deployments. 

Great bunch of guys and I look forward to working with them on my deployment.  If you ever come across a Chaplain be sure to ask for a story or two and thank them for all they do for us Marines.

Semper Fi,

GySgt Jenkins

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