Comments on: Two Atheist Organizations Suggest Military Policy Recommendations for Barack Obama

By: Dan C.

Dan C. — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 15:15:52 +0000

I’m in Army Aviation and I’ve never had any problem with this kind of thing. I’ve spoken to the chaplain before and he didn’t do or say anything that I thought was inappropriate.

I can only speak for the units I’ve been in, but in my experience the duties of a chaplain are only superficially religious in nature. I’ve always seen them used as a sort of “psychologist lite”. That is, someone you can talk to confidentially about family, emotional and (if you have them) spiritual issues, without the stigma of seeing an actual psychologist.

By: TXatheist

TXatheist — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 20:44:47 +0000

Tolga, ex-Navy guy here stationed at a training squadron where I got to be a crew member for training pilots. I’d recommend you be subtle until you get your “wings” because one of our best pilots got along horribly with his old CO and was not allowed to reinlist after making it to O-3 but not being promoted to 0-4. If my jargin is confusing I apologize and feel free to ask for clarification md457@hotmail.com

By: arkonbey

arkonbey — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 20:27:31 +0000

I spent nine years in the USCG (half in aviation) and my lack of religion was never an issue, except in lively debate.

Even at Airstation Traverse City which had a remarkably high ration of evangelical xtian Coasties.

Interesting that you squids encountered the same lack of problems. I wonder why.

By: Randy

Randy — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 19:22:36 +0000

I mention before that during my time in the Navy no issue of religion came up UNTIL I was stationed at an Air Force base. It was Air Force personnel that were annoying.

By: Gabriel

Gabriel — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 18:07:48 +0000

This stuff always freaks me out. My time in the Navy Reserve and my time on active duty with the Navy was one of the few times in my life that I felt safe in being totally open about my atheism. I thought that was great and now I read artivle like these and it just pisses me off to no end. I had no problem getting Atheist on my dog tags.

By: Tolga K.

Tolga K. — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 17:07:55 +0000

I plan on becoming an Marine or Navy aviator after graduating from college. Considering that pilots are some of the most conservative people around (in both military and civilian life), I wouldn’t dream of doing it unless I know I didn’t worry about having to act religious.

Obama publicly announced his views on religion in the US, and because of his speech I’m sure that he will pay attention to this.