Last week in an interview with CNN, Defense Secretary Robert Gates was shown on video to say the following regarding his advisory role to the President of the United States:
“It is imperative that all of us taking part in these deliberations, civilians and military alike, provide our best advice to the president candidly, but privately.”
Obviously, I don’t advise the President, but, as a Chaplain, I do advise my Commanders on issues of unit morale and religious matters. Are there times that I disagree? Yes. Are there times that I see something that I need to bring to his attention that may not be perceived as positive feedback? Yes. It is the Chaplain’s place to look at a different angle and bring up issues that may have not been considered or to voice concerns that the rank and file may feel afraid to mention.
As Secretary Gates instructs, this needs to be done “candidly but privately.”
If talking with the Commander doesn’t work and the concern is serious enough—the Army has a change of command to speak with—again, candidly and privately. As a Chaplain, I would add that this works best if the Chaplain speaks to his Supervisory Chaplain every step of the way.
I’ve never had to go up the chain of command to have my concerns listened to. My commanders have always been open to what I have to say. However, the Army Commander has so much else on his plate to consider. If he disagrees with me, that is his choice—I am an advisor only. Sometimes, I am dead wrong. I also don’t have the mantle of command to worry about. I do my best to voice what I see and then support the Commander as best as possible. That is what “candidly but privately” is all about—being candid up front, being honest when the Commander asks a question, but being loyal at the same time.
It is a great responsibility and honor to be a Chaplain in a Battalion—to have to ear of the commander and advise him within my lane as is necessary. I was reminded of this when I read those words from the Secretary of Defense.
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concerned_soldier says
You will be deeply missed Chaplain,
Thanks for all you do, all you have done, and all you will do for our Army!
JOB WELL DONE!!
V/R
C_S