This morning, following an excellent PT Session with our Soldiers, I led a prayer as a part of our units Memorial Dedication Ceremony. As I was considering the prayer and the ceremony itself, I was reminded once again how much death I was involved with during this past year.
Sometimes, since I’m in the Army, people would assume that death is a part of the Army. But, with the successes that are occurring in Iraq there are an increasing amount of Battalions that have not had anyone die during their tour in Iraq. For this I am glad but when I look back and see the death that I encountered as a Chaplain it truly speaks to me when I reflect back on the year.
I was involved in direct ministry in the cases of 6 deaths during the last year. That does not the count the counseling of Soldiers when their grandparents die or when a friend of a Soldier passes away. These 6 were events that I was significantly involved in.
These were some of the most painful times of the last year and, in some way, some of my proudest moments as I was able to be the Pastor to the Soldier as they mourned their friend’s death.
Looking back adds perspective of what is truly important.