Misawa chaplains exercise spiritual fitness, impact overall readiness

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Alyssa C. Wallace
  • 35th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan --  Air Force personnel are required to remain spiritually ready to accomplish the mission by developing qualities needed to help during times of stress, hardship and tragedy.

Spiritual readiness is so crucial, one of Pacific Air Force Command's top priorities - the Resilient Airman - focuses on an Airman's ability to overcome the stress of everyday life while keeping up with the mission's demands.

The 35th Fighter Wing Chapel Staff is comprised of select individuals who can assist personnel with this imperative task, and were tested on their ability to provide this care during phase two of an Operational Readiness Exercise here Oct. 7.

As part of the Air Force Chaplain Corps, chaplains and their assistants provide and facilitate spiritual care and the opportunity for Airmen, their families and other authorized personnel to exercise their right to the free exercise of religion.

"We support everyone, regardless of religious background, in addition to those who have no religious background," said Chaplain (Maj.) William Logan, acting 35th FW head chaplain. "People have freedom of religion and also should have freedom from religion. We're here to protect that right and help folks to exercise that right under the Constitution."

During readiness exercises, Logan's staff is tested on their ability to operate, wear mission oriented protective posture gear, secure assets and respond to conscientious objectors and casualty notifications.

"We provide spiritual care," he said. "Spiritual fitness and well being is an important part of someone's overall wellness. When someone does suffer a wound or is injured, it's important for us to be there at that time because it's a high stress time."

Although there are still two days left of this exercise, Logan's end goal is evident and straightforward - meet all requirements. This can be challenging as his short-manned staff is still required to fulfill their normal day-to-day duties. Still, it's the chaplains' and their assistants' mission to continue providing warrior care and promoting resiliency in Airmen.

"It's a challenging job, but I think resiliency would take a hit if chapel wasn't around...I know it would," Logan said. "Our spiritual wellness, people's sense of purpose and motivation is very important. It's crucial; people would take a serious hit if religious needs weren't met. Our area of expertise, while a small piece of the puzzle, is vital. Without it, it's just an extremely valuable resource that would be lost - to commanders and the war fighter."

Being a chaplain is much more than just a regular job for Logan.

"My job is the best job in the Air Force because I get to help people on a daily basis," Logan said. "I get to see the result, and live out my calling. This is not just what I do, it's who I am. I get to serve my country and leave it better than I found it. It's pretty satisfying - often challenging, but very satisfying."