Do chaplains go into combat?

Chaplains are in the military — but they do not fight in combat. Chaplains are non-combatants as defined by the Geneva Convention.

Why do military chaplains not carry weapons?

Due to those provisions, for any chaplain to be found to be armed in conflict, could cause all chaplains to lose their treatment under the Geneva Conventions. Therefore, in the U.S. military chaplains are prohibited from carrying and using weapons in conflict.

Do chaplain assistants see combat?

When soldiers see a chaplain assistant caring for a chaplain, they gain more respect for the chaplain assistant after seeing what they really do, especially in combat, Coen explained. Teague said his initial choice was Military Police, but he is glad he chose this MOS after advice from his brother.

Do military chaplains have rank?

Chaplains are unique officers within their units, right away in their careers they are assigned to a battalion staff and many times receive the rank of captain either upon entry into active duty or shortly thereafter. They do hold rank and the authority granted by that rank, but they will never have command authority.

Do Army chaplains deploy?

Chaplains are some of the most misunderstood troops in the formation. While they’re exempt from the minor stresses of the military, like going to the range or pointless details, they’re not above doing the one thing every troop is expected to do: deploy. This puts them in a unique position.

What is 56M in the army?

The Religious Affairs Specialists, which is military occupational specialty (MOS) 56M, support the unit Chaplain and Commander in responding to the needs of soldiers, family members, and other authorized personnel. They act as counselors for their fellow Soldiers and provide security to Army chaplains.

Do chaplains get combat training?

Chaplains do not go through Basic Combat Training.