PDF Summary:Under His Wings, by Emily Compagno

In times of conflict, many service members find strength and solace in their faith and spiritual beliefs. Under His Wings by Emily Compagno explores the profound influence of faith on American soldiers, guiding them through perilous combat situations and aiding in their recovery from the traumas of war.

Through intimate stories from service members across various military eras and backgrounds, Compagno illustrates how faith fosters resilience, provides protection and comfort amidst chaos, and offers a path to healing. She examines the vital role of military chaplains in nurturing spiritual expression, advising on moral complexities of warfare, and supporting families longing for their deployed loved ones.

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Chaplains offer guidance, perform ceremonies, and guide soldiers in their religious practices during their time in the military.

Compagno emphasizes the extensive support offered by spiritual counselors dedicated to addressing the mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being of military personnel during their overseas deployments. She emphasizes the vital importance of spiritual counselors in offering support and direction to soldiers struggling with fear, sorrow, ethical dilemmas, and the difficulties of separation from family. They also establish a stable and consistent environment through their religious practices, fostering an atmosphere that nurtures collective spirituality and respect.

Lieutenant Colonel Anthony Randall, a former Ranger who subsequently took on the role of a spiritual counselor in the US Army, outlines the four critical aspects of his clerical duties: providing spiritual direction, conducting rituals, offering prophetic insights, and exemplifying a unique moral fiber. He underscores the necessity of adapting his methods to resonate with soldiers in their current circumstances. This sometimes involves providing spiritual guidance, which can include delivering sermons and educational sessions during chapel gatherings, as well as engaging in community activities like CrossFit or fantasy football to build relationships and create personal bonds.

Colonel Doug Collins, serving as a spiritual guide within the ranks of the United States Air Force, shares his experiences of offering counsel and solace to troops during the height of the conflict in Iraq. He often met soldiers who were struggling with deep spiritual conflicts as they attempted to reconcile the horrors they had witnessed. He emphasizes the necessity of creating a secure environment where military personnel can share their apprehensions and uncertainties, ensuring they receive empathetic listening and the reassurance of companionship.

The author depicts the vital function of spiritual mentors in providing comfort, insight, and guidance to military personnel grappling with the complexities of their service amidst conflict.

Other Perspectives

• The presence of chaplains could be seen as a challenge to the separation of church and state, especially if their services are perceived to favor certain religious practices over others or if they are seen as promoting religion within a government institution.
• The idea of a stable and consistent environment might be challenging to maintain in the dynamic and often unpredictable context of military service, where external factors such as combat and deployment can disrupt routines and practices.
• While providing spiritual direction and conducting rituals are clear roles, the term "offering prophetic insights" could be seen as ambiguous and potentially controversial, as it may imply a level of spiritual authority or foresight that not all individuals or faith traditions may recognize or accept.
• The focus on resonating with soldiers' current circumstances may not adequately prepare them for future challenges or transitions, such as returning to civilian life, where the context and their needs will be significantly different.
• The effectiveness of building relationships through community activities like CrossFit or fantasy football might not be universally applicable, as some soldiers might not be interested in these activities or may feel excluded if they do not share the same interests.
• While Colonel Doug Collins' efforts to create a secure environment for sharing are commendable, it's possible that not all military personnel feel comfortable discussing their apprehensions and uncertainties in such a setting, regardless of the empathetic listening and companionship offered.
• There may be instances where the guidance provided by spiritual mentors conflicts with the personal values or the professional duties of military personnel, potentially leading to ethical dilemmas or confusion.

Chaplains Advocating For Service Members' Religious Freedoms and their ability to practice their beliefs.

Compagno emphasizes the additional role chaplains play in advocating for the religious freedoms and faith expression of all service members, regardless of their beliefs. She underscores the vital importance of chaplains in protecting the religious freedoms of soldiers, ensuring they can follow their beliefs without discrimination, and simultaneously honoring the diverse range of faiths or absence of them within the ranks.

Chaplain Doug Collins fervently supported the rights of military personnel to freely practice and express their religious convictions. The assertion is that the statement pertains to each and every individual. A spiritual counselor offers support and boosts the morale of individuals from various religious beliefs, encompassing atheists, skeptics, and those whose spiritual convictions align with or are distinct from the counselor's own.

Emily Compagno emphasizes the vital role of the chaplain in fostering a setting where members of the military from various backgrounds maintain a culture of mutual respect and tolerance through unwavering support for religious freedom.

Context

• In addition to supporting religious practices, chaplains also provide moral and ethical guidance to atheists and agnostics, ensuring their philosophical beliefs are respected.
• The rights of military personnel to practice their religion are protected under the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which guarantees freedom of religion. Additionally, the Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA) provides further protection for religious practices in the military.
• The support offered by spiritual counselors is inclusive, meaning they are equipped to understand and respect a wide range of belief systems, ensuring that all service members feel valued and understood.

Chaplains provide a channel for grace, presenting a sanctuary and opportunities for renewal.

Compagno portrays chaplains as channels of compassion, offering solace, refuge, and renewal to soldiers who are struggling with the harsh realities and horrors of warfare. She underscores the steadfast encouragement and empathy that reflect the kindness akin to that of Christ, even as they grapple with the profound emotional weight tied to their spiritual pursuits.

Chaplains exhibit unwavering compassion, similar to the compassion Christ showed, in the midst of conflict's atrocities.

The author emphasizes the unique challenges that spiritual advisors encounter when supporting military personnel who have grappled with the stark realities experienced in warfare. They often offer comfort to those grieving, impart wisdom to individuals who have encountered trauma, and give advice in times of significant turmoil. Their steadfast presence not only embodies a robust conviction but also radiates a sense of hope and goodwill, especially in moments of grief.

Chaplain Randall, who grieved for eighteen fallen comrades in combat, shares his wisdom from offering spiritual counsel to soldiers who often confront profound questions about existence when they are confronted with the prospect of their own mortality. He recognizes the challenge of harmonizing belief in a higher power with the existence of malevolence and affliction, yet he underscores the significance of concentrating on personal reactions to wickedness, offering actionable methods to cope with sorrow and derive solace from religious convictions.

The story is narrated by Chaplain Collins, who shares his harrowing experience as an Army chaplain battling severe post-traumatic stress after serving several tours. The chaplain, despite his outward facade of unwavering resolve, shouldered the significant responsibility of offering spiritual direction. Chaplain Collins highlighted the twofold nature of chaplaincy, which not only entails offering assistance to others but also recognizing the importance of having a robust support system and a safe space for personal contemplation of their experiences.

Through these examples, Compagno portrays military chaplains as embodying Christ-like compassion, providing strength and solace to those who are broken while remaining steadfast in their faith even when confronting the horrors of war.

Practical Tips

• Create a "compassion challenge" with friends or family where you commit to performing one act of kindness for strangers each week. This could range from helping someone carry groceries to writing an encouraging note and leaving it in a public place. Sharing experiences with your group will reinforce the importance of compassion in everyday life.
• Start a peer-led book club focused on themes of healing and growth to facilitate discussions that can help members process their grief or trauma. This can serve as an informal way to exchange wisdom and advice among participants, fostering a supportive community atmosphere. Choose books that are known for their comforting narratives or insightful perspectives on dealing with loss and adversity, and meet regularly to discuss insights and personal reflections.
• You can foster hope and goodwill by starting a daily 'Good News' journal where you record positive stories and personal victories. This practice can help you focus on the positive aspects of life, reinforcing a hopeful outlook. For example, jot down a story about a community that came together to solve a problem or a personal achievement, like mastering a new recipe.
• Create a personal reflection journal to explore your own beliefs and values. Dedicate time each week to write about your experiences, focusing on moments that challenged your beliefs or required you to provide support to others. This can enhance your ability to offer counsel and wisdom in your daily interactions, much like a chaplain would.
• You can create a personal stress trigger journal to identify and manage your stressors. Start by carrying a small notebook with you and jot down moments when you feel stressed, what triggered it, and how you reacted. Over time, you'll notice patterns that can help you anticipate and mitigate stress before it escalates.
• Volunteer for a peer support hotline or online community in your spare time. By helping others through their issues, you not only contribute to someone else's support system but also gain perspective on your own challenges and the value of having a network of support. This can be a rewarding way to understand the practical applications of giving and receiving support.
• Create care packages with personal care items, snacks, and entertainment for wounded soldiers in hospitals. These packages can serve as a physical manifestation of support and care, akin to the emotional and spiritual support provided by chaplains. You can coordinate with local veterans' organizations to ensure the packages reach those in need.
• Develop a habit of meditative prayer or mindfulness that focuses on resilience and compassion. Dedicate a few minutes each day to meditate on themes of strength, perseverance, and empathy. This can be done through guided meditation apps that allow you to select these specific themes or by setting a daily reminder to reflect on these qualities, aiming to internalize them as part of your character.

Chaplains provide support to relatives who remain at home while their loved ones are deployed.

Emily Compagno highlights the crucial role that chaplains play in providing comfort and support to families of the military during times of deployment and in the aftermath of sorrowful incidents. Families in this situation constantly carry the burden of potential separation, the danger their loved ones might face, and the probability of enduring sorrow. Chaplains provide solace and direction, actively engaging in offering spiritual support and aid to individuals who require help.

Chaplain Randall movingly describes the weighty duty of accompanying commanders when they deliver the solemn news of a family member's death in military service. He shares the difficult task of providing comfort and support during their moments of profound grief.

Compagno sheds light on the often-ignored challenges faced by military families, highlighting how chaplains are instrumental in creating connections with the community and offering solace and assistance to individuals burdened with worry and love for their relatives in the armed forces.

Context

• The process of notifying next of kin about a service member's death is governed by strict military protocols to ensure the news is delivered with respect and care. This often involves a team, including a chaplain, to provide immediate support.

Other Perspectives

• While it is true that families of deployed military members often face the burden of potential separation and danger, it is also important to recognize that many families find strength and resilience during these times. They may develop strong support networks and coping strategies that help them manage their concerns and fears.
• The effectiveness of chaplains in creating community connections can vary widely depending on the individual chaplain's skills in outreach and the specific needs and cultural backgrounds of the military families they serve.
• Some family members may feel that the presence of a chaplain is a reminder of the potential for bad news, which could inadvertently increase their anxiety rather than alleviate it.

Faith, Culture, and a Devotion to Military Responsibilities: The publication profoundly influences the personal narratives of those who have served in the military.

Compagno delves into the intricate dynamics between faith, cultural expectations, and military duty. During her inquiry, she delves into the profound impact that cultural and familial heritage has on shaping the character, behaviors, and perspectives of military personnel.

Soldiers' Faith Linked With Heritage, Culture, and Military Experience

This section of the narrative highlights how the diverse spiritual convictions and rituals among service members, often shaped by their cultural heritage, familial traditions, and lineage, bolster their fortitude and are intertwined with their military lineage. The writer argues that the bond among military members is strengthened by a shared commitment to their country and their faith, which encompasses a range of religious convictions.

People of diverse faiths come together, bonded by their commitment to both their spiritual beliefs and their country.

Compagno reveals how soldiers' spirituality is deeply shaped by their diverse cultural beliefs and heritages. She demonstrates how faith serves as a connector among diverse spiritual convictions, bringing together soldiers through their shared allegiance to their deity and country by exchanging their stories.

Jeremiah Wilber integrates his Christian beliefs with native traditions, influenced by his unique heritage that includes Apache and cowboy roots. He reflects on his time in the military through a spiritual lens, honoring his ancestors' customs and participating in Apache rituals, which include using tobacco leaves and giving thanks for nature's gifts.

Lieutenant Morgan Ortagus, a Naval Reserve officer and former State Department spokesperson, shares her journey of converting to Judaism while serving in Iraq. The author narrates Morgan's steadfast commitment to celebrating Hanukkah, even amidst the dangers posed by anti-Semitic sentiments in Baghdad.

The author depicts faith as a cohesive element by showcasing the narratives of service members from diverse religious backgrounds who view their service as a sacred calling, which promotes a shared understanding despite their different forms of devotion.

Context

• The Apache are a group of culturally related Native American tribes in the Southwestern United States. Their spiritual practices often involve rituals that honor nature and ancestors, using elements like tobacco in ceremonies to connect with the spiritual world.
• Hanukkah is a Jewish festival commemorating the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem. It is celebrated with the lighting of the menorah, playing games, and eating traditional foods, which can be challenging to observe in a non-Jewish, military setting.
• Faith as a cohesive element often involves interfaith dialogue, where individuals from different religious backgrounds engage in conversations to understand each other's beliefs, fostering mutual respect and unity.
• Viewing military service as a sacred calling can provide psychological benefits, such as increased resilience and a sense of purpose. This mindset can help service members cope with the stresses and challenges of military life.

A soldier's upbringing, cultural background, and spiritual beliefs greatly shape their character and conduct.

Compagno delves into how the backgrounds, cultural legacies, and religious convictions shape the personalities, choices, and actions of those serving in the military. She contends that the principles rooted in early years, fortified through spiritual belief, steer military personnel in making tough decisions and bolster their commitment and sense of responsibility.

Sergeant Andrew “Andy” Negra, a World War II veteran, reflects on his upbringing in a small Pennsylvania coal mining town where he developed a solid foundation of moral principles deeply rooted in the customs of his Russian Orthodox heritage. His unwavering commitment to his peers and his embodiment of the era's defining resilience remained constant, even while confronting the unyielding trials of continued conflict during the liberation of Europe.

Jessica Harris, whose role was to provide medical care on the battlefield, is a prime example of how deep-rooted faith, nurtured since childhood, equipped her with the strength and endurance needed to face the harsh realities of war. Her unwavering commitment to preserving life and aiding those entrusted to her, despite uncertainty and trepidation, reflects the deeply held beliefs and principles imparted to her early in life.

A soldier's leadership qualities, ability to make decisions, and commitment to their duties are deeply influenced by their spiritual beliefs, cultural heritage, upbringing, and familial values.

Practical Tips

• Volunteer for a structured program that mimics military discipline to experience and understand the impact of regimented routines on character development. Look for organizations that offer civilian 'boot camp' experiences or team-building retreats that focus on discipline and order. Engage in these activities to observe firsthand how a structured environment can influence behavior and self-perception, and then apply these observations to your own life to instill desired character traits.
• Start a cultural exchange buddy system with someone from a different background to gain firsthand insight into how culture influences behavior. Pair up with a friend or colleague who comes from a different cultural background and agree to discuss your daily experiences and choices. This exchange can provide a practical understanding of the subtle ways culture affects decision-making and actions in various contexts.
• You can reflect on your childhood influences by journaling about the values and lessons you learned before the age of 10 and how they impact your decision-making today. Start by writing down specific memories that stand out and the principles you associate with them. For example, if you remember being taught the importance of honesty in a situation where you found a lost item and returned it, consider how that principle influences your integrity in your current professional and personal relationships.
• Create a personal mission statement that incorporates your spiritual beliefs and sense of responsibility. Think about what you stand for and how your spirituality shapes your commitment to your roles, whether it's as a family member, employee, or community volunteer. Use this statement as a reminder and guide when facing decisions that require a strong sense of commitment.
• Create a 'moral map' of your life by charting significant events and the moral lessons they imparted. This could be a visual timeline where you mark events with symbols representing different virtues or principles, like honesty, resilience, or community spirit. Seeing this laid out visually can help you understand the trajectory of your moral development.
• Create a personal mantra or motto based on the values you admire in historical figures from your cultural background. If commitment and resilience were key to Andy Negra's success, identify which values resonate with you from your heritage. Craft a short, powerful statement that encapsulates these values and repeat it during challenging times to remind yourself of the strength you inherit from your ancestors.
• Create a "faith playlist" with songs that inspire resilience and strength. Music can be a powerful tool for emotional support. Choose songs that resonate with your beliefs and listen to them during challenging times or when you need a boost. This can help reinforce the connection between your faith and your ability to endure hardships.
• Create a "principles jar" where you write down actions you've taken that demonstrate your commitment to your principles. Each week, review the jar to see the tangible ways you've lived according to your values. It's a visual and interactive way to reinforce your dedication, similar to how someone might track their fitness progress to stay motivated.
• Reflect on your own upbringing and cultural heritage to identify leadership traits you may have developed. Think about the values and behaviors that were emphasized in your family and community. Were you encouraged to take initiative, to be responsible, or to care for others? Recognizing these traits can help you understand your leadership style and how it might be perceived by others.
• Engage in role-playing exercises with friends or family where you simulate making decisions in hypothetical scenarios. During the role-play, consciously bring your spiritual beliefs into the conversation and notice how they guide your responses. This practice can enhance your awareness of the influence of spirituality on your decision-making in a safe, controlled environment.
• Explore your family's military history to deepen your understanding of personal commitment. By researching your ancestors' roles in historical conflicts, you can gain insight into the values and sacrifices that may have shaped your family's culture. This can be done through online genealogy platforms, visiting local archives, or talking with older family members to collect stories and documents.

Faith serves as a cohesive element among members of the military.

Compagno highlights how, despite their differing beliefs, diverse military members come together, finding unity and support through shared experiences, common values, and a dedication to a cause that goes beyond individual interests.

Diverse beliefs among soldiers foster spiritual growth.

Compagno depicts the way people of different religious convictions unite, fostering their spiritual growth through shared experiences, mutual respect, and the recognition of the common groundwork provided by their singular faith.

Lieutenant Colonel Anthony Randall shares his experiences in offering spiritual counsel to members of the Special Forces, who at first considered faith to be just a crutch for the feeble. He emphasizes the significance of establishing relationships and interacting with people within their familiar surroundings, which may include joining in rigorous exercise sessions or taking part in fantasy sports competitions. Through these connections, he discovered chances to exhibit his personal beliefs, which ultimately led to numerous individuals from this group adopting Christianity.

The story illustrates how faith, expressed through diverse practices, acts as a powerful tool in cultivating solidarity and encouraging spiritual growth among members of the armed forces.

Context

• Learning to navigate and respect diverse beliefs can improve conflict resolution skills, fostering a more harmonious and cooperative environment within military units.
• Demonstrating personal beliefs through actions rather than words can be a powerful way to influence others, especially in environments where direct proselytizing might be unwelcome.
• Casual settings like sports or exercise provide opportunities for informal dialogue, where individuals may feel more comfortable discussing personal topics, including spirituality, without the pressure of formal religious settings.

Religious beliefs are often a legacy in families with military ties, transmitted across generations.

The writer delves into the tradition of religious belief among military households, emphasizing the transmission of faith across family lines, which molds their perspective on duty, instills core principles, and offers a profound sense of identity and community.

Colonel Tom Moe reflects on his decision to join the Air Force, inspired by his father's service in World War II and the sacrifice of a cousin killed by North Korean forces. This legacy of service, coupled with his faith, instilled in him a strong sense of duty and fueled his determination to endure the hardships of captivity.

Jeremiah Wilber's tenacity and perseverance are deeply rooted in the spiritual convictions passed down by his Apache ancestors and the cowboys who came before him. He saw his responsibility as a continuation of a deep-rooted legacy characterized by courage, shaped by his family's rich history and deep-seated spiritual convictions.

The stories depict how a solid grounding in religious belief, especially among families with a military background, strengthens family bonds, shapes individual characteristics, and influences views on duty and altruism. The military community's fortitude and perseverance are bolstered by a legacy deeply rooted in spiritual beliefs.

Context

• Studies have shown that individuals with strong religious beliefs may experience lower levels of stress and anxiety, as faith can offer a sense of purpose and hope, especially in difficult situations like captivity or combat.
• Understanding the historical context of the Vietnam War, where many soldiers, including Colonel Moe, faced captivity, can provide insight into the challenges he endured.
• Both the Apache and cowboy cultures have faced significant historical challenges, such as displacement and survival in harsh environments. These experiences contribute to a legacy of resilience and adaptability, which can be a source of strength for descendants.
• Cowboys in American history are often associated with rugged individualism, bravery, and a strong work ethic. These traits may contribute to Wilber's understanding of responsibility and perseverance.
• The passing down of stories, traditions, and values from one generation to the next helps maintain a strong sense of identity and continuity, reinforcing the importance of heritage and spiritual beliefs in shaping individual character.
• Religion often provides a set of moral and ethical guidelines that can help family members navigate challenges and make decisions. This shared framework can lead to a cohesive family unit with aligned values and goals.
• Religious figures and stories often serve as role models for behavior, providing examples of duty and altruism that military families may strive to emulate in their own lives.