By Pfc. Adam Turner
For The Paper
FORT HOOD, Texas - “Unit Ministry Team, going where the Soldiers go, to bring them a word and outstretched hand, worship, hope and help wherever we can.”
These lyrics written and performed by III Corps chaplain, Col. Michael T. Lembke, a native of Crawfordsville, during a service of remembrance for the Army Chaplains Corps, July 25, at Fort Hood’s Comanche Chapel, are reminders of the service chaplains have been giving Soldiers since their inception 233 years ago.
“This [anniversary] is a testimony to the Army family,” said Lembke. “It’s a chance for us to reflect on where we have been, and to commit to where we are going.”
Established July 29, 1775, the first chaplains were preachers or pastors, who would travel with the Soldiers from local units and take care of them as they marched into battle. This has remained basically the same throughout the chaplain’s history, except now chaplains and Soldiers come from all different walks of life and religious backgrounds.
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