United States Army War College

Removing the Stigma for God and Country United States Army War College

Publisher Marketing: The vast majority of those serving in the U. S. military acknowledge a faith identity, yet many are compelled and even coerced into concealing their faith identity due to overzealous concerns for maintaining good order and discipline. A stigma has been attached to the phrase "for God and country." This leads to a perplexing dilemma: military members are expected to rely on their faith identity as an enabler in the execution of their duties, and are often compelled to conceal expression of their faith. This, if allowed to persist, will degrade readiness across the force. Faith identity has proven an enabler on the battlefield, aiding recruitment, retention, total force fitness, suicide prevention, and military readiness. This dilemma really boils down to a matter of tolerance. A closer look at U. S. religious heritage, military religious constraints, justifiable concerns for caution to religious behavior within the military, and ramifications of overzealousness in stifling military religious accommodations will layout a pathway for remedies to resolve this challenge. Systemic military and public education, a vigilant and responsive process, and collaborative forums will remedy the stigma associated with serving "for God and country."