“A chaplain is first and foremost a chaplain, and an officer second,” said Secretary of War Pete Hegseth. “This change is a visual representation of this fact.”
The change emphasizes the chaplain’s role as a spiritual adviser while reinforcing their ministry presence among Airmen. According to a chaplain assigned to the 1st Special Operations Wing, the visual change has a meaningful impact on Air Commandos.
“When we have a relationship with Airmen, rank really doesn’t matter as much anymore,” said a chaplain assigned to the 1st SOW. “The thought process is that when we take off the rank and we put on a religious symbol, it makes us more approachable.”
While chaplains will no longer wear rank on their OCPs, customs and courtesies are still expected, according to DAF Instruction 90-1201. Chaplains may be addressed by their rank or by the title “chaplain.”
Chaplains will continue to wear their ranks on their formal service dress uniforms.
Air Commandos seeking counseling, spiritual services or faith-based resources can contact the Hurlburt Field Chapel by calling 850-884-7795 or emailing 16SOW.HC.DL@us.af.mil.
The Hurlburt Field Chapel is located at 210 Cody Ave., Building 90203.
