At Arlington National Cemetery, a place hallowed by the memories of those who served the nation, a profound and sacred duty is carried out daily. The role of the chaplains at Arlington is not just ceremonial; it is deeply rooted in the mission to honor and comfort families grappling with their grief. Each day, up to 28 military funerals are conducted on this solemn ground, where over 400,000 heroes lie in rest. These moments, marked by the presence of Air Force Honor Guards and the solemn sounds of military bands, embody the nation’s gratitude and recognition of sacrifice.
Honor is a central theme in the Christian faith, and it finds its embodiment at Arlington. The act of honoring those who have served aligns with the biblical call to respect and cherish those in authority and those who have sacrificed for the greater good. The chaplains, serving both as ministers and military personnel, stand as a bridge between the solemnity of military tradition and the grace of God’s love. Their dual roles enable them to support families through their most challenging times, facing the heavy burden of grief alongside them. In these moments, chaplains offer a presence of hope, allowing families to feel God’s love amid their sorrow.
Captain Andrew Lloyd, a graduate of Regent University and one of the chaplains at Arlington, emphasizes the importance of faith during these difficult times. He reminds us that while grief does not vanish, faith serves as an anchor. It does not shield families from the pain; instead, it supports them as they navigate through it. Chaplains are not there to provide all the answers but to be a comforting presence, walking alongside families who are seeking meaning and closure. This ministry of presence is essential, as the grieving process can be isolating, and having someone who understands and shares in that pain can be deeply comforting.
During each ceremony and burial, there is a collective recognition of the value of life and the stories etched into each headstone. For chaplains like Shannon Deereay, each marble stone serves as a reminder of the image of God in every individual and the sacrifices they made for the freedom enjoyed by all. The significance of this work transcends military tradition; it intertwines faith with a historical understanding of sacrifice, reinforcing the belief that every life is precious and has a meaningful story that contributes to the nation’s collective history.
As the nation faces turbulent times, it is crucial to honor those who have served and sacrificed. The message of the chaplains resonates: showing up with faith, even without having all the answers, is a testament to strength and resilience. They remind us that honoring our veterans and active-duty military personnel should be an everyday practice, not just during moments of national observance. By standing together in gratitude, we can uphold the values of sacrifice and service that shape our communities and our faith.
