Next of Kin Notification Practices Past, Present, and Future

This article traces the development of Army next of kin (NOK) notification practices from informal letters during the Revolutionary War to the formal, compassionate in-person protocols of today. Highlighting the critical role of Chaplains in these moments of loss, it also raises questions about the future sustainability of such practices under the mass casualty conditions anticipated in large-scale combat operations (LSCO).

A wide view of Arlington National Cemetery during autumn, with rows of white headstones stretching across green grass covered in fallen leaves, and a large tree with orange foliage in the foreground

Civil War era military camp with tents and buildings, titled about Rev. Henry McNeal Turner and Black Chaplaincy

Read Time: < 8 mins

“Right, Equity, and Justice”: Rev. Henry McNeal Turner and Black Chaplaincy in the Civil War Era

This scholarly article examines the role of Rev. Henry McNeal Turner, the first African American chaplain in the Union Army during the Civil War. Dr. Angelica explores how Turner's service with the First Regiment of United States Colored Troops from 1863-1865 combined spiritual ministry with education, political advocacy, and civil rights activism.

By Dr. Kathryn Angelica, Purdue University Fort Wayne

Catholic chaplains conducting Mass with portable religious equipment at US Army Chaplain School, 1942

Read Time: < 6 mins

US Military Chaplains and Their Equipment in the World Wars

An exploration of the essential role of equipment in the duties and identity of U.S. military chaplains during World War I and World War II. The article details how chaplains’ kits, transportation challenges, and the involvement of civilian organizations shaped their ability to minister in the field across Protestant, Catholic, and Jewish traditions.

By Sarah C. Luginbill

A formation of small autonomous drones flies against the backdrop of an unknown city skyline and the setting sun

Read Time: < 15 mins

Sacred Speech in Future Armed Conflict

As warfare evolves with AI, drones, and disinformation, the chaplain's role must adapt. The Conversational Model emphasizes sacred speech as essential to the human domain, offering resilience, meaning, and spiritual care in future decentralized, chaotic combat environments.

By Chaplain (Major) Brandon Denning and Chaplain (Major) Daniel Werho

Read Time: < 5 mins

Creativity, Theology, and Posttraumatic Growth

Chaplain Soojin Chang reviews Dustin Risser's book exploring posttraumatic growth through creativity, examining how individual expression, community support, and theological perspectives can help trauma survivors find meaning and healing by creating something transformative out of chaotic experiences.

Reviewed by Chaplain (Major) Soojin Chang