US Army in Japan ministry teams gather to celebrate 249 years of service

CAMP ZAMA, Japan - U.S. Army in Japan unit ministry teams gathered July 29 at the Camp Zama chapel to celebrate 249 years of service to the Army and the nation.

U.S. Army Garrison Japan Chaplain (Lt. Col.) Damon Saxton said the ministry teams worked together to create a Southern-barbecue-themed luncheon to celebrate their heritage and simply get to know one another better.

"I think it's important for us to celebrate our anniversary, to reflect on the importance of the Chaplain Corps," Saxton said. "And it's good for us to interact, to get to know each other socially so we can also help each other professionally. Those relationships are important."

The Chaplain Corps is one of the oldest and smallest branches in the Army. It was established by a Continental Congress resolution, adopted on July 29, 1775, which provided for the pay of chaplains in the Continental Army. The Office of the Chief of Chaplains was created by the National Defense Act of 1920.

According to the Department of Defense, the purpose of the chaplaincy is to "accommodate religious needs, to provide religious and pastoral care, and to advise commanders on the complexities of religion with regard to its personnel and mission, as appropriate. As military members, chaplains are uniquely positioned to assist service members, their families, and other authorized personnel with the challenges of military service as advocates of religious, moral, and spiritual well-being and resiliency."

Saxton said the event also allowed the teams to bid farewell to teammates who are leaving Japan, and to welcome the newest members, including recently arrived U.S. Army Japan Command Chaplain (Lt. Col.) Christopher Wallace.

During opening remarks, Wallace said he's no stranger to Camp Zama. He and his family were stationed at the installation 14 years ago, and he said the chapel was a familiar sight where amazing work has been happening since it was built in 1953.

He also reminded the ministry teams of the importance of the work they do.

"How many families have been through these chapels and the ministries associated with these chapels?" he asked. "How many servicemembers have you encouraged and helped when they've been away from the U.S. and away from home?"

He urged the teams to keep up the great work, stressing that "it does matter."

"I'm glad to be here, I'm glad to be part of this team, and I hope you keep it up," Wallace said. "I would like you just to stay strong - and to keep doing the ministry and the work that you're doing in the chapel and in you units as well here."

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