D-M Chaplain Corps

DAVIS-MONTHAN AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz -- You see them everywhere, at retirement ceremonies, change of command ceremonies, and even squadron holiday parties. They come visit you at work just to see how you're doing. They might even bring cookies with them. They provide an ear for when you need to vent, and can give advice.

The Chaplain Corps provides spiritual care for all who have base access. They also ensure Airmen have the opportunity to exercise their constitutional right to freedom of religion.

"At the chapel we offer weekly services for Catholic and Protestant and an Earth Based Service every 3rd Saturday of each month," said Chaplain (Capt.) Paul Loser, 355th Fighter Wing chaplain.  "We have contact information for other faith backgrounds with off-base groups, and can provide Airmen the information we have."

Another portion of the chaplain's job is to visit different squadrons every week to check on the Airmen.

"We go out for squadron visits at least 2 to 3 times a week," said Staff Sgt. Jerrad Liulamaga, 355th Fighter Wing chaplain's assistant. "We do this to check on all the troops and see how their morale is. If we see a certain Airmen needs special attention then we provide a place for him to talk."

The Chaplains offer 100% confidential communication, where Airmen can go to speak to someone. However, you do not have to be religious or from a certain denomination. The chaplains will speak to any Airmen regardless of faith.

"Each Chaplain is endorsed by a denomination or faith group. Our faith backgrounds will be reflected in the approach we take. Just as everyone has a worldview that guides them, so does each chaplain," Loser said. "However, we are trained and taught how to guide you through your worldview so as to help you deal with the issue at hand as would best help you."
 
Burger burns and pizza parties are another tool the Chaplains use to boost Airmen's morale.

"We do this to say 'Hey, we're here for you, we know you're low manned, but you're still continuing to complete the mission and working hard. We appreciate you,'" Liulamaga said.

Once a quarter the Chaplains Corps will host an event such as a marriage retreat or camping trips for the single Airmen living in the dorms.

However, their main event for the year is the Harvest Festival at the end of October. 

"Chapels across the Air Force do this event as an alternative to the Halloween activities," Loser said. "It's another way in which the Chaplain Corps protects the First Amendment rights."

Daily mass is conducted at 11:30 a.m. Monday through Friday, 5 p.m. on Saturday, and 10 a.m. Sunday mornings at the Desert Dove Chapel. A Protestant contemporary service is held at 9 a.m. on Sundays and a gospel service at 11:30 a.m. on Sundays at the Hope Chapel.

For more information call the Desert Dove Chapel at (520)228-5411.