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October Chaplain's Reflections

  • Published
  • By Lt. Col. Brian Bohlman
  • 169th Fighter Wing
MCENTIRE JOINT NATIONAL GUARD BASE, S.C. --  "Forgetting what is behind and straining towards what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize..." Philippians 3:13-14

Do you remember running as a flight during Basic Military Training at Lackland Air Force Base? Although that was 23 years ago for me, I remember those days very well! Since it was hard to find a pace that worked for everyone, our flight was always in trouble for leaving the "stragglers" behind. Believe it or not, I learned a lot from that experience. For example, determination and focus are necessary to reach the highest goals in life. It is also important to remember that the sum is greater than the individual parts (synergy).
   
During the October Unit Training Assembly, we will have a chance to reflect on how we can become stronger through hardship and adversity. During the 10:30 Worship Service, we will hear the testimony of SCANG retired Lt. Col. Mark Cox from the 169th Medical Group, who is an inspiration to many as he has recovered from a devastating stroke in 2009. I hope you will come to this special service and hear his incredible story of God's faithfulness in his journey of healing and hope.

Also, during the month of October, please reach out and show appreciation to your clergy member at your place of worship. Clergy Appreciation Day is always the second Sunday in October (Oct. 11, 2015) and October is celebrated as Clergy Appreciation Month. The celebration was established in 1992 with a mission of uplifting and encouraging pastors, missionaries and religious workers. About 44,000 people serve as clergy in the United States. (Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2012).

Finally, we look forward to serving on the food line in the dining facility during the Saturday UTA lunch. This is an annual tradition for our SCANG Chaplain Corps and reminds each Swamp Fox that our Chaplains and Chaplain Assistant serve in their midst. Have a great UTA weekend and enjoy the cooler weather!