ARLINGTON, Va. – The Arlington National Cemetery Chaplain Section, in partnership with the Office of the Chief of Chaplains, commemorated the 251st birthday of the U.S. Army Chaplain Corps on July 29 with a series of ceremonies honoring the Corps’ historic role in supporting Soldiers, Families, and the Nation.
The observance brought together chaplains, religious affairs specialists, military leaders, retirees, and guests to recognize more than two and a half centuries of ministry alongside Soldiers and reflect on the legacy established by generations of Army chaplains.
The day began at the Fort Myer Memorial Chapel, where participants gathered before traveling to Arlington National Cemetery for a wreath-laying ceremony at Chaplains Hill. During the ceremony, Deputy Chief of Chaplains Brig. Gen. Jack J. Stumme reflected on the significance of gathering at Chaplains Hill and the legacy represented by those honored there:
While we stand in a place of quiet history, we do not mark this milestone in sadness. We celebrate it here on Chaplains Hill because this is where our heritage lives. Surrounded by those who have served before us, this hill brings the proud heart of our vocation into sharp focus […] For over two and a half centuries, our mission has been simple: to go where the Soldier goes and to stand where their families live. We do not wait for them to find us. We live life right alongside them.
Participants later gathered at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier for a second wreath-laying ceremony honoring the Nation’s fallen service members. The solemn tribute reflected the Chaplain Corps’ commitment to remembering those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the United States.
Following the morning ceremonies, attendees returned to the Fort Myer Memorial Chapel for the 251st Army Chaplain Corps Birthday Celebration Luncheon. The event provided an opportunity for members of the Chaplain Corps community to gather, share fellowship, and commemorate the branch’s continued service to the Army.
The celebration also included the traditional Army Chaplain Corps birthday cake-cutting ceremony, a custom that represents the connection between generations of chaplains and religious affairs specialists who have carried forward the Corps’ mission.
Established by the Continental Congress on July 29, 1775, the Army Chaplain Corps is one of the Army’s oldest branches. Throughout its history, the Chaplain Corps has accompanied Soldiers wherever they served, providing pastoral care and trusted counsel.
Now, 251 years later, guided by the motto “For God and Country,” Army chaplains and religious affairs specialists remain steadfast. Looking ahead to the next chapter of service, Stumme’s words reflect the enduring responsibility of the Army Chaplain Corps:
Let us remain fiercely committed to our Soldiers and their Families. And together, we will continue to bring the blessing of heaven to the United States Army for the next 251 years.
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