Happy Birthday Chaplain Corps
Today is the 234th anniversary of the establishment of the U.S. Army Chaplains Corps. To the left is pictured the Chaplains Corps regimental crest. The Latin words Pro Deo et Patria mean For God and Country. How do we date the anniversary? The Continental Congress voted on July 29, 1775 to pay chaplains $20 per month, the same rate of pay as a captain. One year later, George Washington issued this General Order : New York, July 9th, 1776 The Honorable Continental Congress having been pleased to allow a Chaplain to each Regiment, with the pay of Thirty-Three Dollars and one third dollars pr month - The Colonels or commanding officers of each regiment are directed to procure Chaplains accordingly; persons of good Characters and exemplary lives - To see that all inferior officers and soldiers pay them a suitable respect and attend carefully upon religious exercises. The blessing and protection of Heaven are at all times necessary but especially so in times of public distress and danger -...