Can a Chaplain in the army sign as an officiant on a marriage certificate?

2021-11-29T08:59:13-05:00

Response by SSgt Christophe Murphy made Nov 29 at 2021 9:18 AM

2021-11-29T09:18:48-05:00

Yes. The process to be a Chaplain includes being able to officiate ceremonies. It's not a complicated process to get someone set up to officiate a wedding. In a pinch you can have someone go online with Universal Life Church to get ordained.

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Nov 29 at 2021 9:54 AM

2021-11-29T09:54:30-05:00

If they registered to be an officiant in that state, yes.

Response by LCpl Richard Lally made Dec 4 at 2021 10:29 AM

2021-12-04T10:29:12-05:00

Yes he is registered in the state and religious affiliation where he resides

Response by MSG Thomas Currie made Dec 4 at 2021 12:08 PM

2021-12-04T12:08:20-05:00

The requirements to officiate a wedding vary from state to state, with some states requiring registration while other states automatically recognize any 'ordained minister' in addition to certain government officials (which also vary from state to state).

One of the requirements to be a Chaplain in the US military is being an ordained minister of some recognized religion. Any Army Chaplain would qualify in a state that recognizes all ordained ministers, but the Chaplain might need to register in some other states. Registration is generally a simple process that involves filling out a form and presenting documentation of being ordained.

Response by 1LT Greg Bailey made Feb 9 at 2022 2:45 PM

2022-02-09T14:45:44-05:00

Yes!