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

PFC Jaymes Shrader — Mon, 29 Nov 2021 08:59:13 -0500

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

SSgt Christophe Murphy — Mon, 29 Nov 2021 09:18:48 -0500

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

SFC Michael Hasbun — Mon, 29 Nov 2021 09:54:30 -0500

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

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

LCpl Richard Lally — Sat, 04 Dec 2021 10:29:12 -0500

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

MSG Thomas Currie — Sat, 04 Dec 2021 12:08:20 -0500

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

1LT Greg Bailey — Wed, 09 Feb 2022 14:45:44 -0500

Yes!