Paganism in the United States Military

2017-07-19T09:16:35-04:00

While it has not been a commonplace thing for very long in the US military, open practices of Paganism have quickly become a thing that you can find on almost [if not] every installation and base service-wide. Much like every new thing that gets the “ooh, shiny” reaction, the questions have been raised and have caught on like wildfire. When I first joined the Army, in the summer of ’13 (I’m young, I know, let’s focus here!), Paganism was still not an easily-accepted thing. So I got reamed about it a lot. I was called all sorts of things from “Satanist” to “Witch” to even some pretty nonsensical ones like “Dragon worshipper.” But now, I can walk around and speak openly about my faith. And now; I would like to address some of the common questions I get asked when the topic of my faith comes up.

What is it that you believe in? What do Pagans do?

This is kind of a difficult question to answer, simply for the fact that Paganism by itself is such a broad topic. Any and all things that are not sects of the “Big Three” (Judaism, Islam, or Christianity) are all-too-often lumped under the all-encompassing umbrella of Paganism. However, to clarify this, Paganism is a faith group characterized by religions that are “earth-centric and nature-based.” In this you will find several different variants, the four most-common being the Asatru (Norse), Wiccan (Nature), Druidic (Traditional Celtic), and Hellenic pantheons.

As for what we do; this question is nearly impossible to answer. Worship is unique to every path and every practitioner. Some people may fast. Some may gorge. Some drink in toast to the gods. Some pray. Some make sacrifices in tribute and homage. Some simply offer up silent thanks for the good things in their lives. It varies with no discernable pattern to each individual.

How does Paganism differ from the “Big Three?”

How does night differ from day? They have their similarities for certain, however, you must understand that 80% of all Pagan pathways predate the “Big Three” religions on Earth, and all three were tailored and modified to more easily convert from the older faiths. We all know the story behind Christmas and Easter (being that their dates do not match what the Christian Bible details). And the symbolism behind each faith, mirroring their significance with the older faiths that they were tailored from. Dates, stories, names, symbols, figures, and a great many other facets of Christianity in particular, mirror, or very closely resemble rites and traditions from what is now known as Druidism, Wicca, Hellenism and The Roman Pantheon (which we all know was bastardized from Hellenismos, anyway). However, despite all of these similarities, there are distinct differences between the Pagan (often called the “Heretical Practices”) Rites and the Big Three.

As a Hellene, I can detail several similarities and differences. For example: our understanding of the “Afterlife”. The destination of our immortal soul does vary (much like the Catholic sect of Christianity). However, the difference is that our eternal peace and joy is not dependent upon what I would call a “blind-faith belief” that someone died for our prophetic crimes two millennia ago. Rather, our eternity is entirely reliant upon the manner in which we live our life and the impact we leave on the Cosmos. If we live our lives in such a way as to leave a negative impact on the cosmos (being self-serving and cruel to all around us), we are damned to the depths of Tartarus (the equivalent to the Christian Hell). Should we live our lives so as to leave no real impact at all (staying to ourselves and going our own way, leaving out all others), then we are abandoned to the fields of Asphodel (eternity alone and despondent, much like the Catholic Purgatory/Limbo). However, if when we die, we leave a positive impact on the Earth and the Cosmos, living to serve and improve the existence that we know, we are granted our eternal peace in the Grandeur of Elysium (the equivalent of the Christian Heaven).

A great many of the Pagan faiths have similar beliefs, all of them eerily similar to one or more of the “Big Three,” but do not practice, believe, or even share common ground with a vast majority of the teachings of the Big Three.

What beliefs do Pagans have that differ from the “Big Three?”

There are as many differing beliefs as grains of sand on a beach. Honestly, the only common belief that is taught at the heart of all of these religions (and I mean their TRUE teachings, not the extremist and radicalized twists that zealots continually push on us) is love and tolerance. Some teach this to a higher degree than others. For example, Buddhists teach love on a level that does not allow harm to ANY living being, whereas the Asatru path teaches love in all things but combat (where brutal violence is not only demanded, but rewarded). In several of these pathways, there is no greater honor than to die in battle, fighting for what you believe in. However, they also teach to be kind to one another and love one another as you would family (“love thy neighbor as thyself” sound familiar?).

Paganism in the military, much like practicing Christianity or Islam or Judaism, does not change who we are as people. And I am pleased and honored to be a part of an organization that allows me to be who I am as a man, a father, a soldier, and a proud Pagan! As an infantryman, and soon-to-be medic, I can say without a doubt that my faith does not determine my proficiency at my job, and yours will not make me look out for you any less. So, it is a huge relief to me that this organization that I love so much - the US military - has finally allowed people like me to be open about what we believe without fear of reprisal or discrimination. I look forward to many more years and many more faces in my career. Best of luck to you all, and thank you for taking the time to read this old Grunt’s perspective!

Until on Elysium we meet: Blessed Be!

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 19 at 2017 9:27 AM

2017-07-19T09:27:57-04:00

That was an interesting read for sure. If I can ask an honest question, what do Pagans have as far as source material? You mention that it predates religions like Christianity and you describe a reward system based on morality, so where are those teachings found? Also, do you believe your version of Paganism to be "right" and other versions of Paganism to be "wrong" Just curios, thanks.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 19 at 2017 9:40 AM

2017-07-19T09:40:44-04:00

Good read.

Response by SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth made Jul 19 at 2017 9:42 AM

2017-07-19T09:42:32-04:00

Interesting article and share.

Response by CPT Jack Durish made Jul 19 at 2017 11:51 AM

2017-07-19T11:51:45-04:00

"There are no atheists in the foxhole" Well, I don't think Paganism is atheism, so go for it...

Response by Cpl Thomas Kifer made Jul 19 at 2017 3:11 PM

2017-07-19T15:11:58-04:00

While I profess to being of a Christian mind, I as respect all of life and creation. But I am also of the understanding that blind faith in the "WORD" is not enough for me. Who's word. The top three religions and for that manner all written text, was written by man. Even in the bibl where when Jesus or even God speaks directly, it is printed in red. But still written by a man who only says they where spoken by Jesus or God. My name is Thomas and as the Lord knows, I carry this name for good reason. I must see and here it all for myself. I will never put my blind faith in any man, Devine or otherwise, just because he said so. We all started as pagans first. Organizational religion came about as a means of governance of the people. And than rules and punishments that were said to come from a god and distributed by man. As to a organs life, were the three, or I so led say multiple outcomes are attributed to you after you have died. And even then, what ever life you received after death is to two speculation anyways. I would say, if you lice your life and when its over, its over, you will never know. And if there is something else beyond human existence, it may be better to leave be your life with kindness towards others. Be helpful to those in need, and never judge.

Response by LT Charles Baird made Jul 19 at 2017 6:09 PM

2017-07-19T18:09:58-04:00

Interesting - however I would argue that Paganism began with Nimrod; I would also argue that the so called "Big 3" are Pagan also as they celebrate the pagan holidays of Easter; Christmas being the pagan winter solstice and neither having anything to do with Christ. In the first five books of the Holy Manuscript are the festivals that are to be followed (i.e. Passover, feast of unleavened bread; feast of weeks; feast of trumpets, etc...).

Response by LCpl Shane Couch made Jul 19 at 2017 6:59 PM

2017-07-19T18:59:30-04:00

Being Asatru, there was no place for worship when I was in. During boot camp we were forced to go to a service of our choosing every Sunday. Was not allowed to have my religion on my tags, instead was forced to have "Non Religious" stamped on them. That was a big slap in the face, but I survived. I'm very happy to see that these "lesser" religions are now being accepted by the military.

Till Folkvanger.

Response by SSG Diane R. made Jul 19 at 2017 7:22 PM

2017-07-19T19:22:55-04:00

This is a very good post and you are in an obviously astute practitioner of the ancient religion. My husband practices Keltic Paganism, while I remain a Catholic. I often join him in his rituals.

Response by LTC Bill Koski made Jul 19 at 2017 7:48 PM

2017-07-19T19:48:48-04:00

Freedom of Religion

Response by 1stSgt Carl Pappert made Jul 20 at 2017 10:14 AM

2017-07-20T10:14:23-04:00

Thank you. I've been almost totally ignorant re: paganism, but you've given me a good jumping off point to search further answers. Not looking to convert. Just looking for info. Thanks again!!

Response by SFC Joseph Weber made Jul 20 at 2017 6:47 PM

2017-07-20T18:47:17-04:00

No more or no less ridiculous than any other religion. Definitely seems more entertaining than the big three as you call them. I had a few Soldiers in the 90s all into it. They seemed to enjoy themselves.

Response by SPC Michael Ludwig made Jul 21 at 2017 1:33 PM

2017-07-21T13:33:57-04:00

I got rode hard in my unit also, I feel you man. However things have changed, and slowly people's willingness to accept others and their beliefs.

Response by LCpl Russell Wallace made Jul 22 at 2017 12:01 PM

2017-07-22T12:01:57-04:00

those who do not follow the wise Odin will be damned to burn in hell.

Response by HN Alan Leddon made Jul 23 at 2017 12:44 AM

2017-07-23T00:44:12-04:00

Blessed Be! When I served (Naval Hospital Portsmouth VA, 1989-91), I was "caught" with Buckland's Complete in my bag, and the two Chiefs in my department raked me over the coals pretty good. At one point, I was given a written order to change to a "more ethical path," but that disappeared from my DO record damn quick.
Oddly, most people didn't care what I did, just a couple of gray-haired E-7's.

Response by MAJ Don Bigger made Jul 23 at 2017 10:29 AM

2017-07-23T10:29:49-04:00

I appreciate your clarification of much of Paganism. It provided insights I wasn't fully aware of. I couldn't embrace Paganism (I'm a practitioner of one of the 'Big Three'

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 26 at 2017 2:31 PM

2017-07-26T14:31:51-04:00

I'm sure that today it's more widely recognized and accepted than it was 20 years ago, but this was a thing 20 years ago. I had a couple of friends at Ft Hood who were into it. They had some meeting spot out in West Ft Hood off of Old Copperas Cove Rd I think. I knew a few more guys in OSUT that claimed it too.

Response by Sarah Zayas made Jul 26 at 2017 4:44 PM

2017-07-26T16:44:11-04:00

When your life is in danger pray to the only God that exists.

Response by PFC Mark Smandra made Jul 27 at 2017 2:11 AM

2017-07-27T02:11:31-04:00

"One nation,under G.O.D."

Response by CW5 Edward "Tate" Jones Jr. made Jul 30 at 2017 12:56 PM

2017-07-30T12:56:32-04:00

Freedom OF religion is Constitutionally protected. I, personally, do not object to anyone's preference, or no preference, AS LONG, and it does not DEMAND any special accommodation detrimental to mission, good order and discipline.

Response by SMSgt Thor Merich made Jul 31 at 2017 6:11 PM

2017-07-31T18:11:10-04:00

Interesting viewpoint. Thanks for sharing

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 6 at 2017 12:10 AM

2017-08-06T00:10:37-04:00

I was a practicing Pagan for about 12 years of my military career (1991-2003). I helped start circles at Camp Casey, and in Seoul. I have supported circles in Ft. Huachuca, AZ and was a member of the Ft. Hood Open Circle from 2000-2003. I don't doubt that things have come a long way, however I suspect the military will always have a hard time supporting the religious needs of those who practice religions with very little Orthodoxy.

Response by SPC Linda Juhl made Aug 10 at 2017 7:00 AM

2017-08-10T07:00:52-04:00

I practice as well and never openly practiced while I served. I actually hid it because in many of the units I was in there was no safe way to do so without alienating myself. Well as a mechanic I wasn't about to do that because I needed my team as much as they needed me. Now that I'm out of the military I am openly practicing again and those I served with actually told me they knew because I'd say random things when frustrated or happy that never made sense. It is good to see others able to be more open in their units now though. Merry meet.

Response by Lt Col Daniel McNally made Aug 15 at 2017 11:29 PM

2017-08-15T23:29:28-04:00

So where are the Pagan hospitals and universities. I think it a social cop-out. Paint yourself blue and run around in the woods, make little dolls to stick pins in, anything to be different.

Response by PO2 Donald Walsh made Aug 31 at 2017 6:39 PM

2017-08-31T18:39:51-04:00

Most if not all sects of protestantism, and certainly Catholicism, are filled with Paganism in their practice. Even Judaism has some subcults, i.e. Kabalism, that are mixed with Pagan practices and beliefs. It's not surprising, then, that in these last days Paganism is once again practiced openly as it was in 1400's thru to the 1700s in Europe with the blessing of the Catholic Church. In fact pagan "Christmas/Saturnalia" was outlawed and banned in England and the US in the 1700's all the way up to the 1820s when Christmas was commercialised and "civilised" to what is now observed. If any one religion is allowed free practice in the military, then all should be unimpeded.

Response by LTC John Griscom made Sep 10 at 2017 4:46 PM

2017-09-10T16:46:34-04:00

Many Staff officers have commented "no pride in authorship" or why not use what was already there.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 28 at 2017 2:00 PM

2017-09-28T14:00:07-04:00

Response by MAJ Montgomery Granger made Oct 9 at 2017 4:42 PM

2017-10-09T16:42:27-04:00

Yeah, that's fine. Medic is a cool MOS, I was 91A10 for five years before going to OCS. You can also be a medic who carries no weapon as a conscientious objector. Although when I joined I never envisioned myself harming another human being, my Army training prepared me to properly defend myself and my patient. Growing up as a private and then Second Lieutenant in mechanized and then leg infantry taught me that my comrades expected me to be 11B until someone got hurt. I accepted that as being part of the whole. I respect all viewpoints that respect mine and follow the Army Values: Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfless Service, Honor, Integrity and Personal Courage. Hooah!

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 25 at 2017 8:29 AM

2017-10-25T08:29:32-04:00

Dude, live your life.

Response by MSG Danny Mathers made Jul 7 at 2018 2:13 PM

2018-07-07T14:13:16-04:00

There is no comparasion between Christianity and Paganism no matter how you spin it. The same applies to other religions as well. I would not share a fox hole with a Pagan, nor would I would want to near one in combat. You can lable me whatever "ism" you want. I keep my religion to myself and have no reason to convert anyone. Opinions vary.......

Response by CPL Christopher Fisher made Mar 19 at 2019 1:44 AM

2019-03-19T01:44:54-04:00

Well spoken my brother. During my 10 years of service, I was open to most about being Pagan and it did not cause much of a problem for most people who I served with. Thank you for the post. Blessed Be

Response by SFC Melvin Brandenburg made Feb 1 at 2021 1:40 PM

2021-02-01T13:40:29-05:00

I'm a christian, but I think each person is entitled to believe or not believe in who or what they will. That is the only way I can justify my right to worship according to my conscience.