Religious Program Specialists Graduate from "A" School

COLUMBIA, S.C. (NNS) -- Over 30 Religious Program Specialists (RPs) graduated from the Naval Chaplaincy School and Center (NCSC) at Fort Jackson, May 28.

Serving as both an administrative resource and a source of personal security, RPs are an important asset to Navy Chaplains.

RPs provide Chaplains with the administrative, technical and logistical support they need to carry out the religious programs and services. They also carry the responsibility of ensuring the safety of Chaplains - who are noncombatants and not authorized to bear arms. RPs are trained as combatants, and one of their essential duties is to protect Chaplains.

Religious Program Specialist Seaman Michael Bennett benefited from the NCSC training and it has readied him for the fleet.

"When I deploy I'm prepared to provide religious ministry support to Sailors and Marines" said Bennett.

Honor Graduate Religious Program Specialist Seaman Tiffany Turner credited the school's training as very professional.

"My instructor's knowledge and experience were vital to my smooth transition from Seaman Recruit to Seaman," said Turner. "Their dedication and expertise have prepared me for the challenges of joining the fleet."

Guest speaker Master Chief Religious Program Specialist Dino Medler, the RP community senior enlisted leader, was optimistic the graduates would have success in the Navy.

"Our fleet religious ministry teams need you to always be committed to excellence," said Medler. "Remember that you bring a specific set of knowledge, skills, and abilities that no other Sailor possesses."

Medler shared the expectations that he and the RP community had for the graduates.

"Learn and grow," said Medler. "Be a lifelong learner every day of your life is an exam. Every day you either pass or fail the test of life. Every day is a chance to become a better person. In whatever you do, work at it with all your heart. Do it not only when you know someone is watching so that you may win their favor, but do it (when no one is watching) with sincerity of heart and reverence for the trust placed in you."

Chaplain Capt. Kyle Fauntleroy, NCSC commanding officer, explained that NCSC is committed to strengthening the nation's future by training, developing and inspiring Religious Program Specialists.

"At NCSC we cultivate the character of our students to be ethically, intellectually, professionally and physically prepared to serve their country and humanity, and be strong in their resolve to build on the long maritime heritage and proud accomplishments of the United States Navy," said Fautleroy.

For more news from the Chaplain Corps, visit
http://www.navy.mil/local/crb/ .