What rank is a military chaplain?

Chaplains are unique officers within their units, right away in their careers they are assigned to a battalion staff and many times receive the rank of captain either upon entry into active duty or shortly thereafter.

Do chaplains in the military fight?

Chaplains are in the military — but they do not fight in combat. Chaplains may not be deliberately or indiscriminately attacked and, unless their retention by the enemy is required to provide for the religious needs of prisoners of war, chaplains must not become POWs.

What do soldiers do if they are captured?

If I am captured I will continue to resist by all means available. I will make every effort to escape and aid others to escape. I will accept neither parole nor special favors from the enemy.

What rights do prisoners of war have?

A PoW must be allowed to keep with him all his personal possessions which does not include arms and military papers. The PoWs shall be released and repatriated immediately after the cessation of active hostilities. They should be treated with honour and humanely. PoWs should be provided with adequate food.

Do prisoners of war get released?

At the end of hostilities all prisoners are to be released and repatriated without delay, except those held for trial or serving sentences imposed by judicial processes.

Can chaplains carry weapons?

Do chaplains carry weapons or engage in combat? Chaplains are not issued weapons and are not allowed to engage in combat actions. Chaplains are noncombatants. They are teamed with a chaplain assistant who carries a weapon and serves to protect the Unit Ministry Team (UMT) in combat.

What do chaplains do in combat?

Chaplains serve as officers on the commander’s staff, providing professional expertise on the free exercise of religion, troop and unit morale, quality of life matters, ethical decision making, combat stress, pastoral counseling and the impact of religion on a command’s mission.

How many chaplains have been killed in action?

Four hundred Army chaplains have been killed in combat. Eight members of the Chaplain Corps have been awarded the Medal of Honor.

What are the rules of prisoner of war?

POWs must be treated humanely in all circumstances. They are protected against any act of violence, as well as against intimidation, insults, and public curiosity. IHL also defines minimum conditions of detention covering such issues as accommodation, food, clothing, hygiene and medical care.