Camp Leatherneck hosts faith in leadership breakfast

Regional Command Southwest
Story by Cpl. Kenneth Jasik

Date: 08.28.2012
Posted: 08.28.2012 08:26
News ID: 93905
Camp Leatherneck hosts faith in leadership breakfast

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan – The intensity of deployments makes many servicemembers lose touch with their beliefs, but for those operating out of Camp Leatherneck, an early morning Faith in Combat Leadership Breakfast was held Aug. 28, to break their routines and get back in touch with their religion.

“The purpose of (the breakfast) was to build camaraderie amongst all the people and build a community,” said Navy Lt. Allen A. Presser Jr., squadron chaplain, Marine Wing Support Squadron 273. “It was geared for everyone, both religious and nonreligious alike. It was in interfaith service to break down walls and give people an opportunity to come together.”

The service was open to U.S. servicemembers and their NATO allies, who also work on the camp, regardless of their beliefs.
“Events such as this are important because it gives people an opportunity to come together and unite,” said Presser, 42, a Federal Way, Wash., native.

The people who attended were happy they got a chance to participate. With speakers from several religions, everyone got a chance to hear passages from different holy books.

“I needed this,” said Cpl. Brittany May, a food service specialist with MWSS-273, “I haven’t been to church in a while because I work on Sundays. It was a nice break from the routine.”

May, who read a passage herself, was happy she attended and enjoyed sharing her beliefs.

“It was really good,” said May, 25, an Atlanta native. “I’m glad I was a part of it and I’m glad I got to be here.”