Every Airman who joins the Air Force has their own reasons for raising their right hand. Some know they want to sign up as soon as they turn 18, while others try different things in life before signing up.
For 2nd Lt. Brian Harris, his call was to serve God and people.
After serving more than 10 years in the ministry and as a youth minister, Harris met an Army chaplain who raised his interest in not only to serve according to his faith, but his country as well.
“I just felt like this would be a good environment,” said Harris. “If people are desiring to learn about faith, I can teach them.”
This path led Harris into the Chaplain Candidate program. This program is for Airmen who are considering chaplaincy in the Air Force, while also testing their background and experience to determine if they can commission to Chaplain.
Part of Harris’ program was spent under mentorship here at Homestead Air Reserve Base under Chaplain (Maj.) John Rollyson who began as a Chaplain Candidate as well.
“This is a great program that I came through myself,” said Rollyson. “I had such a great experience, that I’ve always wanted to help other Chaplain Candidates coming through the program.
Harris plans to continue his training through this program to one day become a chaplain for the active duty Air Force.
“I like how people oriented this field is,” said Harris. “The idea is to be in the units. You’re talking to them (members), checking on morale, and really asking ‘how are you?’.”
The active duty board decides the candidates that will be chosen from the program will meet in December.