U.S. NAVY CHAPLAIN SMEARS ATHEISTS SERVING IN MILITARY, VETS DURING CNN INTERVIEW ON "AMERICAN MORNING"

A U.S. Navy Chaplain on official assignment with troops in Iraq insulted Atheists in the military, as well as those who have served with honor in the past during a Tuesday, November 9 CNN program.

During an appearance on "American Morning," Commander Kal McAlexander was interviewed by host Soledad O'Brien about his experiences with combat troops. At the end of the segment, O'Brien asked:

"It's long been said that there are no atheists in a foxhole. Have you found that to be true? You do battlefield baptisms, I understand. What exactly are those?"

Chaplain McAlexander replied: "That's true. There is no such thing as an atheist in a foxhole. We've had experience operating in mined waters, and the sailors experience the same thing..."

(Transcript here.)

The old adage that "there are no Atheists in foxholes" is not supported by credible evidence. There is a Military Association of Atheists and Freethinkers". And during the historic "Godless Americans March on Washington" in November, 2002, hundreds of Atheist veterans and personnel on active duty took the stage amidst applause for their dedication to their country.

Imagine if Chaplain McAlexander had made such a remark about Jews, Muslims, blacks, or even those of a minority religious faith! In an armed service which is noted for its diversity and ability to unify members in common cause, his remark is insensitive and "out of step" with the mission of the United States Military.

Your Letters, Faxes, Calls Needed Now!

We urge you to challenge Chaplain McAlexander's inaccurate and insensitive claims about "no Atheists in foxholes."

* Letters may be sent to the Chaplain Resource Branch, 9591 Maryland Avenue, Norfolk, VA. 23511-2993. You may also phone 1-757-444-7665 to express your concerns.

You may also post remarks to the U.S. Naval Chaplains web page.

* We also urge you to contact the CNN program "American Morning" and address your remarks to Ms. Soledad O'Brien, the co-host of the segment. There is an easy to use form.

* Send copies of your remarks to American Atheists, and we will post it here at the web site.

Tips On Communicating Your Concerns

* Be polite and concise.

* Refer to the program (American Morning) and date (November 9, 2004)

* Provide a return address and, if possible, your phone number AND ASK FOR A RESPONSE to the issue you are addressing.

* If you are an active member of the military, or a veteran, please identify yourself as such.

* Do not engage in a personal attack. Point out that Chaplain McAlexander is misinformed, that he made an inappropriate remarks that unfairly stereotype Atheists and diminishes the role played by men and women serving proudly in our military who do not believe in a deity.

(AMERICAN ATHEISTS is a nationwide movement that defends civil rights for nonbelievers; works for the total separation of church and state; and addresses issues of First Amendment public policy.)

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