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Top chaplain discusses faith during visit to McChord AFB

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MCCHORD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. --   The Air Forces top chaplain spoke about hope and faith at the National Prayer Luncheon here March 2.

Chaplain (Maj. Gen.) Charles Baldwin gave his speech to a crowded ballroom at the base club. As chief of the Air Force Chaplain Service, Chaplain Baldwin advises the Air Force chief of staff on all matters pertaining to the religious and moral welfare of Airmen.

During his speech, the chaplain used a song by Randy Travis called Dont Ever Sell Your Saddle to explore the idea of faith in God and how it relates to the military.

The Lord speaks to us in many different ways, Chaplain Baldwin said. For some, its in a sunset; (for) some, in the Holy Scripture; and for some perhaps in a work of art. For me, its in all of the above, and country and western music.

The Randy Travis song was played for the audience, and Chaplain Baldwin repeated some of the lyrics again when he spoke: Find the Lord before you need Him, and never lose your pride; dont ever sell your saddle, cause lifes a long, long ride.

Saddle is just the metaphor to carry the real message dont give up your faith, he said.

What is a saddle? he asked the audience. The seat on top of a horse, but more importantly its the thing that keeps you secure on the journey [and] eases the pain of a rough road. Our nation has been at war against terrorists for three years. I dont have to tell you the trail is pretty rough.

With the realities of terrorism and the fact that loved ones are being deployed to dangerous locations in Iraq and Afghanistan, Chaplain Baldwin said faith in God was more relevant than ever. If people forget their faith, or saddle, their resolve to win the war on terrorism will be weakened, he said.

A person of faith stands tall when others sit in fear, he added.

Chaplain Baldwin not only expressed his faith in God, but also his faith in the Air Forces men and women, and the role they play in protecting Americas freedom.

As one who sleeps in the Beltway, he said, I immensely appreciate your sacrifices.

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